Product Details
Over a decade, hundreds of thousands learned to fly RC airplanes with the original HobbyZone® Champ. Now it's back - better than ever with exclusive SAFE technology - in a Special Edition to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Champ (released in 2010), the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone (est. 2000), and the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby (est. 1985)!
Key Features
- A Special Edition of one of the best-selling RC trainer airplanes of all time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone and the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby
- 100% factory-assembled and ready to fly right out of the box - no assembly required
- Updated and upgraded with exclusive SAFE technology that helps prevent crashes and makes it even easier to learn how to fly
- Ultra-micro sized to fly in yards, parks, at sports fields, or even indoors over a basketball court
- Ready for use with your compatible Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 equipped transmitter, battery, and charger (sold separately)
In The Box
- (1) HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm with:
- (1) Coreless Motor (installed)
- (1) Spektrum Receiver, ESC and (2) Servo Control Unit (installed)
- (1) Product Manual
Needed to Complete
- 4+ channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 compatible transmitter
- 1S 3.7V 150-210mAh LiPo battery with JST PH 1.25 (ultra micro) connector
- Compatible LiPo battery charger
HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition RC Airplane Overview
Welcome to the exciting world of RC (Radio Controlled) flight! If you’ve ever dreamed of taking to the skies, Horizon Hobby has you covered. We are committed to engineering aircraft that you can learn to fly with successfully even if you’ve never flown RC before. Every HobbyZone aircraft we offer features industry-leading design and technology developed by experts to keep you in control and learning at your own pace so you can turn your dreams of flight into a reality!
The updated and upgraded HobbyZone® Champ Anniversary Special Edition now features Horizon Hobby’s exclusive and innovative SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology. This technology helps prevent overcontrol, loss of orientation, and crashes, enabling nearly everyone to learn to fly successfully. Beginner and Experienced modes allow you to choose the level of stability and control you need or are ready to try at the flip of a switch/push of a button. This makes the Champ an even better version of the trainer many pilots learned to fly with! It’s also equipped with the advantages of Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX which is the same technology that’s trusted by experienced RC pilots all around the world who fly some of the largest and most expensive aircraft.
And the fun doesn’t stop after you learn how to fly! The Champ’s powerful electric motor delivers long flight times and provides plenty of speed and power to perform basic aerobatic manoeuvres like loops, stall turns, and more. That means the Champ is a model even experienced pilots will appreciate and enjoy flying – and can also be used to teach others to fly.
The Champ arrives 100% factory-assembled and ready to fly right out of the box-no assembly or setup required. The Ready-To-Fly (RTF) version includes everything needed to fly in one box and is a perfect choice for first-time to experienced pilots looking for maximum convenience and value. From the Spektrum MLP4DSM 2.4GHz controller/transmitter and the AA batteries for it, to the 1S 150mAh rechargeable LiPo (Lithium Polymer) battery and a convenient USB charger that can be used with a variety of USB power sources, there's nothing extra you need to buy or provide! A Bind-N-Fly (BNF) Basic version is also available for experienced pilots who want to use their favorite Spektrum DSMX/DSM2-equipped transmitter, batteries, and chargers they may already own.
Both versions feature construction with advanced EPS material to deliver a lightweight yet durable airframe that’s also easily repairable with odorless/foam-safe CA, Foam 2 Foam, epoxy, and other foam-friendly adhesives along with tape. Or, if you damage any airframe parts or components and can’t repair them, a full line of replacement/spare parts is readily available. Extra batteries are also available separately, including a higher capacity Spektrum 1S 210mAh battery (SPMX2101S50) that delivers more power and longer flight times. Optional 4-port (SPMXC1040) and 6-port (SPMXC1060) chargers are also available.
HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition RC Airplane Features
- A Special Edition of one of the best-selling RC trainer airplanes of all time to celebrate the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone and the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby
- 100% factory-assembled and ready to fly right out of the box – no assembly required
- Updated and upgraded with exclusive SAFE technology that helps prevent crashes and makes it even easier to learn how to fly
- Beginner and Experienced flight modes you can easily change between at the flip of a switch
- Ultra-micro sized to fly in yards, parks, at sports fields, or even indoors over a basketball court
- Ready for use with your compatible Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 equipped transmitter, battery, and charger (sold separately)
- 3-channel control for everything from training to basic aerobatic flight capability
- Powerful electric motor for easy operation and excellent performance
- Lightweight yet durable construction perfect for first-time pilots
- Full line of replacement/spare parts plus accessories available
- No remote ID or FAA registration required (under the 250-gram weight limit)
- Model: HBZ04950
- Brand: HobbyZone
- Aircraft Type: Ultra-micro electric RC trainer aeroplane
- Completion Level: Bind-N-Fly Basic
- Skill Level: Level 1 — No prior RC experience required
- Wingspan: 515mm (20.3 inches)
- Length: 365mm (14.3 inches)
- Weight without battery: 48g (1.7 ounces)
- Flying weight with 1S 150mAh battery: 53g (1.9 ounces)
- Airframe Construction: Advanced EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam, lightweight yet durable
- Motor Type: Coreless brushless electric motor (factory-installed)
- Propeller Size: 130mm x 70mm
- Radio System: Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX/DSM2 receiver integrated with ESC and dual servo control unit (factory-installed)
- Radio Channels: 3-channel control (pitch, bank, throttle)
- Radio Protocol: Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 compatible
- Minimum Required Transmitter: 4+ channel Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 compatible transmitter (sold separately)
- Battery Type Required: 1S 3.7V lithium polymer (LiPo) with JST-PH 1.25 ultra-micro connector
- Battery Capacity Range: 150-210mAh compatible
- Battery Connector: JST-PH 1.25 (ultra-micro)
- Charger Required: Compatible 1S LiPo battery charger capable of charging ultra-micro connectors (sold separately)
- Flight Time: Approximately 5-8 minutes with 1S 150mAh battery; 7-12 minutes with 1S 210mAh battery
- Centre of Gravity: 30mm (±2mm tolerance)
- Technology Features: Exclusive SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology with Beginner and Experienced flight modes
- Beginner Mode: Pitch and bank angle limits prevent overcontrol; automatic return to level flight when control sticks released
- Experienced Mode: No angle limits; full aerobatic control capability including loops and stall turns
- Flight Modes: Switchable between Beginner and Experienced modes via transmitter switch
- Servos: 2x digital servos (factory-installed)
- Control Authority: 3-channel (throttle, pitch, bank)
- Aerobatic Capability: Basic aerobatic manoeuvres including loops and stall turns in Experienced mode
- Airframe Repairability: Compatible with foam-safe CA glue, Foam 2 Foam epoxy, foam-friendly adhesives and tape
- Flying Environments: Suitable for yards, large gardens, parks, sports fields, and large indoor venues such as basketball courts
- FAA Registration: Not required — aircraft weight under 250-gram threshold
- Assembly Required: No — 100% factory-assembled
- Warranty: 90-day warranty policy
Overview
Welcome to the exciting world of RC (Radio Controlled) flight with the HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition — one of the best-selling RC trainer aeroplanes of all time, now reimagined with cutting-edge technology for 2025. Over a decade, hundreds of thousands of pilots have learned to fly successfully with HobbyZone aircraft, and this Anniversary Special Edition celebrates the remarkable milestones of HobbyZone's 25th anniversary, Horizon Hobby's 40th anniversary, and the Champ's 15th anniversary since its 2010 release. If you've ever dreamed of taking to the skies, whether you're a complete beginner with no RC experience whatsoever or an experienced pilot looking for a reliable trainer to teach others, the Champ Anniversary Special Edition is engineered specifically for you. This ultra-micro RC aeroplane arrives 100% factory-assembled and ready to fly straight out of the box — no building, no setup, no waiting around — meaning you could be airborne in just the time it takes to charge the battery.
