Overview
The Blade Revolution 235 CP RTF Basic with SAFE is the ultimate choice for pilots looking to learn collective pitch (CP) helicopter flying or advance their skills into scale, sport, and 3D aerobatics. This is an updated and upgraded version of the best-selling Blade 230 S, refined through a decade of proven performance and user feedback. For nearly ten years, more people have learned to fly CP helicopters with the Blade 230 S than any other model on the market, and the Revolution 235 CP takes everything that made the original a classic and improves upon it with easier handling, enhanced durability, and greater capability for both first-time and experienced heli pilots across the UK and beyond.
This ready-to-fly RC helicopter arrives 100% factory-assembled and flight-tested, requiring no complex assembly or time-consuming setup straight out of the box. Whether you're purchasing your first brushless RC helicopter or expanding your collection as an experienced pilot, the Revolution 235 CP delivers exceptional value and performance. The inclusion of the Spektrum DXS 2.4GHz DSMX transmitter means you're getting professional-grade radio control technology that can be reused with other Bind-N-Fly aircraft once you've mastered this model, making it an excellent long-term investment for your RC hobby.
With its mid-sized frame, the Revolution 235 CP offers outstanding outdoor visibility and stability when flying in yards, parks, sports fields, and beyond in light wind conditions. The model's innovative SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology makes learning to fly CP helicopters significantly easier, whilst the AS3X stabilisation system and multiple flight modes allow you to progress from gentle stability training flights to advanced 3D manoeuvres as your confidence grows. This is the ready-to-run RC helicopter that adapts to your skill level, not the other way around.
Key Features
- SAFE Technology with Panic Recovery — The integrated Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope technology provides angle limits and improved self-levelling in Normal mode to help prevent crashes and makes learning much easier for new pilots. The Panic Recovery function allows you to recover control at the push and hold of a button if you ever lose orientation, giving you peace of mind when practising new manoeuvres.
- Multiple Selectable Flight Modes — Switch easily between Normal (SAFE) mode for stable training flights, and Stunt 1 and Stunt 2 (AS3X) modes for aerobatics including loops, rolls, and inverted flight, all controllable from the transmitter with a simple switch. This progression system ensures you can develop your skills at your own pace without outgrowing the aircraft.
- Factory-Assembled and Flight-Tested — No assembly required means you can unbox and fly within minutes. Every model is factory-tested before dispatch, ensuring reliability and performance from your first flight. This is genuine ready-to-fly (RTF) convenience for busy RC enthusiasts.
- Spektrum DXS 2.4GHz DSMX Transmitter Included — The industry-leading DSMX 2.4GHz technology provides reliable control without interference, even in congested urban environments. This transmitter can be reused with other Spektrum aircraft, making it a valuable part of your RC kit collection that retains value.
- Advanced Spektrum AR6250MHXD Flybarless Flight Controller — Factory-installed with exclusive AS3X and updated SAFE technologies, this sophisticated flight controller eliminates the need for a traditional flybar whilst providing precision stabilisation. The receiver is pre-loaded with a Smart Transmitter File for quick setup with NX and iX series transmitters.
- Dual Brushless Motors with Smart ESC — The powerful 3400Kv brushless main motor and 3600Kv brushless outrunner tail motor deliver efficient, reliable performance. The Spektrum Dual Smart ESC provides real-time telemetry including battery voltage and motor RPM data to compatible transmitters, helping you monitor aircraft health during flight.
- Digital Metal-Geared Servos with Precision Linkages — Three Spektrum digital servos with metal gears and precise ball-link equipped linkages provide responsive cyclic control for smooth, accurate manoeuvres. Metal gearing ensures durability during repeated training flights and aggressive 3D flying.
- Enhanced Frame Design and Durability — The updated frame features optimised servo geometry and centre of gravity for improved flight performance. The larger-diameter tail boom provides increased rigidity and durability, whilst the aluminium swashplate and rotor head block deliver added strength and precision for demanding flight styles.
- Improved Rotor Head Geometry — The upgraded rotor head design works in harmony with the enhanced servo geometry to provide increased precision and aerobatic capability, allowing you to execute crisp, controlled manoeuvres at any skill level.
- Customisation and Expansion Options — Personalise your Revolution 235 CP with optional colours, carbon fibre main rotor blades, aluminium blade grips, and night light kits (all sold separately). The wide range of genuine replacement and spare parts ensures your helicopter can be repaired and upgraded throughout its lifespan.
- RealFlight Simulator Compatible — Practice flying this aircraft in the RealFlight RC flight simulator with the WS2000 wireless simulator dongle (sold separately). This allows you to refine your skills on a home PC or laptop before taking to the skies, significantly accelerating your learning curve.
