Written by Jay Smith
As featured on page 19 the November 2012 issue of Model Aviation.
As featured in the Model Aviation tablet app.
The Flyzone Calypso is incredibly easy to assemble, requiring only a screwdriver. In only a few minutes, you’ll have the tail attached via one screw and the wings attached with two more.
It is available in four versions: RTF, transmitter ready (Tx-R), receiver ready (Rx-R), and ARF. We received the Rx-R version, which works with most transmitters, using the AnyLink universal radio adapter. In our case the AnyLink was connected to our Futaba 8FG transmitter.
While the included three-cell 1300 mAh LiPo battery seemed too small to power this 29-ounce, 73-inch sailplane, we quickly found out on the first flight that the Calypso is indeed a glider and is more than happy hunting thermals with the throttle off.
At full power, the Calypso climbs at roughly a 45° angle and once you’ve reached the desired altitude, the folding propeller tucks itself on the sides of the fuselage.
The Calypso is easy to see, even when high in the sky thanks to the green and blue colors on the bottom of the wing.
The glide ratio on this model is excellent and it simply does not want to come down. Everyone who has flown it has overshot the runway on the first pass until they are comfortable with its ground-repelling ability!
The four-channel model provides plenty of control and, although not intended to be aerobatic, it will loop and roll—but the rolls aren’t pretty. When you decide to land it the Calypso, the combination of the wheel and nose and tail skid plates will ensure safe landing on grass or pavement.
Constructed from durable AeroCell foam, our model has held up well over several flights by different pilots. This is the type of model you gladly pass the transmitter around; everyone wants a chance at the sticks.
When it comes time to pack up the model or store it, simply unplug the ailerons from the Y harness and loosen the retaining screw in each wing. The wing panels and carbon-fiber wing tube can then be easily removed.
The Calypso also has the option for flaps, which requires two additional servos (FLZA6013) and the Flap Linkage Set (FLZA6008). We are in the process of adding them to our model to see what effect they will have on the flight envelope.
Look for an overview and flight video on
www.ModelAviation.com where we can better illustrate the capabilities of the easy-to-build, fun-to-fly model!
Hobbico: Box 9021, Champaign IL 61826; Tel.: (800) 637-7660; website: www.flyzoneplanes.com
