by sunny on January 22, 2010
Staying true to its name, the Losi Speed-T RC model sets its sights at an audience of truck-slugging speed freaks. If you've got the driving chops, it can deliver the rest - bad-ass looks, blistering acceleration and an uncanny ability to take abuse.
Pre-trimmed and completely decorated out of the box, the Speed is a heck of a looker, especially with those tight-grip Road Weapon tires. More than that, it uses high-impact materials throughout its construction, allowing it to live through its share of crashes and bumps - an absolutely vital characteristic at the speeds it can manage.
The vehicle's lengthened, hard plastic chassis keeps its nose close to the road, allowing it to maintain control even at high speeds. With reinforced body posts, tunable suspension (with lower plastic arms and upper camber links) and an integrated wheelie bar, it should keep itself steady (well, most of the time). Equipped with excessively fast motors, there's a chance it can flip (wonderfully, I might add).
It comes ready-to-race with a powerful 4800KV Motor, taking you to speeds of up to 65 mph. That long-armed suspension does its job wonderfully, though, keeping the Speed-T on all fours, even though it feels like it's going to fly off. The large chrome wheels should help eliminate sidewall flex, all while looking particularly intimidating.
One of the vehicle's best features is the ability to be tuned to specific driving profiles, allowing it to be handled by everyone, from beginners to speed-hungry experts. At the upper end of that range (it comes with three predefined settings), this truck runs way too fast - literally. Powerful, durable and able to adapt at the push of a button, the Losi Speed-T is easily one of the best on-road racing trucks available today.
Specifications
Type:High-Performance Electric Truck
Scale:1/10
Length:20.1 in (513.1mm)
Width:12.75 in (323.9mm)
Wheelbase:11.6 in (294.6mm)
Weight:58.1 oz (1.6kg)
Suspension:4 Wheel Independent
Tire Type:320 Series, low-profile Road Weapons
Motor or Engine:Xcelorin 4800Kv Brushless
Speed Control:Xcelorin Sensorless Brushless
Radio:Losi MTX Pro Radio System with Spektrum 2.4GHz DSM Technology
Ball Bearings:Complete
by sunny on January 19, 2010
The Tamiya Super Clod Buster is another one of the company's reissues. Discontinued since the 90s, the 21st century saw the trudging giant's continued popularity prompt the company to breathe new life into it. And just how gorgeous is that thing?
Dressed to impressed and upgraded for modern performance, the vehicle underwent a noticeable makeover that makes it more appropriate for today's generation of monster trucks. The remake boasts a fully-furnished, metal-plated shell (front grill, air-intake, roll bar, wheels, front bumper and rear bumper all get the steel treatment) that fits like hand-to-glove with the humongous threaded tires and spit-shiny rims. It's an overall meaner, gnarlier take on the popular classic - and we love it.
Sporting dual Mabuchi RS-540 motors, the Super Clod Buster makes for satisfying performance, delivering all the power that a fine-tuned American pick-up truck deserves. Tamiya threw in a PTC safety switch to curb potential overheating (you can switch between power and economy modes), although the prospect of this thing exploding while driving just makes me want to push it to an illogical brink. Boom!
It comes equipped with 4-wheel drive steering (4WS system) to lessen the difficulties of tight cornering. Other features include gear train transmission, a durable link-arm and 8 coil springs.
Available as an assembly kit, the Tamiya Super Clod Buster is a gorgeous reissue, bringing great handling, delicious power and eye-popping good looks (seriously, I'd buy it for the crazy appearance alone). A good range of available upgrades should let you extend the fun too.
by sunny on January 14, 2010
First released in 1987, the Tamiya Lunch Box Off Road RC Van wasn't only well-loved for its quality RC performance - people embraced it for its built-for-camping appearance too. It's those same qualities that gave the monster van's reissue such a welcoming reception.
The ready-to-run 1/10th scale is, to put it mildly, a bona fide attention getter anywhere you take it. Sporting a family/delivery van aesthetic while running on humungous truck tires, it's a mesmerizing looker that's both scary and amusing at the same time. With its huge front grille, massive front and rear bumpers, an inimitable yellow finish and cheesy painted designs, it's like watching Godzilla slipping on a banana peel (you just don't know whether to laugh or be terrified).
