shortcut3d

iTrader: (1)

I’m considering either the RC8B4.1e or XB8E for a new 1/8 buggy. This would be my venture into 1/8th scale. Most exclusively race 1/10 stock off-road on turf. I returned to the hobby with TLR and have a couple 22SCTs and 22X-4s, but picked up RC10B6.4s last year because TLR wasn’t updating their models (discontinuing in some cases). I also have a XRAY GTXE’23 that was an absolute joy to build.

After plenty of reading the XB8E sounds like it has a leg up over the RC8B4.1e for durability, but cost more. My experience building AE, TLR and XRAY also confirms XRAY has better build quality.

However, I’m running mostly AE 1/10, so does that translate into 1/8 at all? There isn’t any parts cross over.

When is new version of the XB8E coming for 2024? RC America is sold out so am I right thinking it will be soon?

Well, I’m asking what about 1900kv vs 2200kv? What’s the preference? I understand 2200kv is run with no boost, but is there any other consideration?

revo_race

iTrader: (29)

If I had to guess I’d say a new Xray model won’t be available till the end of the year.
For motor speed, consider the size of your track. Sure you can change gearing to tailor it but to a certain point smaller tighter tracks you’ll want lesser kv and larger open tracks you’ll want more. 1900 is definitely a better all-around starting point than 2200.
They all break, I don’t care what name is printed on them. They can all be fast, it all depends on who’s driving it. I’ve seen Xray win over AE. I’ve seen AE win over Xray.

hunterdawg

iTrader: (19)

You may be able to contact RCAmerica, they might have a ballpark time frame. It seems like 2 years ago the XB8s came out midsummer.

shortcut3d

iTrader: (1)

Thanks for all the replies.

Another thing I have to think about is parts support. Not so much LHS since mine is basically all basher or mini rwd. But as far as where I normally shop online. The usual place where I get hop ups and tuning parts only have the RC8B4.1e. I really don’t know where to source XRAY parts other than Amain.

hunterdawg

iTrader: (19)

Amain, Michael RC Hobbies, and RCAmerica all offer Xray replacement parts. I use RCAmerica as a last resort though. Even searching ebay bringing less common hobby shops that offer some Xray parts.

revo_race

iTrader: (29)

Ashford hobby also has great selection. I’ve even gotten some of my stuff from Amazon, eBay, beachrc and absolute hobbyz but usually it’s Amain or Ashford.

shortcut3d

iTrader: (1)

So far post seem to be leaning towards XB8E. The XB8E also has a C-Hub conversion available. Everything I’ve read about 1/8 indicates C-hub is easier to drive. So another +1 for XRAY.

One concern I have is corrosion of the screws. I could not find a titanium screw kit for the XB8E (other than t-works which I won’t touch). There are a couple for the RC8B4.1e.

shortcut3d

iTrader: (1)

FWIW, Amain has also followed RC America and the XB8E ‘23 is now out of stock. I guess I’ll hold off until an announcement. I have time before realistically summer when the track opens.

youngrigo

iTrader: (7)

XB8E'23 is in stock on RC America as i type this....