Question from a n00b
07-22-2012 | 03:21 PM
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From: , PA
Question from a n00b
Hello everyone! I'm new here and I'm going to ask the infamous question... I want to know which RC's my friends andI should look at. We're planning on racing 3 of them together. We have no experience with hobby RCs. We want something thats ready to run, something that is more of a car than a buggy (if possible) and somethingCHEAP. Our budget isn't much more than $200. We plan on running them on all surfaces:asphalt, dirt, and cement to be specific! Also, Ihope someone can explain hobby RCradio frequencies. I see 2.4 GHz and other random numbers on specs of some cars and just want to know what all this means. Can we race three of these at once and if so how does that work with the radio frequency?
07-22-2012 | 03:36 PM
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RE: Question from a n00b
2.4ghz does not require you to change frequencies/crystals... you turn it on and your radio automatically finds and open channel and establishes a connection to your receiver. You can run up to 128 (I think) cars within range of each other.
I would look into one of [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXAPPL**&P=0]these[/link]. They're a reproduction of an old Associated model, and have been proven to be pretty durable, especially for the price. Parts availability is pretty good if you order online. If you want something with great local parts availability, maybe look into a Duratrax Evader? You can get the 75mhz brushed version for about $100, they're tough as nails and just about every hobby shop carries the parts.
I would look into one of [link=http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXAPPL**&P=0]these[/link]. They're a reproduction of an old Associated model, and have been proven to be pretty durable, especially for the price. Parts availability is pretty good if you order online. If you want something with great local parts availability, maybe look into a Duratrax Evader? You can get the 75mhz brushed version for about $100, they're tough as nails and just about every hobby shop carries the parts.
07-22-2012 | 06:12 PM
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From: Tyler TX
RE: Question from a n00b
I would recommend any of the ECX lineup. I did a full review of their Boost buggy a while back and I was very pleased for the price. I will also post a link below to an article I wrote explaining different kinds of transmitters. Let me know if these help.
-Boost review: http://www.modelkits.com/radio-contr...rc-review.html
-ECX's website: http://www.ecxrc.com/
-Article over transmitters: http://www.modelkits.com/radio-contr...nsmitters.html
-Even more in depth over transmitters: http://www.modelkits.com/radio-contr...s-operate.html
-Boost review: http://www.modelkits.com/radio-contr...rc-review.html
-ECX's website: http://www.ecxrc.com/
-Article over transmitters: http://www.modelkits.com/radio-contr...nsmitters.html
-Even more in depth over transmitters: http://www.modelkits.com/radio-contr...s-operate.html
07-22-2012 | 10:08 PM
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From: Kingston UK, but living in Athens, GREECE
RE: Question from a n00b
$200 is a bit low, but should get you something acceptable. The trouble is for that kind of money you won't get a brushless motor, and by comparison the cheap brushed motors that these cars have stock at that price point, are not exciting.
As for the frequencies, as said above, as long as you are all on 2.4ghz, you need not worry about interfering with each other or anyone else.
As for the frequencies, as said above, as long as you are all on 2.4ghz, you need not worry about interfering with each other or anyone else.
07-23-2012 | 04:54 AM
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From: Goode,
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RE: Question from a n00b
I have to agree with Foxy, you'll have trouble finding a decent brushless setup for $200. The world of RC gets very exciting with brushless.
You might try checking out the RTR (Ready To Run) kits on nitrorcx.com. They sometimes have some brushless RTR kits for cheap. Pretty much any style you're interested in. Short course truck, On Road Drifter, Buggy, Monster Truck, etc.
The advantage they have is they are cheap, cheap, cheap. The disadvantage they might have is they are cheap, cheap, cheap. If they break easily, which is a distinct possibility, then you're stuck ordering parts from nitrorcx.
You might try checking out the RTR (Ready To Run) kits on nitrorcx.com. They sometimes have some brushless RTR kits for cheap. Pretty much any style you're interested in. Short course truck, On Road Drifter, Buggy, Monster Truck, etc.
The advantage they have is they are cheap, cheap, cheap. The disadvantage they might have is they are cheap, cheap, cheap. If they break easily, which is a distinct possibility, then you're stuck ordering parts from nitrorcx.
