by sunny on March 24, 2010
Last year, Traxxas introduced a 1/16th scale version of the E-Revo, their power-packing electric monster truck. Incorporating the relatively new Velineon brushless system, which is specifically designed for more diminutive models, it's one small package that doesn't disappoint.
The first thing you'll notice is how big it is. I was looking forward to something really small, yet ended up with a 13-inch long truck that looks gigantic next to 1/18th scales. Parts are good quality - the plastic is thick, the GTR shocks are smooth and everything looks particularly stylish.
If you were expecting wimpier performance from such a sized-down ride, you're mistaken. Out of the box, the E-Revo VXL can go an impressive 30mph. With an added battery pack, it can clear 50mph without breaking a sweat (okay, maybe a little). Vehicle details include a Velineon 380 Brushless Motor, VXL-3M ESC, 23-tooth pinion gear, 50-tooth spur gear, Traxxas 2080 mini steering servo and an all wheel shaft-driven drive train.
Of course, none of that matters until you drive it and this truck performs admirably on that end. Extremely durable, I've had the chassis bottom out with absolutely no damage. It didn't mind any moderate crashes either. Suffice to say, this is built strong. Not only does it deliver in speed, it performs jumps very well (with dependable in-air control, plus enough power to do backflips) and runs over uneven terrain admirably. I actually can't believe it managed to stay on its feet after all the punishing driving I put it through (save for one time).
Overall, the Traxxas E-Revo VXL 1/16 manages to live up to its larger counterpart's reputation. It brings incredible speed, great handling and downright durable performance. Well worth the $280.
Specifications
Length: 12.9"
Width: 9.4"
Wheelbase: 7.9"
Height (overall): 4.6"
Motor: Velineon 380 Brushless
Drive Train: Front and rear sealed differentials, single speed tranny with slipper clutch.
Included Battery: Traxxas "Series 1" 6 cell battery pack and charger. A second battery pack and connector are optional and are sold separately.
Radio equipment: (Included) Traxxas 27MHz TQ radio, Traxxas 2216 4-channel micro receiver, Traxxas VXL-3m Electronic speed controller, and Traxxas 2080 mini steering servo.
by sunny on March 22, 2010
Mini 1/18th-scale trucks may be cute, but a good lot of them will do more than look good decorating your shelves. Priced on the low end of the scale with ample power and impressive acceleration, these five can deliver more fun than their tiny frames will initially suggest.
Note: As always, this list is one opinion that you can take into account, rather than an absolute rating of the best the platform has to offer.
Associated RC18T
A 4WD stadium truck with a Super 280 motor, the Associated RC18T is a surprisingly fast indoor performer. Heck, it's faster than some 1/10th scales I've ran and the handling is tremendous. It clears jump and corners easily, with durability to spare. While it will break if you slam hard on a wall, it has withstood more abuse than most any other 1/18th-scale I've seen. There's huge aftermarket support too, with plenty of inexpensive but effective upgrades. It's a bad truck for dirt and grass (everything gets in the drivetrain), but for more even tracks, this will always be the truck to beat.
Losi Mini-T
While this is just an average 1/18th scale out of the box, a few hop-ups should get the 2WD truck performing at a very high-level, especially since it has very generous aftermarket support. With good oil shocks, a 7.2v battery pack, ball bearings, and steel pinion and counter gears, you'll notice an insane difference in performance. This is a great buy if you're willing to let the truck grow on you (i.e you customize it), but there are better options if you want to go stock.
Schumacher A-Tech Mini Monster
Don't have a lot of money, want solid off-road thrills? The A-Tech Mini Monster should fit the bill. It's not crazy fast (about 19mph max on the stock motor), but steering and handling are exceptional (save for the fact that it can be pretty bouncy), making it a joy to drive on dirt, grass and even rocks. There are a number of available upgrades (Fireball motor, 7-cell battery, bearings, wheelies and more), which can really change the way it drives. When it comes to doing wheelies, durability and off-road performance, I haven't found anything priced similarly that actually beats it.
Losi Mini LST
Despite the 1/18th scale, the Mini LST (now on version 2) has that awesome "monster truck show" look down pat. Designed for the off-road, it handles itself gorgeously on dirt, grass and sand, but has stock tires that are just plain too soft for concrete and asphalt. Speed is great (you can push the Dual Frenzy-370 motors hard with some gearing changes), but you will tend to hold back because the handling isn't perfect, especially on the road. Rolling over during high-speed turns isn't unheard of, especially while you're still learning to work with the vehicle. It can handle jumps and obstacles well (especially with such a high ground clearance), but make sure to put higher weight oil in the shocks. With a little tweaking, even with stock parts, this can be a thoroughly enjoyable truck.
