Archive for August, 2009
I just pre-ordered a HPI Racing’s Blitz, Short Course Truck. Had to do it for a couple of reason, I don’t own a Short course race truck and most importantly it did not break the bank. Hopefully, it meets my expectations. I should have it in my grease stained hand in September. Oh yea, I will let you have my opinion The short course racing circuit is hot right now and growing so why not join in and get a few thrills. Oh the wife you might ask, what does she think? Haven’t you heard of an early Christmas presents? Hey you got to do what you got to do! Here are some features that impressed me…
All-new main chassis based on the HPI E-Firestorm, that is lengthened to deliver the most stable feel a short-course truck can offer. Threaded shock bodies that allow for really smooth shock action and on the fly adjustability. Unique and proven pivoting skid-plates that are a carry over from the Baja 5T platform, man they can take punch! Maximum rear traction, with installed quick-change 3 degree rear toe block. Bulletproof, all metal gear brushless transmission that is ready and made to withstand my power demands. Silicone oil is also pre-filled in the diff for an enjoyable easy to driving. The super hot HPI Firebolt 15T motor will provide plenty of power. To get the desired control, the sturdy and reliable TF-1 radio. The HPI TF-1 features interchangeable frequency crystals, servo reverse switches, a retractable antenna and simple battery replacement.
I think that’s enough, can’t you see why I am pumped? Stay tuned for my feedback should be interesting. If you get yours first give us a holler!
If you are interested in finding a RC hobby, check out RC boats. Finding a hobby that gives you peace of mind and you are dedicated to is foremost in your RC hobby search. You may choose between RC airplanes, cars helicopters or trucks but consider a RC boat. Learning RC boating skills is something that most people can do. The variety of boats available is fantastic and it doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or change of life old pro, there is a boat for all new skippers!
Beginner RC boats are not as expensive as most RC vehicles so cost will not be an issue. It’s the challenge. There are two primary types of RC boats electric battery powered and gas powered. If you like speed and noise, and I do then get ready for more hands on maintenance and upgraded skill levels. I always recommend Electric RC boats for beginners. Why you might ask, well, I began my RC adventures with a RC boat! I started with RC electric boats and now truly enjoy RC nitro boats. If you noticed, I started with the less expensive RC electric boat and as I gained confidence and skills moved on to RC nitro boats. Anyone with an interest can do this, your choices are simple, learning and honing your skills with a easy to learn RC electric boat or the speed and sounds of a more advanced RC nitro boat. Think about it and your time and commitment level. Where will you run you boat, how competitive do you want to be, competition racing perhaps?
There is no right answer for everyone. Here is the good news, it doesn’t matter! As with all of the other great RC hobbies, if it puts a smile on your face then you have found the right answer.
RC Electric Cars may not be as fast as Nitro cars but today’s electric cars bring surprising raw speed to the track. Take the HPI sprint 2 series electric RC cars. These babies can really burn and make you forget the old days when electric RC cars were thought of as great for kids but to slow for avid RC enthusiast. With new technology being developed everyday RC electric cars are faster than ever. HPI and Traxxas are at the fore front of this technology and are known to build quality competitively priced electric cars. Fuel Cost for nitro cars are constantly going up so in the long run, an RC electric version of a popular RC model can end up saving you money without giving up the much desired excitement that comes with raw speed.
Like any RC vehicle, RC boats need care after each run to stay in top shape and deliver high-performance action every time – perhaps even more so! Water, debris and mud can have harsh effects on boats, and they will suffer from idling problems, rust, corrosion, water leakage and more if you don’t properly care for them. One of the best steps you can take to prevent corrosion and damage to your engine is to run oil in it every time you’re finished with your boat for the day. This will prevent rusting in the delicate internal components – remember, it’s much easier to prevent damage that to repair it!
Also, make sure you always use fresh fuel in your RC boats. If you’re just breaking out your boats in the spring after they’ve been stored away for several months, it can be tempting to use fuel you have leftover from the last time you ran them. However, the oils and lubricants in fuel can break down over time, which leaves your engine less protected. Before you transport or store your boats, always run them completely out of fuel. Otherwise, the fuel can evaporate, which leaves a layer of crud inside the fuel tank and the engine. Finally, make sure you respect the lakes, ponds and streams you run your boats on. Never refuel your boats while they are still in the water, as you can cause harmful fuel spills, and never run them at high speeds near swimmers or waterfowl.
If you think all RC Monster trucks are slow plodders, well, think again and consider the Traxxas Stampede Monster Truck. You will be pleasantly surprised with its power and versatility. With the Traxxas Stampede you get the first high-performance monster truck and the ruggedness that has made the Stampede legendary in monster truck circles and just great fun RC driving.
You know the Traxxas name is associated with high quality and high tech remote control cars, trucks, and buggies. Today’s, Stampede is awesome looking with innovative features like EZ Start technology that gives you the ease of a push-button electric start, while the system concurrently monitors the essential inner-workings of your RC truck and instantly troubleshoots for possible issues. There is a tough 272 transmission, an adjustable slipper clutch, a powerful Stinger 20-turn modified motor, adjustable easily-changed gear ratios, high-volume oil-filled Ultra Shocks, and horsepower to spare. We are talking horsepower to really raise your fun level. The Stampede combines increased horsepower with a tall, drive- anywhere ground clearance; ultra-tough suspension; and simple operation. The brightly finished chrome wheels, add to this powerful monsters performance. And here is the best part, the track-tuned geometrical suspension and fully-adjustable oil-filled shocks gives you awesome speed on the race track. The Stampede is my favorite for all types of RC monster truck action. If you are in the market for a RC Monster truck or looking for a really versatile RC Truck, Please don’t waste your time. Get yourself a Traxxas Stampede for all the right reasons!
I finally decided to purchase and now own a Megatech H2O Elite RC SpeedBoat? Why? Well I wanted a micro RC speed boat that I would enjoy and frankly my kids would as well. With Youngsters control is the key factor and with the Megatech H2O Elite SpeedBoat I knew it had a bigger rudder that offers more rudder control and besides this honey is fast enough to beat a ZigZag 2 Racer in a one on one competition. Now that’s fast! On the water this no fear boat hauls butt with a slight lag at the top end, but because of it’s compact size and ready handling it makes up ground on corners. It springs over waves without regard for capsizing while looking like a pro racer all the time. It’s bad and now running with the fastest for a low price is possible!
If you are interested in the H20 Elite RC SpeedBoat understand that this is a micro RC racer! Measuring out a about 10 inches The H2O has super deck styling and underneath the deck is an advanced way to seal it from leaks. When you take the deck off you will find a fully enclosed main hull with access to the internals through a hatch that clips on. This is an excellent way to reliable keep water away from the electronics! If by chance water does find its way into the hull, the radio and the speed control are also individually encased in waterproof covers. This baby is powered by a 360 motor and a 9.6V NiMh battery, it weighs less but this has no impact on performance. The Megatech H2O Elite RC SpeedBoat comes RTR and includes transmitter, 9.6v battery pack, charger, 9V battery for the transmitter and a display stand which I liked.
I recommend purchasing extra batteries so you and your kids can race all day long!