complete noob

[qualmech]

My buddy has recently gotten me into rc car racing. So far I have been running off of a radio shack monster truck lol...little to say I need to upgrad. I would like to start with electric and move my way up to gas. Really I would like an all around car that I could take to the local dirt track. I am expecting to spend alot on this car. Any suggestions?

[JeromeK99]

The best bang for your buck is going to be a Traxxas Slash... Under $200 for the kit with radio, speed control and motor.. It is a Ready-to-Run (RTR) prebuilt truck good for backyard bashing and racing at your local track. Just add batteries and charger... so you could get out the door for under $300. There are also tons of upgrades, bodies and tires for this truck as well...

For about $50 more you could to the same with the Losi Strike. Similar truck.. has a 2.4ghz radio (no crystals, no glitching) over the Slash.. and the speed control has a LiPo battery cutoff.. also something the Slash doesn't have..

The Short Course Trucks (SCTs) are good for the first time racer and those that want to bash around. The stadium race trucks (Losi XXX-TCR, Associated FT T4 and Kyosho RT-5) are made for speed and handling.. but they don't like to be bashed around outside of the race track environment. They will also cost you between twice and triple of a SCT RTR.

Good luck!

Jerome

[Duster_360]

What are you interested in racing or what does your local track offer as far as race programs? If they offer Slash spec racing, that would be a great way to get your feet wet and established for minimal outlay.

They are making just about everything for a Slash in the way of upgrades as you get better. Or you could sell it off and take your next step with racing.