- Smart Radio System and IC2 Connectors — Compatible with popular and affordable 3S 850mAh Smart and non-Smart LiPo batteries with IC2 connectors, or use a suitable IC2 adapter. The Smart Transmitter File feature streamlines setup, particularly valuable if you upgrade to premium NX or iX transmitters in the future.
Technical Performance
The Revolution 235 CP represents a significant engineering achievement in collective pitch RC helicopter design. At 335 grams without battery (approximately 405 grams with the recommended 3S 850mAh pack), this is a genuinely portable helicopter that doesn't sacrifice performance or build quality. The aircraft measures 470mm in length, 89mm in width, and 168mm in height, making it manageable indoors in larger spaces whilst remaining visible during outdoor flight sessions in parks and fields. The main rotor system features a 557mm diameter with 235mm blade length and operates on a 10.77:1 gear ratio with a 13-tooth pinion, delivering smooth, controllable power throughout the flight envelope.
Build quality is exceptional throughout. The main frame and canopy utilise impact-resistant plastic construction that absorbs crashes during learning flights, whilst critical structural components like the swashplate and rotor head block are crafted from aluminium for enhanced durability and precision. The three Spektrum digital servos feature metal gearing, a specification that matters because plastic gears in servos are notorious failure points; metal gearing provides reliability during the repetitive control inputs of CP helicopter flying, especially during training and aerobatic manoeuvres. The larger-diameter tail boom isn't merely cosmetic — it significantly increases torsional rigidity, reducing vibration and improving control authority during yaw adjustments and tail-in approaches.
The dual brushless motor system combines a powerful 3400Kv main rotor motor with a 3600Kv brushless outrunner tail motor, both selected for their efficiency and power characteristics at this aircraft's weight and size. Brushless motors are essential in modern RC helicopters, offering superior power delivery compared to older brushed alternatives, whilst generating less electrical noise and heat. The Spektrum Dual 15A main and 8A tail Smart Lite ESC is specifically designed for flybarless helicopters, featuring current limiting, temperature monitoring, and intelligent motor braking. The Smart ESC communicates real-time telemetry data back to compatible transmitters, allowing you to monitor battery voltage and motor RPM during flight — critical information for managing flight time safely and understanding motor behaviour.
The Spektrum AR6250MHXD flybarless flight controller is the brains of the operation. Flybarless flight controllers use accelerometers and gyroscopes to electronically stabilise the aircraft without the weight and complexity of a mechanical flybar. This technology, once exotic, is now reliable and industry-standard in quality platforms like Spektrum. The updated SAFE algorithm provides enhanced self-levelling and angle limits in Normal mode, literally preventing the aircraft from rolling beyond safe angles — this is revolutionary for beginners who might over-control and crash. When you switch to Stunt modes, the angle limits release, allowing unlimited aerobatic freedom for advanced pilots.
Battery compatibility is straightforward: the Revolution 235 CP requires a 3S 11.1V 850mAh LiPo battery with IC2 connectors. Three-cell LiPo packs are the industry standard for electric RC helicopters at this size, offering excellent power-to-weight ratio and cost-effectiveness. An 850mAh capacity provides 4-6 minutes of flight time, sufficient for multiple learning flights before needing to recharge. The IC2 connector system is robust and reliable, with wide aftermarket support and compatibility with Smart LiPo monitoring systems that track battery cell voltage and temperature.
What's in the Box
- Blade Revolution 235 CP helicopter with all motors, servos, ESC and flight controller factory-installed and pre-calibrated
- Brushless outrunner tail motor (3600Kv) — installed and ready to use
- Brushless outrunner main motor (3400Kv) — installed and ready to use
- Three Spektrum digital, metal-geared cyclic servos — installed with precision ball-link linkages
- Spektrum AR6250MHXD flybarless flight controller and receiver with AS3X and SAFE technologies pre-loaded
- Spektrum Dual 15A main and 8A tail brushless Smart Lite ESC — installed and calibrated
- Main blade holder for safe storage and blade changes
- Spektrum DXS 2.4GHz DSMX controller/transmitter with four AA alkaline batteries included
- Comprehensive product manual with setup and flying instructions
What You Need to Complete
- One 3S 11.1V 850mAh LiPo battery with IC2 connector (or a suitable IC2 adapter if using alternative batteries, sold separately)
- One compatible LiPo charger plus suitable IC2 adapter/charge lead (the Spektrum SPMXCA320 and similar models are available separately)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Blade Revolution 235 CP suitable for a complete beginner with no RC helicopter experience? — Yes, absolutely. The Skill Level 1 rating and SAFE technology specifically support new pilots. The improved self-levelling in Normal mode, angle limits that prevent over-control crashes, and Panic Recovery function create an exceptionally forgiving learning environment. The factory-assembled, flight-tested design means you can focus on flying rather than troubleshooting. Many beginners successfully fly this model within their first afternoon, though we recommend practising basic manoeuvres before progressing to Stunt modes.
