I’ve been into fpv for maybe 6 months, so I haven’t been around for the transition. This series of interviews has helped me understand the people behind the business and the culture in general. It’s interesting. I like the vlog stuff, but I also like raw footage and edginess. We need a mix, but that’s not always compatible with making a profit.
I think of FPV as a stage or a space where emptiness and the air itself lives like a blank canvas waiting for your innovation and creativity. It’s overflowing with nothing but potential possibilities that no one should ever try to define. Within this stage we are free to create, experiment, preform and experience something no other stage allows, flight itself. Even before Icarus and his failure to choose the proper glue for his fixed wing, humans looked to the sky longed to fly. Early man watched as they slowly walked the earth, the birds traveling far and wide above them. Humans were obviously wise to their own disadvantages. It’s understandable why the dream of flying exists (not figuratively but literally). We wake in the middle of the night having dreams of what it may be like to fly or fall. We are drawn to the sensation of flight till it becomes a physical sensation manifesting itself through our sub-conscience. It’s who we are and where we come from. We imagine what it’s like to be free from the bonds of the earth, and look down upon our prison with a freedom only birds take for granted. Every human has this dream. FPV exists because of the drive to seek these sensations and experiences. Technology has grown mature enough to allow us to easily and cheaply reach these goals even while safely on the ground. The FPV aircraft is an extension of the human body, a remotely controlled robot of sensors all designed to provide the sensation or immersion of flight. The heavier-than-air aircraft we use, all struggle to stay in the air for short amounts of time. They require power and constant control inputs to fly. We insert the human mind into the feedback loop of its control system, and the aircraft becomes an extension of self. We must immerse ourselves in the act of flight to keep our aircraft in flight. Once there and successful at it the sky is, quite literally, the limit. This is what FPV is, it is human flight in its purest and most accessible form and it’s driven by a passion to reach that place, if even for a moment. Many call it flow, but flow-state is a requirement of FPV flight, something greater. There is room for everyone on this stage and no rules or restrictions as to how you personally use it. There exists a community of people who live there, or visit often and they have formed a culture through proximity to each other. Those who succeed at FPV speak a language, for they have looked down, they have felt flight and danced in the wind. This stage is under constant threat, from inside and out. Beware of those who wish to take from it and those who add to it. Listen for anyone wishing to define it as something it’s not or wishing to tell you how to do it. Guard against distractions which aim to steer you away from that primal goal and do not stop to smell the drama for very long. Remember why FPV exists, help preserve its empty space, and then help the noobs understand why. What is FPV? I cannot answer that for you, I can answer it for myself. FPV is the one of the greatest discoveries of our lifetime, it combines technology with one of our deepest drives. It has produced a renaissance of thought and a drone revolution which will change the way humans live in the future. BUT, do not forget to protect where it came from, the empty space. Recreational FPV is the heart and soul of FPV and it always has been. Feed it, give back to it so we can watch the next generation create beyond the impossible, they will need a stage.
a bit late but how about the positive demonstration of equipment and pilot skill do to it safely! how would we look at it if one of these epic piloting skills were used with a drone to save a human life--first contact that sort of thing!
When I was a kid I’d did a project on drones and I had to get an interview and I talked the chad and then he transferred me to josh from flite test was pretty cool to speak to them
The more time that goes between each one of these interviews, the more nervous I get! I can't remember what I said! I'll just wait and read the comments ;) Seriously though - Mike, you're doing an awesome job! Thanks for all you do!
TBH... Rotor Riot looks like it got steam-rolled into a different and unfamiliar shape by LeDrib. LeDrib's original content on his own channel was a welcome addition to the scene. But whatever happened IRL, it looks like he just came in and displaced the original crew. I don't hate Rotor Riot, but it's not what it was, and I don't see that it ever became anything like "Top Gear for FPV", or whatever the original intention was. I'm particularly sensitive to issues of loyalty and group cohesion, so the changes we've seen happening all still under the same brand, is a bit of a turnoff. To me, the brand was the original four pilots, and Chad Kapper got slippery with his business savvy, and managed to legally steal something he shouldn't have claim to. I'm fully aware that legally he does, and that he also invested tons into building it. I just don't know what "it" is anymore. I'm all for LeDrib and Stingy, or whoever is left, doing a thing resembling Rotor Riot; there is plenty of talent there... I just think it's a bit off-putting to keep calling whatever that is "Rotor Riot". It was never that meta of a concept, especially to those of us (I'm assuming) who subbed to the channel months prior to it having any content after having been notified of it's existence through one of the original pilot's content. Keep in mind, all I do is watch the channel; I'm not on facebook or following any other social media for background stories (other than interviews like this, by the people involved that TH-cam recommends me). I'm sure I'm painfully ignorant of all the goings on involved, and I'm sure I'll remain that way. I just hope for better content, and that everybody is decently happy with how things ended up, and also that people can group up and remain static long enough to allow some of the friendship to leak through to the content a little better. All the noisy fake enthusiasm and artificially boosted energy is... just saddening. I'd rather watch Drew & Jeff hang out and fly, with zero politics. Business is always a test of friendship, and I hate that. It almost sucks that because RR's business model basically is social media, that us viewers are all up in their private affairs by default. The reality show that bets real life friendships isn't that fun to witness, especially when things go poorly. Hopefully RDQ's cash tranquilizes all the revolving door action for a while, and to Kapper... dude, fly in the eps; get in there! Associate your face with your brand, cause you're the only original crew left.
How do you "legally steal something"? Would this be one of the misunderstanding/misinterpretations this interview mentioned? But, okay, I think I get what you are trying to say. However, it'd baseless unless the rest of the original members feel that way.
@@jrc6193 You steal something legally when you know more about the law than the people you're exploiting... like Trump not paying his contractors or whatever, or patent trolls. Any time you knowingly exploit a differential advantage via the legal system (by keeping one party ignorant of the fine print details) in business, I'd call that stealing. I'm making an assertion that there is a big difference between morality and legality, which I'm aware is a bit "old school" for most people these days. But yeah, absolutely baseless... hence the "looks like" qualifier in my opening sentence.
@@mistercohaagen "You steal something legally when you know more about the law than the people you're exploiting" No that's just called legal. It's not Kapper or Trump's fault they "know the law" better and benefit from it.
I think people have started hating on Rotor Riot because it started as this rebellious, adventurous and daring brand based on this group of people that where pushing the limits of what could be done with the hobby but, I’d say after Steele left, it slowly turned into something a bit more PC and general trying to be more accessible to the general public and that’s when people may have felt like Rotor Riot didn’t represent what they stood for anymore. In other words, it feels like it’s turning into another Flite Test. I have a lot of love for Rotor Riot as this is what inspired me to be a pilot 2 years ago, the content that is produced, it brings our community together so much and for all it brings to the hobby. But somehow I feel less and less connected to it as time goes by as I feel like something may have changed at its core. It’s fairly inconsistant, when I see episodes like “Parts Unflowns” in Mexico with Tommy and Stingy I’m like “HELL YEAH! That’s what RR is about to me!”, but when I see it take a very corporate attitude from time to time, it makes me feel like things have changed
Coltfpv he explained on one of his podcasts. from the top of my head it was along the lines of he wasn’t getting paid for anything and was using his prize money to fund trips etc. But the main reason was that everything was own by chad and I believe he wanted some “shares” or “equity” of RR etc. So he decided to make his own brand
I absolutely love Rotor Riot! I like the content, drive, creativity, information, the pilots, and love hanging out with them. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Chad Kapper for making a great group! And thank you Michael for dealing with parts of this pink elephant!
I think people look at the bridge dive , then look at the new restrictions and laws that have turned up since personally I don't have proof positive but from what I have seen people see rotor riot as having started the run to over regulation.
This stuff is gold! His point about everyone else creating drama is exactly why I exited all of the groups. I couldn't take that stuff anymore. I miss the good parts but I'll take my sanity over that any day.
Honestly, I wish more folks like you were IN the groups. It feels like we need an influx of level headed folks to keep the peace. But that's a tall order when anyone can be anonymous. Glad we connected on YT!
@@MichaelRollins I just got to a point where it was really bringing me down. I needed to remove some negativity so I left all the groups but 1, for flight one.. And then in that group we had a guy that I tried to help that became a pain so I called him out (in a slightly immature way) and got kicked and banned from the group. At that point I decided, I ain't going back to any of them. Been the best decision ever.
You have to weigh your mental health against the needs of the community. It's a fine line to walk, and a very tough one. I've definitely taken various breaks, and there are a few groups I've left. So, yeah, I totally understand.
@@MichaelRollins I still watch all their content though. Personally, the content these days is so much better than it used to be. I love all the personalities, even the ones that annoy me (Bardwell) :-) heck I watch his stuff too
The content is good, and it's diversifying. I watched a lot more Bardwell when I was actively building. Considering I have a build I need to do, I predict there will be some Bardwell in my future. He's good to have around.
I stopped by Marshalls yesterday to get a new clinic jacket I don't care about getting blood on since it's been cold lately. Found a huge fomey quad for $39.99. Was so shocked it wasn't $249.99 that I considered buying it and doing a building dive into my head in celebration of me almost, but not killing myself with a DRL Racer 3 inches away from my head. I hope you enjoyed my random story. I'm usually a visual storyteller according to Facebook. Sorry for the lack of visuals here. Btw, Marshalls doesn't have any sweater jackets damnit!
@@MichaelRollins SmartWool (or any merino wool) products are really good. But trust me, you need a heated patch of carpet; www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00127WLFC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 And get some slinky duct and some pc fans to move hot air from the ceiling down to beneath your desk... helps equalize the gradient. Get the kind that is made out of that aluminum sputtered mylar they make those pocket-sized emergency thermal blankets out of. Humidity helps.
That's a good point Chad makes there at the end. It seems to me that at the time there were a group of people just looking to hate on the still forming multirotor community, the bridge dive happened at the worst time in history, and to further prove the point, hammergate was equally blown out of proportion. By that time everyone was afraid to do anything that might be considered controversial, and it was a while before things relaxed. I'd like to think that part of our history is over and we've moved on to a more mature and stable community. The whole ordeal was an example of bad timing and inmature social media run amuck. The "Great Bridge Dive" will always be the cautionary voice in the head of the guy on the sticks with his friends in the background telling him to "go for it". Like them or not the Rotor Riot team made a mark on the hobby. They are people just like us and make mistakes just like us. They're just crazy enough to film and publish it all. For the record I DO like Rotor Riot. Thanks Mike and Chad - nice interview.
What was the great bridge dive? A RR video? Is it still up? EDIT: just watched it lol, dunno why people flipped a shit about that dive - unfortunate the dumb media got a hold of it.
I'm still trying to figure out what Rotor Riot is. Isn't it just a TH-cam channel that also has an online store? Like a group YT channel were popular YT quad pilots get together and make videos for a group channel?
