Why the XTO-1708-9T Is the Go-To Motor for Small Fixed-Wing Planes
If you build or fly small fixed-wing RC aircraft — especially KT board (foam board) planes — you know that choosing the right motor makes or breaks your flight experience. Too heavy, and your plane struggles to stay airborne. Too weak, and you lack the power for basic maneuvers.
Enter the X-TEAM XTO-1708-9T: a compact, lightweight outrunner brushless motor purpose-built for small electric airplanes up to 200 grams. Whether you’re a beginner building your first foamie or an experienced pilot looking for a reliable powerplant, the 1708-9T hits the sweet spot of weight, power, and efficiency.
XTO-1708-9T Specifications at a Glance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | X-TEAM XTO-1708-9T |
| Motor Type | Outrunner Brushless |
| Dimensions (D×L) | Φ21 × 28mm |
| KV Rating | 1860 KV |
| Shaft Diameter | 2mm |
| Weight | 22g |
| Internal Resistance | 0.18mΩ |
| No-Load Current | 1.0A ± 0.2 |
| Battery | 2S–3S LiPo |
| Max Continuous Current | 7A |
| Max Power | 70W |
| Recommended Propeller | 6–7 inches |
| Recommended ESC | 10A |
| Ideal Aircraft Weight | Up to 200g |
| Ideal Wingspan | Up to 600mm |
What Makes the XTO-1708 Series Special?
1. Engineered for Lightweight Performance
At just 22 grams, the 1708-9T is one of the lightest motors in its class. The 12-pole slotted outrunner design, combined with curved Neodymium magnets, creates a perfectly optimized magnetic gap for maximum power and efficiency.
2. Perfect Power-to-Weight Ratio
With 70W max power at only 22g, the 1708-9T achieves a power-to-weight ratio of approximately 3.18 W/g. On 2S: smooth, efficient cruising perfect for trainers. On 3S: spirited performance suitable for mild aerobatics.
3. 1860KV: The Versatile Sweet Spot
The 1860KV rating swings 6-7 inch props efficiently on 2S yet delivers spirited climb performance on 3S without exceeding safe current limits.
4. X-TEAM Quality You Can Trust
X-TEAM has been manufacturing brushless DC motors since 2007 from its factory in Dongguan, China. Nearly two decades of motor design expertise in every unit.
Recommended Setup Configurations
Beginner / Trainer Setup (2S)
| Battery | 2S 300–500mAh LiPo (20C+) |
| ESC | 10A brushless ESC |
| Propeller | 7×4 or 7×5 slow-fly |
| Thrust (est.) | ~150–180g |
| Flight Time | 8–12 minutes |
Sport / Aerobatic Setup (3S)
| Battery | 3S 300–450mAh LiPo (25C+) |
| ESC | 10A–12A brushless ESC |
| Propeller | 6×4 or 6×5E |
| Thrust (est.) | ~200–250g |
| Flight Time | 5–8 minutes |
KT Board Fixed-Wing Build Tips with the 1708-9T
- Keep AUW under 200g. The 1708-9T performs best when the all-up weight stays within its design envelope. Aim for 600mm wingspan or smaller.
- Use a firewall mount. Glue a thin plywood firewall (1.5–2mm) to the foam nose and screw the motor mount directly to it.
- Balance your CG carefully. At 22g, you’ll likely need your battery positioned well forward. A 2S 500mAh pack just behind the motor usually balances nicely.
- Ventilation matters. Cut a small cooling intake in the nose and an exit vent under the fuselage.
- Prop saver recommended. For belly-landing foamies, use a prop saver adapter. The 2mm shaft is compatible with standard prop savers.
KT Board Plane Designs Perfect for the 1708-9T
| Design | Wingspan | AUW | Flight Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| FT Mini Scout | 600mm | ~150g | Trainer / slow flyer |
| FT Mini Speedster | 600mm | ~160g | Sport / mild aerobatic |
| Simple Delta (scaled) | 500mm | ~140g | Fun flyer / delta wing |
| Custom 3-channel trainer | 550mm | ~170g | Beginner-friendly |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size plane can the XTO-1708-9T fly?
Designed for small fixed-wing aircraft up to 200g AUW with a wingspan of approximately 600mm or less. Ideal for KT board foamies, small balsa builds, and lightweight park flyers.
What battery should I use?
2S or 3S LiPo. Beginners: 2S 300-500mAh for gentle, predictable power. Sport: 3S 300-450mAh for full performance.
What ESC do I need?
10A brushless ESC recommended. For aggressive 3S setups, consider 12A for safety margin.
Can I use this on a flying wing or delta?
Yes! Works well on small flying wings and deltas under 200g. A 6×4 prop on 3S provides excellent speed.
1708-7T vs 1708-9T: what’s the difference?
The 1708-7T has higher KV (2125 vs 1860) and lower resistance (0.12mΩ vs 0.18mΩ), slightly more powerful on 2S. The 1708-9T offers more balanced performance and better efficiency on 3S with larger props.
Is the 1708-9T suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. On 2S with a 7-inch slow-fly prop, it delivers gentle, predictable thrust perfect for learning.
What propeller gives the best performance?
2S: 7×4 or 7×5 slow-fly (max thrust). 3S: 6×4 or 6×5E (higher speed). Always check motor temperature after first flight with new props.
X-TEAM — Powering RC Since 2007. Visit www.x-teamrc.com to explore the full product range.