Old School Model Works OSM-SPORTSTER Flying Aces Sportster Balsa Kit

Originally published in the March 1935 issue of Flying Aces magazine, the Sportster was a standout free-flight model that captured the sleek, racy silhouettes of 1930s Golden Age aviation. Old School Model Works has re-imagined this classic with modern enhancements — scaled up, fine-tuned, and optimized for smooth R/C performance.

As with every Old School Model Works kit, the Sportster is a build-it-yourself airframe, designed and laser-cut from high-quality balsa wood and light ply. Included are simplified building techniques, laser-cut precision parts, and self-aligning components to make the build straightforward and enjoyable. The exclusive Web-Lock construction makes building the wing panels easy — sheer webs are used during the build to properly space, position, and lock in each rib.

The fuselage is built around a self-aligning, lightweight box for added strength and twist-resistance. Updated features include plug-in wings for easy transport, a generous magnetic top hatch for quick radio and battery access, and an easily removable cowl. Power can come from glow or electric powerplants — the large top hatch provides quick access to either your fuel tank or batteries, and the tray can be removed for mounting an ESC or flight pack battery.

The Sportster's elegant proportions and streamlined fuselage deliver stable, graceful flight with a nostalgic flair. It flies effortlessly as a relaxed cruiser, and is also capable of loops, rolls, hammerheads, and inverted flight with standard power recommendations.

Key Features

• Classic 1935 Flying Aces magazine design re-engineered for R/C performance
• Laser-cut high-quality balsa wood and light ply construction
• Self-aligning parts and Web-Lock wing construction for easy building
• Plug-in wings for easy transport and storage
• Large magnetic top hatch for quick radio, battery, or fuel tank access
• Easily removable cowl
• Glow or electric power compatible
• Capable of loops, rolls, hammerheads, and inverted flight

Specifications