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  • Team Associated Drops Two New Factory Team RC10 Kits

    Team Associated Drops Two New Factory Team RC10 Kits

    Team Associated is giving RC enthusiasts two fresh ways to build a piece of racing history. The company has announced a pair of new Factory Team editions of its legendary RC10 platform: the RC10 4WD Factory Team Kit (model #6055) and the RC10 Factory Team Blue Edition Kit (model #6058).

    The RC10 4WD Factory Team Kit

    This edition is an electric off-road buggy with a bronze anodized 6061-T6 aluminum monocoque chassis and matching nose plate and cut motor plate. It rides on Kashima-coated 13mm Big Bore Factory Team shocks and low-CG carbon fiber shock towers. The chassis is reinforced with black anodized aluminum stiffeners and exclusive black anodized nose tubes. The car includes a race-proven front and rear Stealth transmission setup with adjustable ball differentials, plus the V2 slipper clutch system.

    A new clear Mirage Pro lexan body and B7 rear wing complete the look, while all-black plastics, black anodized thumb nuts, and blue anodized pulley flanges add factory-style detailing. The suspension uses fully adjustable four-wheel independent geometry with heavy-duty 3.5mm turnbuckles and ball cups. A new front caster and spindle assembly was designed specifically for the 4WD version.

    This kit is aimed at experienced builders: you will need to supply a motor, battery, charger, servo, ESC, and radio. Assembly and painting are required. The #6055 carries a manufacturer-stated price of $479.99, and its listed specs include a length of 381mm (15in), a width of 241mm (9.49in), a wheelbase of 273mm (10.75in), and an internal gear ratio of 2.6:1.

    The Blue Edition Kit

    The second release, the RC10 Factory Team Blue Edition Kit (#6058), takes a different visual direction with an exclusive blue anodized chassis, nose plate, and motor plate. It also features Kashima-coated 13mm big bore Factory Team shocks, carbon fiber shock towers (big bore compatible), and a rear tower that integrates the B6 wing mount. Team Associated describes this version as a 1/10th scale kit for vintage buggy fans.

    Like its 4WD counterpart, this kit uses the V2 slipper system, heavy-duty metric ball studs, all-black plastics, and a clear Mirage Pro vintage body. It adds Factory Team captured hinge pins, 12mm hex rear CVAs, B7 wheels, a B7 servo mount, and a carbon fiber transmission brace. Steering comes from the World’s Car bellcrank design, and a new Factory Team vintage logo decal sheet is included. The Blue Edition is street priced at $439. The source materials do not specify a power source or whether painting is required for this model.

    A Long Racing Heritage

    Team Associated describes the RC10 platform as an icon with over 40 years of racing heritage, now evolved by the AREA 51 Factory Team to dominate modern tracks. The company’s aim with these Factory Team editions is to deliver a setup that blends vintage RC10 character with the components and tuning used in today’s competitive racing.

    The 4WD kit includes a race-proven Stealth transmission and V2 slipper clutch system alongside low CG carbon fiber towers, while the Blue Edition mirrors the factory team’s current configuration choices. The 4WD kit comes with a clear body that requires painting and assembly, keeping the build experience true to a traditional kit project.

    Hobbyists who want the full breakdown of parts and specs can visit AssociatedElectrics.com/TeamAssociated for more details. The RC10 4WD Factory Team (#6055) is priced at $479.99, while the Blue Edition (#6058) carries a street price of $439.

  • Capelli’s K6 Go-Cart Kit Aims to Create a Whole New RC Racing Category

    Capelli’s K6 Go-Cart Kit Aims to Create a Whole New RC Racing Category

    Australian manufacturer Capelli has officially released the K6, a 1/6 scale electric competition kart chassis kit that’s been in development for more than two years. According to company owner Ryan Capel, the K6 is a passion project designed from the ground up as a purpose-built racing kart — not just a conventional pan car dressed up with a kart body.

