Hirobo Shuttle
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 Hirobo Shuttle build manual |
 Hirobo Shuttle build manual |
 Shuttle metal frame |
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Hirobo Shuttle Original (1985) 
August 1985, Hirobo introduced a whole new concept in model helicopters and presentation. It was a basic pod and boom trainer following on from the 'Falcon' range but was made significantly of plastic and presented in ARF (Almost ready to Fly) form; not the first ARF as this was the Kavan Alouette in 1978 however, the first to be at such a level of completion that apart from fitting the radio gear and the skids, nothing else was required. The Head fitted to the shuttle followed the norm at the time in having individual 'flapping' blades with tail driven by a belt. What was unusual was that an autorotation clutch was fitted as standard thus giving the Shuttle aerobatic properties in the right hands. Because of this relatively high specification, it was expensive when compared to 'training' models from other manufacturers. Little did anyone know at the time but even 25 years later the 'Shuttle' (albeit having been upgraded a number of times) would still be one of the best 'learner' helicopters on the market.
Hirobo Shuttle beginners review - 1985 'beginners' review from RC_Helicopters.
Hirobo Shuttle Pro review - 1985 'Experts' review from RC_Helicopters.
Hirobo Shuttle 2 (NS) (1987)
The model was upgrade in 1987 and called the shuttle 2 or NS (new shuttle) version. Many upgrades were carried out based on the previous models two years of use and feedback; namely tail rotor control and a revised main blade holder assembly incorporating a through spindle shaft thus holding the blades in a common rotational plane. The blades still 'flapped' but now equally because as one moved up, being linked, the other moved an equal amount down. This removed one of the problem with flapping heads of oscillation due to unequal flapping movement. The basic model was very easy to fly but lacked positive control due to the amount of 'backlash' in plain bearings of the control system. In order to provide better response, the XX version was introduced incorporating 18 ball bearings in the control system thus significantly reducing 'slop'. The magazine reviews below cover in great detail all aspects of both the standard and XX models including changes and the flying characteristics.
Shuttle Supreme
To complement the updated version of the Shuttle, Hirobo marketing department decided to up the ante and sell the model as a 'complete' package; another first? So, apart from a gallon of fuel, everything else was in the package.
Hughes 500E 
JetRanger 
Ecureuil 2
The shuttle had proved to be a very good 'all round' helicopter, stable but with positive control; ideal scale flying qualities. As a 'pod and boom' machine, the mechanics only required a few minor changes to be suitable for use in a 'hang-on' fuselage and so three models were brought out utilising these mechanics.
Hirobo Shuttle Mk2 review - 1988 - model helicopter world
Hirobo Shuttle Mk2 review - 1988 from Radio Helicopter International with high resolution colour pictures.
MD530 Body kit for Shuttle review - 1989 - model helicopter world
Airwolf body review - 1989 body kit fitted to shuttle xx - model helicopter world
1989 models 
Nova body for the shuttle introduced in 1989
Hirobo Shuttle Z, ZX (1989)
Report from RC HelikopterOnce again the Shuttle was further upgraded in 1989. The (Z) version being the base model with plain bearings in the control system but now equipped with the newer FZ rotor head giver a more 'sporty' response. A number of other changes were carried out including changing the tail rotor assembly from 'pulling' to 'pushing' by moving the assembly to point to the right, a longer boom and longer main blades plus an enlarged fuel tank from 190cc to 230cc to increase duration. An uprated version was also produced (ZX) which included 20 ball races in the control system for improved response, an all metal cutch instead of the normal 'plastic' type, different paddles to further increase performance plus all metal landing gear.
1990 XX version 
Z and Nova
Just to make things interesting the standard and XX versions of the shuttle were NOT superseded and so with the inclusion of the top of the range Supreme in both standard and ZX forms there was a choice of six versions to chose from.
Below is the specification listing for versions available in 1992 - note that all versions could be supplied with the hand operated 'recoil' starter though this was not often chosen.
Hirobo Shuttle parts listing NS and XX - 1991 parts listing with cross reference to other models.
Hirobo Shuttle parts listing Z and ZX PDF - 1991 parts listing with cross reference to other models.
Body options plus upgrades
Further 'hang' on fuselages were made available to compliment the original three models as noted above.
Bell_222 - Instructions for fitting body kit.
1995 versions
Hirobo Shuttle Gold
Further upgrades were developed and called 'Gold' options, finally Hirobo produced the 'Gold' spec Shuttle which incorporated all of these upgrades.
Selection of optional parts suitable for the Shuttle range.
Quick upgrades for the Shuttle.
