RC Rock Crawler
Remote Control Rock Crawling
There are many things to consider and learn when you are still a beginner to remote control rock crawling. In addition, you will also face a number of choices before you can fully commit to this hobby. RC rock crawling is relatively new hobby in the remote control vehicle arena. But even so, it has soared into popularity.
In fact, it has now become the most renowned off-road hobby especially in the US, UK and Australia. It is only right to do rock crawling justice and talk about one of the extremely fun way to spend the rest of your day.
Let’s begin with definition of terms in order to easily relate to what people talk about. Rock crawling refers to a hobby that makes full size 4-WD (wheel drive) vehicles go straight up to rocky mountainsides. The only thing about this is that vehicles are controlled remotely and the structure or components of the vehicle are similar to the full sized one.
The numbers 1/10 denotes 1/10th scale model vehicles to that of the full size rock crawler. This model is moderately large types of rock crawlers but you could also buy 1/16th scale model if you want. The cars are small and yet they are composed of advanced technology including electric motors, servos, circuits, special springs, authentic tires, flexible suspension and shocks.
Just like any other type of sport or leisure, the skills of the hobbyist and the hardware of the RC vehicles are broken down into different levels. This goes without saying that if you are a neophyte in the field you might want to start with beginner gears and gradually work from there when you have already gained some experience. Some crawlers for the entry to intermediate level include Tamiya CR-01 and Axial AX10 RTC.
One of the most important things you need to understand is about the body of the RC crawler – which is the most costly part to upgrade. Therefore, it is imperative that you buy the body you like without compromising on quality. The drive train and wheels can be upgraded anytime without any difficulty.
- The most renowned is the Land Cruiser
- Bronco is packed with tires that are cliff crawler which owners can put on Wrangler and Land Cruiser
- Wrangler is packed with light kit and is a bit heavy because of the hard shell body.
- This is an extremely popular type of crawler
- Many hobbyists agree that AX10 has the best customer support which means upgrade and parts are available which is preferred by some because this is where half of the fun lies.
- Has a great selection of motors, tires, servos and some other upgrades
- Comes in complete package which gets you crawling right away
- RTC refers to Read to Crawl
Ideas for upgrade
- For CR-01
- 44-55T motor
- Proline Hammer G8 tires
- 4 wheel steering
- Torque servos
- For AX10
- Aluminum upgrade/conversion kit that connects the chassis to steering and axles
- Soft tires with better tread
Overall, the RC rock crawling is a fun hobby to start on. As more and more people want to get involved over time, more equipments and upgrades become available as well. Things mentioned here are only the basics of entry-level gear. Have fun crawling!
