When I first held the E-flite UMX Turbo Timber Evolution in my hands, I was struck by how something weighing just 5.4 ounces could pack such impressive capabilities. This ultra-micro marvel represents the perfect balance between portability and performance in the RC airplane world. With its 27.48-inch wingspan and factory-installed features like functional LED lighting and leading edge slats, this aircraft stands out in the crowded field of compact flyers. Whether you’re an intermediate pilot looking to advance your skills or simply want a versatile aircraft that can handle various terrains, this BNF Basic model deserves your attention. Let’s examine what makes this particular RC airplane such a standout performer.
Impressive STOL Performance & Aerobatic Capabilities
The UMX Turbo Timber Evolution represents a remarkable achievement in ultra-micro RC aviation, delivering exceptional Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) performance that allows pilots to operate in confined spaces where traditional RC aircraft simply cannot go. This capability stems from several key design features working in concert to create a truly versatile flying experience.
Leading Edge Innovation
The aircraft’s leading edge wing slats are engineered specifically to enhance slow-speed handling characteristics, allowing the plane to maintain lift at speeds that would normally cause stalling. Combined with functional flaps that provide improved landing approach control, pilots gain precise authority over their flight path during critical landing phases.
The 1208 brushless motor delivers an excellent thrust-to-weight ratio, propelling this 5.4 oz aircraft with authority whether taking off from grass, dirt, or water. This power system provides the necessary thrust for both short takeoffs and ambitious aerobatic maneuvers.
Speaking of aerobatics, the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution isn’t just a STOL specialist. Its balanced control surfaces deliver precise response for sport flying, enabling loops, rolls, and even inverted flight with confidence. This dual-purpose capability makes it an ideal platform for pilots looking to develop both technical STOL skills and aerobatic proficiency in a single aircraft.
Advanced Flight Technology & Stabilization Systems
Technology integration sets the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution apart from other ultra-micro aircraft through sophisticated electronic systems that enhance the flying experience.
AS3X Advantage
The built-in AS3X technology actively works to smooth out the effects of wind and turbulence, a particularly valuable feature for an aircraft of this size. This system makes the plane feel larger and more stable than its dimensions would suggest, giving pilots a more confidence-inspiring experience in various weather conditions.
For those seeking additional flight protection, the optional SAFE Select technology can be activated to provide flight envelope protection. This feature limits pitch and bank angles, preventing over-control and allowing newer intermediate pilots to progress with confidence.
The included Spektrum receiver offers industry-standard DSMX/DSM2 compatibility, ensuring reliable control link performance. This receiver is also telemetry-ready, capable of providing real-time flight data to compatible transmitters. Combined with proportional control surfaces that allow for nuanced flight adjustments, pilots gain a level of precision typically reserved for much larger aircraft.
The engineering team has optimized the CG (center of gravity) for balanced flight characteristics right from the factory, eliminating the need for complex balance adjustments before your first flight.
Versatile All-Terrain Design Features
Versatility defines the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution with design elements that allow operation from virtually any surface.
Multi-Surface Capability
The oversized tundra tires come standard, enabling takeoffs and landings from rough fields and grass surfaces that would ground most ultra-micro aircraft. For those drawn to water flying, the aircraft supports an optional float kit for water takeoffs and landings, further expanding its operational envelope.
The durable landing gear is specifically designed to absorb rough landings, protecting the airframe during those less-than-perfect touchdowns that inevitably occur during STOL operations. This durability extends to the reinforced wing structure, engineered to handle the stresses of various flight conditions from calm air to moderate winds.
Adding both functionality and scale appearance, the functional LED lighting system enhances visibility during twilight flying sessions while providing a realistic appearance. Despite these robust features, the airframe maintains a lightweight yet rigid construction, with a total flying weight of just 5.4 oz.
Power System & Performance Specifications
The heart of the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution’s performance lies in its carefully engineered power system and airframe dimensions.
Power & Dimensions
The 1208 brushless outrunner motor provides exceptional thrust, especially when paired with a 3S LiPo battery. However, the aircraft maintains compatibility with both 2S and 3S 280-300mAh LiPo batteries, allowing pilots to tailor the performance envelope to their skill level and flying style. This optimized power system delivers extended flight times without sacrificing performance.
With a 27.48-inch wingspan, the aircraft strikes the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability. The 19.49-inch overall length contributes to compact transport and storage while maintaining proper flight dynamics. From the factory, control throws are optimized for both sport and precision flying, though these can be adjusted through transmitter programming for pilots seeking more aggressive response.
Binding & Setup Requirements
Getting the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution in the air requires minimal preparation thanks to its Bind-N-Fly Basic format.
Transmitter Compatibility
The aircraft requires a compatible 6+ channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitter, which pilots will need to supply separately. The binding procedure is straightforward, allowing for quick setup without complicated programming. For those with popular Spektrum transmitters, downloadable setup files may be available to further streamline the process.
No assembly is required as the aircraft comes factory-built and ready to bind. All servo linkages and control horns are pre-installed and properly adjusted, eliminating potential setup errors and reducing time between unboxing and first flight.
Ready-To-Fly Experience
The factory-assembled nature of the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution creates an almost immediate flying experience for pilots.
Factory Preparation
All electronics including the receiver and servos come pre-installed, eliminating the need for complex wiring or electronic setup. The functional LED lighting system is ready for operation right out of the box, adding both visual appeal and practical functionality.
Control surfaces arrive perfectly balanced from the factory, ensuring proper flight characteristics from the first takeoff. The included detailed instruction manual provides flight tips and setup guidance for pilots of various experience levels.
Minimal accessories are needed to get airborne quickly – pilots need only add their compatible transmitter and appropriate LiPo battery to experience everything this capable ultra-micro aircraft has to offer.
Pilot’s Guide: Getting the Most from Your UMX Turbo Timber
Looking at the E-flite UMX Turbo Timber Evolution from a pilot’s perspective, this aircraft delivers exceptional value for intermediate flyers. The combination of STOL capabilities and aerobatic potential means you’ll never outgrow this versatile platform. The factory-installed AS3X system makes flying in less-than-perfect conditions manageable, while the optional SAFE Select technology provides a safety net when needed. With its ability to operate from grass, dirt, or water (with optional floats), this ultra-micro aircraft removes many of the limitations typically associated with smaller RC planes. When you’re ready to advance your RC flying skills without investing in a larger aircraft, the UMX Turbo Timber Evolution represents the perfect next step.
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