by sunny on February 18, 2010
Want a fun, entry-level 4WD buggy on a budget? The HPI Brama 10B RTR should prove an excellent value, delivering a sharp looker that requires little additional work on your part.
Sure, it's not the prettiest shell around. It brings an overall classy feel, though, with the attitude to boot. The polycarbonate body sports attractive, boxy lines with nice paint and glistening decals. The Digger tires, white wheels, wide bumper and mounted nylon wing nail the look right on the button.
Most parts are nylon and composite plastic, so the Brama 10B is not exactly the most trustworthy ride when it comes to durability. Actual performance is impressive, however. The components appear well-built and are able to hold up to a good level of abuse. Big credit to the shell and the tub chassis, along with the sealed shaft drivetrain and pinion/spur combo, which provide solid protection to the vehicle's inner mechanisms. You will require a good amount of upgrades to turn it into a serious off-roader, though.
It employs an HPI Saturn motor for power, providing good speed for its class. The handling in downright impressive, thanks to the longer arms, bigger shocks and reliable E10 chassis. Curbs and jumps are cleared with relative ease, with capable driving through dirt, grass and mud.
For the most part, the HPI Brama 10B RTR personifies how an entry-level buggy should be - quick to set up, low maintenance and built for durability. It's an excellent way to burst into the scene, not to mention, very affordable too.
Specifications:
- Length: 432mm
- Width: 297mm
- Wheelbase: 239mm
- Tires: 135mm diameter
by sunny on February 17, 2010
Never failing to innovate, kudos should go the way of Team Losi for their 1/10th-scale 2WD electric truck, the XXX-T CR. This bigger, better and badder truck model can certainly stand toe-to-toe with any racing vehicle out in the wild.
Is bigger better? This question has been asked plenty of times, especially when it comes to RC racing trucks. In the case of the XXX-T CR, we will have to agree. With Losi extending the length to 1/5th of an inch, it certainly looks more imposing without sacrificing any of its brute power.
Fitted with a polycarbonate clear body, along with the extended EA3 composite chassis, you know it can stand a beating at just the first sight. Despite the size, it's highly flexible too, sporting multi-adjustable rear hubs (making for a highly-configurable suspension) and quick-release rear axles, allowing for relatively comfortable handling over huge and long tracks.
As a kit, overall performance will vary, depending on the parts you decide to install. Losi suggests (unsurprisingly) a 6.5 motor with heavy horsepower to maximize the vehicle's potential for power, speed and acceleration. Handling is admirable, especially for the size, steering through difficult turns while managing to maintain good speed. With the race-proven XXX transmission, slowing down and moving to quick acceleration poses little trouble, as it handles the maneuver adeptly.
The Losi XXX-T CR, in capable hands, should sit right up in the top echelon of big trucks when it comes to sheer toughness and quality of performance. It's the kind of model you can take anywhere, pitting against all competition to satisfying results.
Specifications:
- Type: Electric Race Truck
- Scale: 1/10
- Length: 16.395 in (416.43mm)
- Width: 12.725 in (323.22mm)
- Wheelbase: 11.250 in (285.75mm)
- Weight: Varies
- Chassis: Team Losi Racing's EA3 composite
- Suspension: 4-wheel independent
- Drive Train: Sealed, 3-gear transmission
- Shock Type: Hard-anodized threaded aluminum, oil-filled, TiNi shafts
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 16, 2010
Want a high-performance off-road nitro buggy? The Ansmann Racing Vapor, a 1/8th scale 4WD racing machine, looks to be a model to seriously look into. Touted as one of the most advanced vehicles in its class, it's a ride that strikes a neat balance between price and performance.
Available as a ready-to-run RC, the green and black body makes for one sexy number. Green is the shade of choice, by the way, and much of the parts also come with a touch of the same color. The badass rear wing, chrome racing wheels and block spike tires round out the gratifying aesthetics.
A factory-installed 4.6cc (.28ci) AR-28 pull-start engine delivers the push and acceleration necessary for the Vapor to perform at racing speeds. Boasting "maximum driving performance under all conditions," it employs an innovative design of extra large shocks and mid-engine design, that help achieve both great jumping ability and excellent overall balance. Specially-developed upper front suspension arms give it much-needed stability, while the sturdy 3mm-thick aluminum chassis should hold up well to the toughest bumps you can throw its way.
Other notable features of the ride include a 6kg metal geared servo, front and rear stabilizers, full ball bearing transmission and hardened drive shafts. It comes with a 40MHz digital steerwheel RC system, which provides great feel and smooth maneuvering, even through difficult races. There's also a good range of hop-ups to help you boost it for more high-profile competitions.
Equipped with enhancements that put it on par with the best buggy racers in the field, the Ansmann Racing Vapor promises powerful and dependable performance in a slick package. Priced afford ably, it doesn't sound like a bad vehicle to try out.