Hirobo Shuttle Z (Top start update)
Hirobo introduced a modification to the Shuttle range Z / ZX / ZXX plus a new model called the ZTS (Top start). As the name implies, all machine's could now be started from the 'Top' of the model by a 'wand' with hex adapter than ran past the rear of rotor head. This removed the need for a belt along with all the associated problems of the belt catching on starting or where to store it in flight. Additionally, a one way bearing was located in the clutch assembly for the starting shaft allowing the engine to run up to speed without removing the starter thus making starting an extremely simple process.
Standard Shuttle ZXX with green bodywork 
and one with major upgrades.
Hirobo Shuttle optional parts instructions - 1996 covering many options for Z / ZX / ZXX / ZTS models
Hirobo Shuttle RG
Hirobo 0402-927 Shuttle RG is a 30 size model for the Shuttle series. Many features used on the Hirobo SST Eagle2 WC model have been incorporated to this kit.
It features excellent stability and high agility which makes this model ideal for F3C competitions and aerobatic 30 flight
The Original Gold was further developed into the RG version of even higher spec (rotor diameter 1240mm). Many of the design feature of the SST-eagle 2 WC model were incorporated in its design and its 'heritage' is obvious by the layout and 'look'; features included -
- New two piece duralumin stacked design main frames. Results in precision aligned drive components and high strength.
- Machined Delrin main gear for smooth gear travel and longevity. Aluminium autorotation hub for best support of autorotation bearing.
- Gel coated fibreglass canopy for lightweight and finished ultra smooth for quicker final assembly. High colour decals for easy visibility in the air.
- All rotating surfaces ball raced for precision and durability.
- Push-pull cyclic controls on Aileron and elevator.
- All metal rotor head with thrust bearings for outstanding aerobatic flight performance.
- Fine tooth tail belt drive for minimum engine power loss from the tail rotor system.
- Quick and easy to build.
- Metal swashplate and washout for extra strength, durability, and highest flight performance.
- All parts used from the well established "Shuttle Gold" Option parts.
Hirobo Shuttle RG review - 1998 and unknown reviewer
Hirobo Shuttle Challenge (1998)
Hirobo had previously brought out a 'trainer' called the 'Hovermate' as a specialised learner machine. From experience, the basic shuttle if 'sympathetically' set up had proved to be near enough the ideal learner and Hirobo reasoned that if this 'sympathetic' set-up was built in along with a dedicated training undercarriage this would provide a wider appeal. Unfortunately, the Hovermate did not sell because being a radically modified Shuttle it was much too expensive to update once the initial 'hovering' phase had been mastered; so people continued to by the basic Shuttle.
As a 'halfway house' Hirobo introduced the Shuttle 'Challenge' in both ARF and Kit version; basically a ZTS model with the most obvious change being a dedicated training undercarriage. This training gear was fully articulated and made of carbon fibre thus being able to absorb the punishment that could be expected from learning especially if used by clubs as a dedicated teaching helicopter. The rotor head featured new geometry in the mixing arms to 'soften' the characteristics and provide even more positive stability. The helicopter thus had a similar trainer capability as the 'Hovermate' but only required minor changes to return to full ZTS specification.
Once again, even though well commented on by the modelling press, it did not become popular as it was much more cost effective to strap a set of aftermarket training legs on a basic Shuttle and then removed them once past the initial stages of learning.
Hirobo Shuttle Challenge build manual - 1998 edition covering the Challenge equipped trainer model
Hirobo Shuttle Challenge review - Unknown reviewer.
Hirobo Shuttle SXX
Hirobo Shuttle SXX review - Unknown reviewer.
Hirobo Shuttle Plus
Stronger frames with improved access for switch and glow plug.
Hirobo Shuttle Plus build manual - 2002 edition
Hirobo Shuttle Plus +2
Length 1075cm / Rotor Diam 1244mm / Weight 2300 grm / Motor 32-36 size
As the model that created the 30 class of model helicopter, it's hard to imagine how it could be improved but the latest Shuttle Plus +2 is better in several key areas.
• A new composite swash plate with a combination of engineering plastic and metal components providing a new level of smooth and precise operation
• A newly designed tail unit case for improved strength and rigidity
• The tail output shaft is now stainless steel to resist both corrosion and wear
• A completely upgraded tail belt pulley for smoother running and reduced belt wear
• A re-designed rudder control rod improves tail precision
• Stunning new high visibility decals
There's no need to build her either as the Shuttle Plus 2+ comes ready assembled. All you need to do is install the radio of your choice and fit the engine (OS max 32SX-H Ring recommended).
Shuttle EP conversion
Manufactured by Quick Worldwide upgrade the Hirobo Shuttle to 8s battery power.
Good conversion but the Shuttle was designed for glow and as such was heavily built this meant that performance was OK for a trainer but more modern lightweight electric machines had significantly better performance.
Shuttle copy
There are also some copies of the Shuttle, made by different china manufacturers.
