by sunny on January 29, 2010
For many of us, exotic cars are just a tad out of reach in our banal, ordinary lives. That's where scale models like the Kyosho PureTen GP Fazer come in, giving a taste of the exciting world of GP touring machines, with none of the costs you will usually associate with one.
Certain to appeal to new and old nitro fans alike, this model GT ships with factory-licensed, ultra-detailed body shell, plated wheels and high-grip tires. You get the choice of six different pre-built designs, each one resembling the full scale racers from which it is based from. From the front to the rear to the sides, it's truly a high-end looking car, making it a real bargain at its affordable price.
A sturdy aluminium plate, with molded upper deck chassis, forms the base of the PureTen GP Fazer. Chassis components have been placed on the lowest possible part of the frame, allowing it to attain a low center of gravity, which translates to better cornering, balanced weight distribution and greater top speed.
Power is delivered by a GZ-15 engine (which comes with a low-profile cooling head) providing decent entry-level nitro speeds - just right for beginning racers. Other features include four-wheel independent suspension with oil filled shocks, a sealed radio box, molded composite drive shafts, a two-channel / two-servo RC system and a set of 18 ball bearings.
Want to experience GP touring cars, but keeping a tight watch on your RC spending? The Kyosho PureTen GP Fazer should deliver the goods, bringing supreme looks and exciting performance at a budget-friendly price.
Specifications:
Category: 1:10 4WD Nitro Touring Sedan
Wheelbase: 260mm (10.2 in.)
Width: 200mm (7.9 in.)
Ground clearance: 10mm (0.4 in.)
Track width: 176mm (6.9 in.)
Height: 90mm (3.5 in.)
Weight: 1775g (62.6 oz.)
Chassis: Aluminum plate w/molded upper deck
Drivetrain: Shaft w/enclosed gearboxes
Differential: Sealed 4-gear (rear); solid axle (front)
Transmission: Single speed with 17/39T gears
Final drive ratio: 7.06:1
Radio system: Kyosho KT-6 2-channel
Engine: GZ-15 w/recoil starter
Kyosho's official US site
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 28, 2010
Whether you want something larger than your normal racer or looking to quench your thirst for blistering speeds, the 1/8th-scale HPI Hellfire Truggy is a vehicle that capably steps up to the plate. Built for stadium truck racing, it makes its mark by having one of the biggest adjustable range of features in its category.
There's no way to mistake it for just another truck. The blazing red, strong polycarbonate body looks hellishly sexy, with all the paint and decals already applied right out of the box. Paired with large dish truck wheels and Aggressor tires, it looks ready to slug it hardcore with the craziest trucks you can bring to the meet.
Comfortable when bashing in the backyard as it is slugging it out in the tracks, the Hellfire sports an HPI Nitro Star K4.6 HO big block engine that's been reworked for even more power and torque. With a simplified chassis design and an adjustable motor, it allows for effortless tuning, more so than majority of vehicles built in its class. It should manage great handling with a unique captured outer pin suspension, hard-anodized aluminum shocks and new steering geometry.
Do note that the stock Aggressor tires are more attuned to bashing than racing. As such, we recommend outfitting it with a different set before taking it out on the tracks (HPI has a number of options that should fit the bill).
Out of the box, the HPI Hellfire Truggy will easily prove to be a powerful RTR set. It does need some tweaking to get it primed and ready for competitive conditions, though, whether you intend to race it or bash it against other monster truggies. HPI delivers the goods, regardless, and this is one sweet ride you'll enjoy getting to know.
Specs:
Fully assembled and Ready-To-Run 1:8th scale racing Truggy
Wheelbase - 348mm
Total Length - 513mm
Total Width - 415mm
Total Height - 173mm
Weight - 9.2 lb (ready to run, less fuel)
HPI TF-3 steerwheel radio system fitted
High torque HPI SF-2 steering servo
Includes 6v receiver pack & charger
150cc fuel tank
17mm hex hubs
by sunny on January 27, 2010
For a while, Tamiya's Midnight Pumpkin became a popular staple in the RC monster truck scene. Which is why it wasn't a surprise when they relaunched it again (some time ago) using the exact same branding with a slight twist.
