by sunny on March 1, 2010
If you've been shopping for an eight-scale buggy, you must have come across the Tamiya TRF801X, the company's competition-level off-road kit. While we have heard some complaints about it (mostly the heft), our own experience was actually very satisfying.
There isn't much to distinguish it in the looks department, although we found it to be an attractive ride all the same. Building does require some amount of time (designed for advanced hobbyists, beginners will definitely find the manual a little lacking), although the decision to bundle screws with the parts that use them made sorting through the pile a heck of a lot easier (thanks for that, Tamiya).
Equipped with an anodized duralumin chassis and enclosed by a tough body shell, the TRF801X fosters dependable strength all while offering good mobility. It does feel a little hefty (while driving) compared to other top players in the class, which actually helps with stability, although it's nowhere near "tank-like" as some people have described.
Overall vehicle performance is great. The drivetrain is very smooth (Mugen-like quality), the acceleration is downright quick and handling is very forgiving. Driving it against other buggies, you'll notice the car practically saving itself while everyone else's vehicles are tipping over during corners and rough patches of ground. Jumps are a little harder, though, because of the weight, which tends to result in its falling nose-down a little more than other models in the same class. You should be able to iron it out with a little tuning, so give it time - this is the kind of ride that grows on you.
The Tamiya TRF801X 1/8 Off Road Competition Buggy is easily one of the best vehicles in its class. Like all top-of-the-line performers, it requires a little getting used to. The time you put in should be worth it, though.
Tamiya TRF801X Specifications:
Wheelbase: 320-327mm
Length: 495mm
Width: 307mm
Gear ratio: 11.34:1
Kit/RTR: Kit
Experience Level: Advanced
Items Needed for Completion:
- .21 Off Road Nitro Engine
- Tuned Exhaust System
- 2 Channel Radio System & 8AA Batteries
- High Torque Steering & Brake Servo's (2)
- 6V Receiver Battery
- Glow Driver
- Starter Box & Batteries
- Nitro Fuel & Fuel Bottle
- Paint for Body
- Charger for Reciever Pack & Starter Box Batteries
- Tires & Tire Glue
by sunny on February 25, 2010
Based on the successful RC8 platform from Team Associated, the Factory Team RC8T is a 1/8th scale truggy with a reputation to live up to. The buggy version, which came out months before, was heavily-lauded and the company did take their sweet time entering the newer market.
Since it's sold as a kit, you'll have to build the vehicle yourself. The shocks, differentials and turnbuckles are, fortunately, already set up, saving some of the hassles you'll otherwise slave through. Assembly isn't that hard, but it isn't easy either. Expect to reserve a full workday for it (or more, if you're not used to kits).
Team Associated has said that the Factory Team RC8T is a full-blown race truggy out of the box and they aren't kidding. Suspension, with the new big bore shocks featuring 16mm six-hole pistons and 4mm gold shock shafts, worked wonders, absorbing problems in the tracks handily, making for very smooth driving. It clears jumps with ease and can adjust effectively even while in the air. Handling, with on and off power steering, is very precise. Out of corners, you can accelerate hard with 4.30:1 gear boxes that provide maximum punch.
The car is specially light and agile, making for good runtimes even with no further modifications. It exhibited decent durability too, with its milled 3mm hard-coated 7075 aluminum chassis, aluminum top plate and aluminum steering rack. Other notable high-performance features include aluminum wheel hexes, a full ball bearing drivetrain, two-piece split-center diff mounts, an innovative clutch design and the Free Float Caliper brake system.
Overall, the Team Associated Factory Team RC8T Truggy Kit is an excellent box, even over a year after its first release. It's easy to drive, follows movements accurately and is very friendly even with less-skilled drivers. A great buy for the $500-something marked down price (yes, it's the going price now).
Specifications:
- Scale: 1:8
- Power: Nitro
- Type: Off Road
- Length: 571.5mm
- Width: 419mm
- Weight: 3946 (no rec. pack or body)
- Wheelbase: 375mm
- Internal Gear Ratio: 4.3:1
- Drive: 4WD
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 6, 2010
Z-Car USA's entry into the tough-as-nails world of truggy racing came in the form of the ZMXT-8, a vehicle released with the sole purpose of "winning races." A 1/8th scale competition-ready truggy, it's designed to give even regular backyard bashers a chance to survive the rigors of the tracks.
First impressions count and this an impressive vehicle at first glance. The overall look isn't very original, though. In fact, it will likely remind of some other buggies and truggies you've seen around. That's because Z-Car USA's parent company, SH Engines, is an OEM who does work for a lot of bigger RC brands. At any rate, you should find its pre-trimmed, blue-painted shell particularly attractive, especially coupled with the installed rear wing and huge white wheels.
