Originally posted by Polobear
Ok, so in my research (which almost feels obsessive at this point, ugh), I have been forced to come face-to-face with the very real dilemma of monster trucks (yeah, yeah, CMO 
...
So I came to this basic question: given the 3 'classes' of offroad vehicles (ST, MT, buggy), what is the ideal or preferred terrain for each?
ST seems to be groomed dirt or other fairly flat ground
MT seems to be rocky, uneven, grass, etc.
So what is a buggy's preferred terrain? Is it a hybrid that can move between classes and perform satisfactorily in both groomed and uneven terrain? Is it still more of a groomed-type rig?
Any insight on this would be appreciated.
Next question, what is the difference between a tuned pipe vs. a ribbed pipe, vs ?? Is there another type? What do most of the RTR models come w/ (pretty basic I imagine). How big a difference would replacing most 'stock' pipes with something better really make? What, then, is considered 'better'?
Last question, what is the advantage of pointing the exhaust pipe forward/back? Most stock models seem to point it forward, most tweakers seem to point it back. What is the difference or advantage of either/both?
Thanks!
pb
Here's my $.02, and I'm sure the old heads will correct me if I have any of this wrong.
Buggies have the least amount of ground clearance, so their more intended to be run on a groomed track. ST's have a bit more clearance, making them suitable for the track or back yard bashing. MT's can pretty much be run on any type of terrain.
I've never heard of "ribbed" pipes, but tuned pipes are preferred. The difference in output between and engine with just a muffler, and that of an engine with a tuned pipe can be astounding. Most RTR's come with a tuned pipe that offers a good compromise between low end torque, and high end hp. Aftermarket tuned pipes are available in a wide variety. There are those that are made to increase bottom end torque, or high end hp, and dual chambered pipes that increase both torque and hp. If I were going to spend the money to buy a specific type of pipe, it would be a dual chambered tuned pipe.
There is no performance advantage/disadvantage to routing your pipe forward or rearward. This is done for cosmetic reasons.