Figure 8's

[the_frogger]

On the simulator: I am quite new to flying heli's and I am trying to learn good figure 8's. I can do hovers in all directions, inverted as well and fly around quite comfortably but I am really struggling with figure 8's for some reason, especially slow ones.

I seem to be able to do 2 or 3 in a row and then it all goes pear shaped. Slow ones I don't seem to be able to do at all.

Any advise or is the usual.................. 'stick time'

For real I can do hovers in all directions right side up and fly around a bit and that's about all at this stage.

I only have a T-Rex 250 at the moment and so with winter coming and until I have my 450 flying I guess I'll be doing a LOT more on the sim as outdoors seems a bit limited for now. I currently spend a good 1-2 hrs/day on Phoenix.

[orb]

Stick time will help but the figure of eights are important especially slow ones,try to practice putting in a stab of elevator as you go round,and don't worry if turns out a bit jerky it will smothe out in time.

[sacko]

I have attatched a Phoenix recording that Richie Clarke made a while ago when people were asking about BMFA certifications. Stick them in your 'recording' folder inside the Phoenix folder in My Docs.

They may help, they did for me.

[GravityKills]

>> especially slow ones.
they are indeed the hardest.

some thoughts:
- always practise the direction that you find most difficult.
- if you want to do it slowly (which I can only recommend), start with circles. Flying nose-in aside, they are easier than figure 8s, since you don't have to change directions.
- hovered piro on the spot may also help (slowly)
- use a .90 heli in the sim, or jetcopter.
- don't be afraid to slow down simulator speed. Many people may be surprised, but it's a very very effective way to practise (one reason: you do less mistakes and therefore practise "doing it right").
- if you "hit a wall", start backwards (and / or hovered side-in circles nose in / tail in, left/right). Then go back to forwards, and the pieces will probably fall into place...

[the_frogger]

Thanks guys, all really good comments. I'll go back and try and apply

[Tim Procter]

Thanks guys, all really good comments. I'll go back and try and apply

It really is a long hard road mate but well worth the effort when it all comes together.

sim sim sim sim.. Hammer it until you can do it with ease.