Getting Started With RC Cars
Getting into the world of remote control vehicles can be exciting, but choosing your first RC car can also feel overwhelming.
There are different types of vehicles, sizes, driving styles, parts and setups to consider. The right choice depends on what you want to do with your vehicle.
At R/C Hobby Nook in Smithfield, North Carolina, RC enthusiasts can explore a wide selection of vehicles, parts and accessories while also getting knowledgeable support when they need help getting started. The store carries products from more than 100 RC brands and offers thousands of parts and accessories. R/C Hobby Nook
What Type of RC Vehicle Should You Choose?
Before buying your first RC vehicle, think about where you want to drive it.
RC Trucks
RC trucks are a popular starting point because they can be used for different types of driving. Depending on the vehicle, you can enjoy outdoor driving, trails, jumps or general recreational use.
If you want something versatile, an RC truck can be a practical starting point.
Rock Crawlers
Rock crawlers are designed around control and navigating obstacles rather than simply reaching high speeds.
R/C Hobby Nook has a dedicated 1/24 scale crawling course, making crawling an important part of the local RC experience. R/C Hobby Nook
Drift Cars
RC drifting focuses on controlled slides, steering and precision.
R/C Hobby Nook’s drift track is a 17 × 37 foot track with a J-Tile surface. The facility allows 1/10 scale 2WD drift cars and uses designated spec tires. R/C Hobby Nook
Mini-Z Cars
Mini-Z vehicles provide a compact racing experience and are designed for dedicated indoor tracks.
R/C Hobby Nook runs Mini-Z racing using a 50cm RCP track, EasyLap transponders and a Next Level timing system. R/C Hobby Nook
Think About Where You Will Drive
One of the biggest mistakes beginners can make is choosing a vehicle before thinking about where they will actually use it.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want speed?
- Do I want technical crawling?
- Do I want drifting?
- Do I want competitive racing?
- Will I mostly drive indoors or outdoors?
- Do I want something I can upgrade over time?
Your answers can narrow down the type of vehicle that makes the most sense.
Don’t Forget the Parts
Buying the vehicle is only one part of getting into the hobby.
RC vehicles have components that can eventually need maintenance or replacement. Tires, batteries, suspension components, drivetrain parts and other accessories can all become part of your RC journey.
This is one reason having access to a local hobby store can be valuable. Instead of trying to identify every component yourself, you can get help finding the right part for your vehicle.
Start With the Hobby You Actually Enjoy
There is no single RC vehicle that is right for everyone.
Some people enjoy the speed of racing. Others prefer the technical challenge of crawling. Some enjoy drifting and vehicle setup, while others enjoy collecting, upgrading and maintaining their vehicles.
The best first RC vehicle is one that matches the type of hobby you actually want to experience.
Get Started at R/C Hobby Nook
R/C Hobby Nook is a family-owned RC hobby store in Smithfield, NC, offering RC vehicles, parts, accessories and support for enthusiasts of different experience levels. R/C Hobby Nook
Whether you’re buying your first RC vehicle or looking for your next upgrade, the team can help you explore the options available for your hobby.