RR is a business. They have pivoted several times but have always been focused on FPV. Part of their brand is having really fantastic pilots on the channel, but it’s also backed by a store. Like any business they intend to make a profit and to have a great brand.
@@MichaelRollins So they train new pilots and sell products in their store and make youtube videos. I think I heard something about quad camp. I assume that's a flight training program.
Like any startup they have thrown a lot of things at the wall. Kwad Kamp was a thing they did a couple years ago. It did not prove to be profitable so they stopped it. About a year ago they got nought out by RedCat. Since I’m not engaged in much social media now I’m honestly not sure what they are up to. But one core focus of their brand has always been some variation on fantastic pilots and some sort of gear associated with it.
@@MichaelRollins That sucks. It's really not that large of a hobby as of right now and it seems the government is trying to cut it's legs off before it can get large.
I'm very new to the hobby, thanks to some cheap holystone drone my wife bought me and videos from groups like rotor riot, I'm fully invested in this hobby. I think regardless of what happens and what people say, you guys have made a huge impact on the fpv community and introduced me to an excellant sport. Keep up the good work.
My first quad. A Neato 180 Sexy Beast. I sent it back to Justin and Nich to look over and they sent it back to me in that box. Awesome guys, such a fun little quad with 4" props and 2800KV motors. I need to rebuild it!
Hi Mike love the videos - I know that the time zone would prob cause issues but just wondering if you have any plans to interview some of the pilots from the uk scene? Keep up the great work!
Thanks Michael for capturing this snapshot of Rotor riot for us, and thanks Chad for not only capturing this MultiRotor edgey rebel culture, but capturing some of the best leaders, pilots and icons within it all in one place ! And yes, I see having all that energy under one banner has actually started to write and shape the culture itself..... i guess that was inevitable as human nature would dictate. Thanks for all your hard work and patience with the evolving crew. Looking forward to some exciting projects you have in store for us. Cheers :)
chad is a straight up guy,i love his honesty and all the effort he gives,he is like the supportive dad that creates an amazing musician or sport star,he should be loved by the whole fpv community,thanks chad
I never saw anything directly dangerous in the bridge dive episode. It was just other people with their own negative agendas that used it by twisting it to fit
I can't watch right now, because I'm going out right now (I have an appointment). But already subscribed (I thought I had already done that!) and add to my "watch later" playlist (I guess that's the name in English).
rotor riot will always be the pioneer that brought freestyle to the eyes of every hungry new fpv pilot across the globe and from one of those pilots I thank you !!!
Great insight and interview. As someone who has spent a lot of money, to my wife's ire, and will spend more I find the history interesting. As a lover of FPV I have some issues with the fringe edges of the industry (not just RR) but nothing is 100% perfect. RR sometimes gets close to those edges but I believe Chad is balancing all that. Some of us are bringing kids into the hobby with them so that is the perspective I have. I am far from a helicopter father but I have talked to my son about some of the interesting RR characters. Keep the videos coming and Chad keep doing what you do! Also the RDQ combo is awesome (living in Orlando) I have more buying options.
thanks for posting and mega thanks to chad. A question I would put to Chad and to all: What is the percentage of "haters" vs views? Most people probably watch but dont feel a need to comment. I think you'll find hate vs total is quite small. remember it lads.
I am surprised it is that high, I would have guessed 5% or so. So what we really have is 1 to 2 in 10 arent happy. That is pretty good in real world of competing ideals and loser trolls.
The more widely known you become by just putting yourself out there and promoting yourself, your thoughts and ideas, and just "sharing" what you are doing or making, the more you become a target of hate. It's just statistics, according to an article I read about it. People perceive you as a dominate player and want to knock you off the pedastal. I found this out first hand myself in the aviation community and just shrugged it off, until it you finally reach a point where you're like... "you know what, there's no innovation happening here, there never was any innovation here, I just have no interest in sharing any more with you guys"... and you wander off to somewhere else. You came to make people think, and wake them up, but in the end, they just want to deride you, think you are a threat, or throw mud at you for no other reason than maybe they don't agree with your political views (in general or when it comes to airspace). For me I came from the Battlefield modder/hacker community where I modded a killer aerial combat server for VTOL aircraft dogfighting (think quadcopters loaded with rockets), then leaving that (when GameSpy pulled the plug on the the hardware that made the multiplayer part of the game work), for the Homebuilt Aircraft Community, and then leaving that (because of the rife misogyny and hallway monitor rule obedient mentality) for the FPV quadcopter community. We're talking years in these places. I've visited other comunties, like hang glider communities, and you see sometimes even more corrosive fighting going on, where someone tried to setup some umbrella organization and it became somewhat popular or successful but also suffocating, and attracted a lot of hatred from the disenfrancished and those down below or watching from the outside. cg.air-war.org
Agreed, if Rotor Riot no longer was around, I would miss it. The group helped me get going/into/excited with FPV. It wouldn’t be the same without them.
Without them, it leaves room for regional crews to bind together and put out some collective content. The loudest asshole in the room always drowns out and stifles the better, deeper conversations that have a much higher chance at happening in their absence.
People will always find a reason to hate its inevitable they need to validate their own existence by hating on others. RR is a foundation pillar to this hobby like it or not there will always be love and appreciation for all they have done are doing and are going to do for this community so hate on, its fuel for the wise.
I've got nothing but love for RR. there videos are great to watch and always make me smile which is a feat in itself because i'm a miserable sod!! I don't get involved in the politics of it, why should i?!! . I love to fly, build and watch funny fpv videos. Keep up the great content Micheal. Wicked channel :)
We do make a lot of drama. I love this hobby and I used to watch all the Rotor Riot content back when as Chad Kapper called it. It was pure. I think that due to all the drama and new rules that has been implemented. Rotor Riot is playing it safe and some of the content is not as interesting, but I do understand why that has happened. Hating on them, no I really admire their skill and what they are trying to do for the community. Keep on doing what you are doing, be safe and keep making the hobby great.
The value of Chad and all of the rotor riot guys regardless of how u feel personally about the company is that they along with other not just rr has made this hobby into what it is today if it wasn’t for the strong advertising ish of rr we would still be flying cc3d quads with the huge frames that we all started with now we have the market to pretty much fly like Superman that anyone with a little bit of cash and stick time can now do so regardless of how u feel if it wasn’t for these hobby pushers we would have never got off the ground so thank you rr and everyone else that has made this hobby what it is . Personally this hobby saved my life in more ways than one so from the heart thank u
I’ve been in this motel for almost two weeks waiting get our new house. Rotor Riot has brought me back to my drone! Before we get new furniture, flying my whoop. Wife approved!!!
It's an interesting question. I think it is about the brand identity and the, possibly unreasonable, expectations of many people. Rotor riot has successfully created a brand identity based on "cool pop culture". At the same time the retailer and product connection prevents presenters from providing unbiased critique and advice. It can lead to the impression that presenters are hawking products many would consider, subjectively, to be overpriced or inferior. Unfortunately whilst this is the kind of behaviour we experience daily in every other industry this industry holds a special place in people's hearts. Practically speaking companies like rotor riot and this "hawking" of products people find so objectionable is standard business practice and we should probably gow up a bit.
I think the whole community is awesome. When I shop on eBay for fpv gear. I don’t have to worry about getting ripped off because I think the community is very trust worthy. Everybody is so willing to help
It was drama before that . And just like everywhere else in business, if people not making no money or think they not making enough b it's going be some drama.
@@MichaelRollins I've been using that one for 40 years. I am very new to the FPV game and this is all new to me. I have no ax to grind with RR as long as they can fulfill the orders accurately and ship fast, I love 'em. I enjoy watching their flying and hope someday to be able to freestyle 1/2 as well as any of them. Controversy = Clicks. Howard Stern was the master of turning controversy into $$$. Their shenanigans PALE in light of what's happening in the world RR makes me smile..
You can't please everyone all the time, so I appreciate RR for what it is. Some episodes are great, some are OK, some not so great... But you know what? It's no different to a TV series. Not all episodes of a TV series will please all viewers. Good on them for creating, or at least helping to create, personalities in the industry. I like it, my sons like it, and even with the changes over the last 2 years, they still remain relevant.
People hate Rotor Riot?? Lolwut?? Granted they sometimes have a "sellout" feel, but they're still great pilots, and awesome people who want to spread the word on how awesome this hobby is.
few things 1. i love wal-mart 2. i dont think most people think they can reach out and talk to alot of the RR members and get a response. 3. you cant please everybody 4. bring back the RR podcast
I finally watched it! 😊 Anyway, if there's anything that could define me is not "fanboy". For example... Betaflight vs Butterflight... I don't care, I use both! I would use Kiss or anything. Working well is all that matters to me, you know? For example, as soon as I can get back making videos I'm going to build a TBS Discovery. With the NAZA Lite! 😂 Like TBS vs FrSky because of Crossfire vs R9. I couldn't care less. I bought the R9 because it's cheaper (and I'm kinda broke right now). You know? When it comes to Rotor Riot, I really admire what they do for the community. Like Kwad Camp, Kwad Camp Online and so on. You know? But... Well, I suffered a lot of bullying in my school days, so I guess I became a fast and hard character judge... You know? I don't mean that I'm always right in my judgments... But when I don't like someone I really can't stand the person. LOL
Not everybody likes Walmart. I don't don't shop there. I did more than 15 years ago, I try to support independent stores in my local economy. Amazon is the current threat to local commerce.
I don’t believe we have chatted before. I’ve seen a few of your videos and maybe you’ve seen a few of mine? But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a chat! Hit me up on Facebook.
Rotor Riot is a misogynistic bro skater boy culture which is why they are universally despised and h8ted by girl pilots. If that's your values and that's what you want to stick with and stand behind, then... we'll stick with ours. I stopped watching RR years ago, there are a lot better channels.
I think rotor riot is the voice for fpv. I think rotor riot is the one of the best thing about this hobby. It gives me motivation when I fly. Don’t ever quit rotor riot please!!!
Geez guys just fly and have fun. I watch the videos because of information. Stop the hate, you don't have to comment or even watch. If you don't like someone, we don't need and insulting explaination on why you don't like someone. Go watch something else.
Wow was really surprised by this. Us in England Do not hate on rotor riot it is cool. Informative funny and cool. Latest stuff likeable pilot's. Awesome work guys thanks to everyone of you, you've actually helped me out if I need inspiration ill watch usually 1 of the rotor riot pilot's vids. Fxxx the haters it's easy to be a dickhead on the Internet, Stay flying guys. Thanks 👍
Personally I really enjoy Rotor Riot (most of the time). But sometimes it can be really cringey. The worst episodes were right after Steele left. I remember one episode where someone flew a drone into someone else. The dives and powerlooping the Randy's donut didn't help. I think recent episode format changes are what bother me the most. Everything seems to be shifting to this "Casey Neistat" semi-produced blog format that reminds me of the worst kind of reality TV. About 18 months ago I completely stopped watching Flite Test because of this (not to mention that hype kid constantly laughing in all their videos). I don't care about Tommy reviewing products (JB does that just fine). Also, the longer episodes about Mexico just don't matter to me. I turned that one off when the produced interview started. The monthly youtube review of other channels is cool. I like the videos where you guys are flying in a box truck or shooting at the drones. Just having fun. Also, the Hypetrain motors are badass!