07-23-2012 | 11:32 AM
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From: Grand Haven, MI
RE: Question from a n00b
Arrma Vortex Stadium Truck 2.4GHz rtr. Tower Hobbies sells it. You just have to buy your own battery pack. It's similar to a Duratrax Evader. Parts may be a little difficult to get. I think Tower Hobbies sells parts for it. If not then all you need around is some JB weld. It's a Brushless car but only made for 2S Lipo. I don't recommend 3S unless your trying to blow up your ESC or motor. Or you could just run a NIMH pack.<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: medium; "><table bgcolor="#583087" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" width="100%"/></span>
07-23-2012 | 04:13 PM
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From: kalamazoo, MI
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: BurningEvader1458
Arrma Vortex Stadium Truck 2.4GHz rtr. Tower Hobbies sells it. You just have to buy your own battery pack. It's similar to a Duratrax Evader. Parts may be a little difficult to get. I think Tower Hobbies sells parts for it. If not then all you need around is some JB weld. It's a Brushless car but only made for 2S Lipo. I don't recommend 3S unless your trying to blow up your ESC or motor. Or you could just run a NIMH pack.
Arrma Vortex Stadium Truck 2.4GHz rtr. Tower Hobbies sells it. You just have to buy your own battery pack. It's similar to a Duratrax Evader. Parts may be a little difficult to get. I think Tower Hobbies sells parts for it. If not then all you need around is some JB weld. It's a Brushless car but only made for 2S Lipo. I don't recommend 3S unless your trying to blow up your ESC or motor. Or you could just run a NIMH pack.
sorry, it's brushed.
07-24-2012 | 11:36 AM
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From: , PA
RE: Question from a n00b
How does a brushless motor make it more exciting? Are they faster? I know the price point is low but it's just impossible for us to spend any more at this time... Thanks for all the responses though and the article on frequencies. I'm about to head off and read that now!
07-24-2012 | 11:39 AM
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From: Tyler TX
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: zorb56
How does a brushless motor make it more exciting? Are they faster? I know the price point is low but it's just impossible for us to spend any more at this time... Thanks for all the responses though and the article on frequencies. I'm about to head off and read that now!
How does a brushless motor make it more exciting? Are they faster? I know the price point is low but it's just impossible for us to spend any more at this time... Thanks for all the responses though and the article on frequencies. I'm about to head off and read that now!
07-24-2012 | 11:47 AM
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From: San Clemente,
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RE: Question from a n00b
When you say "More car than buggy" - do you mean like on-road/rally car? or truck? Now lets say to make it clear.. what real full-size car or trucks do you like?
I'm not really sure what you're looking for.<br type="_moz"/>
I'm not really sure what you're looking for.<br type="_moz"/>
07-24-2012 | 12:25 PM
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From: , PA
RE: Question from a n00b
@<span class="subhead">thehuntingterminator I took a look at ECX's website. It really does look like something we'd be interested in, so thanks for that.
@</span><span class="subhead">TheDriftingNarwhal What I meant by that statement was that we were looking for some sort of scale model muscle car like a Mustang or Corvette type deal. From what I've seen online on my own though, there is very little in the ways of that, especially in our price point.</span> We just don't want massive trucks or strange looking buggys. We were looking into something that has a form factor similar to a car. As I said though the form factor is not a huge deal to us. Just an added bonus if we can find it.
@All I do appreciate all the recommendations. Some of this stuff is really great and the articles about the transmitters really help. We are interested in doing short races on a small track so we don't need anything too involved at this time (hence the price point!) So thank you!<br type="_moz"/>
@</span><span class="subhead">TheDriftingNarwhal What I meant by that statement was that we were looking for some sort of scale model muscle car like a Mustang or Corvette type deal. From what I've seen online on my own though, there is very little in the ways of that, especially in our price point.</span> We just don't want massive trucks or strange looking buggys. We were looking into something that has a form factor similar to a car. As I said though the form factor is not a huge deal to us. Just an added bonus if we can find it.
@All I do appreciate all the recommendations. Some of this stuff is really great and the articles about the transmitters really help. We are interested in doing short races on a small track so we don't need anything too involved at this time (hence the price point!) So thank you!<br type="_moz"/>
07-24-2012 | 12:29 PM
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From: Tyler TX
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: zorb56
@<span class=''subhead''>thehuntingterminator I took a look at ECX's website. It really does look like something we'd be interested in, so thanks for that.
