by sunny on March 24, 2010
Last year, Traxxas introduced a 1/16th scale version of the E-Revo, their power-packing electric monster truck. Incorporating the relatively new Velineon brushless system, which is specifically designed for more diminutive models, it's one small package that doesn't disappoint.
The first thing you'll notice is how big it is. I was looking forward to something really small, yet ended up with a 13-inch long truck that looks gigantic next to 1/18th scales. Parts are good quality - the plastic is thick, the GTR shocks are smooth and everything looks particularly stylish.
If you were expecting wimpier performance from such a sized-down ride, you're mistaken. Out of the box, the E-Revo VXL can go an impressive 30mph. With an added battery pack, it can clear 50mph without breaking a sweat (okay, maybe a little). Vehicle details include a Velineon 380 Brushless Motor, VXL-3M ESC, 23-tooth pinion gear, 50-tooth spur gear, Traxxas 2080 mini steering servo and an all wheel shaft-driven drive train.
Of course, none of that matters until you drive it and this truck performs admirably on that end. Extremely durable, I've had the chassis bottom out with absolutely no damage. It didn't mind any moderate crashes either. Suffice to say, this is built strong. Not only does it deliver in speed, it performs jumps very well (with dependable in-air control, plus enough power to do backflips) and runs over uneven terrain admirably. I actually can't believe it managed to stay on its feet after all the punishing driving I put it through (save for one time).
Overall, the Traxxas E-Revo VXL 1/16 manages to live up to its larger counterpart's reputation. It brings incredible speed, great handling and downright durable performance. Well worth the $280.
Specifications
Length: 12.9"
Width: 9.4"
Wheelbase: 7.9"
Height (overall): 4.6"
Motor: Velineon 380 Brushless
Drive Train: Front and rear sealed differentials, single speed tranny with slipper clutch.
Included Battery: Traxxas "Series 1" 6 cell battery pack and charger. A second battery pack and connector are optional and are sold separately.
Radio equipment: (Included) Traxxas 27MHz TQ radio, Traxxas 2216 4-channel micro receiver, Traxxas VXL-3m Electronic speed controller, and Traxxas 2080 mini steering servo.
by sunny on March 13, 2010
Racing and bashing RC Monster Trucks is a really fun hobby but can be a little intimidating for the beginners specially when trying to decide which model offers best value, durability, ease of use and off course the fun factor. You don't wanna spend hours and hours on tuning and fixing your truck when you should be out there racing them and having fun with your friends.
Big, bad monster trucks with their oversized wheels and high ground clearance are always a sight to behold. Everybody loves them in any form, whether as full-sized car show staples or miniature backyard models. The following remote-controlled trucks with monster bodies are five of the best the business has to offer and generally offer the best bang for your buck.
Note: When it comes to RCs, ranking the best isn't easy. So take this list as one opinion that you can take into account, rather than an absolute rating of the best the platform has to offer.
1. Traxxas T-Maxx
The best-selling RTR nitro monster truck in the world, the T-Maxx series (the latest is 3.3) is a 1/10th-scale model that everyone, from beginners to more advanced enthusiasts, can embrace. Quick, agile and exceptionally fast, it packs what is arguably the most powerful smallblock engine you can find on the platform. More importantly, it has stamped itself accessible by being both easy to tune and maintain, making it possible for absolute newbies to dive in and partake in the fun. Do note that the newer TRX 3.3 engine can be a bit over-the-top for most beginners, so we'd advise less-experienced drivers to stick to the older, but still very much relevant 2.5 version.
2. Traxxas Revo
When it comes to handling and durability, few monster trucks can hold a candle to the nitro-powered Traxxas Revo (currently 3.3), one of the most dominant 1/10th scale vehicles to appear in the production and small block racing classes. Traxxas took a leap of faith with this vehicle, approaching the category differently from the already popular T-Maxx , and came out with an even more versatile truck that packed similar beastly power. Given a choice, we'd go for the Revo over the T-Maxx for serious competition, although we put the latter at number one due to its general accessibility.
3. HPI Savage
One of the most brutish bashers ever released, the Savage delivers a powerful combination of big block power and extreme durability. This 1/8th scale model should handle most anything you throw at it, giving you a permanent grin while you put it through every imaginable grind. Do note there are several versions of the Savage platform available, with the Savage 25 possibly the most bang-for-your-buck basher of the lot and the Savage X 4.6 as the most well-rounded, in case you're looking for one that can do more than trump everything on the backyard.
4. Losi LST
Combining an easy-to-tune big block motor, huge clearance and plush suspension, the LST brings immense power while remaining very agile for its 1/8th-scale size. Very few trucks this big can pull off the same handling and feel, which successfully mimics the driving characteristics of smaller 1/10th size vehicles. Many areas of the truck do require aftermarket upgrades in case you're serious about competing (even the latest XXL version), but the terrific maneuverability, coupled with brawny looks, make for an excellent base from which to build upon.