    Forged Carbon and Pitch Damping

    The K6 rides on a two-piece forged carbon chassis that uses a central pivot and pitching damper system. This allows the front and rear sections to articulate independently, helping keep the rear tyres in contact with the track under acceleration and braking. The damper also controls chassis rotation during cornering.

    Chassis adjustment is extensive. Racers can independently tune camber, caster, toe, Ackermann, ride height, roll centre, and kingpin offset. The wheelbase ranges from 181mm to 185mm, rear track width from 222mm to 232mm, and front track from 203mm to 207mm. Total weight with electronics is approximately 900g.

    A Purpose-Built Kart Layout

    The K6 is designed to mimic the driving characteristics of full-size KZ racing karts — direct steering, low centre of gravity, and agile handling. An adjustable 85g brass balance weight sits opposite the motor to fine-tune lateral weight distribution, and optional 15g front and 65g rear weights expand the tuning range.

    The rolling chassis kit accepts standard 540-size brushless motors and is compatible with 1S or 2S LiPo batteries. It comes with a ball differential, 64-pitch spur gear mount, and foam tyres developed specifically for carpet and asphalt racing. The bodywork is available in Green, Neon Yellow, Orange, Pink, Teal, White, and Black.

    Smart Electronics Packaging

    One clever design detail: the receiver and electronics are concealed inside the driver figure, which also acts as an actuator for the pitching damper. Battery changes require loosening just two screws and lifting the driver assembly. A 30mm cooling fan duct routes air over the speed controller, mimicking the radiator position on a real kart.

    What’s in the Box

    The K6 ships as a rolling chassis kit — no electronics are included. Builders need to supply a 540 motor, micro servo, 2-channel radio, LiPo battery, compatible ESC with blinky mode, and a 30mm cooling fan. The kit also requires assembly consumables like silicone damper oil, differential grease, foam tyre glue, and threadlock. A comprehensive instruction manual and tuning guide are included.

    Pricing and Availability

    Capelli is selling the K6 directly from its website with global shipping. Early reports put the street price at AUD $565 (around $400 USD). All store prices are listed in Australian dollars.

    The K6 introduces a new category to RC racing — the manufacturer says it delivers the low seating position and direct response of full-size karts in a package that’s manageable for club racers. With its adjustable chassis, purpose-built layout, and distinctive styling, the K6 is now available and ready to line up on the grid.

  • LCD Models Opens Up the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport in 1:18 Scale

    LCD Models Opens Up the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport in 1:18 Scale

    LCD Models is rolling out a new addition to its diecast lineup, and it’s a big one—literally and figuratively. The company has unveiled a 1:18-scale, fully licensed replica of the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport, and it comes packed with opening parts and intricate interior detailing that go beyond the basics.

    Four Color Choices, One Detailed Package

    Collectors will have four color options to choose from: Grey, Red, Black, and White. The model is crafted from diecast metal and features full opening functionality. This isn’t just a static shelf piece; the replica boasts seats with front, back, and tilt adjustments, a functional sunroof that can be opened, and even a working filler cap. LCD Models refers to this as a “fully loaded” example, with features that extend deeper than what you’d find on a standard base model.

    A Look at the Smaller 1:43 Sibling

    While the spotlight is on the 1:18 version, LCD Models also produces a 1:43-scale variant of the same vehicle. According to official product details from LCD Model Limited, the 1:43 model features doors on both sides and front/rear covers that open, revealing a semi-independent engine with visible detail. That smaller model includes a total of 160 accessories, 40 of which are hardware parts. The interior receives a touch paint finish, and it comes with an exclusive door opener. The packaging for the 1:43 version consists of an acrylic platform, a transparent box, and a semi-visible package box. The 1:43 model is noted as a limited-edition release by retailer scalecar.ru, and it is offered in the same color lineup with product numbers beginning with LCD43011 followed by codes BL, WH, RE, and GR for Black, White, Red, and Grey respectively.

