hobbyking rc yacht

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RC Boat Magazine The World's Leading Radio Control Boating Magazine

Hobbyking bat 1 rc land yacht: all you need is wind and a sail.

RC Boat Staff August 17, 2016 Reviews 1,224 Views

IN THE WIND

After wrapping my head around how the sail system works, it was time to head outside and give this wind-powered 3-wheeler some stick time. I gathered up the BAT, the transmitter and the ambitious E-Man and trekked out to the parking structure outside our building. It was a beautiful day, however there was very little wind; the one thing we needed. We gave it our best but without that wind the BAT 1 barely moved. Back to the office we went.

Let me tell you that having the BAT in my office on the bench staring me in the face was like getting a new bike for Christmas only to find out it’s raining outside. It was four days before Mother Nature finally decided to cast some wind my way, so it was back outside to give the BAT another try.  AUTHOR’S OPINION

Anything RC is fun for us and when the BAT 1 rolled into the office, we were pretty excited to try it since it was something a little different. Once you get it going (that is, once there’s wind), it’s actually really fun to drive. The controls are similar to a regular RC car so if you have any experience driving, you’ll pick this up in no time.

• Electronics already installed
• Easy assembly with very few parts
• Low-drag foam tires
• Only requires four “AA” batteries
• Requires wind or it won’t move

Transmitter on; switch on. Steering working; check. Boom swinging; check. After my ‘all systems go’ check, I set the BAT down and immediately it started speeding away as the wind caught the open sail. As I approached the end of the parking area, I applied brakes on the throttle to cinch the sail in but found that the BAT doesn’t actually have brakes! Cinching in the sail only limits the amount of air that it gathers; slowing down is simply a matter of it losing speed! Panicking a bit, I cranked the wheel and the BAT aggressively whipped around and almost immediately the sail swung around to the other side. Ah, now I’m getting the hang of it. No matter which way the BAT is pointed, the sail will swing to the ‘wind’ side as long as you have the throttle open.

I drove the BAT around for what seemed like an eternity before Edwin graciously noted that he’d been done with pictures for about 20 minutes! Yes, the run-time on this thing is unreal; as long as your “AA”’s are fresh and there is wind, you could go all day!

FEATURE BREAKDOWN

• Since the BAT is powered by wind, it only needs the giant sail for movement. The main sheet line extends out of the hull and is attached to the sail at one end and a second servo on the other. Connecting the sheet line is a little tricky … it took me a few tries to figure out exactly how it works. The throttle on the transmitter actuates the sail, but here’s the trick: when you pull the throttle on the transmitter (similar to accelerating in a normal RC car), it provides slack in the main sheet line and allows the sail to swing, catching air and moving the BAT forward. When you push forward on the throttle (similar to braking on a normal RC car), you are cinching in the main sheet line, or preventing it from swinging. This keeps the sail inline with the BAT and limits the amount of air it can catch, effectively slowing it down. Trust me, it’s weird at first but you’ll get the hang of it.

NEEDED TO COMPLETE

• AA batteries

DIMENSIONS LENGTH: 28.7-inch (730mm) WIDTH: 19.7-inch (500mm) HEIGHT: 39.4-inch (1000mm) SAIL AREA: 0.15m² WEIGHT: 692g

BODY, WHEELS AND TIRES BODY: Pre-molded 2-piece hull WHEELS: Plastic with bearings TIRES: Foam donuts

SUSPENSION TYPE: None SHOCK POSITIONS: No shocks CAMBER: Fixed ROLL: Fixed WHEELBASE: Fixed RIDE HEIGHT: Fixed

STEERING TYPE: Direct TOE: None CHASSIS TYPE: 2-piece hull MATERIAL: Plastic THICKNESS: N/A

DRIVETRAIN TYPE: Wind power! TRANSMISSION: None DIFFERENTIAL: None CLUTCH TYPE: None GEAR RATIO: None BEARINGS: Full shielded

THE LAST WORD

HobbyKing , hobbyking.com

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HobbyKing Boats: Affordable and Reliable Options for Hobbyists and Enthusiasts

• By - Kyle Hilson
• Posted on November 14, 2023 November 15, 2023
• Posted in RC Boats

HobbyKing is a well-known brand that offers various types of RC (radio-controlled) products, including cars, planes, and boats. Among their products, HobbyKing Boats have gained a considerable reputation in the world of hobbyists because of their durability, affordability, and performance. HobbyKing Boats are popular among beginners and enthusiasts alike, providing a fun and exciting way to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. With different models available in the market, HobbyKing Boats cater to different people’s needs, offering boats for racing, cruising, and just about everything in between. Their boats are designed and built using quality materials and advanced technology, making them stand out from other RC boats in the market, all while being available at reasonable prices. In this article, we will delve deeper into HobbyKing Boats, their features, benefits, and what makes them a unique choice for RC boat enthusiasts.

