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 January 23, 2010
Targeting beginners and intermediate RC drivers, HPI's Nitro RS4 RTR 3 Evo+ updates the original Evo (minus the "plus") with a number of upgrade options as part of its standard package. As a result, it's a better, faster and stronger performer than its already impressive predecessor.
With new choices in body and an even faster engine, it's made a sick (and we mean that in a good way) roadburner even more fun. For one, the pre-painted, realistic shells continue to look excellent, apart from fostering good durability. Whether you house your ride as a Honda NSX GT, Nissan Greddy 350Z, Ford '66 Mustang GT, Plymouth AAR 'Cuda, 1967 Chevrolet Corvette or a Fujitsubo HPI Impreza, it will demonstrate outstanding speed reaching up to 81 kph.
The Nitro RS3 RTR 3 Evo+ draws all that power from the pre-installed RotoStart T3.0 engine. And man, that's a pretty impressive package. In fact, we recommend you start out slowly (especially if you're a novice at nitro racing), as the top speed is considerably fast and could cause damage (either to you or nearby fixtures, neither of which would be good).
Other features that should make driving it a satisfying experience include a thick countersunk aluminum chassis, real oil-filled shocks, longer runtimes (with a 75cc fuel tank, that's how), race-tuned suspension with durable plastic parts, ultra-strong foam bumpers and very reliable HPI control boxes. It's fast, durable and looks badass - what more can you ask for?
For RC enthusiasts looking to build up their nitro racing skills, the Nitro RS4 RTR 3 Evo+ should prove an ideal purchase. It's a great-looking car with both the speed and durability to have you racing with confidence.
Specifications:
Length: 17.1" (434mm)
Width: 7.9" (200mm)
Height: 4" (102mm)
Weight: 3.85lbs (1745g) approximate
Wheelbase: 10.1" (256mm) (wheels on-center front-to-rear)
Tread: Front-6.75" (171mm) Rear-7" (178mm) (wheels on-center side to-side)
Front Track: 7.25" (184mm)
Rear Track: 7.75" (197mm)
Ground Clearance: 0.29" (7.5mm)
Chassis: 0.098 (2.5mm) 6061 aluminum
Drive: Four wheel shaft drive
Engine: Nitro Star G3.0 3.0cc (.18 cu in) 2.2hp with pull-starter
by sunny on December 6, 2009
If "mean" and "fast" are the foremost words in your fifth-grade-level vocabulary (just busting your chops), then look no further than the Traxxas Nitro 4-Tec 3.3, a powerful RTR model that's the first to break 70mph in its category. For more advanced RC enthusiasts, it could prove the easiest way to fulfill your need for speed.
Classy and stylish, this "blink and you'll miss it" ride comes expertly painted, with detailed graphics, attractive decals and timeless 2.0 Mesh wheels. The level of attention the exterior received is quite impressive, making for one of the sexiest RC sports cars even a full year after its release. The partly-shown, blue-coiled TRX 3.3 Racing Engine's cooling head on the top part of the rear adds additional flair, making it look even more intimidating than usual.
Even with newer, faster RCs on the market, your opponents won't be leaving you behind with the Nitro 4-Tec 3.3’s finely-tuned performance talents. With a neckbreaking top speed of 70mph, lightweight body, durable construction and quick acceleration, it's a veritable powerhouse that can run as good as it looks. It's equipped with a Traxxas EZ-Start system (to gain ground quickly out of the gates) with console diagnostics, commendable tire traction and enhanced 3-belt drive system.
Designed for experts (strictly level 5 drivers), the Traxxas Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is not for the faint of heart. As a model racer, it's all about speed and power, requiring you to carry out the highest level of control. Don't say we didn't warn you.
Specifications:
Drive: Four wheel, three belt
Transmission: Two speed (adjustable shift point)
Engine: Traxxas .20 cu in (3.3cc) racing engine
Length: 17" (432mm)
Weight: 62oz (with Rx Battery)
Wheelbase: 10.16" (258mm)
Height: 4.375" (111mm)
Front Track: 7.64" (194mm)
Wheel Diameter: 2.0"
Rear Track: 7.8" (198mm)
