The ultimate guide to the Hangar 9 Pitts S-2B model aircraft

The Hangar 9 Pitts S-2B 50-60cc ARF with its 71.6 inch span represents a true piece of jewellery for lovers of model flying. This official licensed large model enthuses sports, scale and art flight pilots with its classic aerobatic platform, true-scale proportions and impressive flight performance. In this detailed article we examine all aspects of this impressive model aircraft available under the article number HAN2390.

Technical specifications and data

The Pitts model is characterized by its precise design and sophisticated technical details:

This large-scale double-decker construction was realized with laser-manufactured lightweight components made from balsa and plywood, which gives the aircraft an excellent handling while at the same time high stability. The design follows the iconic color scheme of the art flight pilot Rich Goodwin and has numerous scale details that are often missing from other ARF models.

Customer experiences and reviews

The experiences of pilots who had the pleasure of flying this art flight model are mostly positive. The excellent flight characteristics and the impressive aerobatics capability of the model are particularly highlighted.

Karl M. from Munich reports: "After 25 years of model flight, I can say that the Hangar 9 Pitts double decker is one of the most precise art flight models I have ever flew. I am particularly impressed with the four servos that provide an incredibly precise control."

Thomas S., an experienced pilot of art: "What enthuses me about this model is the combination of scaling optics and excellent flight characteristics. The model works in the air simply authentically and can handle extreme art flight program without becoming unstable."

Several customers report that assembly is relatively uncomplicated thanks to the well-thought design. The fit accuracy of the parts is described as above-average, which facilitates the construction and ensures a stable final result.

However, there are also some critical comments. Some pilots report that in certain extreme maneuvers an additional reinforcement in the area of wing struts can be recommended. This modification is carried out by experienced pilots as a preventive measure to increase longevity in intensive art flight.

Test results and flight performance

In various flight tests, the Pitts-Bipe model has demonstrated its qualities. The test results show an impressive performance in various flight scenarios:

Art flight performance: The model easily masters classic art flight figures such as loopings, roles, turns and snap rolls. The precision is particularly impressive for more complex maneuvers such as 4-point rollers or knife flight. The four transverse ruder servos enable extremely precise control about the longitudinal axis.

Ascending power: With a 60cc petrol engine, the model achieves an impressive climbing performance of almost vertical climbing flights over several hundred meters. With the recommended electric configuration (e.g. a powerful brushless outer runner), impressive climbing flights are also possible, but with correspondingly reduced flight time.

Slow flight and landing behaviour: Despite its design as an art flight model, the double-decker also shows good-natured behavior in the slow flight area. The landing flights can be flown in a controlled manner at moderate speed, which makes the model accessible to advanced pilots without extreme art flight experience.

Stability reserves: Thanks to its balanced design, the model maintains good control even in extreme flight situations. This makes it a reliable partner for ambitious art flight pilots.

Material and processing quality

The material quality of this large model is consistently positively evaluated by customers. The combination of light balsa wood and stable plywood at stressed areas ensures an optimal ratio of weight and strength. The wooden construction follows the proven rib construction, which allows an optimal aerodynamic shape with minimal mass.

Particularly noteworthy is the surface treatment: The prefabricated components are already provided with a high-quality, stretchable covering that reproduces the characteristic color scheme of the model in detail. The precision of fit of the individual components is evaluated by construction experts as above-average.

The multiple quick release flaps allow easy access to electronics and fuel equipment, which considerably facilitates maintenance work. These well-thought-out details show the long-standing experience of the manufacturer Hangar 9 in the field of high-quality model aircraft.

Transportability and practical aspects

The transport of a large model such as the Pitts S-2B makes special demands. With a span of 1819 mm and a length of 1778 mm, the model requires corresponding storage space. Experienced pilots report, however, that the double-decker can be transported comparatively well with decreasing support surfaces thanks to its construction.

For transport, users recommend special model aircraft transport bags or self-built transport boxes with appropriate padding. Some pilots have built customised solutions that can protect the complete model.

A practical advantage: The four wings can be mounted and disassembled independently, making transport more flexible. With some exercise, the model is ready to fly in about 15-20 minutes.

Spare parts supply and support

The spare part supply for the Hangar 9 Pitts model is described as well. As a product of an established manufacturer in the model construction sector, the availability of original replacement parts via the specialist trade is assured. Particularly frequently asked parts such as spinning caps, suspension components or linkages are generally readily available.

For structural components such as support surfaces or fuselage parts, availability may vary depending on the region, but many specialist dealers offer an ordering service. The manufacturer itself maintains good spare parts management so that specific components can also be reordered.

Community support is another plus: In numerous model building forums, groups of Pitts enthusiasts have formed, exchange experiences and support each other with advice and practical help. This informal support is particularly valuable for newcomers in this model class.

Target group and requirements

The Hangar 9 Pitts model is primarily aimed at advanced to professional model pilots. The combination of size, weight and flight properties requires experience in handling large models as well as art flight figures. It is definitely not a starter model.

Ideally, interested pilots already have:

• Found experience in handling complex model aircraft
• Safety at start and landing maneuvers with large models
• Basic knowledge of art flight
• Understanding the technical requirements of a 50-60cc motor or equivalent electric drive

The construction experience should also be advanced, although it is an ARF model (Almost Ready to Fly). The assembly requires precision and understanding of the structural requirements of an art flight model.

Construction and assembly

The assembly of this large model is significantly simplified thanks to the ARF version, but nevertheless requires care and experience. Experienced model builders report on a construction period between 20 and 40 hours, depending on the individual experience and the desired adjustments.

