A Beginners Introduction To Align T-Rex Helicopters

by sunny on February 15, 2010

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The Align T-Rex has been arguably the most successful series of RC helicopters produced in recent years.  It's no surprise, given their kits' better-than-average quality and competitive prices.  Many, in fact, consider the series one of the best, with models getting regular updates that see it get better every iteration, along with numerous exciting limited-edition releases.

Align T-Rex 250

As the smallest micro helicopter produced by the company, the T-Rex 250 is also one of the most entertaining.  Measuring a mere 430mm in length and 187mm in height, it's a small flyer that can do a whole lot.  From tactical hovering to 3D stunts, it can handle most of the stuff its bigger brethren can deliver.   The quicker response makes it a very unique experience too.  Its latest version is the T-Rex 250SE, a considerably powerful chopper with a BL250SP motor and 205D carbon blades.

Align T-Rex 250 Specs:

  • Overall Length: 430mm
  • Overall Height: 187mm
  • Main Blade Length: 200/205mm
  • Main Rotor Diameter: 450/460mm
  • Tail Rotor Diameter: 108mm
  • Motor Pinion Gear: 15T
  • Main Drive Gear: 120T
  • Tail Drive Gear: 28T
  • Drive Gear Ratio: 1:8:4.28
  • Flying Weight: Approximately 325g

Align T-Rex 450

Since the T-Rex 450X hit the scene in 2002, the line has been expanded to include models of various sizes and configurations.  Regardless, this chopper remains as the most iconic of the brand, all through its many variations over the years.

Its latest versions are the T-Rex 450 Pro and the T-Rex 450 Sport, both of which build upon the improvements found on the official V2.  Both models run a new 450M outrunner motor and use much of the same technology.  Their biggest telling characteristics that set them apart, though, are the frame design - the Sport stays faithful to the V2 while the Pro brought in significant modifications.

Align T-Rex 450 Specs:

  • Overall Length: 635mm
  • Overall Height: 230mm
  • Main gear ratio: 11.54:1
  • Main to tail ratio: 11.54:4.95
  • Main rotor diameter: 700mm
  • Tail Rotor Diameter: 160mm
  • Flying Weight: Approximately 680 - 780g

Align T-Rex 500

First released in 2007, the T-Rex 500 uses bigger 425mm blades (compared to the maximum 355mm on later 450 models).  A total of seven different 500 versions have been released over the years, with the latest being the ESP Superior, a powerful kit that gives drivers enormous control in both 3D maneuvers and precision flight.  It measures 840 x 310 mm and comes with a 1600 Kv electric motor.  There's also a nitro conversion kit available that retains much of the original parts, but lets you power it using an O.S. 37 engine.

Align T_Rex 500 Specs:

  • Overall Length: 840mm
  • Overall Height: 310mm
  • Main Blade Length: 425mm
  • Main Rotor Diameter: 970mm
  • Tail Rotor Diameter: 200mm
  • Motor Drive Gear: 12T/13T
  • Main Drive Gear: 162T
  • Autorotation Tail Drive Gear: 145T
  • Tail Drive Gear: 31T
  • Flying Weight: Approximately 1700g

Align T-Rex 600

A large heli, the T-Rex 600 looks massive with its 600mm blades and .50 size.  It comes in both electric and nitro versions, with the former's latest iteration getting a 600M brushless motor and the latter's an O.S. 55 Engine (more commonly sold with an O.S. 50, though).   The large size and weight guarantee excellent stability, although the high cost of entry makes it an option reserved largely for more advanced drivers.

Align T_Rex 600 Specs:

  • Overall Length:1200mm
  • Overall Height:388/405m
  • Main Rotor Diameter:1350mm
  • Tail Rotor:240mm
  • Motor Drive Gear:10T
  • Main Drive Gear:170T
  • Autorotation Tail Drive Gear:180T
  • Tail Drive Gear:40T
  • Flying Weight:Approximately 3000g

Align T-Rex 700

First released in June 2008, the 700 is the biggest in the series and is strictly a nitro vehicle (although a gas version is rumored to be on the way), bundling all of the company's latest technology into a competition-spec, .90-size helicopter.   With its extra-large body, everything has been configured for durability, from the rigid frame design to the torque- tube-driven tail.

In many ways, the T-Rex 700 represents a step up from Align's previous helicopters.  Not only because of the size, either.  Instead, its simple yet effective design, easy build and smooth handling just makes it a terrific kit to own, regardless of your actual experience level.

Align T-Rex 700 Specs

  • Overall Length: 1335mm
  • Overall Height: 450mm
  • Main Blade Length: 690 - 710mm
  • Main Rotor Diameter: 1562 - 1602mm
  • Tail Rotor Diameter: 281mm
  • Engine Pinion Gear: 20T
  • Autorotation Tail Drive Gear: 150T
  • Drive Gear Ratio: 8.2:1:4.54(E:M:T)
  • Fuel Tank Capacity: 630cc
  • Flying Weight Without Gas: Approximately 4200g (Yes, that is 4.2 Kgs)

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