E-flite V900 BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select: The high-speed experience in RC flight model construction

Are you looking for an RC aircraft that offers you high-level speed noise and flight performance? The E-flite V900 BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select in 900mm format could be exactly what you are looking for. As the fastest propeller-driven model from E-flite, this high-performance aircraft promises impressive speeds and a stunning flying experience. In this comprehensive article we illuminate all aspects of this Speedster and give you valuable information for your purchase decision.

Technical data and specifications

Before we go into detail, here is an overview of the most important technical data of the model:

Features of the high-speed flight model

The state-of-the-art sports aircraft impresses with its exceptional speed and impressive flying characteristics. The model reaches directly from the packaging with a 3S-LiPo battery speeds of over 160 km/h. If you want to exploit the full potential, you can even achieve over 190 km/h with a 4S battery - without any upgrade or propeller change.

The aerodynamically optimized design with EPO foam and strategically placed composite reinforcements ensures excellent structural strength even in high-speed maneuvers. The one-piece wing with carbon fiber reinforcement offers additional stability and torsional strength, which is crucial especially at high speeds.

AS3X and SAFE Select Technology

An outstanding feature of the Speedster is the integrated AS3X technology (Artificial Stabilization - 3-Axis), which automatically balances wind blows and turbulences and ensures a more precise flight behavior. This is an enormous advantage especially at the high speeds that the model can achieve.

The optional SAFE Select function provides additional stabilization and protection against oversteering. This can be activated or deactivated during the binding process, depending on the personal preference and experience level of the pilot. For beginners in the high-speed range, SAFE Select is a valuable support, while experienced pilots may prefer unlimited control without electronic intervention.

Customer experiences and reviews

The experience reports of buyers of the fast e-flite model are mostly positive. The following aspects are particularly often praised:

Speed and performance: Many users confirm the impressive speeds that the manufacturer promises. The aircraft actually delivers the advertised speed and thus exceeds the expectations of many buyers.

Stability at high speeds: Thanks to AS3X technology, pilots report amazing stability even at maximum speed. The model flies to the right track and reacts precisely to control inputs.

Robustness: Despite the light weight, many praise the resilience of the construction. The strategic reinforcements make the model more durable than many other EPO foam aircraft.

Optics and Design: The eye-catching design with the dynamic colouring reapes much praise. The model makes a good figure not only in the sky, but also on the ground.

However, there are also some critical comments:

Complimentary handling: Some mid-experience pilots report that the model is demanding to fly at high speed despite the stabilization system and requires rapid responses.

Landing speed: Due to the aerodynamic design at speed, the landing speed is relatively high, which requires precise timing when approaching.

Battery life: For full-gas flights with 4S batteries, some users report relatively short flight times of 5-7 minutes, which is not surprising in view of performance.

Test results and flight behaviour

In various tests by specialist magazines and experienced pilots, the high-speed trailer was able to convince. The main findings from these tests:

Flight behaviour

The model shows impressive flight behavior across the entire speed range. At low speeds it is amazingly good-natured thanks to the efficient wing profile. With increasing speed, the rows become more sensitive as expected, but remain easy to control thanks to AS3X.

The precision at high-speed maneuvering is particularly noteworthy. Rolls, loopings and even more demanding art flight figures can be flown with impressive accuracy. The model shows hardly any undesirable inherent dynamics or wobbles.

Increased power

The climbing power of the fast e-flite flyer is impressive. With a 4S battery, the model rises almost vertically and quickly reaches considerable heights. This force allows spectacular climbing flights and gives the pilot enough reserve for demanding maneuvers.

Test pilots report slopes of over 70 degrees at full gas, which is exceptional for a sports model of this class. This impressive rise is due to the optimal ratio of power to weight.

Flight times

The flight time varies greatly depending on the battery and flight style used:

• With 3S 2200mAh LiPo: 7-10 minutes with moderate flight style
• With 4S 2200mAh LiPo: 5-8 minutes with moderate flight style
• With permanent full-gas operation, these times reduce accordingly

For longer flight sessions, experienced pilots recommend to provide several batteries and to plan sufficient cooling phases for engine and controller between the flights.

Material quality and processing

The material quality of the high-performance flyer is consistently high quality. The EPO foam used is denser and more resistant than in many comparable models. Strategically placed composite reinforcements at the stressed areas significantly increase the structural strength.