Despite the somewhat friendly appearance, the XB Lunch Box features a shock-resistant styrol body, fitted along an ABS box-frame chassis that boasts both lightweight and durable characteristics. Many who have driven the vehicle give props to both its balance and handling (with those tires, it should), especially over unusually rough terrains.
Want to terrorize other cars in your backyard? Tamiya threw in a wheelie bar so you can perform two-wheeled stunts and crushing jumps with a flick of a finger. Power is provided by a Type 540 motor, with crafty maneuvering facilitated from the Expec SP RC unit (with electronic speed control). All internal components are protected in a sealed gearbox, so don't be afraid of dirt and grime - just keep running everything over.
Want big fun? Go big with the Tamiya XB Lunch Box, an RTR monster van that combines nostalgia, mayhem and kitschy looks all in a single...mmm...box.
Specifications:
Length: 385mm
Width: 290mm
Height: 225mm
Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive
Motor: Type 540
7.2V racing pack and alkaline batteries for transmitter sold separately.
by sunny on January 8, 2010
Some RC "monster trucks" are difficult to distinguish from erstwhile run-of-the-mill bashers. Team Losi's Rammunition Monster Truck, on the other hand, can't go by any other name.
In close-up photos, there's little to tell the 1/18-scale from the Hall Bros' full-scale version of the monsterized Dodge Ram Heavy Duty. It's that realistic down to the last bit of competition graphics. Officially licensed by Dodge, it features an extra-reinforced shell, two-tone wheels and oversized tires that bring the popular monster truck to your backyard.
Is it monster strong? The machine’s aluminum, dual-deck chassis and wide-track suspension (4-wheel independent) provides the model truck with the kind of stability and durability you expect from a high-level monster truck. Expect it to foster smooth operations, regardless of terrain conditions you put it through.
What about performance? Sporting a commanding Frenzy 370 engine at the helm, you can expect dominating power whether you're showing off its bashing potential or racing with other gigantic rides. Heck, even the Hall Bros approved it for racing. It comes with a synthesized radio system, rechargeable battery and charger for full control without interference and longer hours of fun driving. Other features include dual-steering servos and oil-filled shocks.
Ready to show off its big moves right out of the box, the Losi Rammunition Monster Truck lets you experience the popular Monster Jam staple in miniature form. It supports a wide range of custom parts, too, allowing you to tune it for even more torque and power when needed. And once you see how fun this thing plays, that's probably what you'll end up doing.
Specifications
Type:Mini Monster Truck
Scale:1/18
Length:10.6 in (271 mm)
Width:8.2 in (209 mm)
Wheelbase:7.2 in (185 mm)
Weight:2.2 lbs. (1000 g)
Chassis:Dual-Deck Aluminum
Suspension:4-Wheel Independent
Tire Type:Monster Truck
Motor or Engine:Frenzy 370
Batteries:Included
Charger:Included
by sunny on January 7, 2010
With the continuing popularity of short-course RC racing, plenty of sub-par performers are staking their claims at the market. As such, it's becoming vital to go after quality when looking for a model to invest in. The HPI Racing Blitz is a truck we won't think twice about recommending, though.
Elegant and stylish, the Blitz comes with a pre-trimmed Maxxis ATTK-10 body shell that's pre-painted and decorated out of the box. It comes in two colors (either predominantly orange or predominantly black). I heartily recommend the latter (not pictured).
HPI teamed up with Maxxis International for this one, crafting a nasty-looking ride that can strike fear in the heart of everyone taking the dirt tracks with you. It uses collision-ready nylon plastic on all critical areas of the truck (e.g. arms, bumpers) for better survival, an extra-long chassis for stability (based on the E-Firestorm) and chassis braces (both front and rear) for maximum component protection. Want durable performance against the toughest competition? Can't go wrong with that as a starting point, whether you're a beginner or a skilled enthusiast.
A powerful, 540-size Firebolt 15T motor runs inside the hood, giving the Blitz its quick acceleration and race-worthy top speed. The performance is adeptly aided by the brushless-ready transmission (tunable by swapping out oil weights), Maxxis Trepador tire design and 3-degree rear toe block for all-around masterful handling. Other features include rubber-sealed ball bearings, captured hinge pins, quick-mounting batteries and TF-1 radio.