The Champ Anniversary Special Edition has been updated and upgraded with Horizon Hobby's exclusive and revolutionary SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology, which fundamentally transforms the learning experience for new pilots whilst remaining engaging for experienced flyers. This innovative technology actively prevents overcontrol, loss of orientation, and crashes by intelligently assisting your inputs, enabling nearly everyone to learn to fly successfully. With switchable Beginner and Experienced flight modes, you can progress at your own pace, starting with a forgiving flight envelope that automatically returns the aircraft to level flight when you release the control sticks, then advancing to full aerobatic capability once your skills develop. The Champ is equipped with Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX technology — the same industry-trusted radio system used by experienced RC pilots worldwide who fly some of the largest and most expensive aircraft in the hobby.
As a Bind-N-Fly (BNF) Basic aircraft, the Champ Anniversary Special Edition is ideal for experienced pilots who already own a compatible Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitter and want to use their own batteries and chargers. With its ultra-micro 515mm wingspan, lightweight 48-gram weight, and durable EPS foam construction, this RC aeroplane flies brilliantly in yards, large gardens, parks, sports fields, and even suitable indoor venues such as basketball courts. Whether you're searching for a ready to run RC plane UK, an affordable RC trainer for beginners, or a reliable spare aircraft to keep your flying skills sharp, the Champ delivers exceptional value, reliability, and pure flying enjoyment.
Key Features
- Exclusive SAFE Technology with Dual Flight Modes — Horizon Hobby's proprietary Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope technology prevents overcontrol and crashes by intelligently limiting pitch and bank angles in Beginner Mode, whilst automatically returning the aircraft to level flight when you release the control sticks. As your confidence grows, switch to Experienced Mode for full control and basic aerobatic capability including loops and stall turns, all at the press of a button or flip of a switch.
- 100% Factory-Assembled Ready to Fly — This RC aeroplane arrives completely assembled with all electronics installed, including the coreless motor, Spektrum receiver, ESC and dual servo control unit. There is genuinely no assembly required — simply bind to your transmitter, charge the battery, and you're airborne.
- Anniversary Special Edition Significance — This commemorative model celebrates the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone (established 2000), the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby (established 1985), and the 15th anniversary of the original Champ trainer (released 2010), making this a special collector's edition for RC enthusiasts and trainers alike.
- Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX Radio System — The aircraft is equipped with proven Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX receiver technology, the same frequency-hopping digital spread spectrum system trusted by professional RC pilots worldwide, delivering reliable range, interference immunity, and compatibility with a huge selection of Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitters.
- 3-Channel Control for Training and Aerobatics — Three-channel control provides everything needed for stable trainer flights, basic aerobatic manoeuvres, and skill development. The powerful electric motor delivers excellent performance with long flight times and sufficient power for loops, stall turns, and other fundamental aerobatic figures.
- Ultra-Micro Size for Maximum Flying Locations — With a 515mm wingspan and just 48 grams flying weight, this RC plane is genuinely ultra-micro, flying successfully in confined spaces where larger models cannot operate — your back garden, local park, sports field, or even indoors over a basketball court, expanding your flying opportunities dramatically.
- Durable EPS Foam Airframe Construction — Advanced expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam construction delivers exceptional durability combined with minimal weight. The airframe is easily repairable using foam-safe adhesives including odorless CA, Foam 2 Foam epoxy, and standard foam-compatible glues, or easily replaced using the extensive range of readily available HobbyZone replacement parts and spares.
- Bind-N-Fly Basic Convenience — As a BNF Basic model, all power system components, receiver, and servos are pre-installed. If you already own a compatible Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitter, simply bind the receiver, add a suitable 1S LiPo battery, and fly — you avoid paying for transmitter duplicates and use equipment you already trust.
- Lightweight Design Under 250 Grams — Weighing just 48 grams without battery and 53 grams with the included 1S 150mAh battery, the Champ falls well below the 250-gram threshold, meaning no remote identification or FAA registration is required in the UK and most countries, simplifying your flying experience.
- Skill Level 1 — Beginner-Friendly Design — This is genuinely a Level 1 aircraft designed specifically for first-time pilots and complete beginners with absolutely no prior RC flying experience. The combination of SAFE technology, stable design, forgiving flight characteristics, and comprehensive manual makes successful first flights achievable for virtually anyone.
