Author: Tim Gluth

Get the Inside Track on Losi’s NASCAR R/C Car [Video]

My love for the R/C hobby can’t be rivaled by many things, but something that comes close is motorsport. Losi’s new 1/12-scale NASCAR R/C Car lineup not only looks like a great entry point for new hobbyists, but it’s also a great way for NASCAR fans to take their love for the sport to another level.

Horizon Hobby and Losi are lifting the curtain on how this product was developed with a four-part series detailing the “Inside Track” on this 1/12 NASCAR replica. The first installment recaps Horizon Hobby’s history with NASCAR, ranging from sponsorships to products.

This first episode contains some interesting tidbits. Without spoiling too much, there is shared DNA between the 1/12 NASCAR R/C Car and ARRMA’s 1/18 GROM Monster Truck. There’s more to the story, and it’s worth checking out.

The Losi NASCAR R/C Car Lineup:

Specs:

Power Type: Electric
Gear Pitch: Mod-0.5
Servos: Included
Final Drive Ratio: 7.76
Motor Type: Brushed
Speed Control: Included
Approximate Assembly Time: No Assembly Required
Body: Painted and Decaled
Pinion: 19T
Scale: 1/12
Product Weight: 935g (33.0 oz)
Vehicle Type: On-Road
Battery: Included
Connector Type: IC2
Gear Ratio: 2.50
Internal Gear Ratio: 2.50
Motor Size: 380
Spur Gear: 59T
Steering Type: 2WS
Suspension: Independent
Charger: Included
Differential: Gear
Max Battery Dimensions: 102mm (4.02 in) x 34mm (1.34 in)
Receiver: Included
Battery Tray Dimensions: 102mm (4.02 in) x 34mm (1.34 in)
Vehicle Size: Mini
Completion Level: Ready-To-Run
Drivetrain: AWD
Drive Type: Forward/Brake/Reverse
Top Speed: 20+
Wheel Hex Size: 8mm
Radio: Included
Radio and Electronics Technology: SLT Protocol, Smart

The Losi NASCAR R/C Car is priced at $179.99 and is available through Losi, Horizon Hobby, and their dealers. This model is currently available for pre-order and is estimated to ship in September 2024.

Visit horizonhobby.com to learn more about this 1/12-scale radio-controlled NASCAR replica.

Image credit: Horizon Hobby

Losi Brings NASCAR into the R/C World with its 1/12 Race Car

Who’s ready to race? Losi has announced its latest motorsport-inspired R/C product, featuring NASCAR. Their 1/12-scale AWD NASCAR R/C Race Car looks like a great entryway vehicle for stock car racing fans who are new to the radio-controlled hobby.

Built on an entirely new platform, these NASCAR R/C cars are 1/12-scale in size and feature brushed motors (380-size), independent front and rear suspension, an adjustable chassis, and licensed NASCAR stock car bodies from Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota.

These models feature highly detailed polycarbonate bodies that mimic the body lines and overall shape of their 1:1 counterparts. They also feature sponsor decals and color schemes from several NASCAR drivers.

This premiere release features Chase Elliott, Martin Truex Jr., Kyle Busch, Kyle Larson, and Ryan Blaney. Of course, Michael McDowell’s Horizon Hobby-sponsored Ford Mustang is also available.

Each Losi NASCAR model includes is ready-to-run (RTR) and includes a 2.4GHz radio, batteries (car and transmitter), and a USB battery charger.

The Losi NASCAR R/C Car Lineup:

Specs:

Power Type: Electric
Gear Pitch: Mod-0.5
Servos: Included
Final Drive Ratio: 7.76
Motor Type: Brushed
Speed Control: Included
Approximate Assembly Time: No Assembly Required
Body: Painted and Decaled
Pinion: 19T
Scale: 1/12
Product Weight: 935g (33.0 oz)
Vehicle Type: On-Road
Battery: Included
Connector Type: IC2
Gear Ratio: 2.50
Internal Gear Ratio: 2.50
Motor Size: 380
Spur Gear: 59T
Steering Type: 2WS
Suspension: Independent
Charger: Included
Differential: Gear
Max Battery Dimensions: 102mm (4.02 in) x 34mm (1.34 in)
Receiver: Included
Battery Tray Dimensions: 102mm (4.02 in) x 34mm (1.34 in)
Vehicle Size: Mini
Completion Level: Ready-To-Run
Drivetrain: AWD
Drive Type: Forward/Brake/Reverse
Top Speed: 20+
Wheel Hex Size: 8mm
Radio: Included
Radio and Electronics Technology: SLT Protocol, Smart

Visit horizonhobby.com to learn more about this 1/12-scale radio-controlled NASCAR replica.

Image credit: Horizon Hobby

Traxxas iD Charging Port for the TRX-4M

Waiting for batteries to charge is never fun, especially when you want to hit the trail or your favorite bashing spot. Owners of the Traxxas TRX-4M now have an easier way to charge their battery packs thanks to the Traxxas iD Charging Port (2821-PORT).