- What is the difference between the RTF Basic version and other versions available? — The RTF Basic version includes the Spektrum DXS transmitter, all electronics, and the helicopter itself, requiring only a battery and charger. This offers excellent value and maximum convenience. A BNF Basic version is available for pilots who already own a compatible Spektrum transmitter and prefer to source their own battery and charger. The RTF Basic is perfect for complete newcomers; the BNF Basic suits experienced Spektrum users looking to add another aircraft to their hangar.
- What battery does the Revolution 235 CP need, and how long will it fly? — The model requires a 3S 11.1V 850mAh LiPo battery with IC2 connectors. This is a standard specification for electric RC helicopters at this size. With an 850mAh pack, you can expect 4-6 minutes of continuous flight, depending on flight style and weather conditions. You can reduce average flight time somewhat by engaging in aggressive 3D flying, or extend it by flying calmly in Normal mode. Having multiple batteries allows extended flying sessions with minimal downtime — after one battery depletes, swap it for a charged pack and continue flying.
- Can I use this helicopter with a different transmitter I already own? — The Revolution 235 CP features a Spektrum receiver (AR6250MHXD), so it will bind with any Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatible transmitter. If you already own a Spektrum transmitter such as the NX8+, NX7e, or NX10+, you can bind this aircraft to it without purchasing the included DXS transmitter. However, the included DXS is a quality radio that provides DSMX reliability and can be reused with other Spektrum aircraft, making it a worthwhile addition.
- What aerobatic manoeuvres can this helicopter perform? — In Stunt 1 and Stunt 2 modes with AS3X stabilisation, the Revolution 235 CP is capable of loops, rolls, and inverted (upside down) flight. The model is also capable of basic 3D aerobatics whether you're an experienced pilot or are just learning these manoeuvres. 3D flying involves advanced techniques like hovering inverted, dynamic rolls, and coordinated spins — the refined rotor head geometry and upgraded servo precision support these demanding flight styles once you develop the necessary skills.
- Do I need to assemble this helicopter before flying? — No assembly is required. The Revolution 235 CP arrives 100% factory-assembled and flight-tested. You simply need to charge a battery, install the transmitter batteries, bind the receiver to the transmitter, and you're ready to fly. This is genuine ready-to-fly convenience that respects your time.
- Can I practise flying before taking this outdoors? — Yes. The Revolution 235 CP is compatible with the RealFlight RC flight simulator. Purchase the RealFlight Trainer Edition and a Spektrum WS2000 wireless simulator dongle (available separately or together in the RFL-1212 bundle) and practise this exact model on your home PC or laptop. This accelerates learning significantly and reduces the number of crashes during initial training flights.
- What makes the SAFE technology different from older RC helicopters? — SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) is an intelligent flight envelope protection system. In Normal mode, it limits how far the aircraft can roll and pitch, preventing over-control crashes caused by pilot input mistakes. Crucially, it provides improved self-levelling, meaning the helicopter automatically returns to level flight if you release the controls — a significant confidence builder for learners. Panic Recovery adds a recovery function at the press of a button if you become disoriented. When you switch to Stunt modes, these protections disable, allowing unlimited aerobatic freedom. This progression system means one aircraft genuinely supports learning from absolute beginner through to experienced 3D pilot.
- Is the Revolution 235 CP waterproof or weather-resistant? — The Revolution 235 CP is not waterproof and should not be flown in rain or landed on wet grass. However, it can fly in light winds in dry conditions outdoors in parks and gardens. The plastic construction and brushless electronics are typical of quality RC helicopters and should be treated as precision instruments — protect them from moisture, clean them after dusty flights, and store them in a cool, dry location.
- What spare parts are available, and where can I get them? — Blade and Spektrum maintain extensive aftermarket support with genuine replacement parts available including main rotor blades in various colours, tail rotor blades, servos, motors, ESC units, frame parts, and more. RC Model Shop stocks a comprehensive range of genuine Blade and Spektrum spare parts. Investing in spare blades, a tail motor, and servo before you need them is practical — these components wear during normal operation, and having spares on hand minimises flying time lost to repairs.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Blade Revolution 235 CP RTF Basic with SAFE today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.