by sunny on December 16, 2010
Can't get enough of those Tamiya buggy reissues? Here's one more to join your Buggy Champ and Hotshot: the Tamiya Avante.
During its first release in 1988, the electric buggy made some heads turn for its innovative design. Sporting a formula-type body, a double-deck chassis layout, and longitudinal motor and battery positions, it brought a sophistication to the RC scene that has kept it a nostalgic favorite among the current crop of buggy enthusiasts. In fact, unopened examples of the original vehicle continue to fetch a higher price today compared to any other Tamiya collectible from the same period.
The 2011 Tamiya Avante sticks to the same general design and dimensions of the classic RC, but gets a number of improvements to bring it up to par with today's crop of buggy racers. Updates include the use of carbon fiber for the main frame and various parts (instead of fiber-reinforced plastic composite), universal shafts at both front and rear to reduce friction, easier damper maintenance, duralumin front knuckles and pin-secured wheel axles.
It's compatible with all of Tamiya's current radio systems (including 2.4Ghz), as well as their wide range of battery packs. Just to further feed your sense of nostalgia, they're releasing it in the original packaging, with all parts stored in blister packs.
The 1/10-scale 2011 Tamiya Avante will hit store shelves starting January, with an MSRP of $745.
[TamiyaUSA]
Specifications:
- Length: 420mm
- Width: 240mm
- Height: 115mm
- Wheelbase: 260mm
- Tread (L/R): 200mm
- Minimum Ground Clearance: 40mm
- Weight: 1300g
- Double-Deck Frame
- Tires (F/R): 38/88mm
- Polycarbonate Body
- F/R Multi-Link Suspension
- F/R Metal Oil Dampers
- Gear Ratio: 1:8.33
by sunny on February 8, 2010
As another one in a long line of Tamiya reissues, the Tamiya Boomerang definitely deserves the new leash on life. Like the original Hotshot-based model, the revived buggy is a kit, albeit featuring enhancements that make it both easier to assemble and more fun to ride.
Let's face it. Many of us buy reissues for the meaning they used to have for us. For one of my friends who bought one, a second-hand Boomerang is the first RC he ever owned and this re-release brings that timeless, classic look back to its full glory. The soft edges, the craft-like shape and that big-ass rear wing are all recreated with precision - just beautiful.
The older Boomerang had parts that were a pain in the neck to put together. This new 1/10th scale model kicks that complication to the curb and turns in easy-to-assemble parts. Paired with improvements on the chassis, gearbox, suspension and drivetrain, as well as new placement for the drive shaft, this 21st century model takes everything up a notch.
Power is funneled to the vehicle by a Type 540 motor with TEU-101BK ESC, churning out reliable speed while showing it off your favorite local tracks. Control is a breeze, regardless of skill level. Considering you're probably better now compared to when you were a pimple-faced kid, I have high hopes. All the enhanced parts do make for a better-performing ride, especially during actual runs and turns.
You won't likely be leaving people in the dust with the Tamiya Boomerang, but you'll be driving straight to a trip down memory lane. For many, that should be enough reason to get one. You'll need to purchase a two-channel radio system, battery pack and charger to complete the ride, by the way.
by sunny on January 23, 2010
The 1979 Rough Rider, arguably among the most beloved RC models of all time, turned up as one of the year's most interesting reissues, when it came out in the form of the Tamiya Buggy Champ 2009. Celebrating the model's 30th year anniversary, it aims to give new enthusiasts a taste of the good old days, laced with a hint of modern twist.
Maintaining the wondrously charming look of the old kit, the re-introduced racer brings back the classic in all its glory. Most of the parts stay faithful to the '79 Rider, from the tough, 2mm-thick FRP frame, easy-to-paint white shell, all-terrain wheels and block-treaded rubber tires. If you owned one in the past and are looking to rekindle some old passion, this one's likely to do it.
The addition of several new reinforcements, such as a plastic roll cage and an improved front bumper capably brings it up to modern durability requirements. You’ll also find considerably improved performance with newly-tuned and improved operational parts, including an ESC and Type 540 motor.
Hardcore purists will probably bemoan the much-improved handling (compared to the terrible one on the original). However, the inclusion of updated front and rear suspensions, front axle, and wheel hubs make it possible to pit this in races along with newer models. The Buggy Champ also comes with a clear waterproof case to ably protect the car's internals.
Like the old version, the limited-edition Tamiya Buggy Champ 2009 comes as a self-assembled kit, allowing you to savor the classic in its entirety before rolling it out to the tracks. The geeky free shirt that comes with the box also adds a fairly nice touch.
Specifications:
Types: RC 1:10, Buggy, Electric-Powered, On Road
Overall length: 400mm
Width: 210mm
Height: 150mm
Wheelbase: 250mm
Tread: F170mm R175mm
Tire Width / Diameter: F19/74mm R35/83mm
Motor: Tamiya 540 size