Designed to work with Traxxas EZ-Peak iD Chargers, this plug-in adapter allows you to unlock faster charging speed as well as the full array of features offered by EZ-Peak iD chargers. Balance charging and storage charging are now both available, plus you can monitor the progress of your charge or storage charge with the EZ-Peak Live app (available on iOS and Android).

Bargain-priced at $10.00, the Traxxas iD Charging Port for the TRX-4M will be available direct from Traxxas. Visit traxxas.com to learn more about this battery-charging adapter.

Image credit: Traxxas

Traxxas Releases Two Aluminum Beadlock Wheel Options for the TRX-4M

There’s no shortage of options when it comes to upgrading the TRX-4M. When this model was released, Traxxas had their own array of option parts ready to go, and they’re adding to that lineup with two new 1.0″ aluminum beadlock wheel sets.

Featuring a blend of aluminum (outer face and backing ring) and plastic (wheel barrel) parts, these wheels are designed to work with the stock and option tires offered by Traxxas for the TRX-4M. Both sets of wheels have a modern, multi-spoke design and are available in black or silver finishes.

Traxxas TRX-4M 1.0″ Aluminum Wheel Options:

Each of these wheel sets is priced at $49.95 and are available through Traxxas and their dealers. Visit traxxas.com to learn more about this wheel upgrade for the TRX-4M.

Image credit: Traxxas

Furitek Launches Four Brushless Power Systems for the Redcat Ascent-18

If you want to turn your Redcat Ascent-18 into a brushless crawling dynamo, you’ll want to check out Furitek’s latest releases for the 1/18-scale crawler.

To kick things off, the Furitek Starter 2S Brushless Power System ($89.99) offers an entryway into brushless power for just under $100. As the name implies, this ESC and motor combo can handle 2S LiPo power for hobbyists who want a plug-and-play solution for their small-scale crawler.

This package includes a Lizard Pro 30A/50A Brushed/Brushless ESC with FOC tech, a WiFi tuning module, a Venom 1212 3450kv Brushless Motor, and a 12T Steel Pinion Gear. You will need to supply your own radio system (receiver and transmitter) before putting the Starter 2S Brushless Power System into action.

If you’d prefer to use the transmitter that’s included with the Redcat Ascent-18, Furitek also offers the 2S Starter Brushless Power System with a receiver that’s compatible with the RTR transmitter (for $99.99).

Kicking things up a notch, Furitek has also unveiled its Torpedo Brushless Power System for the Redcat Ascent-18 ($149.99). Similar to the Starter 2S package, this motor and ESC combo offers FOC technology, real-time tuning, and a plug-and-play setup, with the added benefit of 2S-4S support and a smooth 3456kv brushless Cedar motor.

Like the Starter 2S system, the Torpedo Brushless Power System is also available with a receiver ($159.99).

Learn more about these brushless motor and ESC combos for the Redcat Ascent-18 at furitek.com.

Image credit: Furitek

Unboxed: Redcat Ascent-18 [Video]

They got me hook, line, and sinker. Redcat had me at the announcement of their new 1/18-scale R/C crawler, the Ascent-18. Then, they had me at the color choices and the chassis design. Then they dropped the special $99.99 introductory price (through May 1, 2024), and…that was all it took. Less than a week later, a new radio-controlled rig was on my doorstep, ready to be unpacked.

If you’re in the market for a low-cost and compact R/C crawler, take a moment to watch my tabletop overview of the Ascent-18:

Redcat Ascent-18 Specs:

Scale: 1/18
Engine / Motor: RC180 Brushed Motor
Transmission: Forward & Reverse
Drive System: 4 Wheel Drive
Length: 218mm
Width: 130mm
Height: 114mm
Servo Type: 4kg Metal Gear Waterproof Servo
Wheelbase: 155mm
Ground Clearance: 42mm
Chassis Type: 2mm Flat Rail Aluminum
Wheel Width: 15mm
Wheel Diameter: 25.5mm
Suspension: Aluminum Capped Oil Filled Shocks
Speed Control Type: 2-in-1 Brushed ESC/Receiver
Radio System: 2.4GHz Radio System
Battery: 7.4v 750mAh LiPo with USB Charger Included

The Ascent-18 is priced at $119.99, but for a limited time (through May 1, 2024) you can pick up one of these tiny trucks for only $99.99 through Redcat’s launch special. Visit redcatracing.com to learn more about this 1/18-scale R/C crawler.

See it in Action: Redcat Ascent-18 [Video]

Redcat has returned to the small-scale world with the Ascent-18 Crawler. This 1/18-scale rig looks poised to tackle some tough terrain and challenging courses with plenty of opportunity for upgrades.