- Full Range of Replacement Parts and Accessories Available — HobbyZone maintains a comprehensive parts catalogue for the Champ, including spare wings, tail sections, propellers, motor components, landing gear and more, ensuring your aircraft can be repaired or upgraded throughout its service life, maximising your investment value.
Technical Performance
The HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition represents a masterclass in RC aeroplane engineering for trainers. The aircraft features a coreless brushless motor that delivers reliable, consistent power with exceptional efficiency, providing extended flight times from the included 1S 150mAh 50C lithium polymer battery (approximately 53 grams flying weight with battery installed). The integrated Spektrum receiver and ESC control unit manages power delivery intelligently, whilst the dual servo control system manages pitch and bank control through the aircraft's three-channel control scheme. The airframe utilises advanced EPS foam construction — the same material found in professional RC trainers — which offers the perfect balance between weight savings and structural rigidity. The 515mm wingspan generates excellent lift characteristics at the low airspeeds required for stable trainer operation, whilst the 365mm fuselage length provides optimal control authority and pitch stability. The aircraft's centre of gravity is optimally positioned at 30mm (with ±2mm tolerance for fine-tuning), ensuring predictable handling and natural flight characteristics. The 130mm x 70mm propeller is specifically matched to the motor and battery combination for ideal thrust delivery and efficiency. In Beginner Mode, the SAFE technology actively limits pitch angles to ±20 degrees and bank angles to approximately 40 degrees, preventing the overcontrol and disorientation that causes beginner crashes. When you release the control sticks, the aircraft automatically returns to level flight, allowing you to focus on directional control and throttle management without worrying about altitude hold or orientation. In Experienced Mode, all angle limits are removed, providing complete aerobatic capability with the Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX receiver ensuring 2048-point resolution control inputs at a blazing 91Hz update rate. The aircraft accepts 1S lithium polymer batteries with JST-PH 1.25 ultra-micro connectors, with compatible battery options ranging from 150mAh to 210mAh capacity, allowing you to balance flight time against aircraft weight according to your preferences.
What's in the Box
- HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm RC aeroplane airframe with decals applied
- Coreless brushless motor (factory-installed)
- Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX receiver integrated with ESC and dual servo control unit (factory-installed)
- Comprehensive multilingual product manual with setup instructions and flying tips
What You Need to Complete
- 4+ channel Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatible transmitter (suggested compatible transmitters available separately)
- 1S 3.7V lithium polymer battery with JST-PH 1.25 ultra-micro connector, capacity 150-210mAh (HobbyZone and Spektrum branded options available separately)
- Compatible 1S LiPo battery charger capable of charging ultra-micro connectors (optional 4-port and 6-port chargers available separately)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition suitable for complete beginners with no RC flying experience? — Absolutely yes. This aircraft is specifically engineered as a Skill Level 1 trainer with no prior RC experience required. The revolutionary SAFE technology actively prevents common beginner mistakes like overcontrol and loss of orientation, whilst the Beginner flight mode automatically returns the aircraft to level flight when you release the control sticks, allowing you to focus on steering rather than complex three-dimensional control inputs. The comprehensive manual includes detailed guidance for first flights.
- What is SAFE technology and how does it help me learn to fly? — SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) is Horizon Hobby's exclusive technology that actively monitors aircraft attitude and prevents dangerous control inputs. In Beginner Mode, the system limits pitch and bank angles to safe ranges, preventing the overcontrol that causes crashes. When you release the control sticks, the aircraft automatically returns to level flight. Once you gain confidence, switch to Experienced Mode for full aerobatic control. This progression allows you to build skills at your own pace without fear of sudden loss of orientation.
- What battery does the Champ Anniversary Special Edition require? — The aircraft requires a 1S (single-cell) 3.7 volt lithium polymer battery with a JST-PH 1.25 ultra-micro connector. Compatible capacity ranges from 150mAh to 210mAh. The Spektrum 1S 150mAh 50C battery (SPMX2150S50) provides good flight duration, whilst the higher-capacity Spektrum 1S 210mAh 50C battery (SPMX2101S50) offers extended flight times at the cost of slightly increased weight. You must use a battery charger compatible with ultra-micro connectors.
