Avios Grand Tundra V2 Review: Upgrades, Flight Experience & Community Reactions

The Avios Grand Tundra V2 is HobbyKing’s latest refresh of its legendary bush plane series. With a massive 1700mm wingspan, true STOL (short take-off and landing) capability, and a new 6S power system, it promises to be one of the most versatile grand tundra rc planes ever released. But how does it really perform, and what does the RC community think about it? Let’s dive in.

From the Original to V2: What’s New

The original 1300mm Tundra won over RC pilots for its ruggedness and fun factor. The Grand Tundra expanded that concept with a larger airframe, and the Plus version added stronger servo connections. Now, the Avios Grand Tundra V2 pushes things further with:

• A high-power 6S drivetrain with a 5055-500KV motor
• Stronger tail wheel and pneumatic tundra tires
• Removable plywood battery tray with spring-loaded latch

• Hex-head screws for easier maintenance
• Switchable landing lights (with flashing mode)
• New green/silver color scheme

On paper, it’s a well-rounded upgrade — but in practice, the community reactions tell a more nuanced story.

What Pilots Love

Many reviewers highlight just how capable the V2 feels in the air:

• “One of the best all-around sport bush planes. Super capable.” 
• “I enjoy my regular V2 in orange/gray, but the green makes me want to add this big brother.” 
• “Great improvements, love the color!” 

The combination of STOL performance, aerobatic range, and rugged landing gear continues to make the HobbyKing Grand Tundra one of the most versatile RC planes on the market.

Sharp Community Criticism

Not all feedback is glowing — and that’s what makes the discussion interesting. Here are some of the main pain points raised by experienced flyers:

Color Scheme Controversy

The bold green/silver scheme has split opinions: “Great plane, but horrid color. If it ever comes in a less nausea-inducing color, I’ll buy one.”  Others argue it stands out at the field and grows on you with time. Color, it seems, is the most divisive upgrade.

Parts Availability

Long-time owners remember struggling to find motors for the V2/V3: “Nice model, but will the motors be unobtanium like the older versions?”  Replacement parts remain a concern for buyers who want longevity.

Landing Gear Debate

The new inflatable tires also sparked discussion. Some pilots appreciate the realism and adjustability, while others see it as unnecessary hassle: “Still rubber bands for landing gear? Was hoping for spring suspension.”  “HK should’ve kept the soft foam tires — no need to mess with air pressures.” 

STOL vs. Weight

A few flyers worry that the V2 looks too heavy to retain pure STOL credentials: “It looks heavy/fast, not STOL-like.”  In reality, the plane still takes off and lands short, but pilots chasing extreme STOL may prefer lighter models.

Price and Value

Surprisingly, price hasn’t drawn much criticism. As one pilot noted: “It was €304 in 2021, and €331 now in 2025. Very reasonable inflation.”  Compared to other large RC planes, the V2 still offers solid value.

Real Flight Experience

On the field, the Grand Tundra V2 shines with its 90-degree flaps, RVS reversing ESC, and wide flight envelope. It’s stable at slow speeds, yet powerful enough for aerobatics and even hovering. While not the ultimate STOL machine, it balances bush flying and sport performance in a way few planes can.

Battery Options for Grand Tundra V2

To maximize the 6S drivetrain, we recommend: CNHL G+Plus 5000mAh 6S 70C LiPo (XT90) . For a smoother, more relaxed flight profile, you can also run a CNHL G+Plus 5000mAh 4S 70C LiPo (XT90) with a 16x8 propeller. Note: HV packs are not recommended for this model.

For more compatible pack options, see our Avios Grand Tundra battery collection page.

Final Thoughts

The Avios Grand Tundra V2 isn’t perfect — the color scheme, landing gear choices, and parts availability concerns show that. But most pilots agree it’s still one of the most capable, fun, and versatile grand tundra rc planes available today. If you want a plane that can do a little of everything — bush flying, sport aerobatics, even FPV — and don’t mind the bold green look, the V2 is a worthy upgrade.

Q1: Is the new motor compatible with the older Grand Tundra versions?

Many pilots asked whether the V2’s SK3 5055-500KV motor can bolt into the original Grand Tundra. In most cases, yes — it shares the same general mounting layout. However, HobbyKing has not officially confirmed full backward compatibility, and availability of replacement motors has been a sore point in the past. If you’re running an older V1 or V2, keep an eye on parts stock.

Q2: Why did HobbyKing switch to pneumatic tires instead of soft foam?

The air-filled tires offer more realism and adjustability, especially on rough fields. Some pilots love being able to tweak the pressure, while others preferred the “set and forget” foam wheels. Both work, but the V2’s gear is definitely built with rugged terrain in mind.

Q3: Does the Avios Grand Tundra V2 still count as a STOL plane?

A few comments worried that the V2 looks too heavy. In practice, the 90-degree flaps, vortex generators, and reversing ESC keep its short take-off and landing performance intact. It may not be as extreme as smaller dedicated STOL foamies, but for its size, the GT2 remains one of the most capable bush planes out there.

Q4: Can I fly it with 4S instead of 6S batteries?

Yes — the GT2 supports both. On 6S packs, you’ll unlock the full power and vertical performance. On 4S packs (with a 16x8 propeller), you’ll get a gentler, longer flight profile. Our recommended options are:
• CNHL G+Plus 5000mAh 6S 70C LiPo (XT90) • CNHL G+Plus 5000mAh 4S 70C LiPo (XT90)
Note: HV batteries are not recommended for this model.

Q5: What about floats? Can it still handle water takeoffs?

Yes. With the optional float set, the V2 is a capable water flyer. The RVS reversing ESC makes taxiing and maneuvering on lakes much easier. Just keep in mind that floats may slightly reduce your flight times compared to wheels.

Q6: Is the new color scheme here to stay?

The green/silver scheme has sparked debate. Some love the visibility, others find it hard on the eyes. HobbyKing hasn’t announced alternative liveries yet, but given the polarized feedback, we wouldn’t be surprised if future runs offer new schemes. For now, you either embrace the lime-green boldness — or break out the paint!