The fact that he didnt know the bridge dive would get negative reaction and regulatory attention but posted it anyway, and that he thinks he is the person to document and proliferate the hobby is why he deserves the hate. He has created more bad than good for the hobby.
Kapper, I saw both the building dive, and the bridge dive, and it was risky, yes, but you all followed protocol. I think people are loosing their minds because you get the copycats that do the same stunt, and are not careful while putting people and property in danger. I like Roto Riot and I hope you stick around. Time will tell, keep the dream alive, and fly on!
The hate is envy or what I call jeliousy . I think. I have no anti of rotor riot. They been around longer than me in this hobby. They are part of my fpv world. But it's just envy
im really new to FPV and ROTOR RIOT is always coming up. I like alot of the rotor riot videos but ....they do kinda seem like the ones that people like to hate.
My theory is that Chad generally doesn't sit still long enough to do a lot of these one-on-ones so catching him in this situation is a huge get. . That's funny..Rotor Riot is the Wal-Mart of the quad/fpv community. . I had never heard of the 'Building Dive' case. I just watched it and I have to say it was a dope dive. Not something I probably would have done but then a culture that embraces a sort of radical mindset generally skirts the edge and walks a bit of a fine line when it comes to delivering its message. I wonder how many of those that criticized RR for publicizing it and said it was done for publicity are watching this and realizing that it wasn't done for that reason at all. I wonder if the original content was even allowed to be used by the news media? Was it considered 'Fair Use'?
I think the bridge dive video is down, but you can still search for the reactions on YT. The building dive was from about 2 years ago. The community lost their minds on both even though both had been done before many, many times. As to Chad, he's actually quite approachable and we sat down to interview within hours of my ask. Though, he may not sit still long, that might be true.
Unfortunately I believe Chad will continue to point the fingers elsewhere, and refuse to point them back at himself and his team. I'm glad to see that he accepts some things he has been told in the past, specifically around Rotor Riot being the leader of the culture, and not just documenting the culture (watch the Podcast with Zoe where he completely dismisses her explanations). But many times you'll hear Chad say that people don't get it, people can't understand, that's just what people do. It's very dismissive. Even the ending comment about Chris Thomas and the hammer. That drama was largely caused by Drew. He showed up on the Rotor Riot facebook group, dropped a big post about how unacceptable Chris's behavior was, that the guy who had his quad smashed is super pissed off, and that Drew was going to be the warrior to make everything better, because this is not okay. Then never responded again and next thing you know there are hundreds of anger responses and tons of new posts as the masses were now set off. Prior to his post everyone was talking about how something must have been staged, he must have been okay with it, there must be more to do the story. Then Drew tells everyone there is not more to the story and it's unacceptable and there will be hell to pay. What do you expect to happen from there? This was a big part of how Rotor Riot got known for starting and spreading drama. And look, it's okay to make mistakes, we all makes mistakes. But own up to your mistakes, acknowledge that you made them and then strive to do better. Apologize for your mistakes and learn from them and I think it'll buy you a lot of understanding and leeway with the community. Rant done
John E Fly - I’m all for taking responsibility and being accountable. “Drama” is just what people call discussions they don’t want to be a part of. You seem to recall many more details about Drew‘s post than I do. I barely remember it. But I do remember Steele’s posts because I asked him to please stop. There was a lot of confusion and misinformation spreading very quickly. We wanted to get ahead of it and clear the air so we made an announcement video sharing our stance. Maybe this is the post you were referring to? Either way... I’m pretty open and willing to address negative issues you believe I’m creating.
@@ChadKapper No, the video you posted was not what I was referring to, and instead helped to fuel more drama at the time. Drama was having members of Rotor Riot shown in the video cheering for Chris to smash the quad, and then putting out another video a few days later condemning Chris's actions and saying Rotor Riot wouldn't stand for it. Drew's post essentially calling for blood rallying the troops of Facebook and then not posting about it again for 2 days caused significantly more misinformation to spread and the crowd to get louder and louder with their pitchforks out. I don't expect anyone to be perfect, none of us are, but those were two cases of mistakes. I could totally see myself making a post like Drew did causing an uproar, I think we can all relate to that. The key is how you handle it after the fact. Perhaps in the video acknowledging that you made a mistake where you were cheering in the other video instead of just condemning would have helped? Not to harp on a specific case that much, but instead just to acknowledge that you have created a very large influential brand that many people strive to be a part of, and being aware of actions that can drive things in a direction you did not intend for them to go.
John E Fly - I’m not exactly sure where you see me pointing fingers. Your last comment is riddled with inaccuracies. However, I’m not sure it’s worth getting us on the same page factually if I agree with your final sentiment. Yes, there have been a number of times things haven’t gone as planned. But my intent has always been to bring people together and support one another in a positive way. If we make decisions that end up failing, we adjust and keep moving forward.
@@ChadKapper TH-cam comments probably aren't the best place for a debate. Let's just put it this way, the items which give Rotor Riot this reputation happened a long time ago. There has honestly not been much to criticize in the past year. Clearly things have gotten better. However, the issues of the Hammer and the bridge dive continue to surface over and over, and time and time again you continue to laugh at people thinking it wasn't safe, or criticize others for not warning you about the backlash properly. You continue to defend the choices that were made as safe and dismiss those that consider this a bad idea. Just accept that you made a mistake, you learned from it and you'll do better. Done! Now keep moving forward creating great content and focusing on the future. If this stops being discussed or you stop defending it, eventually people will move on and accept what Rotor Riot has become, instead of focusing on the past and worrying that's what will also be the future.
@@MichaelRollins Yes kinda a small town church with an old timey gospl feel..... If you get a chance me pastor runs a FB live stream under the same name. i am one of the guitar players to the left of pastor. looks like you are in a big church. we are small but active bunch.
it was over traffic, my only real complaint was it should have been edited out, there was more than enough incredible footage. its about taking other peoples risks for them, we should avoid that, and if it happens in a lapse of judgement or reasonable mistake, we shouldnt put it on youtube and giggle like kids throwing rocks blindly off a bridge.
For me, what put me off RR was simply the plain sight disregard for their equipment. Remember the video where two idiots tried doing tug of war with 2 quads, after your 1st off air test, you should have just called it as a bad idea... There was a range of videos, wasting so much money on quad parts for no reason, doing shit we will never do because it is just idiotic, I mean, why would you intentionally risk your quad? On the latter, RR was the reason I got into FPV, you did what you intended, you spread the word and got the interest, but I just could not sit though the episodes, the guys, their habits and disregard for their stuff. You have to imagine, with the public eye on you, you need to set the example. Just imagine, for a second, there is my and my mate, in the park, with a rope in between a bench and two drones, and these things are just smashing the ground. What would your reaction be... Its not just the dives my friend you mentioned, most videos you left us going uhm... Wait, was that legal or safe? Show us that what you are doing is safe and legal, then we can't argue, shift the conversation for us rather to don't waste your money doing stupid shit.
I like RR. Would like to see more products that RDQ doesn't have. The two shops are too similar, product wise. I enjoy the flying vids including the bridge dive. Professional pilots are inspiring. I dont watch RR review vids, feels like sales pitches. Off topic, Bardwell's channel changed, leaning more toward sales too. I can't blame him or RR, sales is how they make a living. I'm just more selective of what I watch, it's like skipping the commercials.
I didn't see this bridge dive but have seen many Matty videos. Phenomenal pilot. Can't imagine this was worse than anything else he has done. Kind of like when bulbafet flew along the train. People freaked out. RR for me why I never really watched was some of the pilots we're a little full of it and the hardware they flew. Just left a bad taste to me on the brand. Not that they lacked skills but just too cocky when others were as good or better who had more humility to it all.
I want to speak about the Canadian dive that Chad mention here! I think when you make a business mistake you cant benefit from it. The thing is if you run a business that have different regulation in each country, you must make sure what you do is legit and check with the good reference, not friends that could be legal where they are at. Other point is if you start a business model with the objective of represent a community i think you can't be aloud to promote product because you became a product not the voice of the community. Its 2 different business model and marketing. With that said i think Chad had a great vision at start and its a need for the community to have something that represent us. But we cant support something that pushing sell more then helping the community. Let's talk Kwadcamp... or rotor riot store... in my mind it should be swag only so you can identify yourself as a fpv fan not a good rr client. If product is done it should be in partnership with almost all the brand so you dont have to buy large inventory and push the sell trough rr episode. There is so much manipulation by our government i dont want it in what suppose to represent my passion. Its scare me even more when you know they affiliate with one brand of product/store. Ive try to help bring back Rotor Riot to Canada to get back the reputation lost by the dive get by doing something very special with them here but is at that point that i saw that money was more important then representation and i will spare detail on this. I don't want to complain, i'm just telling that we need something to represent the hobby that doesnt sell product, just represent everything that is fpv and help develop this great culture from every side. If you look at what is best from Rotor riot you can see the essence of FPV but on the other side too much pression not enough freedom. I can understand Chad must have put a lot of money in this project and i respect that a lot since i did the same even possible too much money... Maybe just didnt see how much time it will take to get it back without asking the community to buy and maybe there was some investment that was counter productive to the original goal. With all this going on the pilots are still some of the greatest skillz i saw and i respect every one of them so much for the energie and heart they put on this project from the begining to now. The question is on which category Rotor Riot want to be tag for the future : Represent fpv or Brand? Hope the best for the future of RR kuz we really need something that represent fpv in all its freedom. We fly to be free remember ;)
RotorDefiant promotes unsafe flying with tresspassing, property damage and bodily injury. This encourages pilots to upload similar videos on social media to be in "The Spotlight". This action without moderation exacerbates more unsafe acts. In the last week a pilot posted a video of a quad smashing into a building. Darwin awards are earned, not given. I do not care how well you fly or how good your gear is. Big pro pilot had crsf antenna break and failsafe "d" during a building dive. Same pilot also missed a hand catch in Korea and hit the stage. Rationalizing unsafe acts does not mean something could/can/will go wrong. Wind changes direction. I do like some of the things RR has done and understand this love hate thing amongst our community. Some RR fans will show support with buying your brand of gear, while others see what is potentially hurting the hobby and refuse to purchase anything you offer.
