I hate to start a new thread but want to narrow the selection down to these RTR models:

1. Traxxas Nitro Rustler ($285)
2. HPI Nitro 4X4 MT ($339)
3. Team Associated RC10GT ($289)
4. TeamLosi XXX-NT ($339)

This is for a 10 year old. I know electric is really the best thing for him but I don't want him feeling cheated since EVERYONE else (7 other people) will be running NITRO. Little stinker gets to spend MY income check this year... hehehe

Anyway, this is strictly backyard bashing no REAL racing. I am leaning towards the HPI 4X4 because I think it will be easier to steer for him? My thinking is that with the power going to all 4 tires instead of just the rear 2, it will be easier for him to handle?

My other thought is.... I can also use it to run against the other 3 TMAXX drivers (if my TMAXX is out of commision

The XXX-NT is a close second only because the Radio is digital and has 2 modes (which means I can cut HIS throttle down to 60% and leave mode 2 at 100%)

We plan on doing a lot of OPEN FIELD practice before he gets to his the backyard track. We have to have SOMEONE flipping all the MT's back on their RUBBER.... hehehe (good thing he likes that job)

I think your looking at 4 excellent rigs in your line up....however...the reports that I'm reading about the Rustler is that it is very fast and hard to keep the front wheels on the ground. I'm sure your 10 year old would love to see his rig doing wheelies but at his age...maybe with less driving skills...he would not be that pleased at the overall results.

I have both the RC10GT and the XXX-NT and I really like them both. I tend to gravitate toward the XXX-NT due to the better radio and the "extra" details that are built into this rig.

I also have the HPI MT 4x4 and it also is another good rig....in my opinion....and I think it would handle well for him based on his age. With the crummy weather we have had I have not even had my rigs off-road with the exception of my TMaxx and that is not in your line up....so I can only really offer you advice about on-road conditions. I like them all....and I'm sure you'll pick a winner for his age.

Good Luck!

I would suggest the hpi....the others are more racing type trucks.... the rustler could be a great basher but if you got that I would suggest you find one with the old pro .15 engine because it is slower and a great basher, The new nitro rustler 2.5 is way too fast for a little kid...

i would suggest the rc10gt factory team kit or some type of kit so he can learn about the parts and it's fun to build something. The instructions are easy to follow or you could help him. Also, the rc10gt factory team kit is somewhat of a backyard basher and you can use it for racing with friends...dunno though

if he is bright and hands on id say a kit to, like we all know the only way to really get to know your truck is to build it
gonna sound like a broken record but how are the local hobby shops? if you all have t-maxx they must have great traxxas parts support ....one near me is the same and very little losi products ....therefore id have to order them
id vote rc10gt

I would say the hpi as it should be easier to control and keep on the ground. The rustler is uncontrollably fast, the rc10gt isn't bad at strength but not as agile as the 4x4 hpi, and same with the losi, they are all good trucks though. I just think the 4x4 would be better for bashing. Just my opinion.

Thanks for all the input.

After seeing my nephew not realize that his Air Filter came off.... I decided that NITRO is not for my son...

So, he's getting an EMAXX. Probably this comming weekend.