HBZ Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm RTF with SAFE A-HBZ04900

• Model Number: HBZ04900
• Brand: HobbyZone
• Aircraft Type: Trainer, Ultra-Micro RTF
• Skill Level: Level 1 (No Experience Required)
• Completion Level: Ready-To-Fly (RTF)
• Wingspan: 515mm (20.3 inches)
• Length: 365mm (14.3 inches)
• Weight (without battery): 48g (1.7 oz)
• Flying Weight (with 1S 150mAh battery): 53g (1.9 oz)
• Center of Gravity: 30mm (±2mm)
• Propeller Size: 130mm x 70mm
• Motor Type: Coreless Electric Motor (installed)
• Power System: Electric
• Battery Type: 1S LiPo (Lithium Polymer)
• Battery Capacity (included): 150mAh
• Battery Voltage: 3.7V
• Battery Discharge Rating: 50C
• Battery Connector: JST PH1.25
• Charger Type: E-flite 1S LiPo USB Charger (included)
• Charger Power Input: USB
• Airframe Construction: Advanced EPS (Expanded Polystyrene)
• Airframe Durability: Easily repairable with foam-safe CA, Foam 2 Foam, epoxy, foam-friendly adhesives, and tape
• Radio System: Spektrum MLP4DSM
• Radio Frequency: 2.4GHz
• Radio Protocol: DSMX
• Radio Channels: 4-channel transmitter
• Aircraft Control Channels: 3-channel (throttle, ailerons/roll, elevator/pitch)
• Receiver: Spektrum integrated receiver (installed)
• ESC: Spektrum integrated ESC (installed)
• Servos: 2x Servo (integrated into control unit)
• Flight Stability Technology: SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope)
• Flight Modes: Beginner Mode and Experienced Mode (switchable)
• Beginner Mode: Pitch and bank angle limits with automatic level flight return
• Experienced Mode: Full control authority with aerobatic capability
• Aerobatic Capability: Basic aerobatics including loops and stall turns (Experienced Mode)
• Flight Time: 8-15 minutes (typical, depending on flying style)
• Takeoff Method: Hand launch or runway launch
• Landing Characteristics: Stable glide descent
• Weight Limit (regulatory-free flying): Under 250g (compliant)
• Remote ID/FAA Registration Required: No (under 250g threshold)
• Flying Venues: Suitable for yards, parks, sports fields, and suitable indoor venues
• Transmitter Power Source: 4x AA Alkaline Batteries (included)
• Radio Range: Full range (professional Spektrum standard)
• Radio Technology: Industry-leading DSMX 2.4GHz (same as used on large RC aircraft)
• Parts Availability: Full line of replacement and spare parts readily available
• Optional Battery: Spektrum 1S 210mAh battery (part SPMX2101S50) available separately
• Optional Chargers: 4-port charger (SPMXC1040) and 6-port charger (SPMXC1060) available separately
• Warranty: 90-Day Warranty
• Included Items: Aircraft, transmitter, 4x AA batteries, 1S 150mAh LiPo battery, USB charger, product manual
• Items Not Required to Complete: None (everything included)

Overview

Welcome to the exciting world of RC flight with the HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm RTF, a revolutionary ready to fly RC plane that brings together over a decade of proven trainer aircraft design with modern technology for today's learners. This special edition celebrates the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone and the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby, honouring the legacy of a trainer that has helped hundreds of thousands of people successfully learn to fly RC aeroplanes. Whether you're a complete beginner with no RC experience whatsoever, or an experienced pilot looking for a reliable and affordable trainer to teach others, this ultra-micro RC plane represents the perfect blend of accessibility, performance, and innovation that UK RC enthusiasts have come to expect from HobbyZone's heritage of quality aircraft design.

The Champ Anniversary Special Edition stands out in the ready to run RC aircraft market because it arrives 100% factory-assembled and genuinely ready to fly right out of the box. There's no assembly required, no complicated setup procedures, and no need to purchase additional equipment—everything you need to start flying is included in the box. Simply charge the battery and you're ready to take to the skies within minutes. This level of convenience, combined with the aircraft's ultra-micro size making it suitable for yards, parks, sports fields, and even suitable indoor venues like gymnasiums, makes this one of the most accessible entry points into the hobby of RC flight available in the UK market today.

At the heart of this trainer's success lies Horizon Hobby's exclusive SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) technology, a revolutionary feature that fundamentally changes how beginners learn to fly. By preventing overcontrol, loss of orientation, and the crashes that traditionally accompany the learning process, SAFE technology enables nearly everyone to build confidence and develop their flying skills at their own pace. Combined with the aircraft's powerful electric motor that delivers long flight times and enough performance for basic aerobatic manoeuvres like loops and stall turns once you're ready, the Champ Anniversary Special Edition proves that a trainer aircraft can also be genuinely fun and engaging for experienced pilots.