Duratrax Mini Quake
A great monster truck, especially the SE version, the Duratrax Mini Quake is a powerful 4WD monster truck with great acceleration and handling both on and off road. Because of the huge clearance and eight oil-filled shocks, it can drive through just about anything, even while going at high speed (it tops out at 17mph on the stock motor). Component quality is topnotch, giving it impressive durability. Even when you end up breaking parts, the aftermarket support is pretty good too.
by sunny on March 19, 2010
Liked the SC10? Why not get it styled with the LeDuc family's winning trucks from the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series? Team Associated recently announced an upcoming SC10 model based on Curt, Kyle and Todd LeDuc’s victorious short course racers. Called the SC10 RTR Rockstar, it brings both cosmetic changes and some fine-tuning to last year's R.O.A.R. National Champion short course truck.
Just like a regular SC10, the new model comes ready to run, with a factory-finished shell (based on the 2009 Championship body) and short course race truck stylings (KMC-like wheels, aggressive tread multi-terrain tires and realistic bumpers). Judging from last year's version of the off-road vehicle, this should bring the same accurate 1:10 scale that makes it one excellent-looking ride.
Key details include a molded composite chassis, 14 precision rubber-sealed ball bearings, fully-adjustable suspension geometry, updated suspension settings, a 2.6:1 ratio gearbox with an externally adjustable slipper clutch and rugged steel turnbuckles. It comes with Team Associated’s new XP3-SS 2.4 GHz 3-channel radio system and XP SC200 Digital electronic speed controller.
Since changes are mostly just fine-tuning from last year's SC10, this Rockstar version should exhibit the same capable performance (probably even better). It's slated for availability beginning April, priced at $369.99.
[RC10]
by sunny on March 18, 2010
Unlike other truck categories, stadium trucks are designed primarily for one thing: winning races. Designed to run on temporary off-road tracks built on stadium field, they combine characteristics of both the buggy and monster truck categories, the former for the fast run times and the latter for the durability. Being a representative mix of speed and toughness makes them one of the most popular racing classes around.
Note: Consider this list as one opinion that you can take into account, rather than an absolute rating of the best the platform has to offer.
1. Traxxas Jato
Even without the latest 3.3 engine, the 1/10th-scale 2WD Jato is a ridiculously fast beast. With it, it's just scary. Posting a 0 to 60 of 4.2 seconds and a top speed upwards of 65mph, the power is so immense, it makes normal jumps look like you're scaling it with a rocket booster. Sporting two-speed torque, Revo-spec GTR shocks, and zero-bump steer-suspension, it's one of the most versatile stadium racers around, able to deliver as well on dirt and grass with a little fine-tuning (some height adjustment and, perhaps, a new set of tires for the same nasty quickness).
2. Traxxas Rustler
Geared for intermediate drivers, the Rustler is a powerful 1/10th 2WD truck, pairing impressive top speeds (upwards of 50mph for the nitro version) with excellent handling. Sporting a wide chassis and a low center of gravity, it makes for some of the most stable maneuvering in the platform. It's also highly upgradeable, allowing you to fashion it into a real beastly performer (honestly, though, all I'd do is get new wheels and, maybe, a wing because the stock is good enough).
3. Schumacher Menace 21
Too fast for its own good, we've heard too many stories of broken RC parts with the Menace 21, a 1/10th-scale 4WD with a 3-speed gearbox and a 3.5cc engine. Contributing to the unfortunate accidents is the fact that it comes with plenty of plastic stock parts, putting it near the bottom end of the scale when it comes to durability. Reaching top speeds closing in at 70mph (for real), a lot of beginning and intermediate racers are just taken aback by the kind of power it brings. My advice? Get one and upgrade it to aluminum parts (it's an easy truck to fix). Yes, it will be very costly, but well worth it. This much power in a durable ride brings so much potential.
4. Associated RC10 GT
Don't let the cheap price fool you. The RC10 GT is a highly-competitive 1/10th-scale 2WD stadium truck, despite being one of the most affordable models in the category. Fast and dependable, it's a ride you can count on in terms of unfaltering performance and durability. Much of the truck is impressively lightweight, allowing it to run lightly on its toes, taking straightaways swiftly and landing jumps in a smooth manner.