Comfortable both racing on the tracks and bashing in the yard, the ZMXT-8 runs a preinstalled .28 three-port engine, which delivers enough power to be useful for either endeavors. It works best at mid- to high-RPM, so take note. Upon pull-starting, you'll find yourself appreciating the quick acceleration, all while maintaining its poise during runs.
The aluminum shocks and overall handling are downright impressive. Jumps, stunts and even high-speed turns won't be enough to halt your drive - unless you don't know what you're doing. It carries many improvements over SH Engines' work for other brands, too. Changes include the throttle and brake servo mounted in a central location, a new brake system designed to mimic those of real automobiles and more.
One word of caution, though. While the Z-Car USA ZMXT–8 comes ready to run, breaking in your engine is nowhere to be found in the manual. There are some comprehensive guides online for this (some direct from Z-Car themselves), so make sure to check them.
Specifications:
- Length: 555mm
- Width: 418mm
- Height: 243mm
- Wheelbase: 363mm
- Weight: 4,100g
- Motor: SH - P3 .28 Pull Start
- Radio equipment: Airtonics Digital FM Radio
More info at Z-Car USA
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 3, 2010
Need a truggy that can run over all surfaces without compromising speed or performance? That's exactly what the Losi 8ight-T 2.0 brings to the table - an off-roader that's been tuned to perform like a high-speed truggy should.
Sure, the factory-assembled shell and pre-loaded decals aren't exciting, but they ain't half-bad either. While the looks aren't exactly to die for, this 1/8th scale basher packs it where it counts: dependable performance.
See that body? The design was built to allow free-flowing air into the system, helping cool down your ride during non-stop runs under extreme weather. You also get easy access to the truck's interior for adjustment and tuning.
Power is provided by the 454 .28 engine, which delivers enough punch to see you through the toughest challenges. It's easy to tune and stands up well over many runs - there's a good chance you'll want to keep this engine intact for a long time. While many manufacturers like to pull out a buggy drivetrain, slip it into a bigger vehicle and call it a truggy, Losi did their job here, tuning the driveline specifically for the larger wheels.
The 8IGHT-T handles very well off-road due to a properly-built suspension and steering servos. Performing jumps at 40mph will leave you barely breaking a sweat, as this is a very forgiving setup - you don't need perfect technique to pull off big air.
From the first time you pull the trigger to the end of raceday, the Losi 8IGHT-T 2.0 is bound to make a believer out of you. Perfect for backyard bashers and mid-level casual racers, this is not just a powerful truggy, it's an easy-to-learn 4WD that will let you dive into the thick of the action in no time.
Specifications:
- Type:8IGHT-T 2.0 Truggy Race Roller
- Scale:1/8
- Length:22.075 in (560mm)
- Width:16.375 in (415.9mm)
- Wheelbase:14.93 - 15.09 in (379 - 383mm)
- Weight:8.50 lb (3.855 kg)
- Chassis:Tuned Flex Technology (TFT) 2.0
- Kit/RTR:Race Roller
- Body:Clear Polycarbonate Body
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 31, 2010
Want to energize your weekend buggy bashing? I would suggest liquor, but you can also do it with Redcat Racing's Backdraft 8E RTR, a 1/8 scale brushless rig with engaging looks and a racing-ready stance.
Dressed in a blue, metallic, pre-trimmed body shell with a towering rear wing, the ride keeps at even pace with the looks of other high-end buggies in the market today. The colorful design and sporty decals provide a distinct look that makes it easy to recognize, while the set of all black wheels and soft compound tires further enhance its exterior appearance. The two lexan side guards connected to the chassis do more than provide eye candy - they add an extra layer of protection for your machine’s electronics.
The Backdraft’s power comes courtesy of the brushless RC 540 KV: 2230 motor, allowing it to run speeds of up to 50 mph. Two 7.4 LIPO batteries come with the vehicle, which should deliver sufficient runtimes. We do recommend an extra battery during actual races, though, as charging can take quite a while (up to 3 hours). The balanced drive train layout, with help from the metal gear steering servos and four oil-filled shocks, should afford your ride the clean cornering and topnotch handling you’re looking for. A bundled 27MHZ two channel radio comes with the set, affording you full control, good range and uninterrupted signal.
With kickass looks and the promise of exciting performance, RedCat Racing's Backdraft 8E sounds like an off-road buggy that’s well worth your hard-earned money. Hop ups should be readily available too, if you want to tune it for even better performance.
Specifications:
Length: 19.29 inches
Width: 12.01 inches
Wheelbase: 12.80 inches
Motor: 8T 2400 RPM 540 Brushless
Drive Train: Front, rear, and center sealed differentials
Batteries Used: Two LIPO 7.4V (20c 3200Mah 2s) included
Radio equipment: Included two channel 27MHz AM radio (now shipping with 2.4GHz), BSD rc sport AM 2ch receiver, and a metal gear steering servo.
