I have been running the Hyper 8 pro now for about a year. I have many up grades of that the 8.5 has and can say this is one fine durable well handling buggy. Yes Robert Batlle won the 2007 European Championship with a modified 8.5.

These are the major changes in the 8.5.

6-Gear Spider Diffs
FR2 Extended Main Chassis
FR2 Extended Chassis & Engine Brace
CNC Aluminum 43mm Engine Mounts
CNC Aluminum Arm Holders Front & Rear
CNC Aluminum Servo Arm
CNC Aluminum Lightweight Wheel Hubs
CNC Aluminum Dust Proof Wheel Nuts
CNC Hard Aluminum Big Bore Shocks
CNC Aluminum Clutch Shoes
CNC Aluminum Lightweight Flywheel
Machined Lightweight 14 tooth Clutch bell
Titanium Turnbuckles
Air filter Support
All 5 Available Anti-Roll Bars
Dished Racing Wheels


The problem with the 8 in the states is it is not well supported by Pro drivers. The 8.5 kit is just starting to be available in the states.