I see its onsale at the org and I dont own any sim helos, so is it good buy for 15 bucks?

Yes, it's a great add-on.

 

You can see it in this video, start at 1m47s:

 

There is more info, including a link to the manual, at:   http://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?showtopic=41651

 

It does seem to be a good deal but I'm hesitating because it appears that it would be preferable to re-define some of my joystick buttons to make control somewhat easier which, of course, would mess with the definitions I have for fixed-wing aircraft.  Tough choices....

 

Rick

Don't hesitate any longer and download x-assign.

There is more info, including a link to the manual, at:   http://forums.x-plane.org/index.php?showtopic=41651

 

It does seem to be a good deal but I'm hesitating because it appears that it would be preferable to re-define some of my joystick buttons to make control somewhat easier which, of course, would mess with the definitions I have for fixed-wing aircraft.  Tough choices....

 

Rick

 

 

There are not that many buttons you need to assign when flying the BK-117.

 

Off the top of my head the most important ones would be the force-release button, the autopilot-couple button and the landing light spotlight.

 

All other functions that you might need during startup/shutdown are easily click-able in the 3D-cockpit.

 

You can also assign these to keys or compinations if you choose so, if you are maxed out on joystick buttons...

 

My personal asessment of the BK-117 is an absolutely enthusiastic one, it is modeled very well, both artistically and also system-wise and is a joy to fly and operate. There are countless cool liveries available for free, and I never get tired of watching my landings in replay from a cool vantage point and marvel at just how REAL that thing looks hovering in .

 

Disclaimer: Take my recommendation with the knowledge that I know the creator of the BK117 personally.

 

Jan

Don't hesitate any longer and download x-assign.

I did use this for a while but it stopped working properly with this addon. This BK17 uses custom functions which seem to not play nice with x assign when flying 64bit.

 

I paid full price for the BK17 and I don't regret it but it doesn't get much use because I got tired of resetting the joystick buttons.

 

That and the fact that my joystick is difficult to center which is required to have autopilot working.

 

But it's a beautiful model with nice sounds and flies fairly realistically.

 

If you have a spring loaded joystick I'd recommend it especially at this price.

Workaround for this issue with x-assign - see here.

Whew... Maybe I'll try later on

I also recommend the MBB/Kawasaki BK-117, especially at that price!

 

I also have X rotors AW139, Dreamfoil’s Bell 206, the S-92 Sikorsky, the MD-902 Explorer, and a few other payware helis; the MBB/Kawasaki BK-117 is my favorite.

 

The sound, flight model and 3d cockpit detail sets it apart from all the rest.