E-flite UMX Pitts S-1S BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU15250)

Overview: E-flite UMX Pitts S-1S BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU15250)

The E-flite UMX Pitts S-1S BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select (EFLU15250) is an impressive ultra-micro model aircraft replica of the legendary Pitts S-1S double-decker. This model combines high flight performance, state-of-the-art stabilization technologies and ease of use in the smallest space – an ideal choice for beginners and advanced pilots looking for fun in art flight and precision flights.

Technical data and facts

Customer reviews and experiences

Enthusiasm for flight behaviour and stabilization: Many users praise the quiet, precise flight characteristics that the model, thanks to AS3X technology, can carry through the weather even in light winds. The SAFE Select function is seen by newcomers as a real advantage, as it gently returns to the stable flight in case of emergency.

Feedback on flight performance and climbing capacity: Most reviews emphasize the amazing climbing performance, especially with a 3S battery. Here, the mini-flight shows art flight qualities as they can only be found with significantly larger models. Loopings, rollers and turns are able to be safely and with sufficient power reserve.

Handling and everyday fitness: Transportability is also very good. The small size makes it possible to take the model virtually anywhere and make spontaneous flights, for example in parks or even in larger halls. The installation freedom is another plus – unpack, bind, fly!

Critical points: Individual users report on the sensitivity of foam construction in harder landings, but this is generally expected in ultramicro models. Overall, the robustness for weight and size is still considered as amazingly good.

Test results from practice

confirm flight tests: E-flite Pitts convinces in flight tests with a balanced relationship of stability and agility. The effectiveness of the rudders is excellent, so that both precise art flight and quiet cruise are easily possible. Feedback from test pilots to telemetry functions and user-friendliness is also extremely positive.

Tester praise:

• Excellent control response
• Clear improvement to the previous model by 2S/3S compatibility
• Superb AS3X action in wind
• High reliability of electronics

Material quality

The model consists of special EPS foam, which allows a good balance between low weight and sufficient stability. The surface is designed to be true to detail and, even after several flights, has only minimal traces of use, provided that hard crashes are avoided. Control and drive components act high-quality, the servos operate precisely and reliably.

Flight times and battery selection

With a matching 2S 280 mAh LiPo battery, about 4 to 6 minutes flight time is possible. If you set maximum performance and use a 3S 300 mAh LiPo, you can expect 5 to 8 minutes – depending on flight style and art flight inserts. Since the batteries are very light and compact, many pilots take along several of them to allow longer flight times.

climbing performance and suitability for art flight

The gradient is particularly impressive in conjunction with a 3S battery. The machine pulls powerfully vertically upwards, larger loopings and many figures of classic art flight are easily possible. For beginners, the SAFE Select technology offers the opportunity to switch the stabilization and thus gently catch more risky maneuvers.

Transportability and everyday suitability

The ultra-compact format predestines the mini pitts for use anywhere where little space is. Whether in the trunk, in the backpack or even in a larger jacket pocket – the transport is very easy. Since no disassembly is necessary, the model always remains ready for use.

Spare parts supply & repairability

E-flite and many specialist dealers offer extensive spare parts: from the engine hood to the chassis to surfaces and hull all assemblies can be reordered. Repairs on the foam structure can usually be done quickly with foam adhesive. Control and drive components are modular and are easily accessible for defects.

Target group

The E-flite Pitts is aimed at:

• Beginners with first flight experiences that want to climb safely thanks to SAFE Select
• Advanced art flight pilots looking for a precise, powerful model for indoors and outdoors
• Model builders who want a compact, transportable and immediately ready-to-air Pitts replica
• All who want to experience the legendary double-decker in mini format with modern technology

Installation time and user manual

The aircraft is delivered 100% pre-assembled. After unpacking, only the battery and receiver must be connected (BNF = Bind-N-Fly). With a suitable spectrum transmitter, less than 10 minutes pass until the first flight. The German-speaking guide is detailed, contains numerous illustrations for binding, setting up the SAFE functions and care instructions.

Community support

Thanks to the large model flight community, there are numerous forums, Facebook groups and YouTube channels that deal with the model. There you can find flight videos, rebuild tips and help on common problems. E-flite itself and many specialist dealers offer a very good technical support.

Alternative products of competitors

On the market there are several comparable ultra-micro-art flight models of well-known brands. Here is an overview:

The E-flite Pitts S-1S is still reference in terms of flight precision, stability and user-friendliness.

Value for money

The model is not the cheapest ultra-micro aircraft, but it offers exceptional equipment: modern stabilisation, telemetry, art-flight-grade brushless drive and high spare parts availability. In the longer term, the investment is also worthwhile due to the low follow-up costs and durability.

Tips, tricks, recommendations and optimizations

1. Batteries: If you want longer flights, you should purchase several 2S or 3S batteries and always observe the charging cycles. 3S batteries bring more power, but even more flight time is then possible.

Two. Settings on the transmitter: For precise art flight it is recommended to use dual rate and Expo functions. This allows finer control over the rows.

3. Focus & Trimming: Check the focus before each flight and correct it if necessary by the battery position. A careful trimming facilitates the control of art flight beginners.

4. Use SAFE Select specifically: Especially for beginners, it is worth having the SAFE Select function first activated. With growing experience, you can disable them with a switch at any time.

Five. Outdoor flies: Despite AS3X, caution is required with stronger wind – ultra-micro models are wind-prone. Perfect are quiet days or halls.

6. Repairs: Smaller damage can be easily eliminated with special foam adhesive. Spare parts are readily available, mostly wings or suspensions are most popular.

7. Individual coatings: The foam can be easily reworked with water-based color, so that individualists can also get their costs.

Other interesting facts & recommendations for buyers

• Telemetry use: The telemetry function offers the possibility to read the voltage of the flight battery directly on the display of a compatible spectrum transmitter – a real added value for flight time management and saving the batteries.
• Modularity: The plug-and-play architecture facilitates subsequent upgrades or replacement parts.
• Value stability: The strong demand on the used market ensures that the model maintains a stable value with good care.

Frequent user questions and solutions

1. Binding does not work – what to do?

• Check whether the spectrum used has at least 5 channels and DSMX/DSM2 is compatible. Set transmitter for binding mode, turn on aircraft and wait until the binding is completed.

Two. Flys unstable with wind – what helps?

• The AS3X stabilization is very efficient, but is not enough for strong winds. Fly as possible in quiet conditions and, if necessary, adjust the control sensitivity.

3. SAFE Select cannot be activated/deactivated

• Control the transmitter programming: SAFE Select is controlled via its own switching channel. Precisely note programming instructions to correctly assign the functions.

4. Rudder servos trembling after switching on

• Light servoactivity is normal for ultramicro models, provided they do not cause problems. Stronger trembling can indicate a mechanical block or a defective electronics.

Five. Low flight time

• Check battery quality and, if necessary, avoid to 3S 300 mAh. Wing and screw control in ease.

6. Spare parts difficult to get?

• Most major retailers and e-flite directly offer a very good part logistics, while bottlenecks are also worth a look at international model building platforms.

Conclusion

The E-flite UMX Pitts S-1S BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select is an outstanding ultra-micro model for art flight and precise flying. It scores with sensitive control, stabilizing technology and easy handling. If you are looking for a compact, sturdy and high-quality double-decker, you will find a long-term companion in this model, who will delight both beginners and advanced pilots. The extensive spare parts options, the stable community and the excellent performance for this price range are also impressive. This model is a clear recommendation for a successful flight fun with a legendary model.