I posted a similar question in the Nitro forums, but I'm interested in getting into the hobby of r/c racing. I like the idea of running nitro because the are so much faster, but maybe electric is the route to take. I'm just so confused. For you electric guys, if you could give me some advice and maybe steer me towards running electric instead of nitro then maybe I'll go that way.

What cars do you recommend? What kind of costs are involved with running electric vs. nitro, is it cheaper? Your thoughts are appreciated.

Thanks,
Zippy7

Zippy - I have only raced Nitro, but depending on your budget and local tracks, you may be able to race both. Nitro is pretty much raced during the summer months and electric can be raced all year round. If you live in an area when you have seasons, your best bet is racing both so you can keep gaining radio skills. I'm no electric expert, but this would be a start to your foundation.
Good luck!

IMO Nitro is the way to go for the "real" racing feel, ad you deal with longer races and pit strategy. That is not to say electric is not to be considered. The guys in the club I race with run electric indoor in the winter to get radio time. I am one of those people aswell.

Thanks guys for the information.

I was thinking that nitro would be the way to go, but still not sure. Let's say I have an 800 budget to get up and running. Don't really want to spend any more than that to get going and for most maintenance items throughout the race seasons.

MrBinks - what are the ongoing costs like in electric racing? More or less than nitro (I'm assuming less)?

Thanks again,
Zippy7

Zippy7 wrote:I Let's say I have an 800 budget to get up and running. Don't really want to spend any more than that to get going and for most maintenance items throughout the race seasons.

As far as this is concwerned there are a ton of variables that affect what you spend. It is hard to set a cost including maintenance items. for instance I bent a $120 dollar chassis because of a loss of steering. Needless to say that messed my expectant costs up

It also depends if you have tools and chargers and things of that nature. Buying new will cost more in the beginning but IMO is the better bet.

regardless of which way you go some costs are the same.... Tires... Tools....

Nitro- Fuel -$18 a gallon
Electric - $50-$150 a battery pack

Nitro motor $200-$500 avg
Electric Brushless System - $200-$400

It is all relative. It is easy to get into both for cheaper if you buy used.

The costs are very similar if you are serious about racing. You can get much cheaper items and race them electric. but the serious race vehicles costs are generally the same.

Hey Zippy, any updates on your electric racing venture. Keep us posted.