    SUV Appeal: A Global Question

    A natural question that arises with any SUV replica is its market appeal. The original announcement from diecastsociety.com poses the challenge directly: do SUVs have mass appeal, and does that favor the North American audience or the Asian side? The Toyota Land Cruiser is an icon with a massive following worldwide, but opinions likely vary by region. For now, LCD Models is offering the Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport in both scales, giving collectors on either side of the debate a chance to add it to their shelves.

    The Broader LCD Models Lineup

    LCD Models has been building a reputation for highly detailed, fully opening replicas across multiple scales. The 1:18 Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport carries product number LCD18013. Retailers like LiveCarModel and scalecar.ru have already listed the 1:43 version. Pricing has not been officially disclosed for either scale, and no specific release timeline has been provided in the announcement. The model is officially licensed by Toyota, ensuring authenticity for collectors who demand accuracy in both branding and design.

  • Pro-Line Racing’s Limited Edition Badlands MX43 Combo Delivers Bold Looks and Serious Grip for the X-MAXX

    Pro-Line Racing’s Limited Edition Badlands MX43 Combo Delivers Bold Looks and Serious Grip for the X-MAXX

    Pro-Line Racing has introduced a limited-edition tire and wheel package designed specifically for the Traxxas X-MAXX. The new Badlands MX43 Pro-Loc tires are mounted on exclusive Yellow and Black Impulse Pro-Loc wheels, offering a distinctive look and engineered to handle the demands of high-powered 1/5-scale bashing.

    Aggressive Tread and All-Terrain Performance

    The Badlands MX43 tread features an aggressive motocross-inspired pattern that is built to deliver traction across dirt, mud, grass, and loose terrain, according to Pro-Line. The company describes the tread as “Bigger and Bolder” with knobs that match modern MX tire design. This is a true all-terrain tire that Pro-Line says is “best suited for loose & loamy dirt, mud or grass.”

    Limited-Edition Styling

    The limited edition treatment swaps the standard stone-gray bead-loc ring for a bold yellow-and-black Impulse wheel design. Pro-Line describes the wheels as having an appearance that is “Inspired by full-size off-road wheels.” The company’s description of the set notes it will “stand out wherever you bash.”

    Pro-Loc Mounting System

    A key feature is Pro-Line’s proprietary Pro-Loc mounting technology. Unlike traditional glued tires, the Pro-Loc system mechanically locks the reinforced tire bead into a uniquely shaped channel on the wheel. The bead-loc screws pass through the tire rubber before being pinched by the outer ring, creating what Pro-Line calls “an ultra-secure bond” that stays tight under extreme abuse. The system is removable, meaning tires and foams can be replaced when needed, allowing the wheels to be reused.

    Built for Extreme Abuse

    Pro-Line engineered these tires with an ultra-durable anti-ballooning compound and a reinforced tire bead to help maintain tire shape and performance under heavy power and high speeds. The Impulse Pro-Loc wheels are manufactured from extra-thick, highly durable material at Pro-Line’s headquarters in the USA, a practice the company has maintained since 1982.

    Key Specifications

    Each tire measures 8.30 inches (211 mm) in height and 3.82 inches (97 mm) in width, providing a substantial footprint for the X-MAXX. The wheels feature a 24mm hex mount to match the stock Traxxas hub setup. Each package includes two pre-mounted tire-and-wheel assemblies with foam inserts already installed, ready to bolt on out of the box. The badlands MX43 Pro-Loc tires only fit on Pro-Line Pro-Loc wheels.

    Pricing and Availability

    The limited-edition set carries part number PRO1013116 and is priced at $79.99. Pro-Line has noted that production is limited, stating “these won’t be around forever.” A standard black-and-gray version (part number PRO1013113) is also available for those who prefer a more subdued look, but the limited-edition yellow-and-black version is the one likely to catch the eye of collectors and enthusiasts.

