E-flite Ultimate2 BNF Basic with SAFE: The ultimate art flight trainer for ambitious pilots

The world of RC flying offers numerous models for different requirements. One of the most impressive art aircraft in the middle segment is undoubtedly the Ultimate2 BNF Basic with SAFE technology from E-flite. With its range of 954mm and the impressive flying characteristics, this model has won a firm place in the scene. In this detailed article we illuminate all aspects of this agile art aircraft and give valuable tips for buyers.

Technical data and equipment at a glance

The E-flite Ultimate2 BNF Basic model convinces with its sophisticated technical equipment designed specifically for sophisticated art flight maneuvers. We have carefully summarized the most important technical data for you:

The art flight model impresses with its generously dimensioned control surfaces. Four enormous crossovers ensure fast speeding rolling rates, while the massive height and side rudders allow spectacular figures. The design with Z-FoamTM material provides a good balance between stability and weight optimization.

Flight characteristics and performance

Flight behaviour

The aircraft designed by Mike McConville impresses with its precision and agility. AS3X® technology ensures stable flight behavior even in wind and turbulence. Particular emphasis should be given to:

• Impressive roll rates: The four large cross slides allow quick-release rollers
• Precise control: Thanks to the specially adapted AS3X® technology
• Versatile: From moderate sports flight to extreme 3D maneuvers
• Security: The SAFE® technology with Panic Recovery feature provides an additional safety net

The Vortex generators on both wings significantly improve the 3D flight characteristics and also enable advanced art flight figures such as Rolling Harriers with remarkable stability.

Flight times and performance

With the recommended 3S 2200mAh LiPo battery, flight times of about 7-10 minutes are realistic, depending on the flight style. With extreme 3D maneuvers with high engine load, the flight time is correspondingly reduced to about 5-7 minutes. The powerful 10-size brushless motor delivers enough power for:

• perpendicular rise over several meters
• Fast acceleration from the stand
• Sufficient thrust for demanding hovering maneuvers
• Good balance between performance and efficiency

The climbing performance is impressive and allows vertical climbing flights over several meters, which is particularly important for 3D maneuvers.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

Customer satisfaction

The reviews of owners of the Ultimate model are mostly positive. Pilots especially praise:

• The excellent flight stability thanks to AS3X® technology
• The impressive agility in art flight maneuvers
• The reliable panic function that has already kept some model from crash
• The good processing quality and durability of the Z-FoamTM material

An experienced pilot reports: "After flying in, I was thrilled with precision. The Ultimate2 flies like on rails and makes even challenging 3D maneuvers a children's game. The Panic function has helped me many times if a maneuver did not succeed perfectly."

There are some criticisms about the factory-adjusted rudder rudders that some pilots feel too aggressive. However, adaptation via remote control is easily possible.

Material quality and durability

The Z-FoamTM material used proves to be surprisingly robust. The e-flite art aircraft usually survives smaller crashes without major damage. The material quality is rated as good to very good by most users.

Particularly positive:

• The stable connection of the supporting surfaces to the fuselage
• Long-lasting ball head linkages on rows
• The robust design of the chassis with wheel linings

In frequent landings on rough slopes, however, wear phenomena on the wheel linings can occur. Here, experienced pilots recommend removing them as needed or replacing them with more robust alternatives.

Transport and assembly

Transport capacity

The Ultimate2 model is compact enough with its span of 954mm to transport it easily. The support surfaces can be disassembled with few handles, which considerably facilitates transport. The disassembled model can easily be found in a medium-sized car.

Assembly and commissioning

The assembly of the semi-trailer is very easy. As BNF (Bind-N-Fly) model, all essential components are already installed. Only the following steps are necessary:

1. Mounting support surfaces and securing them with screws
2. Binding receiver with remote control
3. Check and customize the focus
4. Control and programming rudder rudder rudders

The entire assembly takes about 20-30 minutes for a trained pilot. The included guide is clearly structured and contains all necessary information. The detailed information on recommended rudder deflections for different flight styles is particularly helpful.

Spare parts supply and support

The spare part supply for the popular Horizon Hobby model is excellent. All relevant spare parts are readily available via both the manufacturer and numerous dealers. Especially frequently asked parts such as:

• Propeller
• Surfaces
• Suspension
• Servos
• Recipient

are usually available at short notice. By using standardized components, many parts can also be replaced by products from other manufacturers, which increases flexibility.

Target group and entry barriers

The Ultimate2 with its SAFE technology is primarily aimed at advanced starters and ambitious arteries. Thanks to the SAFE technology with Panic Recovery, the model is also suitable for pilots with less experience in 3D art flight. The ideal target group includes:

• Advanced RC pilots who want to enter the art flight
• Experienced flyers looking for a precise and agile training model
• Pilots who want to switch from simple coach models to more demanding art aircraft

Absolute beginners should first gain experiences with a more stable coach model before moving to the agile art aircraft.

