by sunny on March 2, 2010
Billed as a "buggy for everyone," the LRP Blast BX S10 doesn't purport itself to be a world beater. With a slew of nice features and good looks, though, the 1/10th scale should make an excellent basher, as well as a competitive entry-level racer.
Physically, we love the airbrushed looks of this fully-mounted, pre-decorated RTR based on the pictures. Sure, there's not much originality to the body (honestly, it looks like a Chinese rip-off of a Japanese import), but both the wind tunnel- optimized body shell and high-downforce wing appear well-executed.
On paper, this sounds mighty impressive - steel differential gears, steel pinion and crown gear, big bore alloy shocks with adjusters, roll bars and more. It's a mighty tough off-road vehicle, indeed. The news release claims sensational driving performance, impressive quickness and superb handling, which, from the specs, does sound like it can deliver rather handily. Other notable features include a Type 540 motor, VTEC high-grip tires, digital LRP speed control and (supposedly extra-strong) LRP steering servo.
Everything pretty much comes with the package, so you can haul it right out of the box and start bashing. While LRP claims this can do quite well on low-end competition circuits too (it satisfies all requirements for the 1/10th electric category), it should be prudent to look towards the company's numerous option parts (particularly those intended for the S10 Sport and Pro variants) for better results.
For an entry-level buggy, though, the LRP Blast BX S10 sounds like a real...uhm...blast. Considering it comes as a true RTR (complete with radio, speed control, motor, batteries and charger), it is quite the bargain, priced at just under $200 with most retailers.
by sunny on December 20, 2009
Getting into RC racing requires a good amount of time and practice. For those looking to get a rather smooth headstart, the Tamiya Mad Bull is an excellent kit to score with its simple operation and worry-free assembly.
Out of the box, the electric buggy's PS-injected molded body comes pre-finished, managing to capture a sporty, off-road truggy appearance. Looking ready to rock as soon as hits ground, the RC comes with a sturdy-looking frame, big 115-mm tires sporting chunky lug patterns and burly chassis components.It isn't the most realistic-looking scale in one of the busiest RC markets, but there's enough aggressive cues to make it an exciting ride.
Why do we recommend the Tamiya Mad Bull for beginning racers? The 540 Type motor pre-installed in the kit is easily one of the most dependable in the market. More importantly, it's geared precisely as starter equipment, providing worry-free assembly, accessible handling and easy control. That means you can get your kit, put it together and hit the tracks the very same day, without having to suffer through much of a learning curve.
Like all entry-level buggies, it's a perfect car to bash around with. Affordably-priced and with spares easily available, you won't have to think twice about putting it through the grind. The DT-01 chassis also makes for a fair amount of upgrades, such as electronic speed control, which should help extend your vehicle's life after you grow past your novice abilities.
RC owners typically have strong feelings about their first cars. I have no doubt you'll grow the same fondness for the Tamiya Mad Bull.
Specs:
Vehicle Type: Off-Road
Power Type: Electric
Body Type: Truck-Monster
Scale: 1/10
Build Type: Kit
Drive Type: 2 WD
Shocks: Coiled spring friction
Weight: 2.87 Lbs. (1302 g)
Chassis Length: 15.75 inches (400 mm)
Chassis Width: 12.40 inches (315 mm)
Chassis Height: 5.91 inches (150 mm)