    The Bottom Line

    The Limited Edition Badlands MX43 Pro-Loc tire and wheel package offers a complete, ready-to-mount solution for X-MAXX owners seeking enhanced durability and a distinctive appearance. With its removable mounting system, aggressive all-terrain tread, and reinforced construction, it is a significant option for those who push their trucks hard. For full details and availability, visit ProLineRacing.com.

  • GP Replicas Ditches Sealed Resin with Removable-Body Ferrari F310 B

    GP Replicas Ditches Sealed Resin with Removable-Body Ferrari F310 B

    GP Replicas is shaking up its approach with a new 1:18 scale model of the Ferrari F310 B, the car Michael Schumacher campaigned during the 1997 Formula One season. Unlike some of the brand’s traditional sealed resin models, this new release features a fully removable body structure that exposes the internal mechanical details underneath.

    A New Direction for the Brand

    Announced this month, the model is listed under product number GPFTMV02. While the initial preview focuses on the visible motor details, the key development is the shift in manufacturing philosophy. The company is moving beyond the typical sealed mould approach to offer a more interactive experience for collectors who want to see how the car is put together. The brand’s own announcement notes that the preview is focused on the available motor details but that the company is making strides beyond what it describes as the typical resin and sealed mould approach.

    The Real-Life Inspiration: F310 B Chassis 179

    The subject of the model is the F310 B, a pivotal car in Ferrari’s modern history. It was the machine that ended the Scuderia’s six-year title drought, bringing the team back into championship contention. Driven primarily by Michael Schumacher and supported by Eddie Irvine, the F310 B was the work of legendary engineers John Barnard, Ross Brawn, and Rory Byrne, under the direction of Jean Todt.

    According to RM Sotheby’s auction records, nine F310 B chassis were built in total. Two of these were of a later, lighter specification with a slightly higher fuel capacity. The model appears to replicate the car’s appearance from Schumacher’s victory at the 1997 Canadian Grand Prix, a rain-affected race where he took the win after leader David Coulthard suffered a tire degradation issue and a technical problem during a pit stop.

    The real car, chassis number 179, has its own fascinating history. It was the first of the two lightweight-spec examples. The chassis debuted at the Belgian Grand Prix, where Schumacher used it briefly in qualifying before switching to his older car. At the Italian Grand Prix, Irvine drove it to an 8th-place finish. The chassis was later retired from works duty after being used as a spare car at several races including the Luxembourg, Japanese, and European Grands Prix.

    From Track to Collection

    After leaving Ferrari in 1999, chassis 179 passed through a small group of prominent collectors. It appeared at Ferrari Racing Days at the Hockenheimring in 2000 and the Monterey Historic Races at Laguna Seca in 2004. The car also became a regular participant in Ferrari F1 Clienti events, where the factory supports owners in driving their machines at speed.

    In January 2007, the car received Ferrari Classiche certification, confirming its authenticity, and is offered with its “Red Book” along with a number of spare parts and items such as a spare set of BBS wheels and a race harness. More recently, it was piloted by British Formula 3 champion Robbie Kerr at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed to celebrate Schumacher’s 50th birthday.

    What’s Next

    GP Replicas has directed interested collectors to review the brand’s news feed for the complete list of current production models. The Ferrari F310 B with removable body is an early indication of where the manufacturer is heading, and fans of detailed, mechanical models will want to keep an eye on upcoming announcements.

    Limited-edition examples are typically offered with a leather base and display case, though specific pricing and release timing for the GPFTMV02 have not yet been detailed.

  • HeyGears G1 Series Packs Full-Color 3D, Texture, and UV Printing into One Desktop Machine

    HeyGears G1 Series Packs Full-Color 3D, Texture, and UV Printing into One Desktop Machine

    If you’ve ever tried to produce a full-color, multi-textured physical product from a single desktop setup, you know the drill: separate machines for 3D printing, UV decoration, and maybe a dedicated texture printer, plus hours of manual post-processing. HeyGears says it’s collapsing all that into one box. The company has launched the G1 Series, a modular desktop system that combines full-color 3D printing, 3D-texture printing, and high-resolution 2D UV printing in a single platform.