RR showed some serious things that appeared dangerous and a negative on the Hobby as the commercial drone & the media seems to be grabbing anything to defame this hobby.....( Bridge dive for instance ) people went nuts, but fail to watch the thousands of manned aircraft dangerous video's on TH-cam.and the club folks videos crashing planes into people and cars.....for instance......they screamed and got angry when you mention their messes...LOL RR is great in some instances and really push the boundaries on others But that happens in every sport/hobby/Fun Some get it, some do not...one video that ticked me was the F BOMB video..every word was F this and F that F
Rotor Riot suffers from the same problem flite test does.. it started out perfect.. and turned into jackass with drones.. flite test when it was build series and tests and teaching newbies how to fly etc was what was missing in the hobby.. it generated a wave of new RC pilots all over the world.. but then it turned into some flimflam flying lawnmovers and drones and Vlogs with a bunch of guys beeing like 12 yearolds.. that turned the serious people away from FT and RR goes the same route.,. the community spotlight vids are still brilliant.. the travel series are brilliant.. the build ones are also great... but the crashing windows with drones.. and the likes of that,., not to mention the one episiode that was made that was some lame story thing.. omg.. its just as beeing the sober guy at the frat party.. not very interesting..
....seen from across the dam, the laissez-faire handling of the bridge dive cost a lot of goodwill. it was seen as a blatant gamble with our hobby when (at least in Europe) politicians had no clue what quads are about whilst trying to establish a legislatory framework. Our politicians are not the sharpest at best (clearly related to some of yours in the US) and tend to leap to conclusions. All the focus was on negative and often imagined problematic aspects and there was a real chance that any major fuck up would be grounds to ban our shared passion for good. ..... doing the bridge dive was understandable but not clever; telling people about it was dumb, posting the video was (sorry) stupid and even now defending it in hindsight shows (even more sorry) a continued lack of understanding why context was paramount. The world was looking for an excuse to solve the emerging "drone problem" the easy way - ban the hell out of us. Precedence still needed to be established - hence not three but one strike was most like enough to be called out for good. .... if you guys were not RR, it would not have been as big of a problem, but as the cool front runners you needed to display a responsible face as well. That never happened and people distanced themselves because it did not make sense. .... it was a solvable problem - but not showing any signs of understanding the society we fly in's concerns about safety, kind of sealed the deal when it came to perception. What is reality is not important here because at the end of the day, RR kept arguing about what detail just might justify putting other people's life at risk. That is not an equation I personally would like to do - least of all in public. ..... we all do dumb shit - personally way worse than the bridge dive; maybe the only difference is that RR was perceived as not learning from it. Today I'm a little surprised to hear that it seems actually to have been the case. .... like 3DR, RR is frustratingly a story that so nearly could have been a great one. thx.
I've disliked alot of RR but I'm still here, My outlook is that RR started out as something new that all of us liked & all of us Hobbyist wanted to do. In short then there was the Chad & steele conflict that was announced openly. Then steele left and the content somehow changed drastically for RR & Of course that's gonna generate drama & Hate within the RR Community Considering Steele was 90% of the community's Favorite Pilot anyways. Generates even more hate for RR . Then bad content some episodes have been good. But drew has his own style His own channel so does JB, JB should stick to reviewing products he's great at it & well all learn from it. Like when RR started we where all learning from it. Rotor Riot is in the name, Freestyle pilots doing awesome stuff. We don't need a reality TV show always trying to sell us stuff. That the pilots flying don't even use? Anyways Chad is right RR is here to stay it started all this as a staple to our community as fpv pilots & made us all better Hobbyist. I'm sure RR will change many more times. Just don't worry about the drama RR & go back to what works.
It’s the people acting like that is what’s ruining the hobby rotor riot bring us so much entertainment and now they have to ware kids gloves with everything they do now because of fear of ridicule or any kind of back lash.. when I’m not out burning packs I’m on TH-cam watching each and every pilot in rotor riot shredding battery’s they keep this hobby moving in the right direction negativity and hate is no good for anything
Freestyle vids came way before racing in quads, Chad is a good guy but the hype after Flitetest it was a hard act to follow. Too much drama with all the superstar bs that started 3-4 years back. Oh well just fly, the guns thing was a huge fail pr wise and hurt our hobby as does the airsoft military theme crap. The RR Dam dive was the best vid ever.
That bridge dive made my choice not to get involved in drones and FPV. In the end. Drones and FPV and the stuff that goes with it has now kneecapped my favorite passtime. Building and flying MODEL fixed wing line of site aircraft. It's called colateral damage and the "drone culture" has done a lot of it. I do not blame RR alone but this noble cause of documenting the rise of this culture is just horse shit. It's not just RR diving a bridge, one time. It's diving the train, scud running through parks and beaches. Tresdpassing on private property to dive buildings and all the other YTers that latched on to this same idea and they saw entities on YT with their vids monitized and getting that tech rebel street cred. Problem is it's taken down the old school hobbist line of site MODEL AIRPLANE crowd with it. AMA by default got saddled with this mess, the technology had leap frogged the AMA they should have never had too deal with this in the first place. RR and other guiding lights of the culture plus manufacturers should have shouldeted up to the concept of Drones and fpv being something free standing and very different from hobbist model aviation. It's not the FAA's job to sort this out. So the FAA rolled it all into one big trash bag. Pointing fingers at Amazon and comercial users of drones does not cut it either. Agricultural drones and drones used for parking lot security and who knows what else had been used for decades before this driving around and diving buildings and bridges and trains and every school kid that picked one up at Wal Mart was sending it through the neighbors yard. So I have to disagree, it's not all just people on line causing the drama. And showing your footage to a cadre of FPV drone operators and using their reputations and mutterings of approval is not an self check. Politicians all check with each other before voting themselves a raise. RR is not at the exteme, gound zero apex of what caused this "drama" ( don't ya think it's gotten a bit past drama and become a real life buzz kill of epic proportion) but RR did leave a video record leading back to itself. Do I hate RR? No, but I do hate some of the things RR did. I honestly do see a connection to the gutting of this wonderful hobby by the FAA. I'm not the only person who sees things this way. It's more than online drama and the best way I have found to not spend money on anything related to fpv or drones. I would not have spent the time to send this but the punch line is a Rotor Riot vid came up as "suggested" on my YT and it looked to be a fairly recent video, the person on the vid was asking everyone to contact their congressmen and the FAA ( LOL!) because the FAA mandates were going to prevent people from flying their drones ( which drones for me? My Lazy Bee? Slo Stik? AeroComannder? that giant Nut Ball looks like a National Security Threat) So this guy wants my help because he is going to lose the right to fly his quad copter fpv equipped DRONE.
I remember when that first came out i thought it was great, had a few beers under the belt on a friday night and watched the fpv community response, I MAY HAVE TROLLED....a bit ..ooops.. anyway the last video i watched was a doco from the same city where these homeless bums ride shopping carts full of recycling for kilometers down the main roads, maiming and killing them in the process.... after watching it i was omfg the canadians are nuts! what are they winging about! NUTS!!
@@MichaelRollins also very well done on these interviews, i had a completely different view of both drew and kapper before this, both seem approachable, likeable and logical, this interview is my fav plus the our house one. Even in australia had two day replacement on an ummagawd motor from the usa, completely free. I pay 20bucks postage min and it takes two weeks from most places
@@MichaelRollins also in my first comment on TROLLING i was in support of RR though Because i believe that the responsibility is the pilots no one elses, they take the risk, they wear it if something goes wrong, same if your a professional stunt driver, if the risk is unexceptable, say so and tell whoever is telling you to do it why, shouldnt need hype, haters gonna hate, people are more motivated to leave bad reviews than positive responses mainly because they are miserable and need a big hug
Well rotoriot is a TH-cam channel with a store. It's cool I've always watched the vids. Never perchesed. I like thier old vids with the old crew . What's the problem? Building dives? That's not ruined any hobby. That's rediculous. I would worry more of persons not really into any RC hobby never were buying ready to fly out of the box no experience necessary best buy consumer GPS drones screwing this hobby up.
This series of interviews has been the best content in our industry right now. Informative, insightful, and sincere. Thank you Michael and Chad!
Thank you, Michael.
I’ve been into fpv for maybe 6 months, so I haven’t been around for the transition. This series of interviews has helped me understand the people behind the business and the culture in general. It’s interesting.
I like the vlog stuff, but I also like raw footage and edginess. We need a mix, but that’s not always compatible with making a profit.
Forever gratitude to Rotor Riot for not only turning me on to FPV, but helping me actually get in the air. Nothing else matters.
Chad, Steele, Tommy, Carlos....That was when Rotor Riot was at it's Pinnacle.
Charpu and Chad❤❤❤❤
I think of FPV as a stage or a space where emptiness and the air itself lives like a blank canvas waiting for your innovation and creativity. It’s overflowing with nothing but potential possibilities that no one should ever try to define. Within this stage we are free to create, experiment, preform and experience something no other stage allows, flight itself.
Even before Icarus and his failure to choose the proper glue for his fixed wing, humans looked to the sky longed to fly. Early man watched as they slowly walked the earth, the birds traveling far and wide above them. Humans were obviously wise to their own disadvantages. It’s understandable why the dream of flying exists (not figuratively but literally). We wake in the middle of the night having dreams of what it may be like to fly or fall. We are drawn to the sensation of flight till it becomes a physical sensation manifesting itself through our sub-conscience. It’s who we are and where we come from. We imagine what it’s like to be free from the bonds of the earth, and look down upon our prison with a freedom only birds take for granted. Every human has this dream.
FPV exists because of the drive to seek these sensations and experiences. Technology has grown mature enough to allow us to easily and cheaply reach these goals even while safely on the ground. The FPV aircraft is an extension of the human body, a remotely controlled robot of sensors all designed to provide the sensation or immersion of flight. The heavier-than-air aircraft we use, all struggle to stay in the air for short amounts of time. They require power and constant control inputs to fly. We insert the human mind into the feedback loop of its control system, and the aircraft becomes an extension of self. We must immerse ourselves in the act of flight to keep our aircraft in flight. Once there and successful at it the sky is, quite literally, the limit. This is what FPV is, it is human flight in its purest and most accessible form and it’s driven by a passion to reach that place, if even for a moment. Many call it flow, but flow-state is a requirement of FPV flight, something greater.
There is room for everyone on this stage and no rules or restrictions as to how you personally use it. There exists a community of people who live there, or visit often and they have formed a culture through proximity to each other. Those who succeed at FPV speak a language, for they have looked down, they have felt flight and danced in the wind. This stage is under constant threat, from inside and out. Beware of those who wish to take from it and those who add to it. Listen for anyone wishing to define it as something it’s not or wishing to tell you how to do it. Guard against distractions which aim to steer you away from that primal goal and do not stop to smell the drama for very long. Remember why FPV exists, help preserve its empty space, and then help the noobs understand why.
What is FPV? I cannot answer that for you, I can answer it for myself. FPV is the one of the greatest discoveries of our lifetime, it combines technology with one of our deepest drives. It has produced a renaissance of thought and a drone revolution which will change the way humans live in the future. BUT, do not forget to protect where it came from, the empty space. Recreational FPV is the heart and soul of FPV and it always has been. Feed it, give back to it so we can watch the next generation create beyond the impossible, they will need a stage.
