by sunny on February 16, 2010
An industry-first, the Schumacher Rascal 2 delivers a high-performance, nitro-powered truck in a very small micro-truck frame. Destined to steal hearts while plying off-road tracks, it claims the ability to out-accelerate most big monster trucks you'll encounter, whether you're bashing in the backyard or racing in a meet.
The "industry first" label comes courtesy of the .18-size engine (Pull Start 3cc) and CNC muffler packed into the 1/16th scale truck body. With excellent acceleration and top speeds of up to 40mph, it's one heck of a powerful performer that you won't see coming.
A 4mm anodized main chassis (purple) serves as the foundation for the mini's surprisingly durable qualities, beefed up by Swiss Virgin polymer, alloy and carbon composite components. The functional chassis layout provides both balanced weight distribution and easy access to parts for tuning.
While I'm not a fan of its overall look, the Rascal 2 has a decent appearance. The chrome multi-spoke wheels and ultra-low profile Mini Mag-Block tires both do a lot to enhance it. Small and light, while packing enough power, it should make for fun jumps and stunts, ably aided by the oversized four wheel independent suspension, coil-over oil filled shocks, powerful disc brakes and full ball-raced 2WD transmission. Other features include a digital pistol radio, carbon composite shock mounts, splash-proof radio box and support for Speed Secret option parts.
With its size, agility and impressive top speed, the Schumacher Rascal 2 should prove to be an interesting option for anyone in search of a fun micro-truck. Putting monster trucks to shame sounds like a nice bonus too.
Specifications
- Power Source: Nitro
- Model Type: 2WD, Off-Road
- Length: 300mm
- Width: 220mm
- Top Speed: 40 MPH+
- Build State: 95% or Almost RTR
by sunny on February 9, 2010
Everybody loves a good monster truck. Not everybody likes their big-wheeled, scale model car crushers to take up lots of space, though. That niche is what the CEN Racing MG-16 should ably fill up, bringing monster truck action in a 1/16th scale frame.
Can't get excited for such a small package? It may be small, but it wields huge fun. Boasting massive nitro power, four-wheel drive and authentic monster truck looks, you may have to eat your words when experiencing the entertainment it has to offer.
MG-16 comes with a pre-painted, pre-decorated body shell, with attractive colors. Granted, it comes across as more adorable than mean, but the scale is well-done, with good proportions for the 2.2-inch off-road wheels and suspension. Overall, it's a great-looking RC automobile.
While other might belittle this truck's durability because of the size, the vehicle's chassis does a great job of absorbing bumps and crashes. Reinforced by a high-impact composite material, you can rest assured this won't break on you at the wrong time. Most parts of the drivetrain are sealed and protected too.
Powered by a 2.5cc pull-start nitro engine, the MG-16 manages impressively quick acceleration that can ably stand up to larger monster truck RCs. The four coil-over, oil-filled shocks and long suspension arm works very smoothly, providing the necessary help to keep the mini-monster stable through any terrain.
One caveat: this truck can't do very good jumps. When you use it for such stunts, make sure to let it settle upon landing before grabbing the throttle. Otherwise, you'll have it turning over and spinning. Badly.
Despite that, the CEN MG-16 remains a solid bundle of fun with enough durability to make it worth your while. You won't regret getting one.
More info at CEN Racing Site.
by sunny on February 4, 2010
Fancy the pro-level, 4WD racing trucks that keep short-course fans in the West Coast giddy? Drive one in your favorite short-course track with the Team Associated SC8, which brings authentic racing replicas of those bad-ass performers into your RC fleet.
Team Associated hails it as a milestone in the platform’s design and features. When it comes to the level of scale accuracy, I'll have to agree. Upon removing the model from its box, you’ll find a ready-to-run truck capped with a pre-cut and pre-painted shell (available in Red Bull, Lucas Oil, Bully Dog, Pro Comp, KMC Wheels, and AE Team bodies). Decals are already set down, but you also get a a sticker sheet in case you want to customize a little. All bodies, wheels and tires are fully-licensed, making this as faithful a replica as you can dream up.
