Half A mouse racing defines different engine classes in different countries, ranging from 0.049-0.15 size engines. These basically means that there are different engine capacities and also translate into varying power and speed.
In Singapore, for the half a category, we have been flying with .061 size engines (1cc) with brands including Norvel, Brodak, Profi and Cyclon. Norvel engines have always provided the power and reliability for beginners. Flying on 42 ft lines, further with slight modifications, these engines prove flight-worthy for races.
However when the Norvel factory stopped in 2006, we lost a very reliable and affordable engine source. Since then, we have been experimenting on electric half a control line. Without much success in replicating the power of Norvel, we decided to source for other alternatives. In 2009, Cox factory started reproducing the long-standing Cox engines.
Cox has been well-known for its .049 engines, like the black widow, tee dee and medallion. Its re-introduction of the Cox Surestart engine is very affordable, now selling for only S$30. We decided to give it a try, and has never regretted since. Flying with 35 feet lines, and an adaptation from one of the trainer model Cox uses, we developed our beginners’ model.
Now that the Norvel factory is back in action again, we are blessed with the luxury of two classes to play with. We will be posting more flying action in this category. As for reviews of the Cox engines and others, do explore the “engine review” category. More fun awaits!
