R/C Racing
Quick Link - Good Points - Bad Points - Tips - Costs - Resources
Introduction
Everybody who loves racing, will love racing model cars, it's cheap, you don't get hurt, and has all the excitement of competitive racing.
Types of R/C Cars
There are many different types of model cars of different sizes and powered by different means. The primary need is what type of surface the car will be used on.
The choice is between:
On-Road
Off-Road
On-road cars race on purpose built tracks with smooth grippy surfaces (indoors and outdoors). On-road cars are famed for detailed realism, with model cars that look identical to the full-sized race car.
Whereas, off road cars trade looks for large shock absorbers and knobbly tyres. Off-road cars may also race around set tracks, but the terrain is rough and includes jumps. Off-road racing is usually outdoors, but can be re-created artificially indoors.
The powerplant of your car decides certain factors, such as speed, noise, run-time, and cost.
The choice is between:
Electric
I.C.
Electric cars commonly use 7.2V rechargeable batteries, which last around 5-20 minutes depending on their performance. Electric cars are quiet and clean.
I.C. stands for "internal combustion". Most model cars run on synthetic fuel, which can be filled up during pit-stops, giving much longer run-times than electric cars. Although noisier, I.C. cars are generally faster.
The scale of the model then determines the size. The scale is the fraction of the model car's size against the life-sized car the design is based on. These range from 1/4 scale (a quarter the size of a real car i.e. BIG for a model), 1/8th, 1/10th, to 1/12th (small).
Without going in to vast detail of the specification and prices for every type of car available, it is safe to say, there is a model car out there for you!
Racing model cars
Essentially model car racing is primarily FUN, competitive in places, and for all ages. Clubs tend to be friendly environments, with enthusiasts willing to share experience.
You control your model car by a simple radio transmitter (R/C stands for "Radio Controlled"). Other drivers use different radio frequencies to be able to race together. You race for a set time or a number of laps.
I.C. powered cars can endure longer races than their electric powered counterparts, and may even require speedy pit stops for re-fueling.
Race-bred model cars are tuneable to the nth degree, which brings added realism to the sport. Top-end race cars are definitely not toys! Driving ability is one half required to race successfully, the other is engineering / technical handiness (i.e. car setup / tyre choice etc). Often people team up and share both skills to get a winning combination, e.g. father & son.
For popular classes of cars, competition ranges from local club events, then on to national series, all the way up to world championships. Such events are covered in UK R/C racing magazines.
There are numerous permanent tracks scattered all over the country, plus many temporary tracks which are created when they are needed. Venues can be in-doors and out-doors, see the resources below for information on clubs and tracks.
The cars are recreated true to the full scale design, and look fantastic!
All the excitement with none of the personal risk.
Realistic looking cars with blistering performance.
Good value for money, incomparably cheaper than the real thing.
Would rather be racing real cars (lucky you).
For best entertainment, requires a club / organisation fairly near.
Ultra-light racing models aren't indestructible and parts will break if you keep crashing it in to the wall!
Research the type and scale of car you would like to race before you buy one.
Find out about nearby clubs and what cars they race before you buy a car, and also investigate if anyone is selling second hand equipment.
Practice: on-road cars - regularly attend race meetings. Off-road cars - can go on pretty much any terrain, find some rough stuff and hone your skills.
Depending on level of competition, class and scale, can range anywhere from �80 - �500 for a car. Check shops listed below for accurate prices.
Electric cars generally have a bigger initial outlay (several packs of batteries) whereas I.C. cars have fuel costs ongoing.
The simpler the cars, the cheaper the costs (e.g. oval stock cars - sturdy and basic).
(Click to open in new window)
BRCA - The British Radio Car Association, the main body for rules and events in Model Car racing. Includes a comprehensive list of tracks.
R/C Cars UK - A Good list of model car clubs in the UK with links to each.
West London Racing Center - Website for the well organised club, which has on-road racing facilities.
Related sports featured on Adrenaline-Sports.net include: Rally Driving, Hovercrafts, Minimoto and Karting.
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Summary of R/C Racing
Good points
Bad points
Tips
Costs
R/C Racing Resources
Apex Models - UK shop retailing a wide selection of different R/C cars, also spares & accessories.
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