Friday.
RC cars evolve too. Embrace change. Experiment. Go faster.
See you Monday!
-Tommy
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
2014 Reedy International Touring Car Race of Champions
Reedy Race at the Tamiya Circuit. Hot off RC10.com:
What started out many years ago as Mike Reedy's vision to showcase the world’s best drivers in a format unlike any other ever used in RC racing, has grown to be one of the most anticipated and prestigious RC races in the world.
Reedy, Tamiya America, and Scotty Ernst Productions are proud to announce that after a five-year absence, the Reedy International Touring Car Race of Champions will return to the Tamiya America circuit May 22-25, 2014.
After 5 years, two fantastic brands, AE and Tamiya are joining forces to provide a fantastic race. Not unlike the Prestigious Reedy Off Road, the Reedy Touring Invitational Class(and Open) offer fantastic, top notch racing.
When The location was announced, my child like mind immediately imagined the greatest touring car racers in the world with not yet released, prototype cars, ready to blow minds on the RedRC Twitter feed.
Like The Jet-Vulcan:
Awesome. Although I had no idea this existed until I had gone further into the Tamiya website than Jang and Ultimate Tamiya could even dream of going. I was in deep on Tamiya.com and there seemed to be now way to get back to 1:1.
But, dang. Imagine Reedy racers piloting a machine like the Jet-Vulcan going "wing to wing" with a Black-Atlas or the Dyna Triger on the Sochi Sliding Center like walls of the fifure 8 Dangun Circut:
This smoothly curved track is just what Dangun Racers require to reach their top speeds and push past rival cars for the lead. In fact, what is unique about the Dangun Circuit is that all the action happens on the same track-no barriers between your car and your rivals'! That means exciting bumping, jostling, sliding, and passing, all at break-neck speeds. Quality constructed Dangun Circuit features simple snap together assembly and does not require any tools.
Well, a blogger can dream.
The good news is that they'll be shredding mod and 13.5 touring cars around the beautiful Tamiya Raceway in Aliso Viejo, California
Gorgeous facility. It seems that Timaya uses the track for teasting most of the time. On Saturdays though, the track is open to the public.
This video highlights the onroad asphalt track and possibly the most authentic baja course:
I can't wait to watch the best go toe to toe at the 2014 Reedy Onroad.
As long as I'm dreaming of the possibilities of the track I' also like to think they take only the best cars, trucks and buses to get there:
Take care
-Tommy
What started out many years ago as Mike Reedy's vision to showcase the world’s best drivers in a format unlike any other ever used in RC racing, has grown to be one of the most anticipated and prestigious RC races in the world.
Reedy, Tamiya America, and Scotty Ernst Productions are proud to announce that after a five-year absence, the Reedy International Touring Car Race of Champions will return to the Tamiya America circuit May 22-25, 2014.
After 5 years, two fantastic brands, AE and Tamiya are joining forces to provide a fantastic race. Not unlike the Prestigious Reedy Off Road, the Reedy Touring Invitational Class(and Open) offer fantastic, top notch racing.
When The location was announced, my child like mind immediately imagined the greatest touring car racers in the world with not yet released, prototype cars, ready to blow minds on the RedRC Twitter feed.
Like The Jet-Vulcan:
Awesome. Although I had no idea this existed until I had gone further into the Tamiya website than Jang and Ultimate Tamiya could even dream of going. I was in deep on Tamiya.com and there seemed to be now way to get back to 1:1.
But, dang. Imagine Reedy racers piloting a machine like the Jet-Vulcan going "wing to wing" with a Black-Atlas or the Dyna Triger on the Sochi Sliding Center like walls of the fifure 8 Dangun Circut:
This smoothly curved track is just what Dangun Racers require to reach their top speeds and push past rival cars for the lead. In fact, what is unique about the Dangun Circuit is that all the action happens on the same track-no barriers between your car and your rivals'! That means exciting bumping, jostling, sliding, and passing, all at break-neck speeds. Quality constructed Dangun Circuit features simple snap together assembly and does not require any tools.
Well, a blogger can dream.
The good news is that they'll be shredding mod and 13.5 touring cars around the beautiful Tamiya Raceway in Aliso Viejo, California
Gorgeous facility. It seems that Timaya uses the track for teasting most of the time. On Saturdays though, the track is open to the public.
This video highlights the onroad asphalt track and possibly the most authentic baja course:
I can't wait to watch the best go toe to toe at the 2014 Reedy Onroad.
As long as I'm dreaming of the possibilities of the track I' also like to think they take only the best cars, trucks and buses to get there:
Take care
-Tommy
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Judgment Day
Since I work in the bicycle industry, co workers love to talk tech and pick my brain about rc. It is often dificult to convey to a coworker why I spend so much time and money racing toy cars, but I seem to come to the same conclusion each time that we can all agree on, "It's fun."
Since the two past times cycling and rc rarely come into the same conversation, it's a big deal when it does. A co worker forwarded a video of a remote controlled robot riding a bike
Amazing. The future of racing remote controlled bicycling robots looks bright. So we are at the fork in the road. We, as rc car racers, chose to control our machines and race them in circles. Others have chosen to teach the machines to race themselves.
Wedensday!
-Tommy
Since the two past times cycling and rc rarely come into the same conversation, it's a big deal when it does. A co worker forwarded a video of a remote controlled robot riding a bike
Amazing. The future of racing remote controlled bicycling robots looks bright. So we are at the fork in the road. We, as rc car racers, chose to control our machines and race them in circles. Others have chosen to teach the machines to race themselves.
That photo is from the 2011 International Autonomous Robot Racing Competition.
Technologies involved in the Robot Racing challenge come from a wide
range of disciplines of interest to both industry and engineering
education. Engineering students in all disciplines today do well to have
a familiarity with each of these technologies. These technologies are
vital to today’s emerging industries. These robots are finding their way
in applications such as space exploration, mining, search and rescue,
remote sensing and automotive inspection. Some autonomous robots are
even becoming common around the home for routine tasks such as
vacuuming, mowing lawns, parking cars, and in future, driving cars.
So, Students and hobbyists teaching robots to race.
If we consider the possibilities, this could be one step closer to close to Judgment Day.
If GnR are playing on the judgement day, I've got paypal ready for tickets.
To keep my coworkers in mystery about what an rc race looks like, I've decided to run with this niche of robot racing as somehow related to the bottom of the b main racing I do.
With all of this badass coming forth as I dig deeper into robot racing, it makes me proud to control these future, german accented killing machines.
Wedensday!
-Tommy
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Them's The Rules
Took the day off work to fix up the house a little. Which has been a solid excuse for just catching up on perhaps the last true news source for unbiased who's hot list, The View. It's the perfect all star lineup to stay up to date on who's dating who and where it's cold in the US.
Since I'm home catching up on celebrity buggies and trucks, I also have a clothes washer repair man coming by, for his third time in as many weeks. No biggy, it's under warranty, but as someone who prides himself on taking things apart, breaking them and then zip tying and dremeling it back together; a repair man just stings a little.
