by sunny on February 9, 2010
Venom just announced a new ready-to-race performer designed to compete in 2WD short course races. Called the Venom SCX, the company boasts it's been designed from the ground up to integrate the latest technologies in race truck design.
An innovative new feature that sets it apart from other SCT class trucks, called the MORdrive system, takes front and center for the release. According to Venom, it lets you to move the rear transmission from mid-motor to rear motor, allowing you to shift your center of gravity on the fly. Basically, it allows you to adjust your car's balance while slugging it out in the pits, effectively taking the competition by surprise.
Modeled after the full-scale LOORRS (Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series) racing trucks, the 1/10th scale SCX comes with an aggressive and pre-painted polycarbonate body, decked out in lizard-like, green-themed racing graphics. It boasts rugged tube bumpers, side nerf bars and mud flaps that make the ride look more authentic, apart from providing extra protection from abuse.
Power is delivered by a 550 27T brushed motor, with a free-rotating captured pin-style VCD for more efficient braking and acceleration. Other features include fully-adjustable suspension geometry, threaded composite shocks, externally adjustable slipper clutch, water-resistant radio compartment and concealed servo wires.
From the specs sheet, the Venom SCX sounds like a definite winner, although the body isn't the best-looking we've seen. Bringing innovations that give its driver a real leg up in competition is always welcome in the SCT class and this truck sounds like it truly delivers. MSRP is $299.99 but looks like there are deals available on the net.
More info here at Venom SCX Page.
by sunny on January 7, 2010
With the continuing popularity of short-course RC racing, plenty of sub-par performers are staking their claims at the market. As such, it's becoming vital to go after quality when looking for a model to invest in. The HPI Racing Blitz is a truck we won't think twice about recommending, though.
Elegant and stylish, the Blitz comes with a pre-trimmed Maxxis ATTK-10 body shell that's pre-painted and decorated out of the box. It comes in two colors (either predominantly orange or predominantly black). I heartily recommend the latter (not pictured).
HPI teamed up with Maxxis International for this one, crafting a nasty-looking ride that can strike fear in the heart of everyone taking the dirt tracks with you. It uses collision-ready nylon plastic on all critical areas of the truck (e.g. arms, bumpers) for better survival, an extra-long chassis for stability (based on the E-Firestorm) and chassis braces (both front and rear) for maximum component protection. Want durable performance against the toughest competition? Can't go wrong with that as a starting point, whether you're a beginner or a skilled enthusiast.
A powerful, 540-size Firebolt 15T motor runs inside the hood, giving the Blitz its quick acceleration and race-worthy top speed. The performance is adeptly aided by the brushless-ready transmission (tunable by swapping out oil weights), Maxxis Trepador tire design and 3-degree rear toe block for all-around masterful handling. Other features include rubber-sealed ball bearings, captured hinge pins, quick-mounting batteries and TF-1 radio.
Designed for all skill levels, the HPI Racing Blitz 1/10 Off-Road Short Course Truck is an excellent racer that can withstand a lot of torture on and off the tracks. It offers a flexible room for upgrades, allowing you to tune it to new heights of performance when needed.
Specifications
Type: Off-Road Short Course Truck
Overall Width: 296 mm
Wheelbase: 329 mm
Overall Length: 548 mm
Overall Height: 184 to 200 mm (adjustable)
Transmission: Full-metal gear, pre-filled silicone oil