    Three Modes, One Platform

    The G1 Series isn’t a single-purpose device. It supports three distinct material systems:

    • Full-color 3D printing using UV resin, producing models with 10 million+ colors, transparent effects, and smooth gradients — no painting required.
    • 3D-texture printing (surface relief) that adds tactile depth up to 5mm high to flat substrates.
    • 2D UV printing for high-resolution surface decoration on products like phone cases, signs, and apparel.

    Under the hood, the G1 Series uses an industrial-grade Epson i3200-U1HD printhead with 3,200 nozzles and ultra-fine 3.9 picoliter droplets. It can hit resolutions up to 1440 × 2400 DPI in 2D mode, and HeyGears claims it prints up to three times faster than desktop UV printers using a single F1080 printhead. The printhead’s estimated service life is 2,100 hours — roughly three times that of the F1080, which lowers long-term maintenance costs.

    Built to Keep Running

    HeyGears designed the G1 Series with a quad-layer anti-clogging system to minimize downtime. It includes white-ink agitation to prevent pigment settling, printhead heating to maintain optimal viscosity, automated cleaning cycles after three days of inactivity, and a sealed moisturizing state during extended standby. The system also offers three manual cleaning modes — jetting, regular, and deep cleaning — so users can balance maintenance frequency with ink consumption.

    A Modular Ecosystem

    The G1 Series is built as an expandable production platform. The base G1 model handles 2D UV and 3D-texture printing. The G1X adds full-color 3D printing via an optional Resin Station and an upgraded 8-channel ink system. Users can start with the G1 and upgrade later by adding the Epson i3200-U1HD printhead and the Resin Station. Additional modules include flatbeds for direct-to-object printing, a rotary attachment for cylindrical items, a Roll-to-Film system for extended artwork, and a DTF (Direct-to-Film) setup for apparel.

    The system can print on over 400 base materials, including metal, wood, glass, ceramic, leather, and acrylic. Water-soluble supports dissolve away without tools, simplifying post-processing for complex hollow geometries.

    Software and AI Integration

    HeyGears bundles the G1 Series with its Blueprint Studio software, which connects to the HeyVerse AI platform. Users can generate 3D models from text descriptions or 2D images, add 3D textures with a single click, arrange layouts, and manage print jobs — all within one workflow. The AI Playground includes a library of over 500 curated assets.

    Pricing and Kickstarter Campaign

    The G1 Series is currently live on Kickstarter, where the campaign has already surpassed its $10 million stretch goal. Super Early Bird pricing remains available:

    • G1 Starter Pack — $1,699 (retail value up to $2,200 less)
    • G1X Starter Pack — $2,999
    • G1X Full-3D Pack — $3,299 (includes Resin Station and full 3D capability)

    Backers who purchase within 48 hours of the campaign launch will also receive a free bottle of UV white ink valued at $39. Shipping is worldwide, with HeyGears covering customs fees and VAT for EU and UK backers; shipping costs range from free (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan) to $50 (US, Canada, Australia) and $100 (EU, UK, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, New Zealand).

    The Kickstarter campaign ends on September 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM PDT. Orders are expected to begin shipping later in 2026.

  • PGM Brings Limited RWB and R35 Die-Cast Exclusives to the Chengdu Show Floor

    PGM Brings Limited RWB and R35 Die-Cast Exclusives to the Chengdu Show Floor

    While the show-stopping metal and glass at the Chengdu International Auto Show might be full-size, the real treasure for scale-model collectors is tucked into a smaller display. PGM is using the CDMS event to drop two exclusive 1:64 die-cast models that will only be available on-site.

    Both cars are limited editions, and PGM is capping each run at exactly 1,299 units — meaning if you want one, you’ll need to find them in person at the Car Model Culture Hall.

