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Archive for November, 2008

Tips For Drag Racing With Radio Controlled Cars

November 30th, 2008 Sefa 2 comments

RC Drag Racing


For most people, the idea of drag racing implies exhilaration and excitement. It also connotes danger. It’s a good thing that radio-controlled cars can now enable anyone to experience the thrills and excitement of drag racing without being exposed to too much danger.

Drag racing is all about speed. As compared to ordinary radio-controlled car races, the drag racing with radio controlled cars entails much more attention on setting-up the vehicle than having driving skills. The main deal with car racing is to eliminate the forces (aerodynamic) that prevent the car from attaining and maintaining maximum speed. The following things should be given much importance when racing RC cars at maximum speed:

Chassis

Getting and maintaining a good chassis for drag race RC cars is very important. The thing to remember is that there are numerous materials that make up modern RC drag cars today such as graphite and carbon fiber. They differ in how they support the cars and how they “flex” during acceleration. The chassis needs to have flexibility when accelerating is a key to attain the car’s maximum speed.

Front end design

Dragsters have distinct front-end designs. They are usually pointed to minimize the drag from the air. The front axles should be set up in a simple way to make them easier to adjust during accidents during race day.

Battery packs

Usually, RC car drag races are determined by the kind of battery pack that the cars are equipped with. Nickel-cadmium batteries are very popular nowadays. The batteries used in cars are usually in 6-cell or 7-cell packs. The two main things that one should look for in battery packs are internal impedance and voltage. These are two main indicators of power and speed. The battery packs used in RC drag racing are perhaps the most powerful in the whole RC racing arena.

Tires

The usual dragsters employ thin front wheels which are most often referred to as “pizza cutters” because they resemble the kitchen apparatus. When it comes to selecting tires, there are two beliefs: smaller is better and the “big wheels rule.” As with any other contradicting beliefs, both have advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, it’s personal taste that really counts in choosing the kinds of tires.

Weight

RC drag race cars have been stripped of their excess weight throughout the years. An optimum weight should be achieved to be able to get maximum acceleration.

RC drag racing is a really fun and exhilarating experience. One should try watching races over the weekend to find out.

Starting A Radio Controlled Car Business

November 27th, 2008 Sefa No comments

Starting A Radio Controlled Car Business


Starting a radio controlled car business is a serious commitment to a hobby that many people take seriously. However, it isn’t the business decision most people would care to take since it focuses on an enthusiast market.

However, if your passion is for this hobby, and you know where to find other people with this same passion, then you have, at least, the first qualification of a good RC businessman.

If you are considering opening a remote-controlled car shop, then consider the following while planning the course of your business.

1. Passion. This is the most important question you must ask yourself before starting a remote controlled car business. Do you have the passion for remote controlled cars? While it is possible to still start this business even if you do not have much of a passion for this hobby, an innate love for RCs definitely helps.

This is because as a remote controlled car fanatic yourself, you will be aware of the latest innovations in the hobby. This is knowledge you could incorporate into your business.

You will also be keenly aware of the needs of the enthusiasts – be they beginners or experienced. Knowing what your market wants also gives you a great advantage on knowing what they need. And filling their needs is what makes a good business tick.

2. Associations. It would be great if you knew your market. If you have contacts with a few RC associations then that would be great. You would have a virtual gold mine of potential customers to help keep your business afloat. Always keep yourself in the know regarding the latest in radio controlled technology and try to keep abreast of all the new developments.

This way your shop becomes more than just a place to sell remote controlled cars; it also becomes a place to sell the idea of having fun with remote controlled cars.

3. Producers. As a retailer, your first goal is to find a wholesaler of remote controlled car parts, models, and stocks. Make sure you find out which wholesalers give the best prices and the best terms. Make sure you stock up on the most popular parts around. But don’t forget to get a controlled amount of pretty much everything else just to make sure your store is comprehensive.

4. Business Sense. Business sense is important in any business. You should learn how to take inventory of your stock, anticipate demand for certain parts, and keep the ratio between supply and demand stable. Also, you should keep good accounting records of your cash inflow and your expenses.