Designed for all skill levels, the HPI Racing Blitz 1/10 Off-Road Short Course Truck is an excellent racer that can withstand a lot of torture on and off the tracks. It offers a flexible room for upgrades, allowing you to tune it to new heights of performance when needed.
Specifications
Type: Off-Road Short Course Truck
Overall Width: 296 mm
Wheelbase: 329 mm
Overall Length: 548 mm
Overall Height: 184 to 200 mm (adjustable)
Transmission: Full-metal gear, pre-filled silicone oil
by sunny on December 20, 2009
Getting into RC racing requires a good amount of time and practice. For those looking to get a rather smooth headstart, the Tamiya Mad Bull is an excellent kit to score with its simple operation and worry-free assembly.
Out of the box, the electric buggy's PS-injected molded body comes pre-finished, managing to capture a sporty, off-road truggy appearance. Looking ready to rock as soon as hits ground, the RC comes with a sturdy-looking frame, big 115-mm tires sporting chunky lug patterns and burly chassis components.It isn't the most realistic-looking scale in one of the busiest RC markets, but there's enough aggressive cues to make it an exciting ride.
Why do we recommend the Tamiya Mad Bull for beginning racers? The 540 Type motor pre-installed in the kit is easily one of the most dependable in the market. More importantly, it's geared precisely as starter equipment, providing worry-free assembly, accessible handling and easy control. That means you can get your kit, put it together and hit the tracks the very same day, without having to suffer through much of a learning curve.
Like all entry-level buggies, it's a perfect car to bash around with. Affordably-priced and with spares easily available, you won't have to think twice about putting it through the grind. The DT-01 chassis also makes for a fair amount of upgrades, such as electronic speed control, which should help extend your vehicle's life after you grow past your novice abilities.
RC owners typically have strong feelings about their first cars. I have no doubt you'll grow the same fondness for the Tamiya Mad Bull.
Specs:
Vehicle Type: Off-Road
Power Type: Electric
Body Type: Truck-Monster
Scale: 1/10
Build Type: Kit
Drive Type: 2 WD
Shocks: Coiled spring friction
Weight: 2.87 Lbs. (1302 g)
Chassis Length: 15.75 inches (400 mm)
Chassis Width: 12.40 inches (315 mm)
Chassis Height: 5.91 inches (150 mm)
by admin on November 26, 2009
Coming just in time for the indoor racing season, a brand new bomb is about to drop on the RC industry in the form of the Traxxas Slash 4x4. All new from the ground up, the highly-anticipated, 1/10 scale race vehicle is building a buzz that has both old and new fans excited.
Produced using the latest innovations that's bound to leave competitors scrambling to catch up, the truck exhibits simplicity and versatility on all corners. Using just three gear meshes to drive all four wheels, it eliminates the need for a multi-gear transmission, facilitating utmost efficiency. The integrated design marries all parts seamlessly, allowing for unencumbered operation and easy maintenance (note the single-screw motor access and slide-out differential).
The Slash 4x4 uses a Velineon Brushless Power System that lets it post speeds of up to 60 mph (with a 3S LiPo) without much struggle. A rigid chassis supports it both on and off track, maintaining a balanced weight throughout the whole ordeal. Telescopic driveshaft components allow for increased rear suspension travel, letting you handle difficult terrains as capably as a full-sized, short-course pro.
Sporting officially-licensed BFGoodrich Mud Terrain T/A Tires, the Slash 4x4 can bulldoze its way through any obstacle with ease. Durable waterproof protection leaves the truck's electronics safe from hazards such as water, mud and snow, while the smooth undersurface keeps it free from acquiring debris while on the go. Other notable features include a TQ2.4Ghz radio system, Revo differentials and Castle Mamba Monster compatibility (no drivetrain upgrades needed).
The Traxxas Slash 4x4’s realistic look, great handling and unusually simple maintenance place it among the top RC vehicles soon to be available on the market. Made for aggressive and controlled driving, it's more than just a new toy car - it's a whole new platform for racing.