Community and online resources

An active community has developed around the E-flite art flight model. In numerous forums and social media owners exchange, share experiences and provide help with problems. Particular emphasis should be given to:

• Specialized RC forums with own areas for e-flite models
• YouTube channels with flight videos and tutorials
• Facebook groups for owners of art flight models
• Regular meetings and events for RC-Kunstflieger

The community provides valuable support in optimizing the model and provides helpful tips for setting remote control for various art flight maneuvers.

Alternative products in comparison

There are some interesting alternatives to the E-flite Ultimate2 BNF Basic. Let's consider the most important competitive products:

The newer Ultimate 3D SMART version offers some interesting additional features such as advanced telemetry data and compatibility with 4S batteries without modifications. The specially tuned drivetrain with an engine optimized for 3S and 4S offers more flexibility in battery selection.

Value for money

E-flite's art aircraft is positioned in the middle price segment. For the price, buyers receive a highly processed model with state-of-the-art stabilization technology and excellent flight properties. Compared to cheaper alternatives, it offers:

• Higher material quality
• Better flight characteristics
• Reliable electronics
• Extensive security functions

In particular, AS3X® technology in combination with the SAFE® Panic Recovery justifies the price as it can improve both the flight characteristics and protect against costly crashes. Overall, the semi-trailer offers an excellent value for money for ambitious pilots.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Setting recommendations

For optimal flight properties, experienced pilots recommend the following adaptations:

1. Priority: The ideal center of gravity is about 65-70mm behind the wing front edge. A slightly head-loaded setting improves precision in art flight maneuvers.

2. Expo settings: For precise flying, an Expo setting of 30-40% is recommended on all channels. This makes the control around the neutral position more sensitive.

3. Dual rate:

   • For normal sports flight: 70% rudder rudding
   • For 3D art flight: 100% rudder and maximum rudder deflection

4. Motor-Timing: Light increase in motor timing can improve power output, but also increases heat development.

Hardware optimization

With some specific modifications, the performance of the model can be further increased:

1. Battery upgrade: A high quality 3S 2200mAh 45C battery instead of the standard battery improves performance noticeably.

2. Propeller tuning: A well balanced propeller reduces vibrations and improves flight characteristics.

3. Servo upgrade: The replacement of standard servos against digital servos with higher torque increases precision in extreme maneuvers.

4. Cooling optimization: Additional ventilation openings in the hull improve the cooling of the engine and the controller with longer 3D flight.

5. Weight optimization: The targeted use of lighter components can reduce flight weight and further improve agility.

Frequent questions and problems

Binding problems with the receiver

Problem: Some users report difficulties in the first connection of the recipient with their remote control.

Solution:

1. Ensure that remote control is DSM2®/DSMX® compatible
2. Conduct binding process exactly after instructions
3. In case of persistent problems, a reset of the recipient can help
4. Check whether the firmware of remote control is up to date

Vibration problems in flight

Problem: Occasionally, pilots report strong vibrations, especially at high engine power.

Solution:

1. Check propellers for unbalance and possibly balancing
2. Control motor shaft with straightness
3. Check all bolts of the engine mount on fixed seat
4. In case of persistent problems, a replacement of the propeller or even the engine may be necessary

Questions about battery life

Problem: The battery life is too short for some users.

Solution:

1. Use of high quality LiPo batteries with actual C rate
2. Adaptation of flight style: Less full-gas solutions extend flight time
3. Optimization of focus for more efficient flying
4. At cold temperatures preheat the battery before the flight

Problems with the SAFE function

Problem: The Panic Recovery feature sometimes does not react as expected.

Solution:

1. Check correct remote control configuration
2. Ensure that the assigned switch works properly
3. Recalibrate recipients by instructions
4. Reprogramm AR636A receiver via PC software if required

Conclusion and recommendation for purchase

The E-flite Ultimate2 BNF Basic with SAFE is an excellent choice for pilots looking for an agile and precise art flight model. The combination of high-quality processing, impressive flying characteristics and modern safety features makes it a recommended product.

The AS3X® technology, which gives the model excellent stability, as well as the SAFE® Panic Recovery, which offers valuable security when learning sophisticated 3D maneuvers. The generously dimensioned control surfaces allow spectacular art flight figures, while the robust Z-FoamTM material also makes small accidents.

For whom is the special flyer suitable?

• Advanced pilots who want to enter the challenging 3D art flight
• Experienced flyers looking for a precise and agile training model
• Pilots who value modern security and stabilization systems

With its fair value for money, excellent spare parts supply and active community, the model offers a comprehensive package for ambitious RC pilots.