Specifications
- Length: 490mm
- Width: 285mm
- Wheelbase: 320mm
- Clearance: 28mm
- Others: Fully Ready-to-Run nitro R/C car includes 3 channel FM trigger type radio transmitter
| Power Source: |
NITRO |
| Model Type: |
2WD, OFF-ROAD, LEISURE |
| Length: |
300mm |
| Width: |
220mm |
| Top Speed: |
40 MPH+ |
| Build State: |
95% or RTR |
by sunny on February 15, 2010
The Align T-Rex has been arguably the most successful series of RC helicopters produced in recent years. It's no surprise, given their kits' better-than-average quality and competitive prices. Many, in fact, consider the series one of the best, with models getting regular updates that see it get better every iteration, along with numerous exciting limited-edition releases.
Align T-Rex 250
As the smallest micro helicopter produced by the company, the T-Rex 250 is also one of the most entertaining. Measuring a mere 430mm in length and 187mm in height, it's a small flyer that can do a whole lot. From tactical hovering to 3D stunts, it can handle most of the stuff its bigger brethren can deliver. The quicker response makes it a very unique experience too. Its latest version is the T-Rex 250SE, a considerably powerful chopper with a BL250SP motor and 205D carbon blades.
Align T-Rex 250 Specs:
- Overall Length: 430mm
- Overall Height: 187mm
- Main Blade Length: 200/205mm
- Main Rotor Diameter: 450/460mm
- Tail Rotor Diameter: 108mm
- Motor Pinion Gear: 15T
- Main Drive Gear: 120T
- Tail Drive Gear: 28T
- Drive Gear Ratio: 1:8:4.28
- Flying Weight: Approximately 325g
Align T-Rex 450
Since the T-Rex 450X hit the scene in 2002, the line has been expanded to include models of various sizes and configurations. Regardless, this chopper remains as the most iconic of the brand, all through its many variations over the years.
Its latest versions are the T-Rex 450 Pro and the T-Rex 450 Sport, both of which build upon the improvements found on the official V2. Both models run a new 450M outrunner motor and use much of the same technology. Their biggest telling characteristics that set them apart, though, are the frame design - the Sport stays faithful to the V2 while the Pro brought in significant modifications.
Align T-Rex 450 Specs:
- Overall Length: 635mm
- Overall Height: 230mm
- Main gear ratio: 11.54:1
- Main to tail ratio: 11.54:4.95
- Main rotor diameter: 700mm
- Tail Rotor Diameter: 160mm
- Flying Weight: Approximately 680 - 780g
Align T-Rex 500
First released in 2007, the T-Rex 500 uses bigger 425mm blades (compared to the maximum 355mm on later 450 models). A total of seven different 500 versions have been released over the years, with the latest being the ESP Superior, a powerful kit that gives drivers enormous control in both 3D maneuvers and precision flight. It measures 840 x 310 mm and comes with a 1600 Kv electric motor. There's also a nitro conversion kit available that retains much of the original parts, but lets you power it using an O.S. 37 engine.
Align T_Rex 500 Specs:
- Overall Length: 840mm
- Overall Height: 310mm
- Main Blade Length: 425mm
- Main Rotor Diameter: 970mm
- Tail Rotor Diameter: 200mm
- Motor Drive Gear: 12T/13T
- Main Drive Gear: 162T
- Autorotation Tail Drive Gear: 145T
- Tail Drive Gear: 31T
- Flying Weight: Approximately 1700g
Align T-Rex 600
A large heli, the T-Rex 600 looks massive with its 600mm blades and .50 size. It comes in both electric and nitro versions, with the former's latest iteration getting a 600M brushless motor and the latter's an O.S. 55 Engine (more commonly sold with an O.S. 50, though). The large size and weight guarantee excellent stability, although the high cost of entry makes it an option reserved largely for more advanced drivers.
Align T_Rex 600 Specs:
- Overall Length:1200mm
- Overall Height:388/405m
- Main Rotor Diameter:1350mm
- Tail Rotor:240mm
- Motor Drive Gear:10T
- Main Drive Gear:170T
- Autorotation Tail Drive Gear:180T
- Tail Drive Gear:40T
- Flying Weight:Approximately 3000g
Align T-Rex 700
First released in June 2008, the 700 is the biggest in the series and is strictly a nitro vehicle (although a gas version is rumored to be on the way), bundling all of the company's latest technology into a competition-spec, .90-size helicopter. With its extra-large body, everything has been configured for durability, from the rigid frame design to the torque- tube-driven tail.
In many ways, the T-Rex 700 represents a step up from Align's previous helicopters. Not only because of the size, either. Instead, its simple yet effective design, easy build and smooth handling just makes it a terrific kit to own, regardless of your actual experience level.
Align T-Rex 700 Specs
- Overall Length: 1335mm
- Overall Height: 450mm
- Main Blade Length: 690 - 710mm
- Main Rotor Diameter: 1562 - 1602mm
- Tail Rotor Diameter: 281mm
- Engine Pinion Gear: 20T
- Autorotation Tail Drive Gear: 150T
- Drive Gear Ratio: 8.2:1:4.54(E:M:T)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 630cc
- Flying Weight Without Gas: Approximately 4200g (Yes, that is 4.2 Kgs)
by sunny on February 14, 2010
Looking for something to add to your collection of high-performance GT replicas? The Tamiya Corolla Axio apr GT should ably hold its own among your favorites, recreating the multiple-time racing champion to gorgeous detail.