I've gotten to hang with the repair man twice already and I'm all set for our third date. Fingers crossed that he brought his "A" game.
While I wait and take in Ye Ole View, it's forum time. It sounds like things are heating up on both social media and forums for rc racers.
At RCtech.net, the seemingly endless debate of saucing continues.
In the search for better traction, and faster lap times, we, rc car racers put toxic liquid chemicals on our tires. The "tire sauces" allow the rubber to soften, which equal traction, which equals faster lap times. All at a dollar and health cost, because softer tires wear faster, and a health cost, because toxic chemicals are bad.
This is the RC world saying, "Yes, to steroids." They are bad, but we want the benefits. And unlike athletic endevours, no one is saying we can't.
Tire softeners are not cheating, because it is not an unfair advantage. If they were banned, then using sauce would be cheating.
The bottom line is: we're racers. Tell us the rules to race by and we'll fill in the gaps. Until the rules change, the playing field is, well, level.
Unlike that cruel mistress Tire Sauce that we do have a choice to use or not, some choices are written down. And we call those choices "rules."
Like the simple race sign up sheet.
Just like not being able to run 4wd in a 2wd class, you also need to know if your "sponsorship" puts you in a new category.
That was too vague a request for some at the Nitro Challenge. And unfortunately, two "Open Class" podium finishers at this past weekend's Nitro Challenge got the boot(disqualified) for not following the rules.
By announcement, all 700(!) or so racers had to comply with the race organizers rule: "Don't race open if you have a chassis sponsor."
Pretty simple. But the rule was broken.
I'm intrigued by this "category" assigning in our hobby. It really is a tough subject when there are not a broader guide as to how to categorizes yourself.
If rc was like bicycle racing, I'd still be a cat 5 trying to"cat up" which would most likely lead to me showing up to races more to get "upgrade points" or something similar. If I was racing in a slower bicycle racing category to achieve higher results, I would be shamed and called a sandbagger.
Thankfully for this "dabbler in the rc arts" rc car racing is different. It is run what you brung, use what you feel is justified and within your skill. The clock will sort everyone out.
But I do ask is that we keep the e cigs off the drivers stand. Because some of us are trying to breathe that sweet sweet nitro.
Take care and watch out for each other.
-Tommy
 |
| Ty is so hot right now. |
Since I'm home catching up on celebrity buggies and trucks, I also have a clothes washer repair man coming by, for his third time in as many weeks. No biggy, it's under warranty, but as someone who prides himself on taking things apart, breaking them and then zip tying and dremeling it back together; a repair man just stings a little.
I've gotten to hang with the repair man twice already and I'm all set for our third date. Fingers crossed that he brought his "A" game.
While I wait and take in Ye Ole View, it's forum time. It sounds like things are heating up on both social media and forums for rc racers.
At RCtech.net, the seemingly endless debate of saucing continues.
In the search for better traction, and faster lap times, we, rc car racers put toxic liquid chemicals on our tires. The "tire sauces" allow the rubber to soften, which equal traction, which equals faster lap times. All at a dollar and health cost, because softer tires wear faster, and a health cost, because toxic chemicals are bad.
This is the RC world saying, "Yes, to steroids." They are bad, but we want the benefits. And unlike athletic endevours, no one is saying we can't.
Tire softeners are not cheating, because it is not an unfair advantage. If they were banned, then using sauce would be cheating.
The bottom line is: we're racers. Tell us the rules to race by and we'll fill in the gaps. Until the rules change, the playing field is, well, level.
Unlike that cruel mistress Tire Sauce that we do have a choice to use or not, some choices are written down. And we call those choices "rules."
Like the simple race sign up sheet.
Just like not being able to run 4wd in a 2wd class, you also need to know if your "sponsorship" puts you in a new category.
That was too vague a request for some at the Nitro Challenge. And unfortunately, two "Open Class" podium finishers at this past weekend's Nitro Challenge got the boot(disqualified) for not following the rules.
By announcement, all 700(!) or so racers had to comply with the race organizers rule: "Don't race open if you have a chassis sponsor."
Pretty simple. But the rule was broken.
I'm intrigued by this "category" assigning in our hobby. It really is a tough subject when there are not a broader guide as to how to categorizes yourself.
If rc was like bicycle racing, I'd still be a cat 5 trying to"cat up" which would most likely lead to me showing up to races more to get "upgrade points" or something similar. If I was racing in a slower bicycle racing category to achieve higher results, I would be shamed and called a sandbagger.
Thankfully for this "dabbler in the rc arts" rc car racing is different. It is run what you brung, use what you feel is justified and within your skill. The clock will sort everyone out.
But I do ask is that we keep the e cigs off the drivers stand. Because some of us are trying to breathe that sweet sweet nitro.
Take care and watch out for each other.
-Tommy
Monday, February 24, 2014
Monday Endurance
After a long weekend, I was more than happy to sit through the finishing hour of the Daytona 500. One highlight was when they suggest the viewer crank up the volume!
This "crank it up" couldn't come soon enough for me. The only problem I had during my edge of the seat viewing was constantly trying not to through food at the commentators. It was a strange mix of WWF and golf commentary, lots of child like screaming and too much back story. All wrapped up in a "brought to you by" blah blah blah.
I wish I had turned the volume of the 500 down and turned this on this video as the audio:
SO GOOD!
The Daytona 500 was awesome. It turns out I am a fan.
Conveniently for me the finish was on after the sun went down and I had gotten all my Sunday errands in. That meant I went on a bike ride, hung out with family and friends and made it to Lowe's just in time to remind myself that I know nothing about home repair.
Speaking of shorts, I hope every one cot to watch some of the Dirt Nitro Challenge.If you didn't maybe you can find some time while waiting for your Lowes guy to figure out which aisle is electrical.
Here's to a good start to the week!
-Tommy
Friday, February 21, 2014
Please Stand By
Friday! And I'm stoked. Setting up my Saturday morning tv is really the biggest part of my Friday, so I'll let you all in on the deets.
First up Dirt Nitro Challenge: RUN DNC!
This will be on the top of my list. I'm normally a buggy lover, but the truggies are beasts. The Truggies are HUGE! They may as well have small people in those things. The government should not be affraid of drones, because 1/8 Nitro Truggies will do way more damage.
As long as they don't need marshaling.
The DNC will be going off all weekend, and I'm stoked, but 1/10 offroad is where my heart is at, so I'll be watching the Euro Winter Open Championships as well.
The Brits start their indoor off road in just 16 hours.
Which means I get to wake up and cruise over to the couch in my vinyl footed, button up one piece pjs tomorrow and sit down with a popcorn bowl of fruit loops to watch some sweet astro turf action while solving the puzzles on the back of the cereal box.
Expect some of the most passionate race commentary in the Queen's English if Nick Daman is within 20 meters of a microphone. Love this guy:
They deliver solid coverage and you should check out rcracingtv.net if you need your fix.
I expect to be dressed in something "socially acceptable" by 2pm for some sunny day house work.
Or really, some pre-season rc wrenching which may include some rc car body paint huffing.