@@squishy654 I just saved that to my notepad. That was some amazing writing. Kind of hit me in the heart. Thank you Squishy.
a bit late but how about the positive demonstration of equipment and pilot skill do to it safely! how would we look at it if one of these epic piloting skills were used with a drone to save a human life--first contact that sort of thing!
Kapper is a great guy. I posted my number as a joke and a couple minutes later we were on the phone talking about stuff.
True bro.
That's epic, thanks for sharing. He seems like a really cool guy.
@Scott Parker You seem like a Jackass haha! Never trust a troll with 2 subs lol.
@Scott Parker Haha! good one troll!
When I was a kid I’d did a project on drones and I had to get an interview and I talked the chad and then he transferred me to josh from flite test was pretty cool to speak to them
The more time that goes between each one of these interviews, the more nervous I get! I can't remember what I said! I'll just wait and read the comments ;)
Seriously though - Mike, you're doing an awesome job! Thanks for all you do!
You talk a lot about #ruiningthehobby ;)
I'm also nervous when I post these!
BTW, when is the store going to get the frames in stock?? Trying to give you guys some business and your holding me up ;)
@@StacemanFPV which frame? Maybe I can pull some strings :)
^ I think this guy knows a few folks...
@@ChadKapper I was looking to get the skyeliner
TBH... Rotor Riot looks like it got steam-rolled into a different and unfamiliar shape by LeDrib. LeDrib's original content on his own channel was a welcome addition to the scene. But whatever happened IRL, it looks like he just came in and displaced the original crew. I don't hate Rotor Riot, but it's not what it was, and I don't see that it ever became anything like "Top Gear for FPV", or whatever the original intention was. I'm particularly sensitive to issues of loyalty and group cohesion, so the changes we've seen happening all still under the same brand, is a bit of a turnoff. To me, the brand was the original four pilots, and Chad Kapper got slippery with his business savvy, and managed to legally steal something he shouldn't have claim to. I'm fully aware that legally he does, and that he also invested tons into building it. I just don't know what "it" is anymore. I'm all for LeDrib and Stingy, or whoever is left, doing a thing resembling Rotor Riot; there is plenty of talent there... I just think it's a bit off-putting to keep calling whatever that is "Rotor Riot". It was never that meta of a concept, especially to those of us (I'm assuming) who subbed to the channel months prior to it having any content after having been notified of it's existence through one of the original pilot's content.
Keep in mind, all I do is watch the channel; I'm not on facebook or following any other social media for background stories (other than interviews like this, by the people involved that TH-cam recommends me). I'm sure I'm painfully ignorant of all the goings on involved, and I'm sure I'll remain that way. I just hope for better content, and that everybody is decently happy with how things ended up, and also that people can group up and remain static long enough to allow some of the friendship to leak through to the content a little better. All the noisy fake enthusiasm and artificially boosted energy is... just saddening. I'd rather watch Drew & Jeff hang out and fly, with zero politics. Business is always a test of friendship, and I hate that. It almost sucks that because RR's business model basically is social media, that us viewers are all up in their private affairs by default. The reality show that bets real life friendships isn't that fun to witness, especially when things go poorly. Hopefully RDQ's cash tranquilizes all the revolving door action for a while, and to Kapper... dude, fly in the eps; get in there! Associate your face with your brand, cause you're the only original crew left.
How do you "legally steal something"? Would this be one of the misunderstanding/misinterpretations this interview mentioned? But, okay, I think I get what you are trying to say. However, it'd baseless unless the rest of the original members feel that way.
@@jrc6193 You steal something legally when you know more about the law than the people you're exploiting... like Trump not paying his contractors or whatever, or patent trolls. Any time you knowingly exploit a differential advantage via the legal system (by keeping one party ignorant of the fine print details) in business, I'd call that stealing. I'm making an assertion that there is a big difference between morality and legality, which I'm aware is a bit "old school" for most people these days. But yeah, absolutely baseless... hence the "looks like" qualifier in my opening sentence.
@@mistercohaagen "You steal something legally when you know more about the law than the people you're exploiting"
No that's just called legal. It's not Kapper or Trump's fault they "know the law" better and benefit from it.
@@AFatalPapercut Well that's a nice sense of morality ya got there, lol.
I think people have started hating on Rotor Riot because it started as this rebellious, adventurous and daring brand based on this group of people that where pushing the limits of what could be done with the hobby but, I’d say after Steele left, it slowly turned into something a bit more PC and general trying to be more accessible to the general public and that’s when people may have felt like Rotor Riot didn’t represent what they stood for anymore. In other words, it feels like it’s turning into another Flite Test.
I have a lot of love for Rotor Riot as this is what inspired me to be a pilot 2 years ago, the content that is produced, it brings our community together so much and for all it brings to the hobby. But somehow I feel less and less connected to it as time goes by as I feel like something may have changed at its core. It’s fairly inconsistant, when I see episodes like “Parts Unflowns” in Mexico with Tommy and Stingy I’m like “HELL YEAH! That’s what RR is about to me!”, but when I see it take a very corporate attitude from time to time, it makes me feel like things have changed
Fincky why did steel leave?
yeah I agree, I would like to see a more rebellious Rotor Riot again
Coltfpv he explained on one of his podcasts. from the top of my head it was along the lines of he wasn’t getting paid for anything and was using his prize money to fund trips etc. But the main reason was that everything was own by chad and I believe he wanted some “shares” or “equity” of RR etc. So he decided to make his own brand
"[Rotor Riot] it's one of the walls holding up the roof" - Great analogy, and so true!
Even if you don't like the wall, it would sure be a shame if that wall were to suddenly disappear!
I absolutely love Rotor Riot! I like the content, drive, creativity, information, the pilots, and love hanging out with them. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Chad Kapper for making a great group! And thank you Michael for dealing with parts of this pink elephant!
Pink elephants are the worst!
I think people look at the bridge dive , then look at the new restrictions and laws that have turned up since
personally I don't have proof positive but from what I have seen people see rotor riot as having started the run to over regulation.
Correlation is not causation, but it's hard to escape it.
This stuff is gold! His point about everyone else creating drama is exactly why I exited all of the groups. I couldn't take that stuff anymore. I miss the good parts but I'll take my sanity over that any day.
Honestly, I wish more folks like you were IN the groups. It feels like we need an influx of level headed folks to keep the peace. But that's a tall order when anyone can be anonymous.
Glad we connected on YT!
@@MichaelRollins I just got to a point where it was really bringing me down. I needed to remove some negativity so I left all the groups but 1, for flight one.. And then in that group we had a guy that I tried to help that became a pain so I called him out (in a slightly immature way) and got kicked and banned from the group. At that point I decided, I ain't going back to any of them. Been the best decision ever.
You have to weigh your mental health against the needs of the community. It's a fine line to walk, and a very tough one. I've definitely taken various breaks, and there are a few groups I've left. So, yeah, I totally understand.
@@MichaelRollins I still watch all their content though. Personally, the content these days is so much better than it used to be. I love all the personalities, even the ones that annoy me (Bardwell) :-) heck I watch his stuff too
The content is good, and it's diversifying. I watched a lot more Bardwell when I was actively building. Considering I have a build I need to do, I predict there will be some Bardwell in my future. He's good to have around.
I stopped by Marshalls yesterday to get a new clinic jacket I don't care about getting blood on since it's been cold lately. Found a huge fomey quad for $39.99. Was so shocked it wasn't $249.99 that I considered buying it and doing a building dive into my head in celebration of me almost, but not killing myself with a DRL Racer 3 inches away from my head. I hope you enjoyed my random story. I'm usually a visual storyteller according to Facebook. Sorry for the lack of visuals here. Btw, Marshalls doesn't have any sweater jackets damnit!
Always welcome to be random story time here Kabab!
KababFPV - Sometimes Marshall’s has SmartWool socks and you can get them for less than 50% retail!
I legit could use some wool socks. The Shedquarters does not have an insulated floor which makes my feet cold all winter long.
@@MichaelRollins SmartWool (or any merino wool) products are really good. But trust me, you need a heated patch of carpet; www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00127WLFC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And get some slinky duct and some pc fans to move hot air from the ceiling down to beneath your desk... helps equalize the gradient. Get the kind that is made out of that aluminum sputtered mylar they make those pocket-sized emergency thermal blankets out of. Humidity helps.
That's a good point Chad makes there at the end. It seems to me that at the time there were a group of people just looking to hate on the still forming multirotor community, the bridge dive happened at the worst time in history, and to further prove the point, hammergate was equally blown out of proportion. By that time everyone was afraid to do anything that might be considered controversial, and it was a while before things relaxed.
I'd like to think that part of our history is over and we've moved on to a more mature and stable community.
The whole ordeal was an example of bad timing and inmature social media run amuck.
The "Great Bridge Dive" will always be the cautionary voice in the head of the guy on the sticks with his friends in the background telling him to "go for it".
Like them or not the Rotor Riot team made a mark on the hobby. They are people just like us and make mistakes just like us. They're just crazy enough to film and publish it all.
For the record I DO like Rotor Riot. Thanks Mike and Chad - nice interview.
What was the great bridge dive? A RR video? Is it still up? EDIT: just watched it lol, dunno why people flipped a shit about that dive - unfortunate the dumb media got a hold of it.
Haha that hammergate was funny as shit.iv forgot all about that one.
I'm still trying to figure out what Rotor Riot is. Isn't it just a TH-cam channel that also has an online store? Like a group YT channel were popular YT quad pilots get together and make videos for a group channel?
RR is a business. They have pivoted several times but have always been focused on FPV. Part of their brand is having really fantastic pilots on the channel, but it’s also backed by a store. Like any business they intend to make a profit and to have a great brand.
@@MichaelRollins So they train new pilots and sell products in their store and make youtube videos. I think I heard something about quad camp. I assume that's a flight training program.
Like any startup they have thrown a lot of things at the wall. Kwad Kamp was a thing they did a couple years ago. It did not prove to be profitable so they stopped it. About a year ago they got nought out by RedCat. Since I’m not engaged in much social media now I’m honestly not sure what they are up to. But one core focus of their brand has always been some variation on fantastic pilots and some sort of gear associated with it.
@@MichaelRollins That sucks. It's really not that large of a hobby as of right now and it seems the government is trying to cut it's legs off before it can get large.
I'm very new to the hobby, thanks to some cheap holystone drone my wife bought me and videos from groups like rotor riot, I'm fully invested in this hobby. I think regardless of what happens and what people say, you guys have made a huge impact on the fpv community and introduced me to an excellant sport. Keep up the good work.
Ryan Bannon BIG TIME! I had put my drone away a few months ago. They have reignited my interest!!! THANK YOU ROTOR RIOT!!!
