How to know if 1/10 scale RC racing is right for you
If you’re interested in competitive radio control car racing, one of the first things to do is decide what class of RC racing you want to enter. Many drivers choose 1/10 scale RC racing for a variety of reasons. There are many 1/10 scale RC buggies and RC trucks to choose from, including several different 1/10 scale RC vehicles in the Team Losi Racing lineup. The 1/10 scale size is generally affordable to buy, and the 1/10 scale buggy racing class is widely popular. The last thing you want to do is invest in an RC race car only to find out that it’s not allowed at the local track.
Now that you’ve decided to buy a 1/10 scale TLR RC buggy or RC truck, here are a few other points to keep in mind. You can choose either a 2WD RC vehicle or 4WD RC vehicle, and both have advantages and disadvantages. The 1/10 scale 2WD buggies and trucks are less expensive, but they’re also a bit more difficult to handle for inexperienced drivers. Skilled throttle control is necessary. On the other hand, a 1/10 scale 4WD RC buggy or truck will cost you more, but 4WD is also more forgiving and handles better under power.
You also need to decide whether you should purchase a 1/10 scale RC racing buggy kit or one that comes with some amount of factory assembly, such as an RC roller. Again, there are pros and cons to each. Choosing a 1/10 scale TLR race roller will get you into the action faster, and you can be confident that your RC racing buggy has been put together correctly. But as many experienced RC race drivers will attest, you do learn a lot about your RC race truck or buggy by building it yourself. You’ll be better prepared to work on it whenever maintenance and repairs are needed.
More reasons to consider buying a 1/10 scale RC buggy or RC truck
There are smaller sizes of RC cars than the standard, 1/10 scale size, but while they may save you a little money, they have significant limitations. Compared to mini or micro RC cars, 1/10 scale RC cars can be controlled more easily over a greater range of racing surfaces. If your model is less responsive to your commands and harder to handle in certain conditions, it won’t be as much fun to run for you to race as a 1/10 scale RC car will be. Plus, you’ll likely have an easier time finding others to race against if your RC car is 1/10 scale. They’re simply more popular overall with the RC racing crowd.
The larger size of 1/10 scale RC cars, with wheelbases of approximately 11 inches and lengths of 14 to 15 inches, also provides more opportunities to give them knockout trim schemes and realistic details. Scale detail isn’t usually a priority when you’re competing for a place on the podium. Still, part of the fun of RC racing is having a vehicle that turns heads not only for its speed and handling, but also for its unique, eye-catching style.
For most drivers who have the typical hobby budget, we recommend buying a 1/10 scale RC racing buggy or 1/10 scale RC truck. You’ll get the most advantages for the price, and you’ll be able to race it in more places and on a wider range of surfaces. Further, when you’re looking for parts or upgrades, they’re easier to find when your RC car is 1/10 scale.