Jconcepts share a great fan vid of the entire creative process of painting and getting what I like to call a "Tamiya High" here:
And while my rc car painting is traditionally a one or two can "spray special," which end up looking Warhol with crayons on the BMW m1.
Hope you all have a great Friday working and an even better Saturday chillin or racing. Here's a pro tip for doing secret work(assuming your employer doesnt mind you looking at a blank screen all day)
Party like it's friday!
-Tommy
First up Dirt Nitro Challenge: RUN DNC!
This will be on the top of my list. I'm normally a buggy lover, but the truggies are beasts. The Truggies are HUGE! They may as well have small people in those things. The government should not be affraid of drones, because 1/8 Nitro Truggies will do way more damage.
As long as they don't need marshaling.
The DNC will be going off all weekend, and I'm stoked, but 1/10 offroad is where my heart is at, so I'll be watching the Euro Winter Open Championships as well.
The Brits start their indoor off road in just 16 hours.
Which means I get to wake up and cruise over to the couch in my vinyl footed, button up one piece pjs tomorrow and sit down with a popcorn bowl of fruit loops to watch some sweet astro turf action while solving the puzzles on the back of the cereal box.
Expect some of the most passionate race commentary in the Queen's English if Nick Daman is within 20 meters of a microphone. Love this guy:
 |
| Nick Daman's passion for all tiny racers |
They deliver solid coverage and you should check out rcracingtv.net if you need your fix.
I expect to be dressed in something "socially acceptable" by 2pm for some sunny day house work.
Or really, some pre-season rc wrenching which may include some rc car body paint huffing.
Jconcepts share a great fan vid of the entire creative process of painting and getting what I like to call a "Tamiya High" here:
And while my rc car painting is traditionally a one or two can "spray special," which end up looking Warhol with crayons on the BMW m1.
Hope you all have a great Friday working and an even better Saturday chillin or racing. Here's a pro tip for doing secret work(assuming your employer doesnt mind you looking at a blank screen all day)
Party like it's friday!
-Tommy
Thursday, February 20, 2014
#REALTALK
One thing I try and use RC for is to escape reality. I dive deep into the forums for the latest hack, tip and mod. Then crawl back out totally defeated after battling the nuances of metric vs standard and emulsion vs bladder. Battles I enjoy and try learn as much as I can while taking and giving keyboard punches.
This blog is mearly my way of regurgitating some of what I've over eaten while staring at a computer.
I did overstep my spamming on the forums and got modded pretty hard. Which is okay, because there are plenty of other outlets to wave my arms and yell "hey, look at my blog!"
One great alternative to the forum spamming is to tweet on twitter. So I'm on it.
Chirp. Chirp.
At the heart of any hobby is an opportunity to do something that does not matter in the big scheme of things, just a few hours with nothing but the track, the competition and my lack of skills to have some leisure time.
But every once in a while, at the time I most need t just sit down and rebuild my diff, point the tv antenna in the right direction and inevitably, real life creeps in.
And by real, I really just mean the Olympics. And by creep in, I mean my bunny rabbit ears pick them up without too much static.
Damn that looked hard.
And that was just silly.
Real world. Real problems.
It turns out the pastimes I enjoy the most like rc, skateboards and free speech are not things that will be tainted by the Olympics anytime soon.
Antennas are bliss. Not knowing what I'm missing on cable is cool with me. I assume cable is like youtube, but costs money and you have to wait for shows to be on.
At youtube, LiveRC is my ESPN, Scotty Ernst is my Madden and Tebo is my Tammy Faye. I'm the simple believer.
With real world creeping in, I've got to block it out with some sensible 1:1 car. That's when Chris Harris and drive come in.
Best black car ever?
Great to see Mclaren going green and taking on the Prius.
Speaking of green, here is a video of 1/8 Ebuggy battles from the 2013 Dirt Nitro Challenge at the Fear Farm in Pheonix
Awesome racing. The best part is that VRCPRO just released the layout for all weather racers like me
This blog is mearly my way of regurgitating some of what I've over eaten while staring at a computer.
I did overstep my spamming on the forums and got modded pretty hard. Which is okay, because there are plenty of other outlets to wave my arms and yell "hey, look at my blog!"
One great alternative to the forum spamming is to tweet on twitter. So I'm on it.
Chirp. Chirp.
At the heart of any hobby is an opportunity to do something that does not matter in the big scheme of things, just a few hours with nothing but the track, the competition and my lack of skills to have some leisure time.
But every once in a while, at the time I most need t just sit down and rebuild my diff, point the tv antenna in the right direction and inevitably, real life creeps in.
And by real, I really just mean the Olympics. And by creep in, I mean my bunny rabbit ears pick them up without too much static.
Damn that looked hard.
And that was just silly.
Real world. Real problems.
It turns out the pastimes I enjoy the most like rc, skateboards and free speech are not things that will be tainted by the Olympics anytime soon.
Antennas are bliss. Not knowing what I'm missing on cable is cool with me. I assume cable is like youtube, but costs money and you have to wait for shows to be on.
At youtube, LiveRC is my ESPN, Scotty Ernst is my Madden and Tebo is my Tammy Faye. I'm the simple believer.
With real world creeping in, I've got to block it out with some sensible 1:1 car. That's when Chris Harris and drive come in.
Best black car ever?
Great to see Mclaren going green and taking on the Prius.
Speaking of green, here is a video of 1/8 Ebuggy battles from the 2013 Dirt Nitro Challenge at the Fear Farm in Pheonix
Awesome racing. The best part is that VRCPRO just released the layout for all weather racers like me
Currently VRC-Pro only offers nitro 1/8 buggies. Maybe someday us gamers can practice with the ebuggies.
Or better yet, maybe hybrid systems can work their way into the nitro cars for longer run times??
A dude can dream.
Have a great Thursday!
-Tommy
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
DIY Field of Dreams
The 2014 Dirt Nitro Challenge track has been unveiled.
Associated is bringing the recently French smoked prototype RC8 to battle in the hands of the Ryans.
Also, the full 2014 Montpellier GP is available on the youtubes.
Maybe it's the motocross type jumps or maybe it's the size and brutality of the track rutting, but dang, watching 1/8 scale offroad is rad.
It's hard to not be impressed by the production of a big event. Whether it's the attendance like we saw at Motorama, or the man hours that go into the maintenance to keep tracks professionally maintained like Chico this past worlds, the end justify the means.
Here's a clip of JoeyChristiensen building Chico for this past worlds:
I defiantly gotta hand it to the folks who provide, build and invite racers to participate. Each track ends up with it's own personality. Each owner get's their Kevin Costner track.
As proud as I am of keeping the lawn mowed and the leaves raked, I can't help but wonder if I could step it up in my backyard with a "track" of sorts.
Keeping it blue groove would be out of the question, so it may be a little time capsul of early 90's style loom, with a tad more air thrown in.
With all the parts available for RC10's these days, maybe even make it vintage specific? Silver can only?
