specs
Wingspan: 42" (1074mm)
Weight built and ready to fly: 3.5 - 4.0 ounces
(99-113g) (No, that's not a misprint , and yes it includes all radio
gear, truly ready to fly)
Wing loading: less than 3oz per sq. ft.(8.5gm/dm2)
Materials: CNC-Hotwire cut EPS foam, Ultralight tape
covering, balsa, carbon fiber, High impact clear plastic nose pod,
nylon, aluminum & stainless steel hardware.
Breakdown Size: Complete Seeker breaks down for travel into 5" x
2.5" x 23" box, significantly smaller than the box the kit is
shipped in.
Breakthrough.
click here for
video: “Seeker Flight” (8.4MB)
The
Seeker is an unprecedented Radio Controlled glider kit that offers an
entirely new way to experience hand-launch soaring. With a wide speed range,
incredibly tight handling, and phenomenal low wing loading, it performs
beautifully from the tiniest thermals to the slimmest
slopes. Smaller flying sites become completely viable for the
experienced Seeker pilot, which makes the sport something
you can enjoy almost anywhere. Make a breakthrough
in your flying.
Launch. click here for video: “Seeker Launch” (1.4MB) The video shows a launch with approximately 95 feet of vertical climb, and it isn't even a full strength launch. That's right... a sub-4ounce glider being hand launched to about 100 ft! Even in no-lift conditions, long graceful glides or intense aerobatic flights always await. Launch a new passion.
Breakdown. The completed Seeker quickly breaks
down to fit in a slim box, scarcely larger than one wing, making it a great
plane for travel or hiking. Ever launched from a mountainside
meadow to fly alongside a falcon hunting for its morning
meal? Break down your assumptions about what it means to fly RC Handlaunch .
Fun. Clever construction, a Liftworx quality kit, and detailed
instructions all contribute to a building process that is almost as as much fun
as flying.
Seeker with Hawk pattern (created with Blo- Pens)
Basic
Pricing For Liftworx items in stock and ready for shipping:
Kit
Price: $79.00
MX-30 Servos: $26.00 each (2 required)
FMA M5 receiver w/low profile channel crystal (both shifts and all
frequencies available): $66.50
1 pair CR-2
Lithium cells: $10 (or six cells for $27)
Micro Switch Harness w/charging lead: $5.00
Micro extension plug for wiring a lithium
onboard pack: $3.00
4.8V 120Mah custom NimH rechargeable pack
(1-3 hump configuration for Seeker nose pod) $14
How to
Order:
Just email scobie@liftworx.com with any questions
and a list of the items you'd like to order. I'll send you back answers and a
detailed PayPal invoice so that you can pay by major credit card.
If you'd like
to use a check or money order, or if you want to pick up your order in person
here in Seattle, just say so, and we'll efficiently work out the details. Calls
are also welcome at 206-633-1206
Unsolicited reactions from builders:
"What a great kit! What great instructions, too. I used to build [model airplanes] quite a bit and the Seeker is by far one of the best all-around projects I've worked on. Congratulations on a great piece of work."
"The
instructions are superb!"
“I've
got to say, the Seeker raises kit construction to an
artform. I've been very impressed with your instructions. They're
marevlously written and the kit is expertly assembled and logically laid
out. I suspect I'll wind up buying another seeker...but I know I'm not
alone in wishing you made more kits!”
"Wow!
I'm sure this will go down in history as one of the most thorough,
best produced, most complete instruction manuals in the history of models.
you've set a new standard here."
"You did a fantastic job on both the kit and the owner's manual!"
Frequently Asked Questions:
What
about radio gear?
TRANSMITTER: You'll need a very basic two channel
single-stick FM transmitter (anything more than this will also work but is more than you
need for this model) These range in cost from $40 into the hundreds. I'll be
happy to help you find the right transmitter if you don't already have
it. The Seeker does not require any radio 'pre-sets' or onboard gyro in
order to launch straight and high.
RECEIVER:
For
the best security against radio interference and maximum range, you'll want the
FMA M5 receiver,
available with your Seeker kit from Liftworx. There are at least two other
receivers that will fit in the Seeker's nose pod. The JR610M
receiver (compatible with JR transmitters only) is about the same cost.
The GWS 'single-conversion' R4P receiver has less range, and less security against interference,
but some folks have had adequate performance from them. They're very light and
small, and about half the price of the above receivers. Alpex, and Berg are also
now making compatible receivers as well, in fact more receivers are coming on
the market all the time that are size and weight compatible with the Seeker. 10
grams is about the maximum weight. Virtually all receivers lighter than 10
grams are also physically small enough to fit.
SERVOS: You'll need two MX-30 servos, or equivalent 'clone' servos in the same case size. This case size or smaller is the only servo that will fit the Seeker. I carry the MX-30's for Liftworx because I think they offer the best combination of quality, speed, torque, and nice lightweight, flexible wire leads.
BATTERY: My favorite solution for the onboard battery is a pair of Lithium CR-2 camera cells. These offer 20 or more hours of flying per pair, but are not rechargeable and require wiring (soldering) into a two-cell pack. Complete instructions for wiring your own pack are now available with any CR-2 lithium cell purchase from Liftworx. These cells are available at any drug store, but are less expensive direct from Liftworx. Liftworx now also carries a custom Seeker NimH pack. Be sure you have the correct charging equipment for the type of cells you'll use.
How long will it take to build one? Most folks will spend four or five solid evening work sessions or one full weekend at the building table, once they have everything that's needed in one place. The Seeker kit makes it easier than it's ever been to access truly high-performance handlaunched glider flight, but you do have to gather tools, build the kit, and learn to fly. If you know you have a passion for this unique and joyful form of flying, then I encourage you to go for it.
Is the Seeker a plane for beginners? The Seeker is stable in the air, and has no 'bad habits', but the wide speed range and instant responsiveness that make it such a great performer also mean that it will be quite challenging for newcomers. The instructions do have a whole section on teaching yourself to fly on your own: it is possible, but it will take some patience and discipline. Finding a good teacher will make starting with the Seeker more realistic. I'm always happy to teach if you're in my area, and I'll always try to connect you to other Seeker pilots in your area if you need help.
What
else will I need ? You'll need a couple of kinds of tape, some
sandpaper, a good razor knife (X-acto type knife), some spray adhesive, white
glue (optional), some hobbyists super-glue (CA glue), and a few other
supplies. If you're new to building, I'll help you through the process
however I can, and if you're local, you can come by the shop for hand's-on help any time
you feel unconfident.