It does not matter how old you are, racing radio controlled cars is very addictive and will give hours of fun and pleasure. However, there are some considerations that you will need to think about before you can really get going, particularly if you are new to rc cars.
Most people are totally blown away by just how exhilarating racing radio controlled cars can be. The technology has advanced in leaps and bounds and has led to some highly sophisticated models that are capable of incredible speeds that are only limited by the skill of their user. The boring models are a thing of the passt and now you can get an extensive variety of designs from some really competitive prices.
Assuming this may be your first radio controlled car, there are at least three things to consider: Kit or ready-made, on-road or off-road and electric or nitro rc cars.
Think about whether you would prefer to build your car from a kit or get one that is ready-to-go from the box? This decision is likely to be based on your mechanical skills. If you have ever tried to take a clock to bits and been unable to put it back together, then don’t choose a kit! Although the kits are a little cheaper, you will not be able to get it out and take it for a spin straight away and if you are buying for a child, patience probably wouldn’t be one of the new owner’s strong points!
Second, on-road or off-road car models? If you want to race, you’ll obviously need speed and will need an on-road model that run on paved surfaces. In contrast, if you are looking for a different type of challenge, try the off-roaders that include buggies, trucks (or even truggies). These models allow you to challenge yourself by manoeuvring your car around obstacle courses on most surfaces.
The final decision to make is the power source. The two most popular choices are electric and nitro rc cars. Electric radio controlled cars are the cleanest, quietest and most straightforward option and are particularly good for the beginner. The more expensive, and/or designer electric models may be more suitable for racing purposes. But generally electric models may not give the same level of excitement as the nitro rc cars.
To get a real buzz, and get the smell and sound of real cars, then go for the realism of the nitro rc cars. On the downside is that they do need more maintenance than electric cars and a certain amount of care has to be exercised when refuelling. As with the electric radio controlled cars, recent developments have led to improved performance and consistency of the nitro models.
Personally, I would suggest if you are a novice, start with a small electric model and when you are comfortable with that, then go for the nitro rc car of your choice! As an online supplier we would recommend Nitrotek, but do take a look around the Internet and compare prices as there are some very good deals to be found for radio controlled cars.
Racing radio controlled cars is a hobby that can be enjoyed by all ages if you make the right choices. Nitrotek rc cars, buggies, planes and helicopters are available in a great range of styles suitable for all tastes and they also provide a good aftersales service.