@</span><span class=''subhead''>TheDriftingNarwhal What I meant by that statement was that we were looking for some sort of scale model muscle car like a Mustang or Corvette type deal. From what I've seen online on my own though, there is very little in the ways of that, especially in our price point.</span> We just don't want massive trucks or strange looking buggys. We were looking into something that has a form factor similar to a car. As I said though the form factor is not a huge deal to us. Just an added bonus if we can find it.
@All I do appreciate all the recommendations. Some of this stuff is really great and the articles about the transmitters really help. We are interested in doing short races on a small track so we don't need anything too involved at this time (hence the price point!) So thank you!<br type=''_moz''/>
@<span class=''subhead''>thehuntingterminator I took a look at ECX's website. It really does look like something we'd be interested in, so thanks for that.
@</span><span class=''subhead''>TheDriftingNarwhal What I meant by that statement was that we were looking for some sort of scale model muscle car like a Mustang or Corvette type deal. From what I've seen online on my own though, there is very little in the ways of that, especially in our price point.</span> We just don't want massive trucks or strange looking buggys. We were looking into something that has a form factor similar to a car. As I said though the form factor is not a huge deal to us. Just an added bonus if we can find it.
@All I do appreciate all the recommendations. Some of this stuff is really great and the articles about the transmitters really help. We are interested in doing short races on a small track so we don't need anything too involved at this time (hence the price point!) So thank you!<br type=''_moz''/>
07-25-2012 | 08:17 AM
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From: , PA
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: cumquat
just for clarity, is that $200 all in, or $200 plus say $50 for battery and charger? that'll help with recommendations.
just for clarity, is that $200 all in, or $200 plus say $50 for battery and charger? that'll help with recommendations.
Also... another general question:When buying crystals for an AMreciever and transmitter, does one need to buy a kit specific to the vehicle? Isee some online that from what I understand are general crystal kits while some are branded for specific cars and trucks.
07-25-2012 | 09:48 AM
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From: Tyler TX
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: zorb56
$200 in all hopefully... It can be stretched for batteries and things though.
Also... another general question: When buying crystals for an AM reciever and transmitter, does one need to buy a kit specific to the vehicle? I see some online that from what I understand are general crystal kits while some are branded for specific cars and trucks.
ORIGINAL: cumquat
just for clarity, is that $200 all in, or $200 plus say $50 for battery and charger? that'll help with recommendations.
just for clarity, is that $200 all in, or $200 plus say $50 for battery and charger? that'll help with recommendations.
Also... another general question: When buying crystals for an AM reciever and transmitter, does one need to buy a kit specific to the vehicle? I see some online that from what I understand are general crystal kits while some are branded for specific cars and trucks.
http://www.hobbypartz.com/fs-g2-24ghz-radio.html
07-25-2012 | 12:02 PM
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From: kalamazoo, MI
RE: Question from a n00b
here you go http://www3.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...I=LXACAT**&P=0 get the "ultimate package" and use the coupon on the home page to get it for $215 shipped.
EDIT: there also appears to be a $25 cash rebate from the factory
EDIT: there also appears to be a $25 cash rebate from the factory
07-25-2012 | 04:21 PM
#17
RE: Question from a n00b
In my Tower Hobbies catolog, I spotted a Duratrax Evader EXT2 RTR. It' s electric, don't think it's brushless though.
Price: $119.98
Requires: 6-7 cell NiCd/NiMH battery pack, Charger and 8 “AA” batteries<br class="clearAll" /><br class="clearAll" /><! #BeginLibraryItem "/Library/master_page_footer_2010.lbi" >
Price: $119.98
Requires: 6-7 cell NiCd/NiMH battery pack, Charger and 8 “AA” batteries<br class="clearAll" /><br class="clearAll" /><! #BeginLibraryItem "/Library/master_page_footer_2010.lbi" >
07-25-2012 | 04:55 PM
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From: , PA
RE: Question from a n00b
I think we're going to go with the ECX stuff that was shown above. The stuff looks great and leaves open some avenues for future modification. The price is really good and from reviews I've seen online, it looks to be a deal! Thanks again everyone, this has really helped us with our current racing league and helped me personally understand more about the hobby.
