I preordered my RotorX Switchback the moment I heard about it on the FPV Show Ep. 59. Three months later, and its complete. So far, I have every reason to believe it will just be the quiet, HD, long range fun flyer I hoped it would be. This 3"er was designed right.

Many pilots will build the Switchback with a Zues and Split Mini stack. Instead, I opted for the less-talked-about CL Racing Mini. I've always loved the layout of CL boards and this one was no different. Additionally, it offers a spare UART, current sensing, and M2 brass nuts housed in its gummies.

I decided to pair it with the Spedix 20A 4-in-1 esc. I trust Spedix on all of my builds where I'm pushing distance.

I'm running FrSky's brand new R9Mini RX. As of posting this, that RX is the only disappiontment in the build. FrSky's initail firmware was missing a few key features like RSSI over s.bus and an uninverted s.port diagram, but I hope some of those issues can be resolved in the future.

I picked the super efficient RX 1404 motors after hearing the insane flight times @BensonK42 was getting on his long range Switchback prototype. Unfortunately, I did have some issues with the motor leads on the 1404s pulling loose, which gave me a great excuse to pickup the just-released RX 1404 v2s. They are stronger, more powerful, AND more efficient. The only downside to these new motors is the larger C-clips, which require some manipulation of the Switchback frame to fit. I opted for drilling out the middle motor mount holes with a step bit, then using a file to connect the screw slots. Of course, you always want to work with carbon under water to avoid inhaling the horrid dust.

In addition to that modification, I trimmed and melted out the RotorX top plate for the Split Mini backpack to allow my wires to run on the inside of the frame. I also 3D printed the amazing "helmet" canopy with GPS bay created by @MrAnderson.

I found this build was a great opportunity to use my Stop Gap racewire minis and two 4S Tiny Sleds (white) under the rear, lifted arms.

This Switchback has a dry weight of 127g and an all up weight of 232g with a Tattu 850mah 4S 75C. Its not the most nimbal quad out there, but its designed for distance, not speed.

Thank you to RotorX for putting together such an innovative frame.

UPDATE - July 15th
I decided to switch out the R9Mini for a TBS Crossfire with immortal T.