The Tamiya Midnight Pumpkin Metallic Special bears the same 50s truck aesthetic as the original, but comes with silver-plated chrome wheels and a pre-molded black metallic body (the rest of the vehicle, however, remains the same). These spit-shiny parts are latched on using what Tamiya claims to be an "advanced plating technique." With giant oversized tires and a pre-furnished body, it looks even more striking than the original.
A strength-laden ABS box-type chassis (same as the Tamiya Lunch Box) serves as the base for the Midnight Pumpkin Metallic Special, just like the original kit. Configured to survive a pounding, it should provide ample stability and protection, keeping your drivetrain and electronics safe through grinding action under unstable conditions. It comes equipped with a wheelie bar, ready to help you through difficult jumps and cringe-worthy stunts.
Sporting a Type 540 Motor, the Midnight Pumpkin should deliver ample power, whether you're bashing in the backyard or showing off to a larger audience. Other details include a rear wheel drive, rigid suspension (both front and rear) and 101BK electronic speed control.
Looking for something both good-looking and fun? The Tamiya Midnight Pumpkin Metallic Special should easily fit the bill. If you're a little older, there's a good chance it will bring back memories in torrents too.
Specifications:
Length: 385mm
Width: 290mm
Height: 260mm
Drivetrain: Rear Wheel Drive
Motor: Type 540
Remarks: 7.2V running battery and alkaline batteries for the transmitter not included.
by sunny on January 27, 2010
Remote-controlled monster trucks have been flooding the market with choices for both long-term enthusiasts and novices alike. RedCat Racing's 1/10th scale Ground Pounder looks to be a good fit for this class of models, bringing a vehicle that's both capable and awe-inspiring.
The aggressive-looking, pre-cut and pre-painted body shell is a veritable carbon copy of its full-size counterpart. It comes sporting complete decals and logos, including that hard-to-miss figure of a gigantic, "Hulk-ish" green ogre (hmmm…looks familiar). Its massive truck tires, glued onto chrome-plated plastic rims, all but complete the monster truck aesthetic.
To reach capable speeds despite its size, RedCat pre-installed a Type 540 electric motor with electronic speed control inside the Ground Pounder. Acceleration won’t be record breaking, but the power should deliver a satisfactory level of fun and excitement. Set includes a sturdy 6061 aluminum chassis, front and rear solid axles, FM transmitter, battery packs and charger.
In an effort to stand out and set their vehicle apart (even, though, it honestly looks like a Tamiya), RedCat Racing equipped the Ground Pounder with both a four wheel drive and a four wheel steering mechanism. They claim it as “the first of its kind,” providing better handling and control than similarly-billed machines. With a single flick of your finger (on the radio controller, of course), you can instantly shift from four different steering modes, allowing you to find a setting best suited to your driving tastes. Even more impressive, you can do it right in the thick of the action - while going full speed, in the middle of turns or during stunts.
The RedCat Racing Ground Pounder offers a lot for everyone - good looks, easy maintenance, great handling and a lot of variety in performance. Definitely worth trying out.
Specifications:
Length: 18"
Width: 13.25"
Wheelbase: 12.5"
Height (overall): 10.25"
Motor: Brushed 540 motor
Drive Train: 4WD shaft driven, solid axle with front and rear sealed differentials.
Included Battery: 7.2v 6cell battery pack with charger
Radio equipment: (Included) 3ch FM digital radio, 4 channel FM receiver, and two standard servos.
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 26, 2010
If you’re looking for a versatile and durable RC cycle, you may want to take a look at the Duratrax DX450 RTR 1/5th Brushless EP. A 1/5th-scale rider, Duratrax claims it can ride “hard and fast wherever you feel like it.” Quite a statement indeed.