Under the body lies the SC8's functional roll cage, keeping the body from being crushed and the engine from being banged up during the heat of intense driving. Dirt guards placed behind the front wheels offer further protection from debris and dirt. It mirrors its full-sized inspiration in every way an RC could, borrowing the original's roll-cage tube diameter, scale suspension travel, functional mud flaps and more.
Power is provided by a Pro .28 nitro big-block motor (which comes with Pro-Start engine starter) and XP3D Computerized Digital FM Radio system. It can go from the box to the dirt in literal fashion, clearing rough turns and racing with a spirited stride.
The Team Associated SC8 scores it big in the looks department, bringing a level of accuracy to detail we rarely see in many high-performance vehicles. Hardcore fans of short-course dirt trucks need to have this high on their short list.
Specifications:
- Length: 24.5"
- Width: 12"
- Wheelbase: 14.75"
- Dry Weight: 9 lb
- Engine:Team Associated Pro.28 2-stroke nitro engine w/ included hand-held starter
- Transmission: Single speed. No reverse.
- Battery used: 4 AA receiver. 8 AA transmitter
- Radio equipment:Team Associated XP3D FM radio system. S2008 metal gear high-torque steering servo
More info and pics at Team Associated SC8 page
by sunny on February 1, 2010
"Sensational" is a word that Schumacher uses to describes the Manic RTR. With a massive twin cylinder engine, four-wheel drive and all the monster truck looks you can handle, that sounds about right.
A 1/8th scale giant of a ride, it comes with a pre-cut and pre-mounted polycarbonate shell, available in two different colors (blue and yellow). It sports multi-spoke chrome wheels with pre-glued threaded tires and aggressive decals that make it look downright mean. Like it's about to devour your cat. Really.
Want real, no-nonsense monster truck power? Schumacher had exactly that in mind with their huge 36 cu in (6cc) twin cylinder engine, which delivers twice the torque and power that you'd normally be playing with. It pairs up quite nicely with the 125 cc fuel tank, which should see you through a generous amount of runtime.
The Manic RTR sets itself apart from other twin-engined monster trucks with one thing: the setup. In this truck, motors are synchronized so that starting both engines will only require a single roto electric starter system. It uses a single carburettor and clutch setup too, eliminating many of the problems that typically come with a more traditional configuration.
Other notable features include a 70mm suspension, 4WD transmission and an easy-to-configure digital pistol grip radio for control. Do note that this is quite an expensive rig, so damaging this during runs won't only break your heart but your wallet too. There aren't many hop-ups available either (since it's pretty new), but the stock parts should provide topnotch performance on their own.
Yes, the Schumacher Manic RTR is high-end. If you're serious about your monster trucks, though, it's tough not to find this machine downright appealing.
Specifications:
- Power Source: NITRO
- Model Type: 4WD, OFF-ROAD, Leisure
- Length: 460mm
- Width: 400mm
- Equipment Needed:
- Nitro Starter Set (G852)
- 12 x 'AA' Batteries (G718)
- Fuel (10%-20% Nitro with Synthetic Oil)
- Cordless Torque Drill or Roto start (G857)
More details at Schumacher
by sunny on January 28, 2010
Let's be real. Driving a real monster truck is always in the back of your mind while fiddling with large-wheeled mammoth RC models. Well, Exceed RC's Mad Beast is still far from the real deal, but it's a little closer - being a huge 1:8 scale of the real thing.
Physically, the behemoth's pre-cut body shell is a dead-ringer for the cab of tractor trailer trucks, making it look even more scary. The plastic-like finish isn't flattering, but the pre-painted tribal flame design and pre-applied decals does cover it up a bit. It sports chrome-covered plastic wheels, treaded claw-pattern tires and great-looking bumpers (both front and rear) that help solidify the "I will run your car down" feel.