Or I could take Kevin Burnett's lead and go big:
Damn! that rules. Little did Keven's wife know that rc car gift would turn into the nitro races keeping her from sleeping.
I'd love to go big. But, Let's face it, I might throw two rocks on the lawn for figure eights.
I'll keep dreaming of what I could do with 50x40 of flat lawn, but I tend to go off course if I wait to long. Then things get way out of hand.
Have a great hump day!
-Tommy
Associated is bringing the recently French smoked prototype RC8 to battle in the hands of the Ryans.
Also, the full 2014 Montpellier GP is available on the youtubes.
Maybe it's the motocross type jumps or maybe it's the size and brutality of the track rutting, but dang, watching 1/8 scale offroad is rad.
It's hard to not be impressed by the production of a big event. Whether it's the attendance like we saw at Motorama, or the man hours that go into the maintenance to keep tracks professionally maintained like Chico this past worlds, the end justify the means.
Here's a clip of JoeyChristiensen building Chico for this past worlds:
I defiantly gotta hand it to the folks who provide, build and invite racers to participate. Each track ends up with it's own personality. Each owner get's their Kevin Costner track.
As proud as I am of keeping the lawn mowed and the leaves raked, I can't help but wonder if I could step it up in my backyard with a "track" of sorts.
Keeping it blue groove would be out of the question, so it may be a little time capsul of early 90's style loom, with a tad more air thrown in.
With all the parts available for RC10's these days, maybe even make it vintage specific? Silver can only?
Or I could take Kevin Burnett's lead and go big:
Damn! that rules. Little did Keven's wife know that rc car gift would turn into the nitro races keeping her from sleeping.
I'd love to go big. But, Let's face it, I might throw two rocks on the lawn for figure eights.
I'll keep dreaming of what I could do with 50x40 of flat lawn, but I tend to go off course if I wait to long. Then things get way out of hand.
Have a great hump day!
-Tommy
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Last Chance Tuesday
You made it through Monday. All caught up at work and now today's the tough one. Yup, Tuesday.
Tuesday is the absolute LAST chance you have to shipping that "lightly used" rc8 you sold Friday after work on RCTech.net. Get it out today, before the buyer calls B.S. on your claim of "ready to ship" and the mods start asking questions.
With The Dirt Nitro Challenge coming up, my mind is all about 1/8 offroad.
Plenty of news to keep your eyes on. Yesterday, Neobuggy.net published their thoughts on the prototype RC8. Other than noting the designer, Josh Alton, I skimmed over the words in the article to get to good stuff: The pics.
There were many fantastic battles to watch the last few years in eigth scale offroad. With plenty of youtube videos of the action, all I had to do was pick a color of anodizing and cheer my brains out for it as it goes 25+ feet in the air.
Here's a race that had me at the edge of my seat.
Since I had plenty of time after work yesterday to peruse my local listings for that next no-strings craigslist thrill. And by no strings attached, I mean remote controlled.
And although, I don't normally put my life on the line, one ad in particular scared this freshly minted husband, the WidowMaker:
I have a sweet rc Electric Boat. with a brushless motor Traxxas VXL 3 esc with Spektrum receiver all you need to do is sink to your remote its 22 inch long with a single water pick up. Any questions txt call or email xxx xxx xxxx
At first I thought this was merely a misplaced ad for a nautical hit man service, or "boat widow maker."
So I threw it through the Gizoogle.net and the ad became crystal clear:
I gots a thugged-out dope rc Electric Boat. wit a funky-ass brushless motor Traxxas VXL 3 esc wit Spektrum receiver all you need ta do is sink ta yo' remote its 22 inch long wit a single gin n juice pick up fo' realz. Any thangs txt call or email xxx xxx xxxx
Well, then! You're damn right I'm ready to put it $250(or 80 bux and a well loved Ipod) on the line for this sweet remote controlled electric boat! Though I'm not prepared to sink my remote in anything. Also, I have no idea why it has taken a husband from this earth, but who cares? That matte black 22 inches of killer is clearly a weapon of choice out on the high seas.
The original owner probably purchased it originally to one up his friend trying to sell the RC Surfer, perhaps the widow was the rc surfer's wife? Only the craiglist historians know for sure.
It can also be assumed that the previous owner of this sweet boat was most likely Dee Snider of Twisted Sister fame, before this offspring:
I seem to really gravitate to rc water sport lately. Maybe it's this winter weather, maybe it's my need to smell the ocean breeze again.
Especially since breathing gas exaust isnt the only thing potentially damgerous when it comes to indoor motorsport:
Roll this dice, pay the price.
Happy sailing, rocking and karting. This land lover is gonna stay in the pits, sidelines or on the driver's stand.
-Tommy
Tuesday is the absolute LAST chance you have to shipping that "lightly used" rc8 you sold Friday after work on RCTech.net. Get it out today, before the buyer calls B.S. on your claim of "ready to ship" and the mods start asking questions.
With The Dirt Nitro Challenge coming up, my mind is all about 1/8 offroad.
Plenty of news to keep your eyes on. Yesterday, Neobuggy.net published their thoughts on the prototype RC8. Other than noting the designer, Josh Alton, I skimmed over the words in the article to get to good stuff: The pics.
 |
| RC8 proto: All thriller, no filler. |
There were many fantastic battles to watch the last few years in eigth scale offroad. With plenty of youtube videos of the action, all I had to do was pick a color of anodizing and cheer my brains out for it as it goes 25+ feet in the air.
Here's a race that had me at the edge of my seat.
Sick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Although I don't see myself getting involved in the 1/8 offroad category anytime soon, I do love some Monday morning transmitting and yelling "Marshal!!!!!" in the office.
The Montpellier GP was this past weekend and Neobuggy had their cameras everywhere. Tons of tips in this interview with Bloomfield:
My vote for the cutest logoed company ever goes to Team Azarashi.
 |
| Hello Kitty RC |
They just released a limited edition body for the Kyosho RB6 called the Pholc. Which is a none cab forward body. Super cool to see the options. On a side note, I was really hoping Pholc is pronounced "Folk" because I'm immature and want to make a folk rock crawler joke. Like this:
 |
| Pholc Rock Crawler |
And although, I don't normally put my life on the line, one ad in particular scared this freshly minted husband, the WidowMaker:
rc boat widowmaker - $250
I have a sweet rc Electric Boat. with a brushless motor Traxxas VXL 3 esc with Spektrum receiver all you need to do is sink to your remote its 22 inch long with a single water pick up. Any questions txt call or email xxx xxx xxxx
At first I thought this was merely a misplaced ad for a nautical hit man service, or "boat widow maker."
So I threw it through the Gizoogle.net and the ad became crystal clear:
I gots a thugged-out dope rc Electric Boat. wit a funky-ass brushless motor Traxxas VXL 3 esc wit Spektrum receiver all you need ta do is sink ta yo' remote its 22 inch long wit a single gin n juice pick up fo' realz. Any thangs txt call or email xxx xxx xxxx
Well, then! You're damn right I'm ready to put it $250(or 80 bux and a well loved Ipod) on the line for this sweet remote controlled electric boat! Though I'm not prepared to sink my remote in anything. Also, I have no idea why it has taken a husband from this earth, but who cares? That matte black 22 inches of killer is clearly a weapon of choice out on the high seas.
