DIY Network

RC Hobbies on a Budget: Sailboats and Speedboats From "Radio Control Hobbies" episode RCH-207

The Kyosho Sunstorm and the Nirvana sailboat from Megatech are both great choices for getting started in RC boating without spending a log of money.

In this segment, Chris Chianelli features an electrically powered speedboat and an RC sailboat, both of which retail for under $200. The Sunstorm racing boat from Kyosho costs about $125 and features electronic speed controller and a water-cooled engine. Megatech's Nirvana is a 32-inch RC sailboat that was designed by a world-class RC yacht racer. These models come essentially pre-built with everything you need for quick and easy operation.

Important: This demonstration provides some of the basic information for assembly and operation of this particular model or kit. There are variations in assembly for each particular model. Read and carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions that come with yours, whether it is this particular model or another. Additional information about assembly as well as running, troubleshooting and fine-tuning the model can be found in the manufacturer's instructions.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

If your notion of the ideal RC hobby involves a slow, relaxing pace, consider RC sailboating with an entry-level model like the Nirvana from Megatech..

• The radio transmitter for the Nirvana (figure A) has a range of more than 1500 feet.

• The boat itself features mylar sails (as opposed to cloth), carbon-fiber mast and booms and a double-sealed radio compartment (figure B).

• The Nirvana comes essentially pre-built as shown (figure C). The only assembly required is slipping in the mast and tightening the rigging stays.

• Megatech Nirvana specs:
  
• Hull length: 32 inches
  
• Weight: 5.5 lbs.
  
• Height: 65.5 inches
  
• Beam: 7.5 inches
  
• Street Price: about $150

	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F