First 1.75 loops!

[Si Goodchild]

Guys,

Beautiful day for flying the MiniPred today and after a few figure 8s and climbing banked turns decided to try my first loop in the real world (plenty so far in phoenix). The first one worked a treat although I only missed the ground by about 3 feet. The second one didn't work out so well as I kept the power on at the top of the loop, didn't gain enough height and...

...CRUNCH!

Damage seemed relatively light all things considered:

1/2 undercarriage, canopy, 1 blade, 1 blade grip, flybar and one slightly dented battery cell. All spares are ready to hand!

To be honest, I was perfectly happy with this crash as at least it happened when I was pushing myself a bit rather than a stupid low-level mistake or mechanical failure.

I'm planning to give the dented battery a charge and see if it's still functioning okay. Are there any precautions or tests you'd recommend before I use this battery for flight?

Si

[Tim Procter]

Si.

People don't often realise you need plenty of speed and power to complete a loop and keep a good height for instances like you have had.

Next time lots of power and give yourself ample room for the exit of the loop instead of running out of altitude.

Kudos for having the balls to try it though..

[shaun.e]

Better stand by with the fire extinguisher when charging the battery! Sorry to hear about the crash, knowing you you'll be round to see Tim to get bits fixed! Where were you flying?

[Si Goodchild]

Shaun,

On a course at Shrivenam from late Oct to Xmas. Flying at home at the mo. No need to see Tim, have all the spares I need here: woo hoo!

Busterboy,

Thanks for the Kudos. Like I said, big grin on my face from surviving the first loop and the lack of damage coupled to the plentiful supply of spares here means that I'm not even slightly put off this game yet. Bring it on!

Si