Getting Hooked on RC Cars
The radio-controlled car, or RC car, is one of the most popular toy cars for kids and even teens. RC car enthusiasts spend a lot of time racing these radio-controlled cars, which offer endless excitement and thrills with their speed.
An RC car consists of two units - the car itself and the remote control or radio. The radio control has two sets of joysticks, one for controlling the car's backward and forward movements and the other for side-to-side movements. Less expensive radio controllers are powered by rechargeable batteries, while others use actual gas-powered engines.
With the increasing popularity of RC cars, manufacturers offer different models and types to suit every buyer or user. Some makers offer low-cost RC cars for kids, while others create models inspired by real-life cars like Ferraris, Porsches, and Lamborghinis.
There are various kinds of RC cars to choose from, including different body types, models, styles, colors, and sizes. However, there are certain factors you need to consider when choosing an RC car.
First, you must decide between electric RC cars and gas-powered cars. Then, you can choose between road racing or off-road racing models. You also have the option of buying an assembled or non-assembled car, and deciding whether you want a car-type or truck-type RC vehicle.
Car racers usually prefer RC cars that run on nitro gasoline, also known as petrol RC cars. These are the most popular and fastest-growing segment of RC cars. With petrol-powered vehicles, you can now purchase popular RC trucks that can reach high speeds and handle off-road driving. If speed is your main concern, you can acquire race cars that are specifically designed for prepared tracks or pavements.
Typically, petrol RC cars operate faster than electric cars. Some nitro cars can reach speeds of 70 to 90 mph. These electric or gas-powered RC cars run on a special fuel specifically made for radio-controlled cars.
The most popular sizes for nitro RC cars are 1/8 and 1/10 scale. The 1/8th scale is popular for off-road trucks and buggies, while the 1/10th scale is the industry standard for on-road racers. The 1/8th scale cars come with a 2 or 3-speed transmission.
Most petrol RC cars, or nitro cars, have a pull engine similar to a lawnmower for easy operation. It is crucial to follow the instructions for running nitro vehicles, as they are more complicated than electric cars.
Nitro vehicles are available with either a 2-stroke or 4-stroke motor. The 2-stroke motor requires a fuel-oil mixture, while the 4-stroke motor has a reservoir of oil and can run on straight fuel. The 2-stroke motor is more suitable for racing as it can produce higher rpm and rev up faster. On the other hand, the 4-stroke engine is better for off-road use due to its higher power and torque.
Regular maintenance and checks are necessary to ensure the longevity and performance of your nitro vehicle. Some enthusiasts enjoy tuning and tweaking their cars. Always inspect car parts such as the header, pull start cord, differential, air filter, and clutch.