What’s the quad in the case on the wall?
My first quad. A Neato 180 Sexy Beast. I sent it back to Justin and Nich to look over and they sent it back to me in that box. Awesome guys, such a fun little quad with 4" props and 2800KV motors. I need to rebuild it!
Hi Mike love the videos - I know that the time zone would prob cause issues but just wondering if you have any plans to interview some of the pilots from the uk scene? Keep up the great work!
Thanks Michael for capturing this snapshot of Rotor riot for us, and thanks Chad for not only capturing this MultiRotor edgey rebel culture, but capturing some of the best leaders, pilots and icons within it all in one place ! And yes, I see having all that energy under one banner has actually started to write and shape the culture itself..... i guess that was inevitable as human nature would dictate. Thanks for all your hard work and patience with the evolving crew. Looking forward to some exciting projects you have in store for us. Cheers :)
chad is a straight up guy,i love his honesty and all the effort he gives,he is like the supportive dad that creates an amazing musician or sport star,he should be loved by the whole fpv community,thanks chad
Dad FPV!
I never saw anything directly dangerous in the bridge dive episode. It was just other people with their own negative agendas that used it by twisting it to fit
What crash did they talk about in the end?
I can't watch right now, because I'm going out right now (I have an appointment). But already subscribed (I thought I had already done that!) and add to my "watch later" playlist (I guess that's the name in English).
Haha, thank you!
That part when Chad said "some people don't believe he exists"
lol, its finally happened! He's ascended beyond the legend!
rotor riot will always be the pioneer that brought freestyle to the eyes of every hungry new fpv pilot across the globe and from one of those pilots I thank you !!!
Great insight and interview. As someone who has spent a lot of money, to my wife's ire, and will spend more I find the history interesting.
As a lover of FPV I have some issues with the fringe edges of the industry (not just RR) but nothing is 100% perfect. RR sometimes gets close to those edges but I believe Chad is balancing all that. Some of us are bringing kids into the hobby with them so that is the perspective I have. I am far from a helicopter father but I have talked to my son about some of the interesting RR characters.
Keep the videos coming and Chad keep doing what you do! Also the RDQ combo is awesome (living in Orlando) I have more buying options.
Discovered this channel today because of Zoroe and im loving all those interview
Chad has is lighting on point!
thanks for posting and mega thanks to chad.
A question I would put to Chad and to all:
What is the percentage of "haters" vs views?
Most people probably watch but dont feel a need to comment. I think you'll find hate vs total is quite small. remember it lads.
glenby2u - I think the percentage changes depending on the style and subject of the content. But overall, I would guess 10-20%
I am surprised it is that high, I would have guessed 5% or so.
So what we really have is 1 to 2 in 10 arent happy.
That is pretty good in real world of competing ideals and loser trolls.
Can't get enough of the Rotor Riot shenanigans 😁
Good addendum to your Kapper interview. 👍
Thank you, John.
Another top notch Kappercino chat... and you don’t give yourself enough credit for why people subscribe! ;)
Dude been Mike Tysoned couple times. Got me tilting my phone to look at that nose straight
Omg if you’re talking about my nose that’s the funniest damn comment anyone has ever left.
The more widely known you become by just putting yourself out there and promoting yourself, your thoughts and ideas, and just "sharing" what you are doing or making, the more you become a target of hate. It's just statistics, according to an article I read about it. People perceive you as a dominate player and want to knock you off the pedastal.
I found this out first hand myself in the aviation community and just shrugged it off, until it you finally reach a point where you're like... "you know what, there's no innovation happening here, there never was any innovation here, I just have no interest in sharing any more with you guys"... and you wander off to somewhere else. You came to make people think, and wake them up, but in the end, they just want to deride you, think you are a threat, or throw mud at you for no other reason than maybe they don't agree with your political views (in general or when it comes to airspace).
For me I came from the Battlefield modder/hacker community where I modded a killer aerial combat server for VTOL aircraft dogfighting (think quadcopters loaded with rockets), then leaving that (when GameSpy pulled the plug on the the hardware that made the multiplayer part of the game work), for the Homebuilt Aircraft Community, and then leaving that (because of the rife misogyny and hallway monitor rule obedient mentality) for the FPV quadcopter community. We're talking years in these places.
I've visited other comunties, like hang glider communities, and you see sometimes even more corrosive fighting going on, where someone tried to setup some umbrella organization and it became somewhat popular or successful but also suffocating, and attracted a lot of hatred from the disenfrancished and those down below or watching from the outside.
cg.air-war.org
Agreed, if Rotor Riot no longer was around, I would miss it. The group helped me get going/into/excited with FPV. It wouldn’t be the same without them.
Without them, it leaves room for regional crews to bind together and put out some collective content. The loudest asshole in the room always drowns out and stifles the better, deeper conversations that have a much higher chance at happening in their absence.
Here we are four years later. Look at rotor riot now.
People will always find a reason to hate its inevitable they need to validate their own existence by hating on others. RR is a foundation pillar to this hobby like it or not there will always be love and appreciation for all they have done are doing and are going to do for this community so hate on, its fuel for the wise.
I've got nothing but love for RR. there videos are great to watch and always make me smile which is a feat in itself because i'm a miserable sod!! I don't get involved in the politics of it, why should i?!! . I love to fly, build and watch funny fpv videos. Keep up the great content Micheal. Wicked channel :)
We do make a lot of drama. I love this hobby and I used to watch all the Rotor Riot content back when as Chad Kapper called it. It was pure. I think that due to all the drama and new rules that has been implemented. Rotor Riot is playing it safe and some of the content is not as interesting, but I do understand why that has happened. Hating on them, no I really admire their skill and what they are trying to do for the community. Keep on doing what you are doing, be safe and keep making the hobby great.
The value of Chad and all of the rotor riot guys regardless of how u feel personally about the company is that they along with other not just rr has made this hobby into what it is today if it wasn’t for the strong advertising ish of rr we would still be flying cc3d quads with the huge frames that we all started with now we have the market to pretty much fly like Superman that anyone with a little bit of cash and stick time can now do so regardless of how u feel if it wasn’t for these hobby pushers we would have never got off the ground so thank you rr and everyone else that has made this hobby what it is . Personally this hobby saved my life in more ways than one so from the heart thank u
Showed up to watch Mike. Stuck around to hear kapper. Mike for silver button 2019!
Dude, we have a LONG way to go for that. But one can always dream!
@@MichaelRollins dont matter. I would love it for myself but let's face the facts. Your better then this than I am. So you get it😂😂😂😂😂
Fortunately, the hater's community is much more smaller than the fans'. RR fly on! You are very sympathetic!
I’ve been in this motel for almost two weeks waiting get our new house. Rotor Riot has brought me back to my drone! Before we get new furniture, flying my whoop. Wife approved!!!
Reunited, and it feels so good!
Great job buddy. Send this channel to the moon if you can. Hi Chad!!!
Kind of feels that way, but I'm sure there's only so much rocket fuel. ;)
Hi!
It's an interesting question. I think it is about the brand identity and the, possibly unreasonable, expectations of many people. Rotor riot has successfully created a brand identity based on "cool pop culture". At the same time the retailer and product connection prevents presenters from providing unbiased critique and advice. It can lead to the impression that presenters are hawking products many would consider, subjectively, to be overpriced or inferior. Unfortunately whilst this is the kind of behaviour we experience daily in every other industry this industry holds a special place in people's hearts. Practically speaking companies like rotor riot and this "hawking" of products people find so objectionable is standard business practice and we should probably gow up a bit.
The whole fpv community is so damned childish that I am pretty embarrassed to be entering it.
It's not all bad. There are some quality folks in it. But, yeah, there are some very immature folks, as well.
I think the whole community is awesome. When I shop on eBay for fpv gear. I don’t have to worry about getting ripped off because I think the community is very trust worthy. Everybody is so willing to help
This hobby is still in its infancy after all.
Every aspect of life has jerks. If you're into it, ignore the negativity, and rip some packs.
its seemed fallout started when le drib and mr steel went to europe together...? -random fan
It was drama before that . And just like everywhere else in business, if people not making no money or think they not making enough b it's going be some drama.
You can always find the pioneers, they have the arrows sticking in them.
Been thinking on this for a while. Good analogy.
@@MichaelRollins I've been using that one for 40 years. I am very new to the FPV game and this is all new to me. I have no ax to grind with RR as long as they can fulfill the orders accurately and ship fast, I love 'em. I enjoy watching their flying and hope someday to be able to freestyle 1/2 as well as any of them. Controversy = Clicks. Howard Stern was the master of turning controversy into $$$. Their shenanigans PALE in light of what's happening in the world RR makes me smile..
literally googled antipathy as soon as you said it lol great word. i read a bit and dont recall coming across it.
You can't please everyone all the time, so I appreciate RR for what it is. Some episodes are great, some are OK, some not so great... But you know what? It's no different to a TV series. Not all episodes of a TV series will please all viewers. Good on them for creating, or at least helping to create, personalities in the industry. I like it, my sons like it, and even with the changes over the last 2 years, they still remain relevant.
Except Golden Girls. That show was awesome and never seemed to age... 😂😂😂
People hate Rotor Riot?? Lolwut??
Granted they sometimes have a "sellout" feel, but they're still great pilots, and awesome people who want to spread the word on how awesome this hobby is.
You might say they have no ethix . Badum bum.
You had me at "Bones Brigade" Chad!
Rotor Riot has been nothing but awesome to me. Absolutely love em.
few things
1. i love wal-mart
2. i dont think most people think they can reach out and talk to alot of the RR members and get a response.
3. you cant please everybody
4. bring back the RR podcast
I finally watched it! 😊
Anyway, if there's anything that could define me is not "fanboy". For example... Betaflight vs Butterflight... I don't care, I use both! I would use Kiss or anything. Working well is all that matters to me, you know? For example, as soon as I can get back making videos I'm going to build a TBS Discovery. With the NAZA Lite! 😂
Like TBS vs FrSky because of Crossfire vs R9. I couldn't care less. I bought the R9 because it's cheaper (and I'm kinda broke right now). You know?
When it comes to Rotor Riot, I really admire what they do for the community. Like Kwad Camp, Kwad Camp Online and so on. You know? But... Well, I suffered a lot of bullying in my school days, so I guess I became a fast and hard character judge... You know?
I don't mean that I'm always right in my judgments... But when I don't like someone I really can't stand the person. LOL
Not everybody likes Walmart. I don't don't shop there. I did more than 15 years ago, I try to support independent stores in my local economy. Amazon is the current threat to local commerce.
People just want to be angry at something or anything. We are just an angry at shit thats all.
Thank you Chad!!
How do I know you?? I feel like we’ve talked in person for a while and I’m breaking my head how I know you! Hahaha Help me out Mike!
take your medication zoroe ,u are getting old .....
