Getting Started In R/C Page #3
(Under Construction)
Other Considerations
The main thing I am trying to accomplish with this little "Getting Started" section of my web is to help people be better informed before diving into the R/C hobby. If you are better informed before you start, you may make smarter choices that will make the hobby more fun and, possibly, less expensive. There is a great many purchase choices to consider. Spending more now on a better product can save you from having to buy a replacement that you find you want more, so soon, because you found yourself unhappy with your first choice. I will continue in a Q & A format. I hope you find this useful.
Question: The Traxxas Rustler Truck can also be purchased in a pre-built ready-to-run (RTR) version. More and more manufacturers of quality R/C products are starting to offer these RTR versions. Would I be better off getting one of these RTR versions?
Answer: That depends on your view on the issue. I think it is best that you build your own. You will need to have certain minimal tools to do this or you will need to buy them. Buying tools will add to your start-up costs, but you won't be sorry later. The reasons you should build your own? First, you will know a lot more about your model if you do. This will come in handy when you need to do repairs and maintenance on the model. Secondly, the model is less expensive when you build it yourself.
Question: With all the model kits and related accessories available today, how will I decide what is best to start with?
Answer: Whew! That is a big question, isn't it? First let me say this, I am using the Traxxas Rustler and entry-level accessories for an example in these "Getting Started" web pages mainly due to the lower set-up costs involved. This realistically shows people the minimum investment they will need to start. Even though the Ruster is a novice kit, building it will teach you plenty about R/C modeling. If you don't mind spending more to start with, buy a pro-level kit made by Team Associated or others. Though these kits are more expensive, their performance is awesome. If you decide to buy a pro-level kit to start, this also tends to effect the choices you make on the performance level of your accessories. Also, there is no motor, motor pinion or Speed Control included in these Pro kits, so you will need to buy these too. The products you choose to use when setting-up your R/C model will have a direct effect on it's performance. Invariably, the amount of money you are willing to spend can limit your choices. You will need to decide what your spending limits and performance expectations are. Be realistic. You can't compete with a Ford Pinto in the Indianapolis 500. Also, you don't need the best of everything to have fun.
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