Capturing the appearance of full-scale sport bikes, the DX450 comes pre-assembled, pre-painted and pre-decorated with logo decals. You can have your pick of four different colors (painted rider included). The durable aluminium chassis, together with the wheels and threaded tires, complete the two-wheeler's flashy and daredevil-worthy looks.
The Duratrax DX450 packs in a 3800kV brushless motor, which should provide ample power for rallying over all types of terrain. With the included Tactic TTX240 2.4 GHz Radio system, you’ll experience interference-free control while running at any pace. Other features of the DX450 include long travel front shocks, single high-volume rear shock and full ball bearing set-up, all working together to deliver the promised driving experience.
It's equipped with a metal flywheel gyroscope (situated at the rear wheel), providing the ability to keep the motorcycle at an upright position (even at varying accelerations), so you can work on familiarizing yourself with the bike, slowly increasing speed as you become more comfortable. According to Duratrax, you can hit all types of bumps, sharp turns and treacherous jumps on the bike, all while retaining full balance because of that setup. Definitely impressive (hopefully, it works).
After supplying your DX450 the needed battery and charger pack, you should be ready to get into off-road, motocross or any other class of racing action (well, most classes, at least). Easy to use and abuse, it doesn’t matter whether you’re a first timer or an expert driver in handling remote-controlled motorbikes, the DX450 promises to deliver the action and excitement you’re craving for.
Specifications:
Length: 17.3 in (440 mm)
Width: 6.9 in (175 mm)
Height: 15.4 in (390 mm) Weight: 4.5 lb (2.04 kg)
Requires: 7.2V NiCd/NiMH or 7.4V LiPo battery & charger
by sunny on January 25, 2010
An off-road vehicle built to strut its stuff in competitive buggy races, the Tamiya Keen Hawk serves as an attractive "alternative" for fanatic dirt drivers the world over. If you're familiar with Tamiya's Dark Impact, this vehicle is largely a rebranding (with mere minor differences) - albeit, an exciting one, nonetheless.
Sporting an awkward-looking pre-trimmed shell, crowned by a large rear wing and attention-grabbing white wheels, this buggy brings along an unusual appearance that you're likely to either love or hate. It comes as a kit (assembly time of give or take 5 hours), with logos and decals bundled in the package (no paint, though). Some folks say it brings a slight resemblance to F1 racers, although it's really a distinct-looking ride all on its own.
Use over rough and uneven landscapes will allow the Keen Hawk to demonstrate the durability inherent in its DF-03 chassis, which fosters an excellent functioning balance. Before this 1/10th scale off-roader was released, Tamiya hasn't had a racing-capable buggy in a long time, making it an eventful release of sorts.
It ships with a Type 540 motor, which should make for respectable speeds during use. The layout of the car is very interesting, with the battery pack down the center and the transverse-mounted motor just behind it. This keeps the weight at the center line, allowing you to achieve optimal leveling while performing jumps. Cornering is predictable but fair, grip is a little lacking and the shocks require a bit of tuning. You will likely want to take advantage of upgrade options if you want to post top results in actual competition.
Overall, the Tamiya Keen Hawk is a fair choice for a racing buggy. It's far from the best in the land, but remains a competitive starter kit that you can build on for a sharper edge down the line.
Specifications:
Length: 387mm
Width: 250mm
Height: 132mm
Lowest Ground Clearance: 24mm
Wheelbase: 272mm
Weight: 1140g
Tread: (Front) 217mm, (Rear) 203mm
Tire Width/Diameter: (Front) 33/87mm, (Rear) 43/87mm
Frame: Monocoque Bathtub
Drivetrain: Shaft-driven 4WD
Diff. Gear: Front & Rear Ball Diff
Steering: 3-piece Tie Rod
Suspension: 4-wheel Double Wishbone
Damper: (Front) CVA Oil Damper Mini, (Rear) CVA Oil Damper Short
Gear Ratio: 9.17:1
Motor: Type RS540
Speed Controller: ESC