    The Two Exclusives

    The first exclusive is the RWB930 Silver Deluxe Edition, a metallic silver take on the classic wide-body Porsche silhouette finished as a deluxe-spec model. The second is the R35 Metallic Red Deluxe Edition, a striking red version of Nissan’s iconic GT-R.

    Both models share the same production cap, so neither variant is getting the edge in rarity. With the strict limited run, these will likely disappear fast once the show opens its doors.

    Where to Find Them

    PGM’s exclusive display is set up in the Car Model Culture Hall, located in Connecting Halls 15-16 at booth L03. That’s the dedicated zone within the show complex where die-cast and scale-model brands set up shop.

    About the Show

    CDMS — the Chengdu Motor Show — is one of China’s four top-tier A-class auto exhibitions and the largest automotive event in Western China. The expo covers a vast exhibition area and draws over a thousand exhibitors across passenger cars, commercial vehicles, parts, aftermarket services, and modification equipment.

    Organized by Hannover Milano Fairs Shanghai Ltd. alongside the Chengdu Century Balance Conference and Exhibition Co., Ltd., the event has grown into a major calendar fixture since its founding in 1998. It typically hosts more than 750,000 visitors and features over 1,600 vehicles on display. The show also includes a mix of new-vehicle launches, test drives, smart-connectivity experiences, and industry forums.

    Note that the show’s venue has been listed differently in various sources. The 2025 event was held at the Western China International Expo City, while the 2026 edition is scheduled at the Chengdu Century City New International Convention and Exhibition Center, according to organizer Hannover Milano Fairs. PGM’s specific booth location remains the Car Model Culture Hall in Connecting Halls 15-16, L03.

    What’s at the Car Model Culture Hall

    The Car Model Culture Hall is a dedicated section of the show that focuses on automotive culture beyond the full-size metal. It’s where brands like PGM bring limited-production die-cast cars, model kits, and collectibles aimed at the enthusiast audience attending the auto show. The hall serves as a bridge between the automotive world and the collector hobbyist scene.

    For PGM, these show-exclusive drops have become a reliable draw. Serialized limited editions, especially those tied to major automotive events, tend to see strong interest from collectors who want a piece that can’t be found on regular retail shelves or online stores.

    No Online Orders

    PGM hasn’t announced any plans to sell these models through other channels. The units are strictly show-exclusives, which means collectors not attending CDMS will have to rely on friends, proxies, or the secondary market to get their hands on a RWB930 Silver or R35 Metallic Red.

    With the run size confirmed at 1,299 units for each and no product code issued yet — PGM lists “Product# TBD” for both — the company may release serial numbers or further details closer to the event’s start.

  • TopArt Brings an Uber-Detailed 1:64 Supra A90 to the Chengdu Auto Show

    TopArt Brings an Uber-Detailed 1:64 Supra A90 to the Chengdu Auto Show

    TopArt is heading to China with two new show exclusives that are sure to turn the heads of scale-model collectors. The brand has unveiled a stunning 1:64 scale replica of the Toyota Supra A90 finished in a menacing Darwinpro Battle Grey, alongside a framed exploded-view version of the same model. Both items will make their global debut at the 9th Chengdu International Auto Show.

    This isn’t a wide release. The standard Supra A90 replica is limited to just 500 units, making it a genuine collector’s piece. The framed exploded version, which showcases the intricate inner workings of the Supra in a display-ready format, will be slightly more accessible with a production cap of 2,000 units.

    Where and When to Grab One

    Collectors attending the event can snag these models directly from the TopArt team while supplies last. The Chengdu Auto Show is one of China’s five A-level automotive exhibitions and is a major platform for brands and builders alike. So far, TopArt has only signaled that the models “will be on sale at the upcoming show,” so those who can’t make it to the venue may need to look for secondary-market opportunities or wait for further announcements.