Key Features

• SAFE Technology with Dual Flight Modes — The exclusive Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope technology is the game-changer that sets this RTF trainer apart from other ready to run RC planes. In Beginner Mode, the aircraft has pitch and bank angle limits that prevent overcontrol, which could lead to a loss of orientation and crashes, whilst releasing the control sticks automatically returns the aeroplane to level flight so you can simply steer it through the sky like a car. In Experienced Mode, there are no pitch or bank angle limits, giving you complete control for performing basic aerobatic manoeuvres. This dual-mode system means one aircraft can serve as your trainer today and an aerobatic platform tomorrow as your skills develop.
• 100% Ready to Fly Out of the Box — This ready to run RC plane includes absolutely everything needed to start flying: the fully assembled Champ airframe with installed coreless motor, Spektrum receiver, ESC and servo control unit, plus a Spektrum MLP4DSM 2.4GHz controller/transmitter, AA batteries for the transmitter, a Spektrum 150mAh 1S LiPo battery, and an E-flite USB charger. No additional purchases are required, making this one of the most convenient entry-level ready to fly RC aircraft available to UK buyers who want immediate flying satisfaction without the complexity of kit assembly.
• Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX Radio Technology — The included Spektrum MLP4DSM controller/transmitter provides four-channel control and employs industry-leading DSMX 2.4GHz technology, the same frequency and protocol trusted by experienced RC pilots worldwide who fly some of the largest and most expensive aircraft. This frequency offers superior range, reliability, and resistance to interference, meaning you can fly with confidence knowing you're using professional-grade radio control equipment typically found on much more expensive ready to run RC planes.
• Ultra-Micro Size for Maximum Flying Venues — At just 515mm wingspan and 48 grams flying weight with the included battery, this ultra-micro RC plane is small enough to fly almost anywhere without requiring special permissions. You can fly in your back garden, local parks, sports fields, and even indoors over a basketball court, dramatically expanding where and when you can enjoy the hobby compared to larger ready to run RC aircraft. Most importantly, at under 250 grams flying weight, no remote ID or FAA registration is required in the UK, removing bureaucratic barriers to entry for new flyers.
• Lightweight and Durable EPS Construction — The airframe is constructed from advanced EPS (expanded polystyrene) material that delivers an exceptional combination of light weight for excellent flight characteristics and durability that withstands the inevitable bumps and crashes that come with learning to fly. Unlike fragile balsa aircraft, the EPS construction is easily repairable using foam-safe CA, Foam 2 Foam, epoxy, and other foam-friendly adhesives, plus standard tape. If you damage any airframe parts beyond repair, a full line of readily available replacement and spare parts ensures you can get flying again quickly.
• Powerful Electric Motor with Excellent Runtime — The installed coreless motor provides enough power for easy takeoffs, whether launching by hand or from a suitable surface, and delivers long flight times courtesy of the included 1S 150mAh LiPo battery. The motor's performance is sufficient for beginners to maintain stable flight whilst developing their skills, and still capable of delivering the speed and authority needed for basic aerobatic manoeuvres once you progress to Experienced Mode, making this trainer suitable for recreational flying throughout your learning journey.
• Simple Takeoffs and Landings — One of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of learning to fly RC planes is mastering takeoffs and landings, but the Champ Anniversary Special Edition simplifies these critical phases. In Beginner Mode, takeoffs are as simple as giving full throttle and letting the aeroplane fly off a suitable surface or hand launching it with a quick toss, whilst landings are equally straightforward—simply reduce throttle and let it glide to a landing on its own. This user-friendly approach removes a major barrier to success for first-time flyers.
• Anniversary Special Edition Celebrating RC Heritage — This special edition marks the 15th anniversary of the original Champ (released in 2010), the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone (established 2000), and the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby (established 1985). Over a decade, hundreds of thousands of people learned to fly RC aeroplanes with the original Champ, and this updated version with exclusive SAFE technology carries forward that proud legacy whilst incorporating modern innovations for today's learners, making it a meaningful tribute to a true RC aircraft classic.
• No Assembly or Setup Required — The Champ arrives 100% factory-assembled with the motor installed and all electronics integrated into a single Spektrum receiver/ESC/servo control unit. You don't need to install motors, solder batteries, calibrate servos, or perform any of the technical setup that characterises many ready to run RC kits. Simply unbox it, charge the battery, bind the transmitter (a quick one-time procedure), and you're ready to fly. This plug-and-play convenience makes it ideal for busy individuals and families who want to experience RC flying without the learning curve of aircraft assembly.
• Skill Level 1—No Experience Required — HobbyZone officially rates this aircraft as Skill Level 1, meaning absolutely no prior RC experience is necessary to successfully fly it. The combination of SAFE technology, stable flight characteristics, responsive controls, and forgiving flight envelope make this the perfect stepping stone into the hobby for complete beginners, whether you're a child aged 12 and up or an adult discovering RC flying for the first time.
• Optional Upgrade Batteries and Chargers Available — Whilst the included 1S 150mAh battery provides excellent value and good flight times, HobbyZone offers a higher-capacity Spektrum 1S 210mAh battery (part SPMX2101S50) that delivers increased power and longer flight times for those who want to extend their aerial sessions. Optional 4-port (SPMXC1040) and 6-port (SPMXC1060) multi-chargers are also available for those expanding their RC collection, ensuring you can charge multiple batteries simultaneously and minimise ground time.