The Mad Beast draws power from a .28-level engine, which comes complete with a pull-start and a rear exhaust, allowing it speeds of up to 35 mph - which is a decent number for a monster truck. An especially-installed carburetor provides easy fine-tuning for the vehicle, apart from giving it better fuel efficiency.
Like most properly-done big-wheelers, it should perform capably on any surface, whether you want to run through grass, climb up hills or barrel through your backyard. Exceed claims it delivers great cornering and handling, with help from the adjustable threaded aluminum shocks and heavy duty steering servo. Package includes a 27Mhz three-channel computerized AM transmitter.
When it comes to monster trucks, bigger is usually better. The Exceed RC Mad Beast is definitely large and looks to be one huge pile of awesome, especially at its affordable price point. You'll need to supply 12 AA batteries, low igniter and nitro fuel, by the way, to get cracking on this ride.
Specifications:
Length: 21.25 inches
Width: 17 inches
Wheelbase:14.25 inches
Engine: .28 Level engine
Drive Train: Sealed Diffs., 2-speed tranny, & reverse module
by sunny on January 26, 2010
Bigger is better doesn’t necessarily apply to the 1/10th scale Mini MGT 3.0 RTR 4WD from Team Associated. While this version of the MGT 8.0 is definitely smaller in size, it brings some attractive advantages brought about by the more compact form.
An unmistakable small-scale monster truck, it brings a colorful body shell (painted and designed), affixed onto a sturdy, extruded aluminium chassis. Riding on massive threaded tires, it should have little trouble clearing most types of hurdles it may encounter along the way.
Some people consider the diminished size a drawback. While that may be true to an extent, the Mini MGT 3.0’s smaller, lighter frame gives it a few advantages that make it a more economical choice for hobbyists of all types. For one, you’ll find the mini-MGT’s parts less expensive than larger models. Due to its tiny frame, it consumes less fuel too, all while allowing for longer battery life.
Fitted with a pull-start Team Associated 18 Pro two-stroke nitro engine, this mini monster can reach speeds of roughly around 36 miles per hour, keeping pace with the majority of monster truck racers you’ll find in the tracks. Notable features include two-speed automatic with reverse transmission, dual shocks at each corner, durable steering and brake servos, and the XP3 radio system. Together, this setup helps provide an easier experience maneuvering, handling and cornering for drivers of all levels.
Affordability, easy-operation and quality performance makes the Associated Mini MGT 3.0 one of the most sought after mini-monster trucks available today. Whether you're a beginner looking for a nitro monster or an expert looking to expand your roster, this should prove to be an equally attractive RTR model to try out.
Specifications:
Scale: 1:10
Power: Nitro
Type: Off Road
Length: 19"
Width: 14 3/4"
Weight: 3620g
Wheelbase: 12 1/8"
Internal Gear Ratio: Overall 1st gear: 22.32 (13:64)
Overall 2nd gear: 16.0 (17:60)
Drive: 4WD shaft drive
by sunny on January 20, 2010
Brutal. That's the word many people use to describe the Traxxas Jato 3.3. Combining the power of the Traxxas Jato stadium truck with a TRX 3.3 Racing Engine, it delivers neckbreaking speeds both on the tracks and off the beaten paths.
Clad in a pre-cut, lightweight body shell, complete with engaging graphics, the car looks as sleek as any high-performance full-scale racer. And it doesn't disappoint. With the help of the souped-up, pre-installed engine and the patented Traxxas EZ-Start system (which will also diagnose issues that arise with your starting functions), the Jato 3.3 can go from 0 to 60 in just 4.2 seconds. Yep, just like your favorite supercars. Speed, however, tops out at 65 mph (read: absolutely not a supercar - just a really fast scale model).
With zero-bump steer-suspension suspension, two-speed torque, GTR shocks and threaded Anaconda performance tires (which should prove extra sticky), this stadium truck boasts an enviable ability to perform under any road conditions. Forget the racetrack roots - it's an all-roader for speed freaks.