5. HPI Nitro Rush Evo
An excellent vehicle for beginners, the Rush Evo is far from being the fastest, best-performing stadium truck on the market. In fact, it tends to lose stability once it hits jumps, although it does make up for it with excellent ground performance. It's very rugged and easy to maintain, making it an excellent vehicle to get your feet wet in the nitro scene. You should get a better truck for serious competition, but for bashing and absorbing all the beating that models receive from relatively new drivers, this fits the bill perfectly.
by sunny on March 17, 2010
Your RC won't start, has come to a sudden halt or runs like it just woke up from 100 years of slumber. Don't panic. Most of the time, it's actually just a little snag that won't require an engineering degree (or plenty of RC experience) to fix. In fact, it's probably an obvious problem. Here's a laundry list of what you need to check.
1. Switches. Are you sure the car is turned on? Believe it or not, this is the most common culprit for novice drivers suddenly screaming like they're about to cry. Check the power switch on the vehicle and check your transmitter too. If both are turned on, then you're not stupid. Congratulations.
2. Transmitter. Are you sure you have the right one for the car you're using? Look for the frequency label on both the vehicle and the transmitter. Oooops. If that's not the culprit, check the antennas. Make sure they're not damaged and are installed properly.
3. Batteries. Change the batteries (or install them, in case you forgot - duh). Make sure you insert it snugly, facing the right directions.
4. Fuel. If you're driving a nitro RC, check the fuel tank. In case it's not running on empty, check the fuel system. Warning: this can get a bit involved. First, try adjusting the fuel mixture (leaning out or enriching it) and see if that solves the problem. If not, look for bends or tears in the fuel line, as well as blockage (you have to disconnect it). Also, inspect the tank and lids for any air leaks.
5. Servos. We're getting a bit more advanced here, but this is usually the problem when you can make the RC do some things but not others (that it's supposed to - you can't expect a monster truck to fly 30 feet in the air). To test, unplug the servos and put them on a different receiver, then check if it responds properly.
Now, if none of those things are the culprit, then you might have a more serious problem on your hands. Unless you know what you're doing, we recommend just going down to your local shop to have them take a look.
by sunny on March 15, 2010
Are you planning to buy your first nitro-powered RC car? Here are a few things you should know before diving into the grin inducing hobby.
Nitro isn't gas. Some people refer to nitro RCs as gas-powered models. However, nitro fuel isn't the same as the gas you put in your real car. Don't confuse the two and don't make the mistake of filling it up from your crappy sedan's full tank. Nitro fuel has three main components - methanol, nitromethane and oil. This is mixed together with several additives, such as anti-corrosion agents. The fuel rating is based on the percentage of nitromethane (typically 20%).
Nitro RCs are fast. If you want speed and power, then nitro is the way to go. If too much of both overwhelm you, it might be wise to get your feet wet driving electric RC cars or trucks first.
Nitro fuel requires special handling. It's highly-flammable, not to mention poisonous, so avoid lighted cigarettes and open flames when you're around it. Make sure to wipe up any spills, especially on your car, lest have that chain-smoker at the track set it aflame when he lights one up. Oh yeah, don't mistake it for beer, either. Blech.
Nitro RCs require better driving skills. High-speed driving does have its drawbacks - the learning curve becomes much higher. There are many nitro-powered cars at all categories designed for beginners, though, so make sure you opt for those, instead of advanced models. More importantly, try to get a feel for the car's power before driving it at full speed, unless you want to risk damaging your $500 purchase on its first run.
Nitro RCs are kinda bad for indoors. While you can use them inside your house if you want, the fuel fumes, engine noise and excessive speeds make that a bad idea. Take it outdoors and go nuts.
Nitro RCs require more maintenance. Getting your car running isn't as easy as flipping a switch - you need to get fuel onto it, check the air filter, check the glow plug and more. You'll need to carry a quick-fill bottle along too.
Sure, they require more work and are more expensive. However, nitro RCs usually also mean more fun. It's a positive trade-off and one you're not likely to regret.
[Image Credit: Imageshack]
by sunny on March 13, 2010
Racing and bashing RC Monster Trucks is a really fun hobby but can be a little intimidating for the beginners specially when trying to decide which model offers best value, durability, ease of use and off course the fun factor. You don't wanna spend hours and hours on tuning and fixing your truck when you should be out there racing them and having fun with your friends.
Big, bad monster trucks with their oversized wheels and high ground clearance are always a sight to behold. Everybody loves them in any form, whether as full-sized car show staples or miniature backyard models. The following remote-controlled trucks with monster bodies are five of the best the business has to offer and generally offer the best bang for your buck.