Types of HobbyKing Boats

HobbyKing Boats offer a diverse range of boats that cater to different interests. Some of the popular types of HobbyKing Boats include:

• Racing boats, designed for speed and agility, with features such as optimized hull design and high-power motors.
• Cruise boats, designed for leisurely cruising in water, with features such as adjustable speed, stable operations, and low battery consumption.
• Sport boats, designed for a mix of cruising and racing, with features such as high speed and good stability, making them an optimal choice for beginners.
• Scale boats, designed to resemble real-life boats, with intricate details and advanced radio control systems.

No matter which type of boat you choose, you can rest assured that you are getting a quality product. HobbyKing Boats are designed and built using quality materials, including aluminum, fiberglass, and plastic, that are durable enough to withstand the rigors of RC boating. The boats also come with a variety of features and specifications, including brushless motors , waterproof electronics , and long-range remote control systems , that make them perform exceptionally well even in the most challenging water conditions.

If you are interested in purchasing a HobbyKing Boat , their official website is a great place to start. The site is user-friendly and offers detailed information about each of the boats, including specifications, reviews, and pricing options. HobbyKing also offers a range of accessories such as batteries , chargers , and spare parts , to ensure that your boat keeps running smoothly. Furthermore, if you’re a beginner, the site offers helpful guides, videos, and FAQs that can help you learn about RC boating and how to get started.

How to choose a brushless motor for RC boat?

When choosing a brushless motor for your RC boat, it’s important to consider the size of the boat. A 28-29mm can size motor will power most hulls up to 600mm, while a 36mm can size motor can handle up to around 800mm. For larger boats up to 1200mm, a 40mm can size motor is suitable as long as it’s a light brushless dedicated or ABS hull. If your boat exceeds 1200mm, you will need a 56-58mm motor. Make sure to check the specifications and motor size before making a purchase. You can find a variety of brushless motors for RC boats on websites such as HobbyKing or Tower Hobbies.

Owning a HobbyKing Boat can provide numerous benefits, including:

• A fun and engaging RC hobby that can be enjoyed alone or with friends and family
• An opportunity to explore lakes, rivers, and other water bodies that may not be accessible otherwise
• A chance to participate in racing events and competitions and meet other RC boating enthusiasts
• A relaxing way to unwind and escape the stress of everyday life
• An opportunity to improve hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and problem-solving abilities

In addition to these benefits, HobbyKing Boats are also known for their speed and agility. For instance, the HobbyKing Swamp Dawg Air Boat can reach speeds of up to 70km/h , making it one of the fastest RC boats on the market. Furthermore, HobbyKing offers boats that can be operated over a range of distances, from 100 meters to more than a kilometer , providing ample opportunity to explore large bodies of water.

If you are unsure which HobbyKing Boat is right for you, check out the table below for a quick comparison of features and specifications. This table compares four popular boats, including the racing boat , sport boat , scale boat , and cruise boat , and highlights their key features, including the battery type , motor power , and maximum speed .

Overall, HobbyKing Boats offer a high-quality and affordable way to enjoy RC boating, with a range of boats that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, there’s a HobbyKing Boat out there for you.

Maintenance and Care of HobbyKing Boats

Proper maintenance and care of your HobbyKing Boat is essential to ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Store your boat in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight, which can cause the colors to fade and the plastic to become brittle
• Regularly clean your boat with soap and water , being careful not to use abrasive cleaners that can scratch or damage the surface
• Check the motor and other components periodically for wear and tear, and replace any damaged parts as needed
• Charge and store your batteries properly, following the manufacturer’s instructions for maximum battery life
• After use, rinse your boat with fresh water and dry it thoroughly to prevent any corrosion or damage to the electronics

It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to operating your HobbyKing Boat . For instance, some boats may not be suitable for use in saltwater, while others may require a specific type of battery or charger. Be sure to read the manual and any other documentation that comes with your boat to ensure you’re using it safely and correctly.

If you’re unsure about how to maintain or repair your HobbyKing Boat , check out the HobbyKing website for resources and support. HobbyKing offers a range of parts and accessories for their boats, as well as forums and customer support for those who need assistance. Additionally, there are many online communities and forums dedicated to RC boating where you can connect with other enthusiasts and get tips and advice. By taking care of your HobbyKing Boat and seeking out help when you need it, you can ensure years of enjoyment and fun on the water.

What maintenance should be done on a boat?

Regular maintenance is an important part of owning a boat to ensure it runs smoothly and safely. Here are some key tasks to include in your boat maintenance checklist: checking the battery charge, testing electronics and lights, checking fluid levels such as power steering and coolant, changing the oil, inspecting the propeller, ensuring there are no leaks or damage in the gas tank, fuel lines and engines, and making sure the railing is secure. It’s important to refer to your boat’s specific manual and manufacturer guidelines for additional maintenance tasks. For boat maintenance products, check out sites such as West Marine or BoatUS.

