Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What types of servos do I need with the LS models?
  2. What types of surfaces can your models sail on?
  3. What wind conditions can your models sail in?
  4. How much space is needed to sail your models?
  5. What materials are your models made of?
  6. How are the LS model sails made?
  7. Who makes the racing rules for models landsailing and what are they?

1.   What types of servos do I need with the LS models?

Each model requires a 2 channel radio with one steering servo and one sail servo arm type. These can be purchased at www.towerhobbies.com. If you do not have any radio equipment we recommend the Futaba 2VR 2 Channel/1 S3003/1 S3802 Radio/Servo package. For the sail control any arm type servo with 150 in-oz of torque or more is adequate.

2.   What types of surfaces can your models sail on?

Here on the East coast we sail on asphalt and concrete (empty parking lots mostly) but the LS models can sail on any hard flat surface, like the dry lake beds of California. Of course, the smoother the surface is, the faster the models will go.

3.   What wind conditions can your models sail in?

The LS models sail well in wind conditions from about 5 mph to over 20 mph. This is accomplished by using different sized sails for different conditions. Winds much less than 5 mph can be frustrating on anything but the smoothest surface (like new asphalt or a tennis court surface). Ideal conditions for racing are 7-12 mph because you have lots of speed without losing stability or controllability. When the wind kicks up around 18+ the models start doing about 30 mph and it gets a little difficult to make clean mark roundings but if you make the course big enough, it can be a lot of fun.

4.   How much space is needed to sail your models?

The required space depends on the wind conditions. With enough wind, you can reach 30 mph which means you need a relatively large area (40 yards x 40 yards) to be comfortable. In less wind you can sail around on something the size of an outdoor basketball court, but racing usually requires a little more space than that. Also, since the LS-4 is faster and heavier than the LS-3 it is a little less maneuverable and requires more space.

5.   What materials are your models made of?

The LS models are made almost entirely of basswood, balsa wood and aircraft grade plywood. This is what enables them to be strong, light and inexpensive.

6.   How are the LS model sails made?

Each LS kit includes a large sheet of mylar from which to cut the sails. The sails are easily cut out in a single flat piece of mylar. They develop some curvature when the model is sailing. On a landsailer you're almost always going upwind so flat sails are best.

7.   Who makes the racing rules for models landsailing and what are they?

There is an international organization called IRCSSA (International Radio Control Surface Sailors Association) which has developed class rules. It's mission is to promote RC landsailing. If you would like to joint, simply fill out a copy of the registration form and send it in. It's free!