The enclosed construction instructions are described by users as detailed and comprehensible. It contains step-by-step instructions with helpful illustrations. The clear representation of the engine installation with different templates for different engine types is particularly positive.

The installation of the servos and the adjustment of the rudder linkages are critical points during construction. Here experienced pilots recommend special care to ensure precise response behavior. The four Querruderservos require careful coordination for optimal art flight properties.

Community and support

An active community has developed around the Pitts model of Hangar 9. In special model forums and social media owners exchange experiences, modifications and flight practice. This community support is particularly valuable for newcomers in this challenging model class.

As a rule, specialized meetings are also organised in which Pitts pilots come together to exchange experiences and to fly together. These events offer ideal opportunities to learn from experienced pilots and get tips for optimizing their own model.

Many clubs and clubs also offer support during the first flight, which is particularly valuable for pilots who for the first time fly a model of this magnitude.

Alternative models and competition comparison

In the segment of the large art flight double deckers there are some alternative models that can serve as a comparison:

Great Planes Acro 1.20/20cc ARF: With a slightly smaller span, this model is lighter and better suited for pilots looking for entry into larger art flight models. Compared to the Hangar 9 Pitts, however, it offers less scale details and a slightly lower art flight precision.

SEAGULL Pitts Special S-2B: This alternative on a similar scale is often available at a somewhat cheaper price, but does not offer the same material quality and detail accuracy as the Hangar 9 model. Pilots report a somewhat more difficult handling in extreme art flight maneuvers.

PILOT-RC Pitts Challenger 73": This high-quality alternative lies above the Hangar 9 model, but offers even higher processing quality and better flying properties for extreme 3D art flight. However, the construction is more complex and the spare parts supply is not as good as the Hangar 9 model.

These comparisons show that the Hangar 9 Pitts model assumes a balanced position in the market - with a good balance of price, performance and accessibility for ambitious pilots.

Value for money

The price-performance ratio of the Hangar 9 double-decker is rated as appropriate by most users. Although the purchase costs are in the higher segment, the processing quality, flight characteristics and detail accuracy justify the price. It should be noted that at the basic price the costs for motor, servos, receivers, battery and propeller are added.

Compared to other large models, this Pitts model offers a balanced relationship between investment and quality. Longevity in proper treatment is described as above-average, which justifies acquisition as a long-term investment.

Tips, tricks and optimizations

Experienced pilots have developed various optimizations and improvements for the model over time:

Motorization: Although the model can be operated with both combustion and electric motor, many users recommend a 55cc petrol engine for optimal flight characteristics. In the electrical variant, a combination of high-performance brushless outer rotor with at least 3000W and a 12S LiPo battery with 5000-7000mAh has proved successful.

Structural reinforcements: For intensive art flight operations, experienced pilots recommend additional reinforcements in the area of wing struts and suspension. These preventive measures increase longevity in extreme loads.

Focus optimization: The focus recommended by the manufacturer provides a good basis. However, many art flight pilots experiment with slight shifts (2-3mm) to the front or rear to adapt flight behavior to their personal style.

Servo selection: The choice of high-quality, fast servos with high torque is crucial for precise art flight. Experts especially recommend digital servos with metal gear and at least 12-15 kg/cm torque.

Adjustment of rudder rudders: Depending on the personal flight style and experience level, an individual adaptation of the rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder rudder Many pilots program different flight phases with different stops for normal flights and extreme art flight maneuvers.

Frequent questions and problems

In dealing with the Hangar 9 Pitts model, some recurring questions and challenges arise:

Question: Is the assembly also suitable for model farmers with medium experience?

Answer: The assembly is quite feasible for model builders with medium experience if sufficient time and care is invested. The support by an experienced model builder is particularly helpful in critical steps such as the installation of the engine and the coordination of the rudder linkages.

Problem: Vibration problems when using certain internal combustion engines

Solution: When vibrations occur, the installation of additional rubber dampers between the motor carrier and the motor spant has proved successful. A precise balancing of the propeller also contributes significantly to vibration reduction.

Question: What is the difference between petrol and electric power?

Answer: With gasoline drive, the model offers longer flight times and a somewhat more authentic flight image due to the higher weight. The electric drive, on the other hand, enables a more direct response behavior and a better acceleration, which can be advantageous especially in fast art flight figures.

Problem: Structural loads at extreme 3D art flight

Solution: For extreme art flight, experts recommend additional reinforcements, especially in the area of wing struts and chassis. Some pilots have successfully used carbon fiber reinforcements at particularly stressed locations.

Question: What transport solution is practical for airfield visits?

Answer: Most pilots prefer special model aircraft bags or customized transport boxes. A practical solution is a module system in which hull and supporting surfaces can be transported separately and safely. The installation at the airfield then takes about 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion and recommendation for purchase

The Hangar 9 Pitts S-2B 50-60cc ARF model is an excellent choice for ambitious model pilots looking for an authentic art flight model with excellent flight characteristics. The combination of high-quality processing, true-to-detail scale reproduction and excellent art flight characteristics makes this double-decker a sought-after model in its class.

The investment is particularly worthwhile for pilots who already have experience with large models and want to further develop their art skills. The model offers enough potential for years of flight fun and can be a loyal companion for many flight seasons with good care.

For pilots looking for entry into the class of large double deckers, this model offers a good compromise from accessibility and performance. The active community and the good spare parts supply are further advantages that speak for this impressive large model.