Dressed to look like the version that raced at the 2009 Super GT Round 3 in Fuji (GT300 class), the kit comes with an unpainted, lightweight, polycarbonate shell (with those sleek, aerodynamic lines copied to perfection) and a slew of authentic-looking decals. The resin side mirrors, rear wing and polycarbonate fender fins are all separately molded, providing intricate realism. Hopefully, you know how to paint your way to something that looks as cool as the photo above.
The Axio apr GT uses a two-belt-driven TA05 chassis, which has been evolved to race specifications for its latest iteration (ver. II). It boasts reduced width for better roll movement range during cornering, repositioned battery mounts for enhanced handling, separate suspension mounts for easier maintenance and a one-piece motor mount with cantilever center shaft.
It includes a Type 540 motor, which should provide ample push for the tracks. Other features include a four-wheel double wishbone suspension (with short, reversible arms and 1050 ball bearings for the upright), single-speed transmission, medium-type racing slick tires and six-spoke gun metal wheels.
You'll need to pick out a two-channel radio system, battery and charger to get your Tamiya Corolla Axio apr GT ready for racing. There's a whole pile of compatible hop-ups, too, which should help you render this beauty into a more competitive ride.
Specifications
- Length: 14.7 in (373 mm)
- Width: 7.4 in (188 mm)
- Height: 4.8 in (122 mm)
- Wheelbase: 10.1 in (257 mm)
- Weight: 2.3 lb (1060 g)
- Requires: 2-channel radio with 1 servo, ESC, Paint, 6-cell NiCd/NiMH battery with standard connector and AC/DC peak charger
by sunny on February 12, 2010
With seven world championships under its belt, Kyosho's MP9 is one of the most successful racing platforms around. The new Kyosho Inferno MP9 E takes the same winning design and transforms it into a brushless-powered performer.
A 1/8th scale racing buggy, it borrows majority of the kit from the MP9 Racing Buggy, but throws on an easily identifiable body. Slimmer and lower in height, it brings a more aerodynamic design that should lend it extra-powerful down force. The box comes with racing decals, but you'll need to buy both the wheels and threaded tires separately.
Tired of RC makers claiming a low center of gravity? Kyosho goes further, calling their setup "ultra low," thanks to the race-tuned lightweight, rolling chassis. One nitpick: from the detailed pics on the website, they used exactly the same chassis plate as the nitro version, choosing to cram plugs into the holes instead of molding one from scratch. Not sure how bad of a thing that is, though.
Since it's a kit, you'll have to supply your own brushless motor, speed control, radio system and battery. It uses an EZ Motor Mount, allowing you to find the perfect mesh by simply sliding the whole motor using two screws. Other included features include double A-arms suspension, medium rear shock towers, lightweight universal driveshafts and full ball bearings.
Not only does the Kyosho Inferno MP9 E look wicked with its low-profile design, it's got the racing DNA to inspire confidence when you take it to the tracks too. Expect it to drop in your local hobby shops anytime this month.
Specifications:
- Length: 490mm
- Width: 307mm
- Height: 180mm
- Wheelbase: 325mm
- Tread: 254mm (F) /254mm (R)
- Weight Approx 3370g
- Gear Ratio: 12.6:1
by sunny on February 11, 2010
Announced by Kyosho for March 1st, the Ultima SC Truck is a ready-to-run kit designed for competition RC short course racing. Fully-compliant with all of ROAR's short-course regulations, the vehicle boasts a race-ready configuration, similar to the high-performance Ultima RT5.
Sure, it's not as intimidating as many of the race trucks it will likely line up with in races. The 1mm-thick Think High-Impact Lexan Body provides a tough exterior, though, that should see it survive the rigors of one of the fastest-growing RC racing classes in the world. For even more durability, it integrates impact-resistant front and rear bumpers.
The race-readiness begins with the Ultima SC's high-performance carbon fiber composite chassis. Lightweight and strong, it claims to strike a balance in durability and performance. It comes with changeable mounting positions for the battery, allowing you to shift weight depending on the tracks you're running on. The separate front and rear clips make for quick removal, making maintenance an easy undertaking.
Kyosho is bundling it with a G20 Turn HP motor (with an internal cooling fan), which should provide decent speeds for casual races around your local tracks. The three-gear transmission is housed in a compact case, kept as close to the motor as possible, for a lower center of gravity. Other features include symmetrical suspension arms, floating axles and threaded composite shocks.
The Kyosho Ultima SC Truck Kit is compatible with most RT5 parts, making hop-ups just a little easier to acquire. Available for only $209.99, it's an affordable kit too.
Specifications
- Scale: 1/10
- Length: 445mm
- Height: 150mm
- Weight: 174g (approximate weight)
- Gear Ratio: 2.6:1
