Remote Drift Cars: A Guide to Choosing, Driving, and Maintaining
Remote drift cars are an exciting and popular hobby for people of all ages. These high-performance vehicles are typically small and compact and can perform a range of stunts and slides, making them ideal for those who enjoy thrilling and adrenaline-fueled activities. Remote drift cars can be controlled from a distance using a remote controller, which adds to the excitement and challenge of maneuvering the vehicle. They are also highly customizable, with many manufacturers producing models that can be modified to suit individual preferences. In recent years, the market for remote drift cars has grown exponentially, with more and more manufacturers released increasingly advanced models designed for both entry-level and experienced users. Whether you’re a seasoned drift car enthusiast or just getting started in the hobby, there’s a remote drift car out there that is perfect for you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at remote drift cars, their types, purchasing tips, and getting started with this exciting hobby.
Types of Remote Drift Cars
Remote drift cars come in different shapes and sizes, designed to suit different preferences and purposes. Here are some of the most common types of remote drift cars:
- Electric drift cars: These cars are powered by rechargeable electric batteries and are ideal for those who prefer indoor drifting. They are affordable, easy to operate, and require little maintenance.
- Gas-powered drift cars: These cars run on fuel, making them more powerful and faster than electric models. They are suited for outdoor drifting and are ideal for experienced drift car enthusiasts.
- Miniature models: These smaller remote drift cars are designed for indoor racing and are perfect for those who have limited space for racing or practicing. They can also be easily transported, making them ideal for traveling or when on the go.
- Larger models: These models are designed for outdoor drifting and are more suited for experienced users. They can be more challenging to operate but offer better performance and more features than smaller models.
It’s worth noting that remote drift cars also come with different materials, designs, and styling. Plastic and metal are the most common materials used, with some models featuring highly detailed representations of real-life cars. Some popular models include the Exceed RC Electric DriftStar RTR Drift Car, the HPI Racing E10 Drift Nissan 350Z RTR, and the Redcat Racing EPX Drift Car. When purchasing remote drift cars, it’s essential to research the type that suits your needs and preferences. Online stores such as Amazon and hobby shops like HobbyTron stock a wide range of remote drift cars, making it easy to find one that’s perfect for you.
What are the different sizes of remote control cars?
The size of remote control cars can vary based on their scale relationship to the real car they emulate. The most common size is 1/10 scale, but there are smaller sizes like mini or micro RC cars that are typically 1/24 scale. The smallest ever made is 1/90 scale. For more information, you can refer to the Wikipedia page on Radio Control.
Tips for Choosing a Remote Drift Car
Choosing the right remote drift car can be overwhelming, especially with the vast selection available. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Determine your experience level: Remote drift cars come with different features, making them suitable for beginners or experienced users. Determine your experience level to choose a model that fits your skill level.
- Set a budget: Remote drift car prices range from budget-friendly to high-end, so it’s essential to set a budget before purchasing. Be sure to consider additional costs, such as batteries and replacement parts, when determining your budget.
- Choose between a ready-to-run model or a build-it-yourself kit: Ready-to-run models come already assembled, making them easy to use. Build-it-yourself kits, on the other hand, offer a more fulfilling experience but require a bit of technical know-how to build.
- Read reviews and ask for recommendations: Reading reviews and asking for recommendations from fellow RC enthusiasts is an excellent way to get firsthand information about the pros and cons of different models.
- Consider parts availability: Some remote drift cars have parts that are difficult to replace, making them challenging to maintain. Check if replacement parts are readily available before making a purchase.
- Choose a model that can be upgraded or repaired: Remote drift cars are not immune to wear and tear, so choose a model that is easy to repair and upgrade. It will help extend the life of the vehicle and make it easier to use in the long run.
Interestingly, there are numerous remote drift car competitions held worldwide, where enthusiasts compete against each other for prizes. Competitions like the Formula Drift Pro Championship, the World Drift Series, and the D1 Grand Prix offer aspiring drifters a chance to showcase their skills. When choosing a remote drift car, it’s essential to consider these factors to ensure you get an excellent experience. Websites like RCplanet, Horizon Hobby, and Tower Hobbies offer a broad range of remote drift cars that come with different features, making it easy to find one that meets your preferences.
| Website Name | Products Offered | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| RCplanet | Electric drift cars, gas-powered drift cars, miniature models, larger models, parts, and accessories. | $50 – $500+ |
| Horizon Hobby | Electric drift cars, gas-powered drift cars, ready-to-run models, build-it-yourself kits, parts, and accessories. | $30 – $800+ |
| Tower Hobbies | Electric drift cars, gas-powered drift cars, miniature models, larger models, ready-to-run models, parts, and accessories. | $40 – $600+ |
Getting Started with Remote Drift Cars
Now that you’ve chosen your remote drift car, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Read the user manual: Every remote drift car comes with a user manual that outlines the controls, how to charge it, and how to perform basic maintenance. Be sure to read this manual before using your vehicle to avoid any confusion or accidentally damaging it.
- Practice basic moves: Begin by practicing basic moves such as acceleration, braking, and steering in an open area with no obstructions. This will help you get a feel of how to control your car and help prevent collisions.
- Gradually progress to more advanced maneuvers: After mastering basic driving, you can start experimenting with more complex moves such as drifting, sliding, and spinning your car. Practice in a designated area to avoid damaging your property or the vehicle.
- Perform regular maintenance: It’s crucial to maintain your remote drift car correctly. Regular maintenance involves cleaning and oiling the parts and checking for any damages or wear and tear that may need to be fixed.
It’s also beneficial to join online remote control communities to connect with other enthusiasts and gain tips and tricks on how to improve your driving skills. Websites like RCGroups, RC Driver, and RC Universe offer user forums, blogs, and reviews on the latest remote drift car releases and accessories.
Moreover, different stores offer beginner and intermediate-instructional books that help those new to remote drift cars understand how to properly maintain and become better at remote drift car driving. Online stores like Amazon and Etsy offer a broad range of books to choose from- including instructional books and other educational materials.
Finally, if you’re interested in joining competitions, be sure to visit websites like the International Drifting Federation and Nationwide RC which offer schedules and registration details.
With the tips above, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled remote drift car driver in no time.
How to drift in a car with remote control?
Drifting with a remote control car can be fun and challenging. First, find a large open space free of obstacles to practice. Power on the car and turn the steering wheel all the way to one direction while gradually accelerating. Once the car reaches a certain speed, quickly flick the steering wheel to the opposite direction to initiate the drift. Practice this technique until you can control it smoothly. Check out the YouTube video “How to Drift With A Remote Control Car” for a visual guide.
Conclusion
Remote drift cars are not just about driving remote-controlled cars – it’s a way to develop engaging and interactive activities that can be both fun and educational. As you grow in skill, you can take part in more advanced maneuvers and showcase your drift skills on tracks. With regular practice, you can master the art of drifting and participate in competitions, community events, and the thrill of racing.
There’s no limit to the fun and excitement you can have with remote drift cars. The more you practice, the better you become. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can make an informed decision when buying a remote drift car, learn how to control it like a pro, and even find yourself part of a dynamic and ever-growing remote control community.
Now that you know about the different types of drift cars, how to choose one, and the best practices to start using it, you can begin your journey into the remote control hobby. The experience can vary, and having the right drift car can determine how much fun you have. Use the information you’ve learned to get up to speed, and don’t be afraid to explore and learn more. The most essential thing is to enjoy the experience and have fun while doing it.
