HW30415050

Overview

The Hobbywing Skywalker 2316SL 980KV brushless outrunner motor represents a significant step forward in fixed-wing RC aircraft propulsion. This first-generation motor from the acclaimed Skywalker series brings RC hobby pilots a whole new flying experience, whether you're flying high-performance aerobatic models, long-range cruisers, or sport flyers. The 2316SL is specifically engineered as the perfect complement to Hobbywing's established Skywalker ESC range, and it achieves approximately 10% more output power than comparable motors with identical specifications, giving your aircraft a genuine performance advantage over standard alternatives.

If you're searching for a reliable brushless RC motor for your fixed-wing aircraft in the UK, the Skywalker 2316SL delivers exceptional value and reliability. This motor is ideal for intermediate to advanced RC pilots who demand consistent performance, reliability and efficient power delivery. The 980KV rating makes it particularly versatile for 3S and 4S LiPo batteries, offering a broad range of propeller options and flight characteristics that suit many different aircraft designs and flying styles.

What makes the Skywalker 2316SL stand out among brushless aircraft motors is the engineering philosophy behind every component. Hobbywing has invested significant research into optimising rotor balance, heat dissipation, material selection and overall construction quality. The result is a motor that not only delivers impressive power output, but runs cooler, smoother and more reliably than the competition. Whether you're a weekend flyer, competition pilot or someone stepping up from smaller aircraft, this motor offers the performance and durability you need to enjoy countless hours in the sky.

Key Features

• 10% Higher Power Output — Compared with competing motors of the same specification, the Skywalker 2316SL delivers approximately 10% more maximum output power, translating to better climb performance, improved responsiveness and enhanced overall flight dynamics on your RC aircraft.
• Optimised Rotor Design — The rotor has been engineered with exceptional dynamic balance achieved through high-quality bearing selection and high-precision CNC machining, which noticeably reduces motor vibration and ensures smoother, more refined operation during flight.
• Multi-Anti-Loosening Rotor Assembly — A copper pad, retainer spring, bushing and set screw work together to secure the rotor core, significantly improving mechanical reliability and ensuring the rotor remains perfectly secure during high-performance flying.
• Premium Materials and Construction — The motor features top-branded JNEH1200 silicon steel sheet at 0.2mm thickness for lower iron loss, combined with N48 strong magnetic arc steel magnets that provide maximum torque output and efficient power conversion.
• 180°C High-Temperature Enameled Wire — The stator coils are wound with high-temperature-resistant enameled wire, enhancing the motor's ability to operate reliably in hot conditions and extending the lifespan of critical motor components.
• Excellent Heat Dissipation — A generous hollow cavity design, combined with the self-dissipating structure of the top cover, significantly increases cooling capacity and prevents excessive heating, ensuring consistent performance and longer motor life.
• Special Propeller Attachment — The motor features a specially designed propeller mounting system that ensures overall higher torque output, allowing you to use a wider range of propellers and achieve better low-end power delivery.
• Quality Silicone Wiring — The 18AWG silicone phase cable is softer and more flexible than traditional straight outlets, making installation cleaner and routing through your airframe simpler and more professional.
• Ideal ESC Compatibility — Perfectly matched with the Hobbywing Skywalker V2 30A-40A electronic speed controllers, ensuring seamless integration and optimised performance when paired with genuine Skywalker equipment.

Technical Performance

The Skywalker 2316SL 980KV is engineered for serious RC aircraft enthusiasts who demand reliable, consistent performance. At 980KV, this motor is optimised for 3S and 4S LiPo battery systems, with a no-load current draw of just 1.5A at 14.8V, indicating efficient design and minimal unnecessary power consumption. The motor's internal resistance of 53.6 milliohms is carefully engineered to balance responsiveness with efficiency, whilst the 12N14P slot and pole configuration provides the optimal balance between torque delivery and RPM range. With a maximum continuous current rating of 31 amps over 240 seconds and peak power output of 455 watts, this motor delivers genuine performance without requiring massive battery capacities or oversized ESCs. The physical dimensions (28.8mm diameter × 50mm length) and 79-gram weight make the 2316SL suitable for a wide range of fixed-wing aircraft from lightweight trainers to performance sport flyers, whilst the compact 4mm shaft diameter mates with standard propeller adapters. The precision 684ZZ bearings ensure smooth, low-friction rotation even under load, and the 100mm 18AWG silicone phase cable provides ample length for flexible installation within your airframe. For best results, pair this motor with a Hobbywing Skywalker V2 30A-40A ESC and select propellers from the recommended range: 10x6E or 11x5.5E on 3S, or 9x4.5E, 9x6E or 10x5E on 4S. The motor's engineering ensures reliable operation, minimal vibration transmission to your airframe, and performance that exceeds comparable brushless RC motors available in the UK market.