The one-piece wing reinforced with carbon fiber is particularly noteworthy, which shows hardly any distortion even in extreme flight maneuvers. The control linkages and steering mechanisms are precisely manufactured and set without play.

The painting and filming of the model is clean and shows hardly any signs of wear even after several flights. The striking colouring not only ensures good optics, but also significantly improves visibility at high speeds.

The built-in digital metal transmission servos work precisely and quickly, which is essential at high flight speeds. The brushless motor and the 60A controller are also high quality and designed for high loads in continuous operation.

Transportability and handling

Despite its impressive flight performance, the 900mm aircraft is comparatively compact and transport-friendly. With a span of 90 cm, the model fits into many standard RC transport bags and can be easily transported in the trunk of a car.

The one-piece wing makes the transport simpler on the one hand, since no assembly is required on the field, on the other hand the model requires a little more space during transport than comparable models with removable wings.

The robust design ensures that the model is also well over the transport. For additional protection, experienced pilots still recommend a padded transport bag or a special transport case.

Spare parts supply and support

The spare part supply for the E-flite high-speed trailer is excellent. As a product of an established manufacturer, all important spare parts are available through the specialist trade or direct sales partner. Particularly frequently asked parts such as propellers, spiders and chassis parts are usually available at short notice.

Horizon Hobby, the parent company of E-flite, also offers an excellent customer support that can help with technical questions. For most regions, there are local support centres that can provide quick help.

Target group and entry barriers

The powerful V900 is primarily aimed at advanced to professional RC pilots who have experience with fast flight models. Although the SAFE Select technology also offers less experienced pilots a certain degree of protection, the high speed and the associated rapid reaction capacity are not suitable for beginners.

Ideally, pilots should have already gained experience with sporting models before moving to this high-speed trailer. The optimal target group are:

• Advanced sports and art flight pilots
• Speed enthusiasts with solid basic knowledge
• Experienced pilots looking for their first high-speed model
• RC veterans looking for an uncomplicated yet powerful model for dynamic flights

Construction and preparation

A great advantage of the BNF Basic model is the low assembly effort. The aircraft is delivered largely pre-assembled, which considerably simplifies assembly.

The main steps before the first flight are:

1. Connecting the receiver and checking the control functions
2. Installation of the battery and balancing of the center of gravity
3. Binding with remote control and possibly activation of SAFE Select
4. Check all rudder fittings and trimmings

The enclosed instructions are detailed and well illustrated. Even with limited construction experience, preparation can be completed in 30-60 minutes. Experienced pilots report that they can make the model ready for flight in less than 30 minutes.

Community support and online resources

An active community has formed around the fast e-flite model. In numerous forums and social media owners exchange experiences, tuning tips and flight impressions.

Particular emphasis should be given to:

• Numerous YouTube videos with flight demonstrations and test reports
• Dedicated threads in RC forums with valuable tips for optimization
• Facebook groups where owners exchange
• Support videos and instructions provided by the manufacturer

These community resources are particularly valuable for newcomers to the world of high-speed models, as they can benefit from the experience of other pilots.

Alternatives and competitors products

On the market for fast sports aircraft there are some interesting alternatives to high-precision E-flite V900. Here is a comparison with the main competitors products:

Multiplex FunJet Ultra

Benefits over E-flite V900:

• slightly more compact design (deltawing concept)
• Higher robustness due to ELAPOR material
• Removable wing for better transportability

Cons:

• Lower maximum speed
• Less precise flight behavior at high speeds
• No comparable stabilization system

FMS Avanti

Advantages:

• Similar performance data
• More detailed scale appearance
• A slightly larger range for more stable landings

Cons:

• Complex assembly
• Less advanced stabilization technology
• Not quite high end speed

Freewing Rebel V2

Advantages:

• A little cheaper purchase price
• More robust chassis
• Good all-round properties

Cons:

• Significantly lower maximum speed
• Less precise handling
• No comparable stabilization system

In a direct comparison, the fast E-flite flyer is characterized by its combination of high speed, precision and advanced stabilization technology. No other model in this price range offers a comparable balanced package for speed enthusiasts.

Value for money

With a price in the middle to top segment, the precise E-flite model is positioned as a premium product in the field of high-speed sports aircraft. However, considering the performance, quality and integrated technology, the price-performance ratio is quite appropriate.

