Getting into racing.

[SlowPunto]

Hi guys. I currently run a HPI Nitro 3 Evo radio controlled car. After lots of practice, crashes, repairs, and of course fun in empty car parks etc, i have decided i would really like to get into racing. Im from the Oxford area, and was basically wandering where to start! Any help is appreciated!

Mike.

[Bungleaio]

Great idea mate, racing is where all the fun is. 1st port of call is http://www.brca.org/ there's loads of info on there but most importantly there's a list of clubs. Find your nearest one racing your class, pop down and have a word with them. Everyone is pretty friendly in this hobby and they will be more than willing to offer any help and advice with any issues of running your car, tyre choices etc. I'm sure they will be pleased to have another racer along as 1/10 IC TC is in a bit of a decline.

Be prepared though mate, this hobby can relieve your bank account of any funds, but its a great fun and nothing beats the buzz of a really good race.

A great website for all things rc racing is www.oople.com

[Holst]

As above.

Visit the club before you spend any money.

I used to race 1/10th offroad nationaly but it was VERY expensive 7 years ago and its much more expensive now.

The best advise I can give is to buy the best quality transmitter and receiver and servo you can afford, they will last you forever and will make it easyer to control the car. Dont fix a stupidly fast motor as you will just break the car. Untill you can do a race without crashing you dont need more power.

There are some cheaper formula out there, the club local to me race mardave 12th scale electrics. The cars are cheap and very tough but as they are all the same the racing is very competitive.

[Sf_Manta]

I used to race 1/10th RC Touring cars , (27T stock electric motors) and the costs can sprial out of control, In 5 years i must have spent about £8k from when i was 14 to when i had to give up just shy of my 20th birthday.

The advice already mentioned is pretty much the best idea.
With regards to transmitters, something like a KO Propo Vantage 2 with a few different crystals (to change radio frequencys) and decent servos will hold you in much better stead than cheaper items since they can run out of range quickly and pick up interference easier than the more expensive items.


Last i checked one of those is £250! But you might be able to find a good one on ebay for less , complete with servos and frequencys


Not fun watching your pride and joy shoot off at full throttle with no control

[DucatiGary]

erm, forget the AM/FM systems, 2.4ghz GSM controllers are where its at, 200 quid will get you a spektrum that should last you for ages.

and no swapping crystals or any of that jazz

[Bungleaio]

DucatiGary said:

erm, forget the AM/FM systems, 2.4ghz GSM controllers are where its at, 200 quid will get you a spektrum that should last you for ages.

and no swapping crystals or any of that jazz

2.4 is quality, I've had no issues with interference since I upgraded my radio, plus there are some sets available for just over £100.

I think the OP already has a running car so thats not so much of an issue. There is always lots of 2nd hand kit knocking about which can reduce the costs significantly

[The_Jackal]

The problem you may find is that a lot less places do nitro touring cars races due to the noise and fumes. I would find out if there is anywhere you can race first of all, otherwise it may be worth you selling it and getting into electric if you really want to do a series of races.

[wacattack]

What do you want to race? I compete in the 1/10th offroad nationals and love it, you interested in this class or something different?