Technical Performance

The HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm RTF represents a masterclass in engineering simplicity married to effective performance. The airframe, constructed from advanced EPS foam, weighs just 48 grams without the battery and 53 grams with the included 1S 150mAh battery installed, allowing the coreless electric motor to deliver rapid acceleration and responsive flight characteristics whilst maintaining excellent energy efficiency. The integrated Spektrum receiver, ESC, and dual servo control unit is factory-installed and pre-calibrated, eliminating the setup complexity that deters many potential RC pilots. The 1S 150mAh LiPo battery (3.7 volts at 50C discharge rating) provides ample power whilst keeping the aircraft's centre of gravity within optimal parameters (30mm ±2mm from the wing leading edge). The 130mm x 70mm propeller is sized perfectly to balance thrust, efficiency, and noise levels, making the aircraft suitable for flying in noise-sensitive environments. The Spektrum MLP4DSM four-channel transmitter uses industry-standard DSMX 2.4GHz frequency, offering full-range control with excellent signal reliability and immunity to interference. In practical flight testing, the Champ's powerful electric motor delivers takeoffs from standing start or hand launch, provides stable and controlled flight throughout the flight envelope in both Beginner and Experienced modes, and demonstrates excellent glide characteristics for gentle landings. Battery runtime varies based on flying style, but users can expect 8-15 minute flights under typical conditions, with the included USB charger capable of recharging the battery from any USB power source including computer USB ports, mobile phone chargers, and standard power adapters.