I don’t believe we have chatted before. I’ve seen a few of your videos and maybe you’ve seen a few of mine? But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a chat! Hit me up on Facebook.
Great interview by the way!
im trolling u zoroe hahahahhah
Rotor Riot is a misogynistic bro skater boy culture which is why they are universally despised and h8ted by girl pilots. If that's your values and that's what you want to stick with and stand behind, then... we'll stick with ours.
I stopped watching RR years ago, there are a lot better channels.
I think rotor riot is the voice for fpv. I think rotor riot is the one of the best thing about this hobby. It gives me motivation when I fly. Don’t ever quit rotor riot please!!!
Chad is a good Army leader !
Vova Reznik - I appreciate the compliment Vova! I hope you are well! By the way... USMC 1991-1995
Geez guys just fly and have fun. I watch the videos because of information. Stop the hate, you don't have to comment or even watch. If you don't like someone, we don't need and insulting explaination on why you don't like someone. Go watch something else.
Wow was really surprised by this. Us in England Do not hate on rotor riot it is cool. Informative funny and cool. Latest stuff likeable pilot's. Awesome work guys thanks to everyone of you, you've actually helped me out if I need inspiration ill watch usually 1 of the rotor riot pilot's vids. Fxxx the haters it's easy to be a dickhead on the Internet, Stay flying guys. Thanks 👍
Personally I really enjoy Rotor Riot (most of the time). But sometimes it can be really cringey. The worst episodes were right after Steele left. I remember one episode where someone flew a drone into someone else. The dives and powerlooping the Randy's donut didn't help. I think recent episode format changes are what bother me the most. Everything seems to be shifting to this "Casey Neistat" semi-produced blog format that reminds me of the worst kind of reality TV. About 18 months ago I completely stopped watching Flite Test because of this (not to mention that hype kid constantly laughing in all their videos). I don't care about Tommy reviewing products (JB does that just fine). Also, the longer episodes about Mexico just don't matter to me. I turned that one off when the produced interview started. The monthly youtube review of other channels is cool. I like the videos where you guys are flying in a box truck or shooting at the drones. Just having fun. Also, the Hypetrain motors are badass!
Couldn't have said it better.
The fact that he didnt know the bridge dive would get negative reaction and regulatory attention but posted it anyway, and that he thinks he is the person to document and proliferate the hobby is why he deserves the hate. He has created more bad than good for the hobby.
Kapper, I saw both the building dive, and the bridge dive, and it was risky, yes, but you all followed protocol. I think people are loosing their minds because you get the copycats that do the same stunt, and are not careful while putting people and property in danger. I like Roto Riot and I hope you stick around. Time will tell, keep the dream alive, and fly on!
The hate is envy or what I call jeliousy . I think. I have no anti of rotor riot. They been around longer than me in this hobby. They are part of my fpv world. But it's just envy
@Cyramex true.
Capra looks like my long lost brother with that beard nice
It's because of mr. Steele and Chad
im really new to FPV and ROTOR RIOT is always coming up. I like alot of the rotor riot videos but ....they do kinda seem like the ones that people like to hate.
The Building Dive video is what got me into this hobby. Thank you Rotor Riot!
My theory is that Chad generally doesn't sit still long enough to do a lot of these one-on-ones so catching him in this situation is a huge get.
.
That's funny..Rotor Riot is the Wal-Mart of the quad/fpv community.
.
I had never heard of the 'Building Dive' case. I just watched it and I have to say it was a dope dive. Not something I probably would have done but then a culture that embraces a sort of radical mindset generally skirts the edge and walks a bit of a fine line when it comes to delivering its message. I wonder how many of those that criticized RR for publicizing it and said it was done for publicity are watching this and realizing that it wasn't done for that reason at all. I wonder if the original content was even allowed to be used by the news media? Was it considered 'Fair Use'?
I think the bridge dive video is down, but you can still search for the reactions on YT. The building dive was from about 2 years ago. The community lost their minds on both even though both had been done before many, many times.
As to Chad, he's actually quite approachable and we sat down to interview within hours of my ask. Though, he may not sit still long, that might be true.
@@MichaelRollins hey Mike isn't it called guerilla fpv Atlanta ? Is that the one ? If so its still up
Maybe? I couldn't find it last night, but that might be it.
Rotor riot will never get myself or anyone I know back as a fan/subscriber/customer. Can’t scrape all that shit off your shoes...
Unfortunately I believe Chad will continue to point the fingers elsewhere, and refuse to point them back at himself and his team. I'm glad to see that he accepts some things he has been told in the past, specifically around Rotor Riot being the leader of the culture, and not just documenting the culture (watch the Podcast with Zoe where he completely dismisses her explanations). But many times you'll hear Chad say that people don't get it, people can't understand, that's just what people do. It's very dismissive. Even the ending comment about Chris Thomas and the hammer. That drama was largely caused by Drew. He showed up on the Rotor Riot facebook group, dropped a big post about how unacceptable Chris's behavior was, that the guy who had his quad smashed is super pissed off, and that Drew was going to be the warrior to make everything better, because this is not okay. Then never responded again and next thing you know there are hundreds of anger responses and tons of new posts as the masses were now set off. Prior to his post everyone was talking about how something must have been staged, he must have been okay with it, there must be more to do the story. Then Drew tells everyone there is not more to the story and it's unacceptable and there will be hell to pay. What do you expect to happen from there? This was a big part of how Rotor Riot got known for starting and spreading drama.
And look, it's okay to make mistakes, we all makes mistakes. But own up to your mistakes, acknowledge that you made them and then strive to do better. Apologize for your mistakes and learn from them and I think it'll buy you a lot of understanding and leeway with the community.
Rant done
John E Fly - I’m all for taking responsibility and being accountable. “Drama” is just what people call discussions they don’t want to be a part of. You seem to recall many more details about Drew‘s post than I do. I barely remember it. But I do remember Steele’s posts because I asked him to please stop.
There was a lot of confusion and misinformation spreading very quickly. We wanted to get ahead of it and clear the air so we made an announcement video sharing our stance. Maybe this is the post you were referring to?
Either way... I’m pretty open and willing to address negative issues you believe I’m creating.
@@ChadKapper No, the video you posted was not what I was referring to, and instead helped to fuel more drama at the time. Drama was having members of Rotor Riot shown in the video cheering for Chris to smash the quad, and then putting out another video a few days later condemning Chris's actions and saying Rotor Riot wouldn't stand for it.
Drew's post essentially calling for blood rallying the troops of Facebook and then not posting about it again for 2 days caused significantly more misinformation to spread and the crowd to get louder and louder with their pitchforks out.
I don't expect anyone to be perfect, none of us are, but those were two cases of mistakes. I could totally see myself making a post like Drew did causing an uproar, I think we can all relate to that. The key is how you handle it after the fact. Perhaps in the video acknowledging that you made a mistake where you were cheering in the other video instead of just condemning would have helped?
Not to harp on a specific case that much, but instead just to acknowledge that you have created a very large influential brand that many people strive to be a part of, and being aware of actions that can drive things in a direction you did not intend for them to go.
John E Fly - I’m not exactly sure where you see me pointing fingers.
Your last comment is riddled with inaccuracies. However, I’m not sure it’s worth getting us on the same page factually if I agree with your final sentiment.
Yes, there have been a number of times things haven’t gone as planned. But my intent has always been to bring people together and support one another in a positive way. If we make decisions that end up failing, we adjust and keep moving forward.
@@ChadKapper TH-cam comments probably aren't the best place for a debate. Let's just put it this way, the items which give Rotor Riot this reputation happened a long time ago. There has honestly not been much to criticize in the past year. Clearly things have gotten better.
However, the issues of the Hammer and the bridge dive continue to surface over and over, and time and time again you continue to laugh at people thinking it wasn't safe, or criticize others for not warning you about the backlash properly. You continue to defend the choices that were made as safe and dismiss those that consider this a bad idea. Just accept that you made a mistake, you learned from it and you'll do better. Done!
Now keep moving forward creating great content and focusing on the future. If this stops being discussed or you stop defending it, eventually people will move on and accept what Rotor Riot has become, instead of focusing on the past and worrying that's what will also be the future.
So i will join with the rest of the SHEEP....New sub.
Many thanks. Hope your shepherd is a good one... 😇
@@MichaelRollins Yes kinda a small town church with an old timey gospl feel.....
If you get a chance me pastor runs a FB live stream under the same name. i am one of the guitar players to the left of pastor. looks like you are in a big church. we are small but active bunch.
it was over traffic, my only real complaint was it should have been edited out, there was more than enough incredible footage. its about taking other peoples risks for them, we should avoid that, and if it happens in a lapse of judgement or reasonable mistake, we shouldnt put it on youtube and giggle like kids throwing rocks blindly off a bridge.
This winter marks 3 yrs of fpv im still watchin every RR epsiode chapper you da man keep doin your thing fck the haters you guys r fpv!
For me, what put me off RR was simply the plain sight disregard for their equipment. Remember the video where two idiots tried doing tug of war with 2 quads, after your 1st off air test, you should have just called it as a bad idea... There was a range of videos, wasting so much money on quad parts for no reason, doing shit we will never do because it is just idiotic, I mean, why would you intentionally risk your quad? On the latter, RR was the reason I got into FPV, you did what you intended, you spread the word and got the interest, but I just could not sit though the episodes, the guys, their habits and disregard for their stuff. You have to imagine, with the public eye on you, you need to set the example. Just imagine, for a second, there is my and my mate, in the park, with a rope in between a bench and two drones, and these things are just smashing the ground. What would your reaction be... Its not just the dives my friend you mentioned, most videos you left us going uhm... Wait, was that legal or safe? Show us that what you are doing is safe and legal, then we can't argue, shift the conversation for us rather to don't waste your money doing stupid shit.
I like RR. Would like to see more products that RDQ doesn't have. The two shops are too similar, product wise. I enjoy the flying vids including the bridge dive. Professional pilots are inspiring. I dont watch RR review vids, feels like sales pitches. Off topic, Bardwell's channel changed, leaning more toward sales too. I can't blame him or RR, sales is how they make a living. I'm just more selective of what I watch, it's like skipping the commercials.
Because it an ad agency !
I didn't see this bridge dive but have seen many Matty videos. Phenomenal pilot. Can't imagine this was worse than anything else he has done. Kind of like when bulbafet flew along the train. People freaked out. RR for me why I never really watched was some of the pilots we're a little full of it and the hardware they flew. Just left a bad taste to me on the brand. Not that they lacked skills but just too cocky when others were as good or better who had more humility to it all.