It comes with an integrated wheelie bar (coupled with the dependable handling), so you can go wild showing off tricks and stunts to your heart's content. It's built on a strength-tested, extra-durable chassis, so you're guaranteed a stable ride, no matter how challenging.
The Traxxas Jato 3.3 comes with a TQ radio system, ensuring full control and interference-free operation of your machine. It's mostly low-maintenance, but will require 20% Nitro fuel, eight double A batteries and a 7.2v battery for the EZ Start system. Do note that it's recommended primarily for experienced racers.
Specifications:
Length: 16.53 Inches (420mm)
Front Track: 12.87 Inches (327mm)
Rear Track : 13.00 Inches (330mm)
Weight (no fuel) : 83.03oz (5.19lb) (w/4AA in rear + wheelie bar)
Height (overall) : 5.70 Inches (145mm)
Wheelbase: 11.22" Long (285mm) 11.14" Short (283mm)
Wheel Diameter : 2.85 Inches (72.4mm)
Tire Diameter : 4.13 Inches (105mm)
Steering: Bellcrank w/ Integrated Servo Saver
Transmission : Auto Two-Speed
Differential Type: Hardened-Steel Bevel Gear, Sealed
Drive System : Shaft-Driven 2WD
by sunny on January 19, 2010
HPI recently announced the new Bullet ST 3.0, a ready-for-action vehicle that combines the impressive performance potential of a 4WD shaft drivetrain and a nitro engine. Designed for bashers and off-road enthusiasts, it's touted as having the ability to "power through all sorts of terrain and fly over obstacles!"
Like other Bullet ST's, the new 1/10th scale features a double-deck aluminum chassis (3mm thick 7075-T6 alloy) and two oil-filled shocks for each wheel, apart from the 4WD configuration. Instead of a brushless Flux motor, though, it brings the strength of HPI's latest .15-size powerplant, the Nitro Star 3.0.
According to HPI, the new engine borrows features found in considerably more expensive machines, providing supreme benefits while remaining affordable. It's easy enough to adjust (with two needles) that even less-experienced hobbyists can tune it for maximum performance. Details of the engine include a heat-resistant composite slide carburetor (for quick response under any conditions), an accordion-style rubber boot (to protect internal components), a large heatsink head, extra cooling fins and dual foam air filters.
The Bullet ST 3.0 uses a suspension design that's based off larger racing trucks, sporting extra-long suspension arms (for better stability), thick suspension pins (for better crash survival) and multiple shock mounting locations (for more flexible tuning). Built to endure punishing competition, its styling easily drops hints on its uncanny toughness - beefy bendable bumpers, skid plates, thick suspension braces and more.
Factory-assembled, fit to size and pre-painted right out of the box, the HPI Bullet ST 3.0 Stadium Truck sure looks like a basher's wet dream. All that power and strength, coupled with the reliable HPI TF-1 radio and a 75cc fuel tank, ensure you'll be racing with a heavy amount of factors in your favor.
Features:
- Painted and detailed body-shell ready to strut its stuff!
- Strong and reliable Nitro Star G3.0 engine
- Easy and simple pull-starter for instant action
- Big 75cc fuel tank gives you plenty of runtime
- 7075-T6 aluminum chassis provides the ideal backbone
- Tough bumpers combine with skid plates to protect all 4 corners
- 8 oil-filled shocks provide a plush ride
- Extra-long suspension arms provide stability and balance
- Proven racing design throughout
- Steel turnbuckle links allow you to custom-tune the ride
- Sealed shaft drivetrain is maintenance-free and super strong
- Double-pad slipper clutch design for extra drivetrain protection
- Reliable disk brake with adjustable linkage
- All-terrain tires look fantastic on black chrome wheels
- Solid and reliable HPI electronics fitted in splashproof receiver box
- Intelligent fuel line routing to keep things neat and tidy
- A smart metal washer prevents over-tightening of wheel nuts
- Aluminum center brace for more durability over plastic brace
- Additional track-tuning options included in the kit!
More info at HPI Europe