The original owner probably purchased it originally to one up his friend trying to sell the RC Surfer, perhaps the widow was the rc surfer's wife? Only the craiglist historians know for sure.
It can also be assumed that the previous owner of this sweet boat was most likely Dee Snider of Twisted Sister fame, before this offspring:
I seem to really gravitate to rc water sport lately. Maybe it's this winter weather, maybe it's my need to smell the ocean breeze again.
Especially since breathing gas exaust isnt the only thing potentially damgerous when it comes to indoor motorsport:
Roll this dice, pay the price.
Happy sailing, rocking and karting. This land lover is gonna stay in the pits, sidelines or on the driver's stand.
-Tommy
Monday, February 17, 2014
Bumpstart the Week
Happy "I made it to the internet" Monday.
Thanks for coming back. If you're new to OnTheTone, thanks for checking this blog out. It's hard to call it "my blog" because, really, it should be the Internet's. I'm just putting it out there to grow organically.
If you're new to OnTheTone and haven't seen the not so witty tie in of pictures, videos and misspelled words by blogs worldwide before, perhaps it is best you run this website through the Snoop Dogg filter for clarity.
Brought to my attention by coworkers that really don't want to bother reading through the rc terminology
That is probably the best way to get past all the RC car terms, acronyms and abbreviation. Gizoogle gets right to the point, in a language any child of the nineties should be able to understand. Because really, doesn't always come down to some of that ill shit anyways?
Again, from the bottom of my heart and the Doggfather's, hope everyone had a "Kool as fuck Valentinez dizzle everybody."
On a totally unrelated note, Congrats to Chad Due for winning 2wd Mod at Motorama. Especially since my brain won't allow a rear motor car to do anything these days. I couldnt even keyboard engineer it to launch a skate ramp.
But AE is prepared to make every blogger think twice about ye ole timey rear motor layout. REARMOTORNATION is sure to be some hashtag or something on instagram.
Recap and rm racing stoke here:
If you're into gigantic flying metric machines, Team Associated is testing the new RC8 in France.
Neobuggy caught up with AE drivers during a hard to understand, brief display of new plastic, at a French BBq:
AE and other rc companies keep it casual. Porsche, on the other hand, not so casual.
Other than the less than perfect "release video" the car looks good. Not that I'll be fly an RC8 around my local Portland, Oregon mud pit anytime soon. But it's refreshing to see cars that are appealing visually. And once again, this brings me to real race cars and how terrible some are looking this year.
It's rarely a good idea to compare cars you sit in to cars you stand back and control with transmitters. Of course, unless you're like me and prefer playing a God:
It's bound to be a great week. Here's to racing. In all it's forms.
To mix it up, here's some virtual short course racing that folks may be interested in.
But warning, creepy voice over. Really, anyone other than Scotty Ernst is creepy to me. You may want to turn up the Crue in a new screen.
See ya tomorrow,
-Tommy
Thanks for coming back. If you're new to OnTheTone, thanks for checking this blog out. It's hard to call it "my blog" because, really, it should be the Internet's. I'm just putting it out there to grow organically.
If you're new to OnTheTone and haven't seen the not so witty tie in of pictures, videos and misspelled words by blogs worldwide before, perhaps it is best you run this website through the Snoop Dogg filter for clarity.
Brought to my attention by coworkers that really don't want to bother reading through the rc terminology
That is probably the best way to get past all the RC car terms, acronyms and abbreviation. Gizoogle gets right to the point, in a language any child of the nineties should be able to understand. Because really, doesn't always come down to some of that ill shit anyways?
Again, from the bottom of my heart and the Doggfather's, hope everyone had a "Kool as fuck Valentinez dizzle everybody."
On a totally unrelated note, Congrats to Chad Due for winning 2wd Mod at Motorama. Especially since my brain won't allow a rear motor car to do anything these days. I couldnt even keyboard engineer it to launch a skate ramp.
But AE is prepared to make every blogger think twice about ye ole timey rear motor layout. REARMOTORNATION is sure to be some hashtag or something on instagram.
 |
| Red and yellow. A number B5 Value meal with a side of winning |
Recap and rm racing stoke here:
If you're into gigantic flying metric machines, Team Associated is testing the new RC8 in France.
Neobuggy caught up with AE drivers during a hard to understand, brief display of new plastic, at a French BBq:
AE and other rc companies keep it casual. Porsche, on the other hand, not so casual.
Other than the less than perfect "release video" the car looks good. Not that I'll be fly an RC8 around my local Portland, Oregon mud pit anytime soon. But it's refreshing to see cars that are appealing visually. And once again, this brings me to real race cars and how terrible some are looking this year.
 |
| Making "cab forward" look amazing |
It's rarely a good idea to compare cars you sit in to cars you stand back and control with transmitters. Of course, unless you're like me and prefer playing a God:
It's bound to be a great week. Here's to racing. In all it's forms.
To mix it up, here's some virtual short course racing that folks may be interested in.
But warning, creepy voice over. Really, anyone other than Scotty Ernst is creepy to me. You may want to turn up the Crue in a new screen.
See ya tomorrow,
-Tommy
Friday, February 14, 2014
A Valentine. From Me to You
Happy Valentine's day everybody.
I won't bother getting into if today is simply a hallmark holiday or if there actually was a hunchback patron saint cupid on a church snyping lonesome folks or something. That argument just never gets anywhere.
But, since I'm a total romantic, I'm not against telling people that you love and respect them. And sometimes, we like society giving us the go ahead to be silly in public and send strange cards.
So, today's that day. And like any blogger worth their weight in cut-n-paste pictures, I've got advise.
Sure, I may be the last person anyone should be taking romance advise from(but I'm sure we can all agree an rc / love advice column in RC Car Action wouldn't be the worst idea(You've got my email)) If I was to ignite some passion I would start the date with some schnazzy new clothes.
You could go all out, ala Masami and jumps suits, or you could simplify with a tee shirt.
If I had any photoshop skills, I'd make the suggestion of an addition under the "RC" to include your partner's name.
Now that I've spent the last week off track and not even mentioning the Winter nats, EOS, or the up coming cactus... Here's another off rc topic suggestion for tonight's date night. That is of course, assuming your significant other is getting a little tired of youtube race recaps and hearing Scotty Ernst not whisper sweet nothings for six action packed minutes at a time.
First up. Go see something good!
That's gonna be fantastic. Lego fan or not. And, I'm sure if I made some attempts, pulled some blog strings, I could talk Jang into going on a double date with me and my wife. Crazy, I know. But hang in there.
Choosing that perfect movie would be tough. The awkwardness of it all would require something short and to the point. Yet, keep the attention of it's viewers. Setting would be key.
Whether you've scored the perfect double date, romantic evening out waiting in line in the rain for an overpriced meal.
What better setting for Valentine's Day is there than Paris?
Here's my top pick for romance films. Actually my top pick for any film. It requires headphones or full surround sound home theater because it is film, it is passion, it is drama, it is action, it is romance... C'était un Rendez-vous
Forget that everyone told you its the journey. It's can also be the destination, the finish line, the tap out, the top score.
The result can be just as awesome.
If your stuck in an office, at the track, or headed to the beach for a weekend getaway, have a great, totally normal, Friday, doing what ever you love to do.
-Tommy
I won't bother getting into if today is simply a hallmark holiday or if there actually was a hunchback patron saint cupid on a church snyping lonesome folks or something. That argument just never gets anywhere.
But, since I'm a total romantic, I'm not against telling people that you love and respect them. And sometimes, we like society giving us the go ahead to be silly in public and send strange cards.
So, today's that day. And like any blogger worth their weight in cut-n-paste pictures, I've got advise.
Sure, I may be the last person anyone should be taking romance advise from(but I'm sure we can all agree an rc / love advice column in RC Car Action wouldn't be the worst idea(You've got my email)) If I was to ignite some passion I would start the date with some schnazzy new clothes.
You could go all out, ala Masami and jumps suits, or you could simplify with a tee shirt.
If I had any photoshop skills, I'd make the suggestion of an addition under the "RC" to include your partner's name.
Now that I've spent the last week off track and not even mentioning the Winter nats, EOS, or the up coming cactus... Here's another off rc topic suggestion for tonight's date night. That is of course, assuming your significant other is getting a little tired of youtube race recaps and hearing Scotty Ernst not whisper sweet nothings for six action packed minutes at a time.
First up. Go see something good!
That's gonna be fantastic. Lego fan or not. And, I'm sure if I made some attempts, pulled some blog strings, I could talk Jang into going on a double date with me and my wife. Crazy, I know. But hang in there.
Choosing that perfect movie would be tough. The awkwardness of it all would require something short and to the point. Yet, keep the attention of it's viewers. Setting would be key.
Whether you've scored the perfect double date, romantic evening out waiting in line in the rain for an overpriced meal.
What better setting for Valentine's Day is there than Paris?
Here's my top pick for romance films. Actually my top pick for any film. It requires headphones or full surround sound home theater because it is film, it is passion, it is drama, it is action, it is romance... C'était un Rendez-vous
Forget that everyone told you its the journey. It's can also be the destination, the finish line, the tap out, the top score.
The result can be just as awesome.
If your stuck in an office, at the track, or headed to the beach for a weekend getaway, have a great, totally normal, Friday, doing what ever you love to do.
-Tommy
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Thursday, Bloody Thursday
Somehow, hump day totally passed me up and I almost didn't make it through Wednesday. But a co worker reminded me of the best medicine on the internet, Youtube.
That's what I needed.
If you made it through yesterday's grammar and spelling mash up I call yesterday's post, you may recall there's plenty of hustlin to be had on the internet.
The Bonafide Hustler and many like him are hawking the yard sale finds that we wish were down the street from us. What the B Hustler is pointing out is that goldpans and plenty of other rc goods are still worth money in the internet age. B Hustler may just be the next wave of frontiersmen, set forth to strike it rich, one yard sale at a time.
Unfortunatly, some people just don't appreciate vintage rc cars. And this is probably how they end up in garage sales and sometimes in the basements of hustlers. A Goldpan might be the most baller shit out there to some, but the true beauty is in the eye of the fanboy.
Getting around the track fast is a major "goal" I have with rc cars, but that doesn't distract me from the simple fun of making things go. In fact, going faster usually leads to me breaking and not going anywhere for a while.
Jang, my self confessed rc guru has brought many unusual cars, helis and even legos to my attention. But beyound his rc reviews and lego builds, are some fascinating custom lego creations. It is the heart of problem solving and making something work. A world far from as well as, oh so close to roll centers, tire shore and c ratings. Here is one refreshing example of engineering that caught my eye:
I don't see myself getting into legos, at least, not until my kid is old enough not to eat them. Jang's and other tinkerer's abilities to "turn off the lap timer" and just learn, explore and experiment for a while may be some great advise that I sometimes forget.
But all that imagination is great for cross training back to real lief
Thanks for reading
-Tommy
That's what I needed.
If you made it through yesterday's grammar and spelling mash up I call yesterday's post, you may recall there's plenty of hustlin to be had on the internet.
The Bonafide Hustler and many like him are hawking the yard sale finds that we wish were down the street from us. What the B Hustler is pointing out is that goldpans and plenty of other rc goods are still worth money in the internet age. B Hustler may just be the next wave of frontiersmen, set forth to strike it rich, one yard sale at a time.
 |
| Gold pans still cashin in |
Unfortunatly, some people just don't appreciate vintage rc cars. And this is probably how they end up in garage sales and sometimes in the basements of hustlers. A Goldpan might be the most baller shit out there to some, but the true beauty is in the eye of the fanboy.
Getting around the track fast is a major "goal" I have with rc cars, but that doesn't distract me from the simple fun of making things go. In fact, going faster usually leads to me breaking and not going anywhere for a while.
Jang, my self confessed rc guru has brought many unusual cars, helis and even legos to my attention. But beyound his rc reviews and lego builds, are some fascinating custom lego creations. It is the heart of problem solving and making something work. A world far from as well as, oh so close to roll centers, tire shore and c ratings. Here is one refreshing example of engineering that caught my eye:
I don't see myself getting into legos, at least, not until my kid is old enough not to eat them. Jang's and other tinkerer's abilities to "turn off the lap timer" and just learn, explore and experiment for a while may be some great advise that I sometimes forget.
But all that imagination is great for cross training back to real lief
Thanks for reading
-Tommy
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Bonafide RTR
4x4 Short Course has had a steady fallowing at my local track recently, and I can't help but want to get in on the insanely over powered action.
Naturally, with any new horizon, I start to look at what's available the usual places like Amain and the buy and sell section of RCTech.net
RCtech is a great place to have some confidence while purchasing used items with the seller rating they use. But it may be worth everyone's time to search their a seller's other posts for their depth of knowledge in other forums.
I rarely look at rtrs, because I'm an elitist. Seriously, it's a problem that keeps me and my family eating ramen while I drive sports cars. Like a tramp stamp tattoo, it's just something I've learned embrace while at the beach.
Ready to run cars are fantastic for a weekend, but then you decide you want more and you end up with electronics you can't use or are not eligible for racing. I've never understood -not supplying- RTR cars with 17.5 brushless. Losi buggies can come with 13.5 sensored, though.
Off road here in the pacific northwest is split between the indoor season and outdoor. Indoor tracks are tighter and may be better suited for the nimble buggies. But it doesnt hurt to dream about outdoors and seeing a few short coursers ripping it full throttle in a sweeper.
Those dreams leave me and my PayPal account in the market for a SC 4x4 and I want new electronics that can push this beast around. Amain delivers: The Team Thunder Associated ProLite Tiger for $340!