What's in the Box

• HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm with installed coreless motor
• Spektrum Receiver, ESC and 2x Servo Control Unit (factory installed)
• Spektrum MLP4DSM 2.4GHz Controller/Transmitter
• 4x AA Alkaline Batteries (for the transmitter)
• Spektrum 150mAh 1S 3.7V LiPo Battery
• E-flite 1S LiPo Battery USB Charger
• Product Manual (multilingual)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition suitable for complete beginners with no RC experience? — Yes, absolutely. This aircraft is officially rated as Skill Level 1, requiring no prior experience whatsoever. The exclusive SAFE technology with Beginner Mode specifically prevents overcontrol and automatically returns the aircraft to level flight when you release the control sticks, allowing you to focus on basic flying principles without worrying about crashing. Hundreds of thousands of people have learned to fly RC aeroplanes with the original Champ, and this updated version with SAFE technology makes the learning process even more accessible and confidence-building.
• What battery does the Champ Anniversary Special Edition need, and how long does it take to charge? — The aircraft comes with a Spektrum 150mAh 1S LiPo battery (3.7 volts), which is a small, lightweight lithium-polymer battery specifically designed for ultra-micro RC aircraft. The included E-flite 1S USB charger connects to any standard USB power source—computer ports, phone chargers, wall adapters—and fully charges the battery in approximately 30-45 minutes depending on the USB power supply amperage. If you want longer flight times, you can purchase the optional Spektrum 1S 210mAh battery (part SPMX2101S50), which provides additional capacity for extended flying sessions.
• How long can I fly on a single battery charge? — Flight times typically range from 8 to 15 minutes depending on your flying style, altitude changes, and use of aerobatic manoeuvres. Gentle, level flying produces longer flights, whilst aggressive aerobatic flying in Experienced Mode reduces battery runtime. Most flyers find this adequate for meaningful flying sessions, particularly since the included USB charger allows quick battery recharges between flights using commonly available USB power sources.
• Can I fly the Champ indoors or do I need a large outdoor space? — Thanks to its ultra-micro size (515mm wingspan, 48-gram weight) and stable flight characteristics, the Champ is incredibly versatile. Outdoors, you can fly it in back gardens, public parks, sports fields, and open areas. Indoors, it's suitable for flying over basketball courts, gymnasiums, and similar large indoor venues with appropriate ceiling height. The relatively quiet electric motor makes it less disruptive than nitro-powered RC aircraft, though outdoor flying remains the primary use case.
• Do I need to register this aircraft with the FAA or obtain a drone licence in the UK? — No. At 48 grams without the battery and 53 grams with the battery installed, the Champ remains well under the 250-gram threshold that triggers registration and regulatory requirements in most jurisdictions, including the UK and USA. This removes a significant barrier to entry compared to larger ready to run RC aircraft, allowing you to focus entirely on learning to fly without bureaucratic complications.
• Is the Champ good for performing aerobatic manoeuvres? — Yes, particularly once you progress to Experienced Mode. The aircraft is capable of basic aerobatic manoeuvres including loops, stall turns, and more. In Beginner Mode, these advanced manoeuvres aren't possible because the flight envelope limiting prevents the steep attitudes required, but transitioning to Experienced Mode unlocks the aircraft's full potential. This progression means the Champ serves as an effective trainer initially and an engaging aerobatic platform later, extending its usefulness beyond the pure training phase.
• What makes the SAFE technology different from other stabilisation systems? — SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) is Horizon Hobby's exclusive technology that uses onboard sensors to monitor the aircraft's attitude and applies automatic corrections to prevent overcontrol and loss of orientation. Unlike simple autopilot systems, SAFE operates transparently in Beginner Mode by simply limiting pitch and bank angles and automatically returning the aircraft to level flight when control inputs are released. This gives beginners the benefits of stability assistance without removing the responsibility and learning opportunity of actually flying the aircraft. The technology has proven its effectiveness across hundreds of thousands of HobbyZone aircraft sold worldwide.
• Can experienced pilots use the Champ for recreational flying, or is it only a trainer? — The Champ is excellent for experienced pilots who want a lightweight, portable, and affordable recreational aircraft. Experienced Mode provides full control authority and aerobatic capability, meaning skilled pilots will find the aircraft responsive and engaging. Additionally, many experienced pilots use the Champ to teach others to fly, as the Beginner Mode provides a safety net that instils confidence in new flyers. So whilst it's an excellent trainer, it's certainly not limited to beginners.
• What radio technology does the transmitter use? — The Spektrum MLP4DSM transmitter uses industry-leading DSMX 2.4GHz frequency technology, the same professional-grade radio system trusted by experienced RC pilots worldwide who operate large and expensive aircraft. This frequency offers superior range, reliability, and resistance to interference compared to older 72MHz systems. The transmitter provides four-channel control, which is more than adequate for the Champ's three-channel control requirements (throttle, ailerons, elevator).
• Is the Champ Anniversary Special Edition different from the standard Champ RTF? — This special edition specifically celebrates the 25th anniversary of HobbyZone and the 40th anniversary of Horizon Hobby, and it incorporates the same SAFE technology and modern engineering as current HobbyZone trainer aircraft. It represents the best of what HobbyZone has learned over decades of designing trainer aircraft, making it the most advanced version of the Champ ever produced. Beyond the commemorative aspect, it's functionally the same excellent ready to run RC plane that makes it one of the best-selling trainers available.
• What happens if I crash and damage the aircraft? — The EPS foam construction is actually more forgiving than you might expect. Minor dents and cracks can be repaired using foam-safe CA (cyanoacrylate), Foam 2 Foam epoxy, or standard epoxy, plus reinforcing tape. For more significant damage, HobbyZone offers a comprehensive line of replacement and spare parts readily available in the UK market, including fuselage sections, wings, landing gear, propellers, and internal components. This parts availability means your aircraft can be repaired or restored even after significant damage.
• Is this ready to run aircraft really ready to fly immediately, or is assembly required? — It's genuinely ready to fly immediately. The aircraft arrives 100% factory-assembled with the motor installed, the receiver/ESC/servo control unit integrated and pre-installed, and all systems pre-configured. The only steps between unboxing and flying are: charge the included LiPo battery (using the included USB charger), bind the Spektrum transmitter to the receiver (a quick, one-time wireless pairing procedure), and you're ready to fly. No tools, soldering, or technical knowledge required.

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 HobbyZone Champ Anniversary Special Edition 515mm RTF with SAFE A-HBZ04900 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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