I want to speak about the Canadian dive that Chad mention here! I think when you make a business mistake you cant benefit from it. The thing is if you run a business that have different regulation in each country, you must make sure what you do is legit and check with the good reference, not friends that could be legal where they are at. Other point is if you start a business model with the objective of represent a community i think you can't be aloud to promote product because you became a product not the voice of the community. Its 2 different business model and marketing. With that said i think Chad had a great vision at start and its a need for the community to have something that represent us. But we cant support something that pushing sell more then helping the community. Let's talk Kwadcamp... or rotor riot store... in my mind it should be swag only so you can identify yourself as a fpv fan not a good rr client. If product is done it should be in partnership with almost all the brand so you dont have to buy large inventory and push the sell trough rr episode. There is so much manipulation by our government i dont want it in what suppose to represent my passion. Its scare me even more when you know they affiliate with one brand of product/store.
Ive try to help bring back Rotor Riot to Canada to get back the reputation lost by the dive get by doing something very special with them here but is at that point that i saw that money was more important then representation and i will spare detail on this.
I don't want to complain, i'm just telling that we need something to represent the hobby that doesnt sell product, just represent everything that is fpv and help develop this great culture from every side. If you look at what is best from Rotor riot you can see the essence of FPV but on the other side too much pression not enough freedom. I can understand Chad must have put a lot of money in this project and i respect that a lot since i did the same even possible too much money... Maybe just didnt see how much time it will take to get it back without asking the community to buy and maybe there was some investment that was counter productive to the original goal.
With all this going on the pilots are still some of the greatest skillz i saw and i respect every one of them so much for the energie and heart they put on this project from the begining to now. The question is on which category Rotor Riot want to be tag for the future : Represent fpv or Brand? Hope the best for the future of RR kuz we really need something that represent fpv in all its freedom. We fly to be free remember ;)
Great interview, but not quite sure if this was a smart marketing move for Rotor Riot.
Why do people hate RotorRiot ? Cause they treated BotGrinder like trash man.
RotorDefiant promotes unsafe flying with tresspassing, property damage and bodily injury. This encourages pilots to upload similar videos on social media to be in "The Spotlight". This action without moderation exacerbates more unsafe acts. In the last week a pilot posted a video of a quad smashing into a building. Darwin awards are earned, not given. I do not care how well you fly or how good your gear is. Big pro pilot had crsf antenna break and failsafe "d" during a building dive. Same pilot also missed a hand catch in Korea and hit the stage. Rationalizing unsafe acts does not mean something could/can/will go wrong. Wind changes direction.
I do like some of the things RR has done and understand this love hate thing amongst our community. Some RR fans will show support with buying your brand of gear, while others see what is potentially hurting the hobby and refuse to purchase anything you offer.
RR showed some serious things that appeared dangerous and a negative on the Hobby as the commercial drone & the media seems to be grabbing anything to defame this hobby.....( Bridge dive for instance ) people went nuts, but fail to watch the thousands of manned aircraft dangerous video's on TH-cam.and the club folks videos crashing planes into people and cars.....for instance......they screamed and got angry when you mention their messes...LOL
RR is great in some instances and really push the boundaries on others
But that happens in every sport/hobby/Fun
Some get it, some do not...one video that ticked me was the F BOMB video..every word was F this and F that F
Rotor Riot suffers from the same problem flite test does.. it started out perfect.. and turned into jackass with drones.. flite test when it was build series and tests and teaching newbies how to fly etc was what was missing in the hobby.. it generated a wave of new RC pilots all over the world.. but then it turned into some flimflam flying lawnmovers and drones and Vlogs with a bunch of guys beeing like 12 yearolds.. that turned the serious people away from FT and RR goes the same route.,. the community spotlight vids are still brilliant.. the travel series are brilliant.. the build ones are also great... but the crashing windows with drones.. and the likes of that,., not to mention the one episiode that was made that was some lame story thing.. omg.. its just as beeing the sober guy at the frat party.. not very interesting..
....seen from across the dam, the laissez-faire handling of the bridge dive cost a lot of goodwill. it was seen as a blatant gamble with our hobby when (at least in Europe) politicians had no clue what quads are about whilst trying to establish a legislatory framework. Our politicians are not the sharpest at best (clearly related to some of yours in the US) and tend to leap to conclusions. All the focus was on negative and often imagined problematic aspects and there was a real chance that any major fuck up would be grounds to ban our shared passion for good.
..... doing the bridge dive was understandable but not clever; telling people about it was dumb, posting the video was (sorry) stupid and even now defending it in hindsight shows (even more sorry) a continued lack of understanding why context was paramount. The world was looking for an excuse to solve the emerging "drone problem" the easy way - ban the hell out of us. Precedence still needed to be established - hence not three but one strike was most like enough to be called out for good.
.... if you guys were not RR, it would not have been as big of a problem, but as the cool front runners you needed to display a responsible face as well. That never happened and people distanced themselves because it did not make sense.
.... it was a solvable problem - but not showing any signs of understanding the society we fly in's concerns about safety, kind of sealed the deal when it came to perception. What is reality is not important here because at the end of the day, RR kept arguing about what detail just might justify putting other people's life at risk. That is not an equation I personally would like to do - least of all in public.
..... we all do dumb shit - personally way worse than the bridge dive; maybe the only difference is that RR was perceived as not learning from it. Today I'm a little surprised to hear that it seems actually to have been the case.
.... like 3DR, RR is frustratingly a story that so nearly could have been a great one. thx.
I've disliked alot of RR but I'm still here, My outlook is that RR started out as something new that all of us liked & all of us Hobbyist wanted to do. In short then there was the Chad & steele conflict that was announced openly. Then steele left and the content somehow changed drastically for RR & Of course that's gonna generate drama & Hate within the RR Community Considering Steele was 90% of the community's Favorite Pilot anyways. Generates even more hate for RR . Then bad content some episodes have been good. But drew has his own style His own channel so does JB, JB should stick to reviewing products he's great at it & well all learn from it. Like when RR started we where all learning from it. Rotor Riot is in the name, Freestyle pilots doing awesome stuff. We don't need a reality TV show always trying to sell us stuff. That the pilots flying don't even use? Anyways Chad is right RR is here to stay it started all this as a staple to our community as fpv pilots & made us all better Hobbyist. I'm sure RR will change many more times. Just don't worry about the drama RR & go back to what works.
What a loaded question :/
It’s the people acting like that is what’s ruining the hobby rotor riot bring us so much entertainment and now they have to ware kids gloves with everything they do now because of fear of ridicule or any kind of back lash.. when I’m not out burning packs I’m on TH-cam watching each and every pilot in rotor riot shredding battery’s they keep this hobby moving in the right direction negativity and hate is no good for anything
Freestyle vids came way before racing in quads, Chad is a good guy but the hype after Flitetest it was a hard act to follow. Too much drama with all the superstar bs that started 3-4 years back. Oh well just fly, the guns thing was a huge fail pr wise and hurt our hobby as does the airsoft military theme crap. The RR Dam dive was the best vid ever.
That bridge dive made my choice not to get involved in drones and FPV. In the end. Drones and FPV and the stuff that goes with it has now kneecapped my favorite passtime. Building and flying MODEL fixed wing line of site aircraft.
It's called colateral damage and the "drone culture" has done a lot of it. I do not blame RR alone but this noble cause of documenting the rise of this culture is just horse shit.
It's not just RR diving a bridge, one time. It's diving the train, scud running through parks and beaches. Tresdpassing on private property to dive buildings and all the other YTers that latched on to this same idea and they saw entities on YT with
their vids monitized and getting that tech rebel street cred. Problem is it's taken down the old school hobbist line of site MODEL AIRPLANE crowd with it.
AMA by default got saddled with this mess, the technology had leap frogged the AMA they should have never had too deal with this in the first place. RR and other guiding lights of the culture plus manufacturers should have shouldeted up to the concept of Drones and fpv being something free standing and very different from hobbist model aviation. It's not the FAA's job to sort this out. So the FAA rolled it all into one big trash bag.
Pointing fingers at Amazon and comercial users of drones does not cut it either. Agricultural drones and drones used for parking lot security and who knows what else had been used for decades before this driving around and diving buildings and bridges and trains and every school kid that picked one up at Wal Mart was sending it through the neighbors yard.
So I have to disagree, it's not all just people on line causing the drama. And showing your footage to a cadre of FPV drone operators and using their reputations and mutterings of approval is not an self check.
Politicians all check with each other before voting themselves a raise.
RR is not at the exteme, gound zero apex of what caused this "drama" ( don't ya think it's gotten a bit past drama and become a real life buzz kill of epic proportion) but RR did leave a video record leading back to itself.
Do I hate RR? No, but I do hate some of the things RR did. I honestly do see a connection to the gutting of this wonderful hobby by the FAA. I'm not the only person who sees things this way. It's more than online drama and the best way I have found to not spend money on anything related to fpv or drones. I would not have spent the time to send this but the punch line is a Rotor Riot vid came up as "suggested" on my YT and it looked to be a fairly recent video, the person on the vid was asking everyone to contact their congressmen and the FAA ( LOL!) because the FAA mandates were going to prevent people from flying their drones ( which drones for me? My Lazy Bee? Slo Stik? AeroComannder?
that giant Nut Ball looks like a National Security Threat)
So this guy wants my help because he is going to lose the right to fly his quad copter fpv equipped DRONE.
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I remember when that first came out i thought it was great, had a few beers under the belt on a friday night and watched the fpv community response, I MAY HAVE TROLLED....a bit ..ooops..
anyway the last video i watched was a doco from the same city where these homeless bums ride shopping carts full of recycling for kilometers down the main roads, maiming and killing them in the process.... after watching it i was omfg the canadians are nuts! what are they winging about! NUTS!!
That’s an interesting bit of feedback. What was the doco called?
@@MichaelRollins Carts of Darkness very well presented
@@MichaelRollins also very well done on these interviews, i had a completely different view of both drew and kapper before this, both seem approachable, likeable and logical, this interview is my fav plus the our house one. Even in australia had two day replacement on an ummagawd motor from the usa, completely free. I pay 20bucks postage min and it takes two weeks from most places
@@MichaelRollins also in my first comment on TROLLING i was in support of RR though Because i believe that the responsibility is the pilots no one elses, they take the risk, they wear it if something goes wrong, same if your a professional stunt driver, if the risk is unexceptable, say so and tell whoever is telling you to do it why, shouldnt need hype, haters gonna hate, people are more motivated to leave bad reviews than positive responses mainly because they are miserable and need a big hug
Who cares about the bridge the problem is the people that are part of rr they are way to cocky and forget where they all came from .
i love walmart
I like it in principle. But being there at midnight can get weeeeeeeird...
Dude you picked up shit load of subs . Lol please send some this way🤘🤑🤘 let me interview you!? Lol jk. Thanks man.
Well rotoriot is a TH-cam channel with a store. It's cool I've always watched the vids. Never perchesed. I like thier old vids with the old crew . What's the problem? Building dives? That's not ruined any hobby. That's rediculous. I would worry more of persons not really into any RC hobby never were buying ready to fly out of the box no experience necessary best buy consumer GPS drones screwing this hobby up.