Yes, it's a Qualifier Series RTR. Yes, it actually is just some Thunder Tiger Sparrow hawk conversion, but that price is insane. Plus, my man Jang at URC seems to not hate it.
I'm a huge fan of Jang. The dude is solid and very honest in his opinion.
That rtr would get me on the track with terrible tires and servo. Or, I play craigslist roulette.
Craigslist and short course go together like Redbull and extreme sports. Matches made in Youtube, launch ramp heaven.
The only problem with the list is the risks involved in talking to a hobbyists. You do have to keep in mind that you're dealing with someone selling off pieces of a once loved collection.
 |
| Add caption |
With the worst case scenario burned into the mind, I can then focus on finding "a deal." So I head to my local Craigslist where short course trucks are plentiful.
Traxxas Slash 4x4 Platinium Series RC Truck w/tons of extras - $675
I have over 1200.00 invested, plus my time.
This rig is in great condition and perfect repair and ready to race!
TRAXXAS "Slash 4x4" Platinum Edition with low-CG chassis
* Pinion spur 19/54
* Traxxas Lipo 5000
* Traxxas Speed Body
* J-Concepts Chevy Silverado body (new)
* RPM A-Arms
* RPM Bumpers
* RPM Light mount & buckets
* Axial LED headlights and taillights
* Onyx 3650kv 4 Pole Brushless motor
*Proline shocks
*3 full sets of Pro-line wheels and tires
* Tekno driveline
* Traxxas steel constant Velocity shafts (all4)
* 2.4 Radio and receiver
$675.00 cash only, no trades sorry.
Everything is in like new condition and no kids have abused them!
Call or text #XXXXXXXXX
$675. Ouch. That's a lot of money for a Traxxas. I'm not that familiar with Traxxas, so I won't judge.
I know from first hand traction searching experience that rc is a slippery slope. $1200 in can happen sooner than most us us would care to admit.
Anyway I look at it, I just couldn't sleep well spending $675 for a Slash.
I do hope someone buys his truck. Perhaps the seller will end up accepting a trade for a quad or dirt bike and lawn care for the package. But dang, not actual earned currency.
I try and tread lightly into clist ads. Mostly because of bonafide d bags like this that you may end up dealing with to purchase something. Speaking of creepy basements...
He may have the best intentions. He may even be adding to the value as more people are looking for these.
But something about the "Bonafide Hustler" really creeps me out.
 |
| Gold pan hunting mobile |
The used market may be a great place to get into a class. But, it may also not be right for the first time buyer. It's dicey and care should be given before meeting strangers.
My ears may deceive me, but hints and whispers of a new AE 4x4 ProLite are lurking in forum shadows...
Have a great Wednesday folks and dont forget to use the buddy system,
-Tommy
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Pinpointing Progress
It's Tuesday, which means nothing, really.
But, like many, I am stuck on front of a computer, wondering, what do I buy to go faster?
It's sometimes hard to not get a new toy. RC racers are continually bombarded by the flavor of the month.
Some choose to bite, while others look further onto the forums, the setup guides and talk with others to achieve new results with a familiar chassis.
These new kits are released in an effort to supply.
Manufacturers have problems to solve. Some of those problems actually exist. Some don't.
That won't stop folks from wanting aluminium drivers for two "hard to reach" nuts:
Getting products into the hands of consumers is the name of the game. It is fantastic when the manufacturers are supplying answers to problems. It is another thing when we are asked to donate money to brands we like in the form of my least favorite word in the English language, "bling."
AE, for instance, has cast a wide net these days. Rereleases, RTRs, and entirely new flagship models. All while keeping us up to date.
That wide of a net and somethings got to be spread thin.
No longer supporting LRP, AE has given new life into the Reedy/Hobbywing esc line and this will surely keep thing running in the right direction for Thunder Tiger.
Racers want nothing but the fastest. And when money is no object, one car comes to mind. Or better yet, awesome comes to mind. Behold, a small manufacturer, unchained to what a parent company wants:
And their floating front diff:
I'll let those videos resonate...
Awesomatix are bringing innovation and more importantly drama. Of course, some of the cost of the price goes to the song rights for their videos, but that was money well spent. Honestly, fantastic videos.
Perhaps the offroad scene has unfortunately come to expect some additional "play" and "make it as cheap as you can."
Onorad and offroad are two very different animals. So I should probably keep them separated in terms of quality and cost, but line are blurring. Gear diffs, hex hubs, open ball cups, belt drives... it's all cross pollinating. I love the technology, the new toys, the fresh parts.
It's a fun game to keep up with the jones', but not a game I'll be playing at the moment.
Until I can get around the track for 5 min without relying on a marshal, I'm going to save my money for the track.
See you tomorow,
-Tommy
But, like many, I am stuck on front of a computer, wondering, what do I buy to go faster?
It's sometimes hard to not get a new toy. RC racers are continually bombarded by the flavor of the month.
Some choose to bite, while others look further onto the forums, the setup guides and talk with others to achieve new results with a familiar chassis.
These new kits are released in an effort to supply.
Manufacturers have problems to solve. Some of those problems actually exist. Some don't.
That won't stop folks from wanting aluminium drivers for two "hard to reach" nuts:
Getting products into the hands of consumers is the name of the game. It is fantastic when the manufacturers are supplying answers to problems. It is another thing when we are asked to donate money to brands we like in the form of my least favorite word in the English language, "bling."
AE, for instance, has cast a wide net these days. Rereleases, RTRs, and entirely new flagship models. All while keeping us up to date.
That wide of a net and somethings got to be spread thin.
No longer supporting LRP, AE has given new life into the Reedy/Hobbywing esc line and this will surely keep thing running in the right direction for Thunder Tiger.
Racers want nothing but the fastest. And when money is no object, one car comes to mind. Or better yet, awesome comes to mind. Behold, a small manufacturer, unchained to what a parent company wants:
And their floating front diff:
I'll let those videos resonate...
Awesomatix are bringing innovation and more importantly drama. Of course, some of the cost of the price goes to the song rights for their videos, but that was money well spent. Honestly, fantastic videos.
Perhaps the offroad scene has unfortunately come to expect some additional "play" and "make it as cheap as you can."
 |
Onorad and offroad are two very different animals. So I should probably keep them separated in terms of quality and cost, but line are blurring. Gear diffs, hex hubs, open ball cups, belt drives... it's all cross pollinating. I love the technology, the new toys, the fresh parts.
It's a fun game to keep up with the jones', but not a game I'll be playing at the moment.
Until I can get around the track for 5 min without relying on a marshal, I'm going to save my money for the track.
See you tomorow,
-Tommy
Monday, February 10, 2014
Like Hot Cakes. But Racing.
The RC10B5 is out and racing. An inevitable decade long reign has begun!
The results are trickling in.
It's no surprise that this fan boy thinks it is looking bad ass.
They first release the rear motor with composite chassis, saving the mid motor/aluminium chassis for a month or two from now.
So, Associated is not chasing the mid motor trend. They are being honest and designing what they think is a great car.