    About the Event

    The 2026 edition of the show is scheduled to run from August 21 to August 30 at the Western China Expo City in Chengdu, Sichuan province. Last year’s event drew nearly 120 brands and displayed over 1,600 vehicles. While the auto show is primarily a stage for full-size unveilings—like the Xiaomi Sky Nomad N90 and the Freelander 8—it also serves as a unique venue for diecast and model exclusives.

    Why This Matters for Collectors

    The 1:64 scale segment is a battleground for detail and precision, and TopArt’s Supra A90 looks to be a serious contender. A Darwinpro Battle Grey finish gives this replica a track-ready aesthetic that stands out from more common factory-color builds. The limited run of 500 units ensures that demand will likely outstrip supply, a familiar story for serious scale-model collectors.

    For those who prefer to see the engineering rather than just the exterior, the framed exploded version offers a unique twist. Exploded-view models are increasingly popular among adult builders and collectors for their display value and ability to showcase the mechanical complexity of a vehicle in a single, static frame.

    Final Details

    Collectors should plan ahead, as TopArt has not yet confirmed whether any units will be held for online sales after the show closes. Given the tight production numbers, in-person buyers at the Chengdu Auto Show will almost certainly have the best shot at securing one of these exclusive replicas.

    The 9th Chengdu International Auto Show kicks off on August 21, and TopArt will be there with its latest creations. For collectors and fans of the A90 Supra, this is one of those limited-release moments worth circling on the calendar.

  • RGT Hobby’s Pioneer V2 Brings Two-Speed Transmission to the 1/10 Rock Crawler Scene

    RGT Hobby’s Pioneer V2 Brings Two-Speed Transmission to the 1/10 Rock Crawler Scene

    RGT Hobby has officially announced the Pioneer V2 Scale Rock Crawler RTR, an updated 1/10-scale pickup that brings a two-speed gearbox and a beefed-up chassis to the ready-to-run segment. The new model is rolling out in both brushed and brushless configurations, giving hobbyists a choice between entry-level affordability and Pro-level performance.

    Pickup Styling and a Steel Backbone

    The Pioneer V2 wears a realistic pickup truck body, but the real news is underneath. RGT has switched to an upgraded chassis built around a 1.5mm steel c-frame, a noticeable step up from the previous generation. The crawler rides on front and rear portal axles with a 6mm metal eight-link suspension, and the steering servo is mounted directly on the axle for better articulation and clearance.

    Two-Speed Transmission Is the Headliner

    Perhaps the most notable feature on the Pioneer V2 is its two-speed transmission. Having selectable gearing on a ready-to-run crawler is relatively rare at this price point, and it allows drivers to switch between low-speed crawling torque and higher-speed trail running without swapping pinions. The main gear in the transmission system uses a slipper design, and RGT notes that all transmission gears are made from high-strength powder alloy to handle extreme loads.

    Two Versions for Different Budgets

    The standard Pioneer V2 comes with a brushed motor, while the Pro version steps up to a brushless motor and a 40kg servo for more steering authority. Both versions include an ESC from Hobbywing, according to the initial announcement. The standard brushed model listed on several retailer sites is equipped with a 17T or 20T 540 brushed motor, a 15kg metal-gear waterproof servo, and a waterproof crawler ESC.

    What’s Included in the Box

    RGT is shipping the Pioneer V2 as a complete RTR package. Buyers will find a 2.4GHz 4-channel radio system designed specifically for crawlers—the third channel controls the LED light switch, and the fourth channel can operate a winch. The kit also includes a 7.2V 2000mAh NiMH battery and a wall charger. The detailed body comes with a snorkel, spot lights, and factory-mounted LED lighting in the front and rear bumpers.

    Dimensions and Specs

    The Pioneer V2 measures 540–560mm in length, 240mm in width, and sits 240mm tall, with a wheelbase of 313mm. Ground clearance is listed at 80mm, and the vehicle weighs approximately 2.6kg. The gear ratio spans from 56.6:1 in low gear to 33.3:1 in high gear, depending on the source listing. The standard version uses a 40A ESC and is fitted with 1.9-inch wheels and tires.

