RC Gas Cars for Beginners

Are you ready to start your own hobby racing RC gas cars? If you are thrilled by speed there is no better place to fulfill your fantasies than by joining the thousands of RC racing enthusiasts already tearing it up around the country. What exactly are RC gas cars and where does a beginner start to learn the basics?

RC Cars
RC stands for remote control. While cars are a popular choice you can also get RC boats, helicopters and motorcycles to name a few. The largest selection is without a doubt in the RC car arena; sports cars, off-road buggies, tanks, monster trucks and touring cars just to name a few. Options such as 2-wheel, 4-wheel, on-road and off-road expand the selection even further. Scale is another factor to consider. The scale indicates the relative size of the RC vehicle to a full size version. The smallest can be reduced to as little as 1/32 (meaning the full size version is 32 times bigger) and the larger ones can be as much as ¼ - only one quarter the size of the real thing! Cost is an issue to consider when purchasing a vehicle. A popular size for RC cars is 1/10. Once you’ve found your vehicle of choice you will want to learn the basics of operating an RC gas car and find out where you can meet and learn from other enthusiasts.

Operating an RC Gas Car
While electric versions can be easier to set up and possible to use indoors you will no doubt find that as your passion for RC cars grows you will lean towards gas cars for their power and speed. Gas powered cars are safest when operated outside. Beginners who start with entry-level cars can easily learn to operate the controls on the transmitter with a little patience and practice. Forwards, backwards, left turn and right turn are the standard controls. Brakes are available on more advanced transmitters. The speed your vehicle is capable of will depend on the size and type of vehicle as well as the skill of the operator. As you become comfortable with the controls you will find your speed picking up. Ask at a hobby shop or search online for local RC groups. Find out where they meet and what vehicles they use. Choosing a car that is popular in your area will enable you to join a group of enthusiasts and learn from experienced operators.

The Cost of RC Gas Cars
The biggest obstacle of most hobbies is the start up costs. Fortunately the manufacturers of RC gas cars are offering plenty of models that are suitable for a beginner at a reasonable price. RTR (Ready-to-Run) vehicles are the best way to start. All you add is the fuel and batteries and you’re road ready! The model of vehicle will affect the price but plan on paying at least $300 (US) to get started. Once you have your vehicle you can maintain it inexpensively with replacement fuel, batteries for the controls and the occasional replacement part. RC cars can take some rough play without too much damage – but be aware that the urge to upgrade and maintain a perfect vehicle can lead to a very expensive hobby very quickly!

Greg Root owns and maintains http://www.rccarssite.com. A website that provides basic tips on how to buy, build and race electric and nitro RC cars.