Customer Reviews and Ratings of HobbyKing Boats

Many customers have shared positive experiences and feedback about their HobbyKing Boats . Here are some reviews and ratings to give you an idea of what other boaters think about HobbyKing Boats :

• “I purchased a HobbyKing boat for my son and it has provided many hours of entertainment for the whole family. The build quality is excellent and the boat is easy to operate.” – John M.
• “I race HobbyKing boats and have been very impressed with their speed and agility on the water. They’re also very durable and can withstand crashes and collisions.” – Sarah T.
• “I’ve had some issues with my HobbyKing boat’s motor, but the customer service team was very helpful in getting it fixed. Overall, I’m satisfied with the quality of the boat and the support from the company.” – David W.

While most customers have had positive experiences with HobbyKing Boats , some have noted issues with the boats. For instance, some customers have reported that the boats are prone to tipping over in rough water or when making sharp turns. However, others have found ways to modify their boats to improve their stability and performance.

If you’re considering purchasing a HobbyKing Boat , it’s a good idea to take a look at customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of what to expect. You can find reviews on the HobbyKing website, as well as on third-party sites like Amazon. Additionally, you can reach out to other boaters in forums and Facebook groups to get their opinions and advice.

Overall, HobbyKing Boats offer an affordable and reliable option for anyone interested in getting into the world of boating. With a range of boats available, from racing boats to scale models, there is something for everyone. Many customers have shared positive experiences with HobbyKing Boats, noting their quality build and impressive performance. While some have noted issues with the boats, overall, they have been received positively by the boating community.

If you’re considering purchasing a HobbyKing Boat, it’s important to do your research and choose the right boat for your needs. Consider factors such as the type of boating you intend to do, the size and design of the boat, and your budget. Look for customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of what to expect and any potential issues to watch out for.

Whether you’re looking to race, cruise on calm waters, or simply enjoy time on the water, a HobbyKing Boat can provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment. With proper care and maintenance, your HobbyKing Boat can provide years of use and fun for the whole family. So why not take the plunge and join the ranks of boaters who have discovered the joy of HobbyKing Boats?

HydroPro Affinity RG65 Racing Yacht (Plug and Play) (UK Warehouse)

Description

As a perfect introduction to R/C Yacht Racing the HydroPro Affinity RG65 Class Racing Yacht is hard to beat!

The HydroPro Affinity stands out from its closest competitors by including 2 complete racing rigs with mylar sails at a fraction of the cost of lesser optioned boats.

Quick and easy to assemble, the Affinity will have you on the water for some close, competitive racing or relaxing cruising in no time, with a performance that will satisfy even the most discerning RC Yacht Skipper.

The Affinity comes complete with a heavy duty sail winch, metal geared rudder servo, receiver & battery harness/switch assembly and battery holder.

The hull and rudder and are moulded from tough plastic, while the mast and booms are made using lightweight carbon fibre tubes for strength and durability. A streamlined cast zinc alloy ballast weight and stiff hydro-dynamically designed, extruded aluminum fin attaches to the hull using a threaded retainer.

Assembly couldn't be simpler and all that is required to sail the model is a 2 Channel Transmitter/Receiver set of your choice and 4 AA sized alkaline or NiMH batteries.

The Affinity uses a sophisticated hull design and built-in rig 'tuning' allowing it to be competitive in a wide range of wind conditions making it ideal for class racing, one design racing or general sailing. It makes a great choice for a group of experienced skippers and novices alike and will be fully supported with spare parts and accessories.

Click here for full spares inventory

HydroPro Affinity RG65, Sail to Race…..Race to Win!

Features: • RG65 Class Legal • Integrated bow bumper • Pre Applied Graphics • 2 Complete Rigs • Mylar Racing Sails • Carbon Fibre Masts and Booms • Zinc Alloy Ballast and Aluminium Fin • Powerful Sail Winch • Metal Geared Rudder Servo • Pre-installed Battery Box and On/Off Switch • Display Stand

Specs: Hull Material: ABS Plastic Sail Material: Mylar Length: 650mm Beam: 150mm RTR Total Weight: 1290g (not including 4xAA Batteries) Mast Height: 915mm (A Rig)

Included: Hydropro Affinity RG65 Racing Yacht PnP including; 2 x Rigs (masts and booms) 2X Mylar Racing Sails Sail Winch Rudder Servo Battery Holder Switch Rigging Cord Stand

Required: 2 x Ch Transmitter and Receiver 4 x AA sized Alkaline or NiMH Batteries

Price History