R/C cars and trucks - Beyond the toy store shelves

by Mike Eggert

From the high pitched whine of a nitro engine, to the whirring of an electric motor. All across the land, on any given weekend, you can find them bashing about everywhere from vacant lots, to parking lots. RC car and truck racing has become one of the hottest hobbies in recent memory.

You've probably seen them on the shelves of your local discount store, toy store, or electronics store. But, the real excitement this sport has to offer can only be found at a real RC hobby shop.

The RC cars, trucks, and other various RC vehicles found at the discount chains can be a great deal of fun, but if you never venture beyond these toys you might find yourself feeling a bit let down by their quality and excitement level. The difference between the "real" RC vehicles, and the chain store toys can be quite amazing. Obviously, there is a difference in cost, but as the old saying goes, "You get what you pay for."

You can choose from a wide variety of styles of RC vehicles, from mild to wild, and everything in between. From two wheel drive cars, trucks and buggies, to four wheel drive buggies, stadium trucks and monster trucks.

The electric cars and trucks, which are powered by rechargeable battery packs, are probably the best place to start your new hobby. Some of these can reach speeds in excess of 40 miles per hour! As time goes by you may find yourself craving even more speed and excitement. Look no further than the gas powered beasts that run on a blend of nitromethane and methanol for their fuel. Some of these radical rides can approach an amazing 70 miles per hour!

You can jump right in with a Ready to Run (or RTR as they are known in the sport) car or truck, or take on the challenge of a completely unassembled kit. The latter does require a bit of mechanical ability, as well as a dose of patience, but can be a very rewarding project to undertake with your son or daughter, teaching them valuable skills as well as just having a great time together.

No matter which type of RC vehicle you choose, you are sure to have a wonderful time enjoying a wholesome family activity in the great outdoors.

So stop by your local hobby shop or online retailer and see what the "real" world of RC cars and trucks has to offer. You'll be glad you did.

For even more information about this exciting sport check out http://www.rc-hq.com

About the Author

Mike Eggert is an R/C car and truck racing enthusiast, and author of the RC information website http://www.rc-hq.com