What's in the Box

• 1 × Hobbywing Skywalker 2316SL 980KV brushless outrunner motor
• 1 × User manual

What You Need to Complete

• Hobbywing Skywalker V2 30A-40A ESC (electronic speed controller)
• 3S or 4S LiPo battery pack with appropriate capacity (typically 1300-2200mAh)
• Suitable propeller (10x6E, 11x5.5E for 3S; 9x4.5E, 9x6E or 10x5E for 4S)
• Propeller adapter and spinner (if required by your airframe design)
• RC transmitter, receiver and servo equipment (if not already installed)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between the 2312, 2316 and 2320 Skywalker motors? — The three models in the Skywalker fixed-wing range differ primarily in size and power rating. The 2316 offers a middle ground between the smaller, lighter 2312 and the larger, more powerful 2320, making it the most versatile option for general-purpose sport flying. All three models are available in multiple KV ratings (ranging from 860KV to 2450KV), allowing you to match the motor size and speed to your specific aircraft and flying style.
• What battery does the Skywalker 2316SL 980KV require? — This motor is rated for 3S and 4S LiPo batteries. On 3S (11.1V nominal), you'll achieve maximum performance with 10x6E or 11x5.5E propellers. On 4S (14.8V nominal), use 9x4.5E, 9x6E or 10x5E propellers. Battery capacity should typically be between 1300mAh and 2200mAh, depending on your desired flight duration and aircraft weight.
• Is this motor suitable for beginners? — Whilst the Skywalker 2316SL is a high-quality brushless motor, it requires proper integration with a compatible ESC, battery and aircraft frame. Beginner pilots should have experience with brushless motor installation or seek guidance from experienced RC flyers. However, once properly installed with the recommended Skywalker V2 30A-40A ESC, it is straightforward to operate.
• What ESC should I use with the Skywalker 2316SL? — Hobbywing specifically recommends the Skywalker V2 30A-40A ESC for this motor. This pairing ensures optimised performance and is designed with the motor's power characteristics in mind. Using a properly-rated ESC is essential for reliable operation and to protect your motor and battery from damage.
• How does the Skywalker 2316SL compare to similar 980KV motors? — The 2316SL achieves approximately 10% more output power than competing motors with identical KV ratings and specifications. This advantage comes from superior engineering in areas such as magnet selection (N48 grade), stator materials (JNEH1200 silicon steel), dynamic balance and heat dissipation design. The multi-anti-loosening rotor design also provides greater mechanical reliability than many budget alternatives.
• Will this motor overheat during extended flights? — No, the generous hollow cavity design combined with the self-dissipating top cover structure provides excellent cooling performance. Even under sustained maximum load, the motor's engineered heat dissipation ensures reliable operation. However, always observe the maximum continuous current rating of 31A/240s to avoid thermal stress on the windings.
• What propeller sizes work best with the 2316SL 980KV? — For 3S LiPo, use 10x6E or 11x5.5E propellers. For 4S LiPo, the recommended range is 9x4.5E, 9x6E or 10x5E. The final choice depends on your aircraft design, weight and desired flight characteristics. Heavier aircraft or those requiring slower, more stable flight prefer larger-diameter propellers, whilst lighter aircraft or performance flyers may prefer smaller, faster props.
• Is the 2316SL a brushless or brushed motor? — The Skywalker 2316SL is a brushless outrunner motor, meaning the motor's bell rotates around a stationary centre (shaft and stator). Brushless motors offer superior efficiency, longer service life, lower maintenance requirements and smoother operation compared to older brushed motor designs.

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 HOBBYWING SKYWALKER 2316SL 980KV BLK G1 OUTRUNNER MOTOR HW30415050 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.