5. Duratrax Warhead
Delivering a good balance of power and agility, the Warhead is a very worthy competitor in the big block monster truck category. It was marketed as an excellent alternative to the Savage platform early on, because of the similar size and performance, all while providing the ability to be race-tuned. While probably not as durable (we've seen parts of it wear considerably faster than the Savage), this continues to be a favorite among fans of vertical chassis plate setups.
by admin on February 4, 2010
Massive in frame and beautifully laid out, the Traxxas Summit RTR storms in as one of the meanest (if not the absolutely scariest) monster truck currently available out there. An industry-first, it comes equipped with remote-locking differentials that let you lock and unlock both front and rear units directly from your transmitter.
Tough in every way imaginable, this 1/10 scale touts a polycarbonate body, reinforced with a plastic exoskeleton roll cage to ensure additional protection. Suffice to say, extreme conditions won't look all that daunting when you're driving this thing through.
In terms of performance, the Summit’s powerful Titan 775 high-torque motor, superb handling and unconventional power will literally shame everything in its path. Confidently blaze down tracks and aggressively attack jumps at high speeds of over 20 mph. Come across an impossible-looking climb? While every other car turns around, you can simply drop the transmission into first for a stump-pulling 70:1 gear ratio, lock the differentials and crawl your way past it at maximum traction. Literally, it lets you go where no no solid axle RC truck has gone before (well, I think).
With fully-waterproof electronics, unmatched suspension travel and independent ride height adjustment, you can pretty much set this monstrous machine anywhere and have it perform, right? Well, yes and no. Sure, it's a genius of engineering and should handle water, mud and rocks rather easily. However, those metal parts rust (and believe me, they will), so we recommend keeping water immersion to the minimum necessary. You've been warned.
The Traxxas Summit RTR, simply put, looks and feels exceptional. Sure, it's expensive. Expect to get your money's worth, though, in overall performance and smug satisfaction.
Specification:
- Scale: 1/10
- Length: 22.17 inches
- Weight: 175 ounces
- Height: 12.6 inches
- Wheelbase: 14.84 inches
- Track width: 18.48 inches
- Motor: Titan 775 High-Torque, Fan cooled 10-turn
- Speed control: Waterproof EVX-2 Forward/Reverse/Brake
- Radio system: TQ-4 four channel radio system
- Transmission: High-Low Two-Speed
- Differential Type: Remote operated T-lock, limited slip, sealed
- Gear pitch: 32-pitch
- Chassis type: Modified Tube
- Chassis material: Composite Nylon
- Top Speed: 20+ mph
Average retail price: $499.99
More info and pics here at Traxxas Site
by sunny on January 20, 2010
Brutal. That's the word many people use to describe the Traxxas Jato 3.3. Combining the power of the Traxxas Jato stadium truck with a TRX 3.3 Racing Engine, it delivers neckbreaking speeds both on the tracks and off the beaten paths.
Clad in a pre-cut, lightweight body shell, complete with engaging graphics, the car looks as sleek as any high-performance full-scale racer. And it doesn't disappoint. With the help of the souped-up, pre-installed engine and the patented Traxxas EZ-Start system (which will also diagnose issues that arise with your starting functions), the Jato 3.3 can go from 0 to 60 in just 4.2 seconds. Yep, just like your favorite supercars. Speed, however, tops out at 65 mph (read: absolutely not a supercar - just a really fast scale model).
With zero-bump steer-suspension suspension, two-speed torque, GTR shocks and threaded Anaconda performance tires (which should prove extra sticky), this stadium truck boasts an enviable ability to perform under any road conditions. Forget the racetrack roots - it's an all-roader for speed freaks.
It comes with an integrated wheelie bar (coupled with the dependable handling), so you can go wild showing off tricks and stunts to your heart's content. It's built on a strength-tested, extra-durable chassis, so you're guaranteed a stable ride, no matter how challenging.
The Traxxas Jato 3.3 comes with a TQ radio system, ensuring full control and interference-free operation of your machine. It's mostly low-maintenance, but will require 20% Nitro fuel, eight double A batteries and a 7.2v battery for the EZ Start system. Do note that it's recommended primarily for experienced racers.
Specifications:
Length: 16.53 Inches (420mm)
Front Track: 12.87 Inches (327mm)
Rear Track : 13.00 Inches (330mm)
Weight (no fuel) : 83.03oz (5.19lb) (w/4AA in rear + wheelie bar)
Height (overall) : 5.70 Inches (145mm)
Wheelbase: 11.22" Long (285mm) 11.14" Short (283mm)
Wheel Diameter : 2.85 Inches (72.4mm)
Tire Diameter : 4.13 Inches (105mm)
Steering: Bellcrank w/ Integrated Servo Saver
Transmission : Auto Two-Speed
Differential Type: Hardened-Steel Bevel Gear, Sealed
Drive System : Shaft-Driven 2WD
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)
US $375.00