Particularly positive is the price-performance ratio:

• The outstanding speed and performance
• The high-quality construction with composite and carbon fiber reinforcements
• Advanced AS3X and SAFE Select technology
• The high-quality digital metal transmission servos
• The powerful drivetrain with 60A controller

Compared to competitors with similar performance, the E-flite high-speed semi-trailer is positioned in the upper midfield, but also offers more technology and performance.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Experienced pilots have developed numerous optimizations and improvements for the fast aircraft over time. Here are the most important tips:

Battery optimization

Experts recommend for maximum performance:

• Use of high quality 4S-LiPos with at least 45C discharge rate
• Optimum positioning of the battery for focusing
• Use of batteries with IC3 or EC3 connection for low transition resistance
• Pay attention to adequate battery cooling for high performance flights

Propeller tuning

The standard propeller is already optimized for maximum speed, yet some pilots report successful experiments:

• For even higher speeds: propeller with slightly smaller diameter and higher gradient
• For better acceleration: propeller with the same diameter, but slightly lower gradient
• All the time on balancing, especially at maximum speed

Flight style adjustments

For optimal flight results, experienced pilots recommend:

• Gentle, predictive controls at high speeds
• Spacious room for curves
• In the case of landings, sufficient exit distance is provided
• Avoiding abrupt gas sinks to protect the drive train

Maintenance tips

To maintain performance and longevity:

• Regular review of all rudder steering on freedom of play
• Clean engine and controller after flights in dusty environment
• Regular testing of the propeller for smallest damage
• Control of servos on uniform, smooth running

Frequent questions and problem solutions

"My model does not reach the specified maximum speed. What can I do?"

This question appears relatively frequently. The solution is usually in one of these areas:

1. Battery capacity and quality: Use high quality 4S lips with sufficient C rate (at least 35C).
2. Propeller state: Even the smallest damage to the propeller can dramatically reduce the maximum speed.
3. altitude and wind conditions: The specified speeds relate to optimal conditions. Counterwind and high altitudes reduce the speed that can be achieved.
4. Battery temperature: For cold batteries (under 20°C), the power output can be reduced.

"How can I make the landings safer?"

The relatively high landing speed of the model can initially be challenging. Recommended pilots:

1. Plan generous landing approach with gentle sinking
2. Choose enough long and flat runway
3. When SAFE Select is activated, make the approach significantly easier
4. Before final landing some "Touch-and-Go" maneuver to practice
5. In the first landings, keep a little more speed than usual later

"How can I extend the flight time?"

There are several approaches for longer flight times without loss of performance:

1. Use of 4S batteries with higher capacity (up to 2500mAh if the focus is correct)
2. Conscious Throttle Management: Do not permanently fly full gas
3. Use of thermals and winds for energy-saving sliding
4. Precise setting of the center of gravity for optimal sliding properties

"Can I also fly the model with my spectrum DX6?"

Yes, this 6-channel transmitter is completely sufficient. The model requires only 4 basic functions (transverse, altimeter, side rudder, gas) plus optionally a channel for the SAFE Select activation.

"Is an upgrade of the drive sensible?"

The standard drivetrain is already very powerful and optimized for the structure of the model. An upgrade usually only brings marginal improvements with increased risk for the airframe structure. Experienced pilots instead recommend maintaining the standard drive and optimizing it more with propellers and battery.

Conclusion and recommendation for purchase

The E-flite V900 BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select convinces with its impressive combination of high speed, precise handling and advanced stabilization technology. As the fastest propeller-driven model in the E-flite portfolio, it offers a unique flight experience for advanced and professional pilots.

Processing quality, sophisticated design and high-quality components justify the price and promise long-lasting flight fun. The low installation time and the excellent spare parts supply complete the positive overall picture.

For whom is the high-speed trailer particularly recommended?

• Advanced pilots looking for their first real high-speed model
• Experienced RC enthusiasts who want an uncomplicated yet powerful model for dynamic flights
• Pilots with experience in sporting models that want to go the next step towards maximum speed
• Speed fans looking for a factory optimized model without elaborate tuning

If you are looking for the thrill of extreme speed in conjunction with precise handling, this impressive speedster will have its pleasure. The E-flite V900 BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select sets new standards in its class and offers an exciting flying experience for ambitious pilots.