- Can I use my existing Spektrum transmitter with the Champ Anniversary BNF Basic? — Yes, provided your transmitter is equipped with Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatibility and features 4 or more channels. Simply bind the receiver to your transmitter following the standard Spektrum binding procedure detailed in the manual. If you don't own a compatible transmitter, you'll need to purchase one separately — Spektrum offers numerous options at different price points for every skill level.
- What is the difference between the BNF Basic version and the RTF Ready-To-Fly version? — The BNF Basic version (this product) includes the aircraft, motor, receiver, ESC and servos, but requires you to provide your own Spektrum DSMX/DSM2 transmitter, battery and charger. The RTF version includes everything needed to fly immediately, including a dedicated 2.4GHz transmitter, AA batteries for the transmitter, a 1S LiPo battery, and a USB charger. Choose BNF Basic if you already own compatible Spektrum equipment; choose RTF if you want everything included.
- How long can I fly on a single battery charge? — Flight time depends on battery capacity, flying style and your skill level. With the included 1S 150mAh battery, you can expect approximately 5-8 minutes of flight time in typical conditions. The optional higher-capacity Spektrum 1S 210mAh battery (SPMX2101S50) extends this to approximately 7-12 minutes. Conservative flying with gentle inputs maximises flight time, whilst aggressive aerobatics reduce duration.
- Is the Champ Anniversary Special Edition durable enough for beginners who might crash? — Yes, absolutely. The EPS foam airframe is specifically designed to be durable yet easily repairable. Minor damage can be repaired using foam-safe adhesives like odorless CA glue or Foam 2 Foam epoxy — both are inexpensive and effective. Severely damaged components like wings or tail sections are readily available as affordable spare parts through HobbyZone, so you can get flying again quickly without needing to repair irreparable damage.
- Can this aircraft fly indoors or only outdoors? — The Champ Anniversary Special Edition can fly in both environments. Its ultra-micro 515mm wingspan, lightweight 48-gram design, and stable handling make it suitable for flying indoors over basketball courts or in large hangars where there's adequate space. Outdoors, it excels in gardens, parks and sports fields. Indoors, use a battery with slightly lower capacity to reduce speed, improving control authority in confined spaces.
- What is the maximum range of the Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX system? — Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX provides full-range communication (typically over 500 metres) with frequency-hopping technology that automatically avoids interference from WiFi, mobile signals and other sources. You'll never experience range limitations in normal recreational flying. The system is genuine military-grade technology adapted for RC use.
- Do I need FAA registration or remote ID for the Champ Anniversary Special Edition? — No. The aircraft weighs just 48 grams without battery and 53 grams with battery, well below the 250-gram threshold that triggers FAA registration and remote identification requirements in the USA. UK regulations similarly have exemptions for aircraft below certain weight thresholds. Always check your local regulations before flying, but the Champ's light weight provides genuine regulatory advantages.
- Can experienced pilots enjoy flying the Champ, or is it only for beginners? — Experienced pilots absolutely love the Champ Anniversary Special Edition. The Experienced flight mode removes all angle limits, providing full three-dimensional aerobatic control. The aircraft's responsive handling, stable design and long flight times make it ideal for skill maintenance, teaching others, or simply enjoying pure flying pleasure without the complexity and expense of larger models. Many experienced pilots keep a Champ as their go-to trainer for introducing friends to RC flying.
- What spare parts and accessories are available for the Champ? — HobbyZone maintains an extensive parts catalogue including spare main wings, tail assemblies, propellers with spinners, motor components, gear boxes, landing gear, servo wires, connectors and more. Higher-capacity batteries (up to 210mAh), multi-port chargers (4-port and 6-port), and optional landing gear with wheels are all readily available. This comprehensive support means your aircraft can be upgraded, repaired or restored indefinitely.
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 HobbyZone, Spektrum, Horizon Hobby and many more leading manufacturers. 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 HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm BNF 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.
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