Getting Started
Best Idea Yet
Come out to the track to watch a race, take some time to talk to the racers and get a feel for things. Click here for the Schedule of Events.Message Board
Sign up for our Message Board , it is quick easy and free.Cars & Trucks
The first questions is usually what car or truck to buy, the answer depends on many things, such as dealer location, speed, upgrades, durability and handling. Don't discount dealer location, though durable, all cars will break periodically.RTR (Ready to Run) or Kit
RTRs are cheaper and a much easier way to get into racing. I picked up a RTR and I have been very happy with my decision.Kits
Kits have several advantages, you get to pick your electronics, motor, speed controller and servo, but you will spend considerably more than a RTR. You will also have the advantage of knowing how everything goes together, that will help when it comes time for repairs and upgrades. If your budget permits this is a good option. Short Course Trucks are the choice of most novices. The most popular are the Team Associated SC10, The Traxxas Slash and the Losi XXX-SCT. We do see novices running just about anything so feel free to go with the car or truck you desire.IMPORTANT
Regardless of which vehicle you purchase you will want a 2.4Ghz Radio and a Brushless Motor, if you don't spend the money now it will cost a lot more to upgrade later. If you go to a hobby shop they will know what you mean, if you purchase a RTR online make sure to look for both items.Traxxas Slash
The 2wd version of the Traxxas Slash is a great truck, it is fairly competitive and extremely durable. The Slash is also a low cost option for an entry level truck. I think the Slash is the easiest truck to drive, but that is ONLY MY opinion.Associated SC10
The SC10 happens to be the truck I picked and I have been very pleased with my decision. I do think it is a bit harder to drive than the Slash but it can be driven faster once your experience level grows.Lose XXX-SCT
I have not run the Losi but it is very competitive at the track and is most likely very much like the SC10.What else will you need?
Battery charger, get one capable of charging LiPo batteries even if you aren't starting with LiPo batteries, you don't want to have to upgrade later. Batteries, I would recommend a couple of batteries, they should be at least 5000mah 25C LiPo batteries. If on a tight budget 5000mah NiMh batteries are a great choice. You may also need batteries for your Radio Transmitter.Setup
Modern RC cars and trucks are very tunable, they need to be set up for the track and driver. You can find lots of setup recommendation in our Message Board and online or just show up and ask questions.Classes
Novice - You can race anything you own in this class, there are no restriction. You can see a 50 year old battling it out with a 10 year old and both will be having a blast. Once you win in this class you should consider move up to one of the Mod (modified) classes.Short Course Mod - You can run any of the Short Course trucks with equipment and upgrades of your choice. This class is much more competitive that Novice but your certainly don't need to be a pro to run in it.
2wd Mod Truck & 2wd Mod Buggy - These guys fly, the classes are great but a bit competitive, you may want to gain a bit of experience before jumping in here.
All the other classes are put together based on the number of entrants and probably would not be the best place to start. These classes include things like 1/8 Scale, Nitro & 4wd Vehicles.