Note: When it comes to RCs, ranking the best isn't easy. So take this list as one opinion that you can take into account, rather than an absolute rating of the best the platform has to offer.
1. Traxxas T-Maxx
The best-selling RTR nitro monster truck in the world, the T-Maxx series (the latest is 3.3) is a 1/10th-scale model that everyone, from beginners to more advanced enthusiasts, can embrace. Quick, agile and exceptionally fast, it packs what is arguably the most powerful smallblock engine you can find on the platform. More importantly, it has stamped itself accessible by being both easy to tune and maintain, making it possible for absolute newbies to dive in and partake in the fun. Do note that the newer TRX 3.3 engine can be a bit over-the-top for most beginners, so we'd advise less-experienced drivers to stick to the older, but still very much relevant 2.5 version.
2. Traxxas Revo
When it comes to handling and durability, few monster trucks can hold a candle to the nitro-powered Traxxas Revo (currently 3.3), one of the most dominant 1/10th scale vehicles to appear in the production and small block racing classes. Traxxas took a leap of faith with this vehicle, approaching the category differently from the already popular T-Maxx , and came out with an even more versatile truck that packed similar beastly power. Given a choice, we'd go for the Revo over the T-Maxx for serious competition, although we put the latter at number one due to its general accessibility.
3. HPI Savage
One of the most brutish bashers ever released, the Savage delivers a powerful combination of big block power and extreme durability. This 1/8th scale model should handle most anything you throw at it, giving you a permanent grin while you put it through every imaginable grind. Do note there are several versions of the Savage platform available, with the Savage 25 possibly the most bang-for-your-buck basher of the lot and the Savage X 4.6 as the most well-rounded, in case you're looking for one that can do more than trump everything on the backyard.
4. Losi LST
Combining an easy-to-tune big block motor, huge clearance and plush suspension, the LST brings immense power while remaining very agile for its 1/8th-scale size. Very few trucks this big can pull off the same handling and feel, which successfully mimics the driving characteristics of smaller 1/10th size vehicles. Many areas of the truck do require aftermarket upgrades in case you're serious about competing (even the latest XXL version), but the terrific maneuverability, coupled with brawny looks, make for an excellent base from which to build upon.
5. Duratrax Warhead
Delivering a good balance of power and agility, the Warhead is a very worthy competitor in the big block monster truck category. It was marketed as an excellent alternative to the Savage platform early on, because of the similar size and performance, all while providing the ability to be race-tuned. While probably not as durable (we've seen parts of it wear considerably faster than the Savage), this continues to be a favorite among fans of vertical chassis plate setups.
by sunny on March 6, 2010
Fast, agile and ruthless - that was Willy Messerschmitt’s BF-109 when it dominated European skies during WWII. You can enjoy those same thrills as the "formidable foe" with the Parkzone BF-109 G6 BNF, a small-scale park flyer with full aerobatic capabilities.
The plane comes with a Luftwaffe-inspired paint scheme, based on the version of the plane flown by pilot Erich Hartmann. To foster the realism, it comes with plenty of scale touches, including the port-side supercharger intake, exhaust stacks, gun ports and molded panel lines. It comes with a choice of pilots too for even more striking visuals. By the way, the box includes a Swastika decal for the tail, which you probably want to pass on just to avoid any issues when you take it for a spin.
Most everything you need is included in the box, save for a Spektrum DSM2 aircraft transmitter. Assembly is surprisingly easy, thanks to the detailed Quick Start guide and 22-page manual, both of which come loaded with clear instructions and plenty of pictures. A number of parts are also pre-assembled (e.g. control horns, servos and pushrod) and wired (e.g. motor and cowl).
Up in the air, the Bf-109 is an impressive park flyer. The agility and power took me quite by surprise, easily handling a variety of maneuvers despite some amount of wind. It's fully aerobatic, with a decent level of accuracy during stunts. With exceptional scale looks and excellent versatility, this definitely offers plenty of satisfying action, especially for more creative pilots.
ParkZone Bf-109 G6 BNF Specifications:
Wingspan: 43.5 in (1105mm)
Overall Length: 39.4 in (1000mm)
Flying Weight: 35.3 oz (1000 g)
Motor Size: 15-size 720Kv brushless
Speed Control : EFL 30A Switch-Mode BEC BL
Recommended Battery: 11.1V 3S 1800mAh 11.1V Lithium Polymer (included)
Scale: Warbird
Charger: DC-powered 2-3 cell variable rate Li-Po balancing
Landing Gear: Fixed main LG with steerable tail wheel
US $9.99