    Front-Biased Design for Climbing

    RGT has positioned the motor and gearbox toward the front of the chassis—a design choice that shifts weight forward for better front-wheel traction on steep climbs. The company says this front-bias layout helps reduce the chance of rollover when traversing high-angle slopes. The newly designed steering arm can reach a maximum turning angle of 42 degrees, which should help in tight trail sections.

    Pricing and Availability

    RGT has not yet released official U.S. pricing, but the Pioneer V2 is already appearing on retailer sites in blue, yellow, gold, and ice blue color options. The brushed RTR is being listed as model number RGT86100-R V2 or EX86110, depending on the market. Hobbyists can expect the Pioneer V2 to land at hobby shops and online stores in the coming weeks.

  • ProMotion RC Slide Job Dirt Oval Tire Hits the Track with Full-Scale Styling

    ProMotion RC Slide Job Dirt Oval Tire Hits the Track with Full-Scale Styling

    ProMotion RC has launched a new dirt oval racing tire that brings full-scale styling and track-tunable performance to the RC scale. The PMRC Slide Job Oval Bar Tire is available now in multiple compound configurations, each priced at $21.99 per set.

    Drawing from Full-Scale Oval Racing

    According to the company, the Slide Job was designed to capture the aggressive look of a real race tire while meeting the demands of today’s competitive RC oval racers. ProMotion RC states that the tire’s development was informed by its full-scale oval racing background. The goal, per the company, was to create a tire that delivers strong forward drive, predictable cornering, and adjustability — giving oval racers multiple ways to dial in their setup.

    The tread design incorporates several distinct elements: multiple bar sizes, doubled-up bars, two different pin designs, and a directional outer bar that racers can flip to alter side bite as track conditions evolve. The company describes this as a pin/bar hybrid layout.

    Tunable Outer Bar Configuration

    A standout feature of the Slide Job is the ability to flip the directional outer bar, letting racers adjust side bite without swapping to a completely different tire. This adjustable outer bar is intended to offer flexibility across a range of dirt track surfaces.

    Each set ships with two tires and two Advanced Cell Inserts. ProMotion RC offers the Slide Job in six part numbers. The rear tire line includes three options: #4075-R-T1 in T1 compound, #4075-R-T2 in T2 compound, and #4075-R-CO-DD in Double Dot Clay Orange. The standard tire line also includes three options: #4070-T1 in T1 compound, #4070-T2 in T2 compound, and #4070-CO-DD in Double Dot Clay Orange. All six SKUs are listed at $21.99 per set.

    A Championship Pedigree

    ProMotion RC and J&T Bearing Co. share a strong track record in RC racing. According to the company’s website, ProMotion RC has earned 6X ROAR National Championships, while J&T Bearing Co. holds 11X ROAR National Championships.

    The company’s product lineup extends beyond tires to include carbon fiber pit boards, pit mats, tire spikes, and a full line of wheels, foam inserts, and accessories. ProMotion RC says on its site that it was “truly built ‘by the racer, for the racer’” and is focused on advancing RC racing tires, wheels, inserts, and accessories through on-track passion and experience.

    ProMotion RC and J&T Bearing Co. also recently announced a new J&T Carbon Fiber Kyosho MP11 Front Top Plate. This component is described as a precision CNC machined direct replacement made from premium 3K carbon fiber. It features a lightweight pocketed design and a laser-etched J&T logo.

    Commercial Availability

    The PMRC Slide Job Oval Bar Tires are available through the ProMotion RC website at ProMotionRC.com, listed under the J&T Bearing Co. page. Retailers such as Go Fast Hobbies also carry the ProMotion RC line. The company describes its level of support as unmatched, whether for a rookie racer or a seasoned veteran looking for a competitive edge. For dirt oval competitors looking for a tire that blends full-scale styling with on-track adjustability, the Slide Job is available now.