 |
 |
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| R/C Basics: Cars & Trucks | Great Starter Cars & Trucks | Ultimate Combos | Nitro R/C Basics | Electric R/C Basics | Cars & Trucks Terms | Shopping List |
Quick Links Cars & Trucks Books Car & Truck Categories Car & Truck Accessories R/C Parts Superstore Conversion Calculators Radio Frequency Chart |
 |
How do I get started? Racing Basics
Racing Basics | Electric or Nitro? | What Else Do I Need? | Replacement Parts | What If I Want to Race? Prebuilt vs. Kit Some cars and trucks come in Kit form. You get all the parts necessary to assemble the machine, plus instructions. Often, such "primary accessories" as engine, body, or motor and electronic speed control may be required as additional purchases (follow the Accessories Required links for the model you choose to see a list of the items needed). R/C model car bodies are usually made of clear Lexan plastic. Some trimming may be necessary to remove excess material. Then, using a special polycarbonate paint, you give them whatever color scheme you desire. The chassis goes together with ordinary tools such as screwdrivers, nut drivers, pliers and the like. Although building a kit rather than buying prebuilt does require extra time, there are advantages. You'll gain a expert understanding of how your machine works, which comes in handy when performing maintenance and tuning. Two-Wheel Drive Vs. Four-Wheel Drive In four-wheeled vehicles, there are two main drive types: two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). If you're new to R/C, you may want to consider 2WD. They generally require less overall assembly and maintenance. The tradeoff is that 4WD vehicles offer easier driving and a definite handling edge. Scale
On-Road, Off-Road and More There are six basic types of R/C vehicles to choose from. Models suitable for first-time hobbyists are available in every one!
Whether you prefer the “charge up a battery and go” simplicity of electric buggies or the roaring realism of nitro-powered R/C off-roaders, one thing is shared by both: the ability to tackle virtually any terrain with ease. In your backyard, on a dirt track, or at the park, they're a great way to kick back and cut loose — in some friendly competition or running just for fun!
On-road cars offer minimal suspensions, sleek, sophisticated looks and foot-to-the-floorboard speed. An on-road car can easily be run on a smooth street, parking lot or any other (relatively) flat, paved surface. And whether you decide to go nitro or electric, 1/10, 1/12, 1/18 or even 1/8 scale, there’s impressive variety and authenticity in store.
The undisputed kings of R/C vehicles, Monster Trucks offer the earthshaking excitement of large tires, big power plants, and chassis engineered more for unstoppable torque than all-out speed. Using sheer, brute power, they rumble their way up hills, down slopes — and over unsuspecting cars.
Are they buggies on steroids? Monster trucks made lean and mean? The definition of “truggy” is still evolving, but this much is clear: if you want a machine that combines speed with the toughness to tackle wild stunts and wicked tracks, and R/C truggy is a good way to go.
Run for backyard fun or head-to-head racing, R/C stadium trucks are the fast masters of "bump and jump" excitement. With their heavy-duty suspensions, oversized shocks and large tires, they're built to take punishment and can survive soaring jumps and crushing touchdowns that would disable most vehicles.
Measuring well under a foot in length, “Mini” R/C vehicles like the Vendetta ST shown still have a lot in common with their larger radio-control counterparts. In fact, the chassis components can be just as sophisticated and deliver the same durability, high speeds and smooth handling — just in a smaller size that makes them right for racing almost anywhere, including indoors! Electric or Nitro? | What Else Do I Need? | Replacement Parts | What If I Want to Race? Electric or Nitro? Interest in Nitro (Glow-Engine) Vehicles has grown enormously. Vast improvements in glow engine technology have simplified tuning and maintenance, enabling many more modelers to enjoy the realistic sound and smell that goes along with Nitro power's acceleration and speed. What else do I need? Your model may also require items such as pinion, tires, wheels and body. Again, follow the Accessories Required links for the model you choose to see a list of the items needed. If you order by phone, our friendly Sales and Service reps can also tell you exactly what you'll need for each specific car or truck. Radio Replacement Parts Tower Hobbies carries just about every individual part you might need for any vehicle that we offer. And along with direct replacement parts, we also have many "aftermarket" parts—such as wheels, tires, bodies, suspension and steering components, decals, and so on—that you can use to improve your model's performance and customize its looks. To get replacement parts quickly, take advantage of the R/C Parts Superstore section of our website. There, you'll find convenient, comprehensive parts listings for many of our most popular cars and truck...plus, you'll enjoy LOWER THAN RETAIL prices and reduced rates on postage and handling with items that qualify for Parts Express! What If I Want to Compete? Racing Basics | Electric or Nitro? | What Else Do I Need? | Replacement Parts | What If I Want to Race? |