Effing solid looking, especially for a non Factory Team kit. Where or why will we spend more? I'm sure that answer will come around summer time when the FT is the only thing to get you that bump out of the Stock D main.
Brent Thielke hits some softball questions from Jason Rouna out of the park. They clearly love it. This is the largest rc racing buggy manufacturer in the world, displaying their first new layout in over a decade, so it is a big deal.
The gist of this video, is damn, get a B5 now. Also... dial in that front trail for tight, indoor tracks.
One thing that still bothers me, the off center motor mount. I can't believe at 3:10 in the video they mention centering the receiver yet though the entire video, they offer no excuse for not centering the motor.
Do we just ignore the motor being off center and appreciate the car for what it is?
Did they forget? Did the decide not to? Is the chassis optimized for 550 4 pole?????
Whatever they are talking about, RedRC always puts on a good show. Thanks for the footage and interviews. I could watch their youtube channel all day, but I've got some things at work to catch up on.
It's Monday. There's a glimmer of hope for racing tomorrow. Racers are calling for a 17.5 only day. That could make fro a great day of racing in case the bad weather holds some folks up.
I've got a Mach 2 17.5 just waiting to be tossed back into the ole trusty B4....
Have a safe Monday, pay those bills, and get to the track!
-Tommy
The results are trickling in.
It's no surprise that this fan boy thinks it is looking bad ass.
They first release the rear motor with composite chassis, saving the mid motor/aluminium chassis for a month or two from now.
 |
| Sticks are for kids. |
So, Associated is not chasing the mid motor trend. They are being honest and designing what they think is a great car.
Effing solid looking, especially for a non Factory Team kit. Where or why will we spend more? I'm sure that answer will come around summer time when the FT is the only thing to get you that bump out of the Stock D main.
Brent Thielke hits some softball questions from Jason Rouna out of the park. They clearly love it. This is the largest rc racing buggy manufacturer in the world, displaying their first new layout in over a decade, so it is a big deal.
The gist of this video, is damn, get a B5 now. Also... dial in that front trail for tight, indoor tracks.
One thing that still bothers me, the off center motor mount. I can't believe at 3:10 in the video they mention centering the receiver yet though the entire video, they offer no excuse for not centering the motor.
Do we just ignore the motor being off center and appreciate the car for what it is?
 |
| Totally normal. |
Did they forget? Did the decide not to? Is the chassis optimized for 550 4 pole?????
 |
| I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!!! |
Whatever they are talking about, RedRC always puts on a good show. Thanks for the footage and interviews. I could watch their youtube channel all day, but I've got some things at work to catch up on.
It's Monday. There's a glimmer of hope for racing tomorrow. Racers are calling for a 17.5 only day. That could make fro a great day of racing in case the bad weather holds some folks up.
I've got a Mach 2 17.5 just waiting to be tossed back into the ole trusty B4....
Have a safe Monday, pay those bills, and get to the track!
-Tommy
Sunday, February 9, 2014
VTA and TCS: Realism Talk
It's hard to beat seeing professionals drive the cars of our dreams.
Red RC brought us another display of what the classic RC10 cars can do. This time it was during the JConcepts Winter Indoor Nationals:
Cudos to to Jason Rouna for making this category seen by so many.
More on Kinwald's RC10 Classic(Worlds) and his B5 cars here. The things just look awesome. But this whole "throw back" is getting silly with all the B5RM's out there. We understand, AE needs to pay the bills until the mm or a conversion comes out.
My guess is RTRs are all rm and the conversion is available after that. Time will tell.
Seeing Kinwald today is not unlike Walter Rohl and his cars these days
I do hope that these rereleases turn into something to run at bigger events. For the debate about 17.5 motors, just put them in cars designed before 2000 or with drivers born after 2000 and call it good.
VTA or Vintage Trans Am is a class of touring car racing that has become hugely popular, though it did just get dropped from Electric Onroad carpet nats. Bummer. I think the category is fantastic.
It uses slower motors, spec tires and requires no huge financial resources to get started. Most VTA vets will persuade the noobs to run those shaft drive TC3's they've got lying around.
I'm not a huge fan of calling any brushless motors "stock" because they are all fast. But there is a world out there still using brushed, closed end ball silver cans for competition. No, I'm not talking about box stock Slash classes, I'm talking about the big Mr. T.
Tamiya to most.
The Tamiya TCS is one of my favorite categories of on road. Sure they govern the rules with an iron fist, but you know if someone cheats in TCS, they are border line geniuses that came up with the loop holes.
In TCS, GT Spec is my favorite. Grab a shaft drive TT-02 or similar car and use the supplied 540 motor , ESC and kit tires and you're racing for under $150!!!!!!!!!!! Crazy in today's high cost world.
Tamiya will have you rolling for $155 with esc, body, motor and tires
Fred Medel talks about the awesome world of TCS.
Others taking the Tamiya kits to new "endurance" events
And how it looks at the track:
Amazing.
Red RC brought us another display of what the classic RC10 cars can do. This time it was during the JConcepts Winter Indoor Nationals:
Cudos to to Jason Rouna for making this category seen by so many.
More on Kinwald's RC10 Classic(Worlds) and his B5 cars here. The things just look awesome. But this whole "throw back" is getting silly with all the B5RM's out there. We understand, AE needs to pay the bills until the mm or a conversion comes out.
My guess is RTRs are all rm and the conversion is available after that. Time will tell.
 |
I do hope that these rereleases turn into something to run at bigger events. For the debate about 17.5 motors, just put them in cars designed before 2000 or with drivers born after 2000 and call it good.
VTA or Vintage Trans Am is a class of touring car racing that has become hugely popular, though it did just get dropped from Electric Onroad carpet nats. Bummer. I think the category is fantastic.
It uses slower motors, spec tires and requires no huge financial resources to get started. Most VTA vets will persuade the noobs to run those shaft drive TC3's they've got lying around.
I'm not a huge fan of calling any brushless motors "stock" because they are all fast. But there is a world out there still using brushed, closed end ball silver cans for competition. No, I'm not talking about box stock Slash classes, I'm talking about the big Mr. T.
Tamiya to most.
The Tamiya TCS is one of my favorite categories of on road. Sure they govern the rules with an iron fist, but you know if someone cheats in TCS, they are border line geniuses that came up with the loop holes.
In TCS, GT Spec is my favorite. Grab a shaft drive TT-02 or similar car and use the supplied 540 motor , ESC and kit tires and you're racing for under $150!!!!!!!!!!! Crazy in today's high cost world.
Tamiya will have you rolling for $155 with esc, body, motor and tires
Fred Medel talks about the awesome world of TCS.
Others taking the Tamiya kits to new "endurance" events
And how it looks at the track:
Amazing.
There are a million ways to determin who is fastest, but we have chosen to drive little cars while standing on the drivers stand and shouting "GO!"
The debates about cheater motors, chassis design and company politics will always be around. I just like that we have so many choices to how we go about deciding what cars, motors and tracks we want to use. The only thing that needs to be remembered is to keep race entries up, the companies will follow.
Thanks!
-Tommy
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