RC Hobby: Things to Consider When Buying Your RC Monster Truck

Now that we live in a digital world, most kids’ toys are on a digital screen rather than actual toys. Still, there’s some charm good old toys can provide, such as being fun for the whole family. Let’s take the RC hobby as an example. It’s the kind of activity that people of different generations can enjoy. Moreover, there are so many different toys to choose from as there’s a type of vehicle suitable for everyone’s taste, so you can also have fun buying your first RC vehicle.

Whether you prefer something RTR (ready to ride), allowing you to drive it immediately, or you prefer to get busy with a BIY (build it yourself) kit, there’s an option for you in specialised stores. Though they’re all challenging and fun in their own particular way, the tough, fast and rugged monster truck RC has its own special charm that other types of RC vehicles don’t offer. Their design allows you to use them anywhere, and you can participate in many RC competitions.

Considerations to Have in Mind When Choosing Your RC Truck

A monster truck gives you the ultimate RC driving experience, so it’s a great pick if you’re up for driving over varied terrains, from rocky and muddy to bumpy and wet terrains. Also, what sets these trucks apart from other types of RC vehicles is the fact that they can withstand a good beating, and regardless of the wear and tear you put them through, they’re going to provide faithful service for years to come.

Since there are various models even within this sub-category of RC vehicles, you should consider the following aspects to be sure you make the right choice:

The Speed

Usually, RC monster trucks aren’t known for their speed when compared with other designs, but there are still speed-related differences you ought to pay attention to when choosing from the wide range of options. For instance, if you’re looking for a faster truck that offers a more aggressive ride, you should consider a four-wheel-drive model. The two-wheel-drive is cheaper and easier to maintain, but it’s somewhat slower. Additionally, consider getting a model with a brushless motor, or a model that runs on nitro rather than an RC truck that features a brushed motor.

The Durability

As much as the monster truck RC is known for its strength, its quality will play a big role in its durability. For this reason, it’s important to focus on the materials the parts are made of, preferably opting for models that are made of chrome, polycarbonate, and feature high-quality nylon blends for the headers, body, and wheels for maximum durability.

The Battery

RC trucks run on batteries that have either a Ni-Mh or Li-Po cell chemistry. If you’re a beginner, or relatively new to the hobby, you could give the Ni-Mh batteries a try, as they offer enough power to get you into the realms of RC driving.

The more you progress with the hobby, you’re going to feel the need to upgrade to the Li-Po. Though they’re more expensive, they’re capable of providing more power and longer run times. In terms of how long the charge lasts, it all comes down to the quality of the battery you choose.

The Ease of Use

This is especially important for anyone new to the RC world. When you’re a beginner, you want to focus more on the fun part of the driving experience rather than the technicalities, so you should consider getting a model that’s user-friendly.

You can make this easy by checking the description of the specific RC vehicle you’re interested in to see how advanced it is and the level it’s meant for. For instance, the 2WD 1/10 Stampede from Traxxas is perfect for beginners, whereas their 4×4 1/10 Hoss 35 VXL is more suited for intermediate level, while the ARRMA 1/5 Outcast 85 BLX is suited for experts.

The Terrain

Undoubtedly, as I’ve already specified, these trucks are powerful machines known for their durability. Still, you should choose a model based on the terrain you plan on using it on, in order to prolong its lifespan and make the most out of the monster truck RC driving experience. Take into account that some models are better than others when it comes to crossing over muddy areas and rocky terrains, whereas some models are more suited for driving over smooth and soft terrain.

The Costs

As with any purchase, price is an aspect you must consider. As a beginner, you should set a budget, and see what you can pick from within that range. You should avoid spending too much on your first purchase. Luckily, there are monster trucks available in a wide range of prices, so you’re sure to find something that will fit your budget. Don’t forget that there might be additional costs that come in the form of repairs and maintenance, especially if you buy cheaper models like those priced up to $30, which can be a drawback if you plan on moving forward with the hobby, as they aren’t that durable and they might not allow for customization.