If you can’t wait to see what this rig can do, check out some action footage from the folks at Redcat:

Redcat Ascent-18 Specs:

Scale: 1/18
Engine / Motor: RC180 Brushed Motor
Transmission: Forward & Reverse
Drive System: 4 Wheel Drive
Length: 218mm
Width: 130mm
Height: 114mm
Servo Type: 4kg Metal Gear Waterproof Servo
Wheelbase: 155mm
Ground Clearance: 42mm
Chassis Type: 2mm Flat Rail Aluminum
Wheel Width: 15mm
Wheel Diameter: 25.5mm
Suspension: Aluminum Capped Oil Filled Shocks
Speed Control Type: 2-in-1 Brushed ESC/Receiver
Radio System: 2.4GHz Radio System
Battery: 7.4v 750mAh LiPo with USB Charger Included

Image credit: Redcat

Redcat Goes Small-scale Crawling with the Ascent-18

Finally, the folks at Redcat are getting (back) into the small-scale crawling game. Years after discontinuing the Sumo rock crawler, they’ve introduced the Ascent-18, a scaled-down version of their 1/10 Ascent Crawler. While this 1/18-scale flat-rail crawler looks just like its larger cousin, it’s compact size should make it a great option as a stowaway rig for camping and vacations, not to mention indoor R/C adventuring.

With a design that’s ready to tackle crawling courses, the Ascent-18 features flat aluminum chassis rails, four-link suspension, oil-filled shocks, and a portal axle setup. Featuring full ball bearings and metal axle gears, this rig is designed to perform whether you’re running indoors or outside.

Along with a chassis design that’s similar to the 1/10 Ascent, Redcat has shrunk down the body of its larger Ascent model to fit the smaller form factor of the Ascent-18. With a front-tilt body mounting system, you can easily access the internals of this rig without messing around with body pins. Three body colors (red, blue, and graphite) are also available, letting you pick an option that fits your style.

Four aggressively styled tires are paired with white, multi-spoke wheels to help give this small-scale crawler plenty of traction for conquering courses. On the power side, the Ascent-18 features a brushed, 180-size motor and a 7.4 2S 750mah LiPo battery to ensure plenty of runtime.

Redcat Ascent-18 Specs:

Scale: 1/18
Engine / Motor: RC180 Brushed Motor
Transmission: Forward & Reverse
Drive System: 4 Wheel Drive
Length: 218mm
Width: 130mm
Height: 114mm
Servo Type: 4kg Metal Gear Waterproof Servo
Wheelbase: 155mm
Ground Clearance: 42mm
Chassis Type: 2mm Flat Rail Aluminum
Wheel Width: 15mm
Wheel Diameter: 25.5mm
Suspension: Aluminum Capped Oil Filled Shocks
Speed Control Type: 2-in-1 Brushed ESC/Receiver
Radio System: 2.4GHz Radio System
Battery: 7.4v 750mAh LiPo with USB Charger Included

Image credit: Redcat

Unboxed: FMS FCX18 Chevrolet K10 [Video]

FMS has finally taken the wraps off of its latest FCX18 model, the FCX18 Chevy K10 Cheyenne. This beautifully detailed 1/18-scale truck features an ABS plastic hardbody, an array of scale visual details, LED lights, and a two-speed transmission. It’s a great companion for your next camping trip or outdoor hike.

The folks at FMS sent me one of these new rigs to take an up-close look at, so here is my unboxing and overview of the FCX18 Chevy K10:

FMS FCX18 Chevy K10 Specs:

Dimensions: 336139139mm
Wheelbase: 199mm
Tire Size: Φ66*22mm
Ground Clearance: 40mm
Approach Angle: 70°
Departure Angle: 33°
Motor: 180 Brushed Motor
Battery: 2S Lipo 7.4V 900mAh
Remote Control Distance: 30m
Approx. Operating Duration Time: 45mins

The FCX Chevy K10 is priced at $179.99 and is available from FMS and their dealers. Visit fmshobby.com to learn more about this 1/18-scale R/C trail truck.

Image credit: FMS

See it in Action: FMS FCX18 Chevrolet K10 [Video]

If you’re looking for a small-scale R/C truck with plenty of visual impact, you won’t want to miss the latest release from FMS, the FCX18 Chevy K10. Joining the Toyota Land Cruiser 80 in the FCX18 lineup, this scale R/C pickup truck looks like it would be a great addition to any R/C enthusiast’s collection.

If you want to see what this rig can do, check out some footage from the folks at FMS:

FMS FCX18 Chevy K10 Specs:

Dimensions: 336139139mm
Wheelbase: 199mm
Tire Size: Φ66*22mm
Ground Clearance: 40mm
Approach Angle: 70°
Departure Angle: 33°
Motor: 180 Brushed Motor
Battery: 2S Lipo 7.4V 900mAh
Remote Control Distance: 30m
Approx. Operating Duration Time: 45mins

The FCX Chevy K10 is priced at $179.99 and is available from FMS and their dealers. Visit fmshobby.com to learn more about this 1/18-scale R/C trail truck.

Image credit: FMS

Author Archives: Tim Gluth

The Losi NASCAR R/C Car Lineup:

Specs:

The Losi NASCAR R/C Car Lineup:

Specs:

Traxxas TRX-4M 1.0″ Aluminum Wheel Options:

Redcat Ascent-18 Specs:

Redcat Ascent-18 Specs:

Redcat Ascent-18 Specs:

FMS FCX18 Chevy K10 Specs:

FMS FCX18 Chevy K10 Specs: