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.
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 24, 2010
Looking to feed your competitive spirit by stepping your racing up a notch? Hit the roads with the innovative HPI Vorza Flux HP Brushless RTR Buggy, a 1/8th-scale, pre-assembled RC that promises one of the fastest lap times you can post on a model ride.
Wearing sleek lines and a mean-looking frame, the Vorza Flux takes to the ground with a pre-trimmed VB-1 shell, complete with an attractive paint job, sporty decals and the trademark Vorza Flux HP logo. More than a looker, though, the car 's thick aluminum chassis should capably absorb tremendous beatings, apart from allowing more mobile movement. A bullet-proof drivetrain and a hardened steel spur and pinion gear ensure it will meet the most demanding requirements.
Housing a powerful Flux Tork 2200 Kv brushless motor, racers should be able to reach speeds of up to 80mph, depending on the battery options you pick out for your ride (3 cell LiPo naturally gets you the best performance). With strength-tested nylon wheels wrapped by Proto tires and extra motor cooling (provided by the chassis), it can handle itself around race tracks without worrying about your machine not being up to the task. Control is facilitated by HPI's TF-3 AM radio, which provides extra long range and uninterrupted signal.
With the HPI Vorza Flux HP, the company managed to put together a complete racer every RC enthusiast can get behind on - great look, high-level performance and an affordable price tag. Whether for backyard bashing, neighborhood racing or expert competition, it's a car that can capably match your advanced driving skills.
Specs:
Chassis: 7075 Aluminum 0.16" (4mm) thick
Length: 20" (508mm)
Width: 12" (305mm)
Height: 5.7" (146mm)
Wheelbase: 12.8" (325mm)
Weight: 7.1 lbs (3230g)
Radio: HPI TF-3 AM system with BEC
ESC: HPI Flux Blur, sensorless programmable, with cooling fan
Battery Box: Fully adjustable to fit a variety of battery configurations