07-25-2012 | 04:56 PM
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From: kalamazoo, MI
RE: Question from a n00b
they are pretty good trucks for both beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. they have a few issues when you switch to brushless but they are simple to fix. here is where i bought 2 http://www.ultimatehobbies.com/store...VADER+EXT2+RTR
07-26-2012 | 07:41 AM
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RE: Question from a n00b
As long as you've decided on a ECX vehicle did you see the ECX Torment? It's a short course truck and already includes a 2.4ghz Spektrum radio system in the box. Since you mentioned wanting a more realistic looking vehicle, this may be a better fit for you. Take a look here: http://www.rcsuperstore.com/ProductD...00&click=2
Additionally, if you and your friends considered racing in the future you can install a few upgrades and race in the 2WD short course class at your local club. It opens up more possibilities for you.</p>
07-26-2012 | 07:47 AM
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From: Kingston UK, but living in Athens, GREECE
RE: Question from a n00b
Agree with them as good starter cars, strongly disagree with upgrading them. Why put money into a cheap car, save it and buy a really nice car if you like the hobby. These ECXs, while good starter cars, are bottom of the pile. If you enjoy the hobby, you'll move up quickly, so don't waste money on any hopups that aren't absolutely essential.
07-26-2012 | 08:37 AM
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From: Tyler TX
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: Foxy
Agree with them as good starter cars, strongly disagree with upgrading them. Why put money into a cheap car, save it and buy a really nice car if you like the hobby. These ECXs, while good starter cars, are bottom of the pile. If you enjoy the hobby, you'll move up quickly, so don't waste money on any hopups that aren't absolutely essential.
Agree with them as good starter cars, strongly disagree with upgrading them. Why put money into a cheap car, save it and buy a really nice car if you like the hobby. These ECXs, while good starter cars, are bottom of the pile. If you enjoy the hobby, you'll move up quickly, so don't waste money on any hopups that aren't absolutely essential.
07-26-2012 | 11:01 PM
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RE: Question from a n00b
I agree and disagree. The only upgradesI would have recommended are tires, adjustable camberlinks and a 2S LiPo. If he upgrades to a higher quality truck in the future, the tires and battery can carry over. I wouldn't suggest pouring lots of money into a Torment as its intended buyer is likely new to RC and the truck has simpler features not suitable for more experienced hobbyists. I think it works as a "gateway" truck and would be a reasonable start for somone like the OPwho can invest very little initially.
While typing this post another vehicle came to mind, the Racer's Edge Pro 2: http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_...io-System-Blue
It is also an entry level vehicle but is already equipped with a brushless power system and adjustable suspension. A local hobby shop carries these in Madera and for less than $200 they look good. I don't see a lot of hop-ups available so they are limited in that respect. Still, perhaps this is worth considering.
While typing this post another vehicle came to mind, the Racer's Edge Pro 2: http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_...io-System-Blue
It is also an entry level vehicle but is already equipped with a brushless power system and adjustable suspension. A local hobby shop carries these in Madera and for less than $200 they look good. I don't see a lot of hop-ups available so they are limited in that respect. Still, perhaps this is worth considering.
07-27-2012 | 08:20 AM
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From: Tyler TX
RE: Question from a n00b
ORIGINAL: BKoz559
I agree and disagree. The only upgrades I would have recommended are tires, adjustable camberlinks and a 2S LiPo. If he upgrades to a higher quality truck in the future, the tires and battery can carry over. I wouldn't suggest pouring lots of money into a Torment as its intended buyer is likely new to RC and the truck has simpler features not suitable for more experienced hobbyists. I think it works as a ''gateway'' truck and would be a reasonable start for somone like the OP who can invest very little initially.
While typing this post another vehicle came to mind, the Racer's Edge Pro 2: http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_...io-System-Blue
It is also an entry level vehicle but is already equipped with a brushless power system and adjustable suspension. A local hobby shop carries these in Madera and for less than $200 they look good. I don't see a lot of hop-ups available so they are limited in that respect. Still, perhaps this is worth considering.
I agree and disagree. The only upgrades I would have recommended are tires, adjustable camberlinks and a 2S LiPo. If he upgrades to a higher quality truck in the future, the tires and battery can carry over. I wouldn't suggest pouring lots of money into a Torment as its intended buyer is likely new to RC and the truck has simpler features not suitable for more experienced hobbyists. I think it works as a ''gateway'' truck and would be a reasonable start for somone like the OP who can invest very little initially.
While typing this post another vehicle came to mind, the Racer's Edge Pro 2: http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_...io-System-Blue
It is also an entry level vehicle but is already equipped with a brushless power system and adjustable suspension. A local hobby shop carries these in Madera and for less than $200 they look good. I don't see a lot of hop-ups available so they are limited in that respect. Still, perhaps this is worth considering.
