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How Radio Controlled Car Racing Came About
It was in the 1940s when diminutive, nitro-methane powered engines were first marketed. They had a speed that can reach of up to 113 km/h but can only run in circles from a tether. It was there that it got its nicknames of "spin dizzies" and "tether cars".
During the 1960s, the first miniature cars that could be controlled via radio from a distant transmitter were introduced. These new model cars had the power to steer, accelerate, and brake at the driver's will. These cars are capable of running through racetracks with accurate control, and thus, radio controlled car racing was born.
In 1984, radio controlled car manufacturer Associated Electrics, Inc. introduced a classier and sleeker version of model race car called the RC10. The RC10 was electric powered; unlike the common cars that were nitromethane-driven. It was a deviation from Associated Electrics usual line of RC's. RC10 was made from a more powerful aluminum alloy and it had built in shock absorbers that were adjustable.
Aside from its new electric capacities, the RC10 model had the option to incorporate small ball bearings made of stainless steel into its wheels and transmission. Also, its transmission had steel rings forced down on the ball bearings, a feature enabling full modification for any track situation. Without question, RC10's abilities made it the top choice in electric RC racing.
In 1986, another RC manufacturer, Schumacher Racing Products, launched their Competition All Terrain (CAT) model car. It is a four wheel "buggy" racer that was considered as the greatest of its class. It went on to win the 1987, 1990, 1994, 1995, and 1996 world championship off-road race. This model car was recognized as initiating and popularizing the interest in four wheel car racing.
Team Losi, a popular radio controlled car racing team, released their JRX-2 model buggy and immediately began a rivalry with Team Associated that survives until today. Both teams headline the American radio controlled car racing scene, with Gil Losi, Jr. acting as the formers' founder and leader. Team Losi was the first to produce miniature tires that were all natural, the first four wheel "buggy" that was American-made , and a new set of car types that were 1/18 scale of the Mini-T.
Outside of the American RC racing circuit, other makers like the Kyosho (Japan) and Schumacher (Europe) hold much market share both in innovation and technology. They are the prevalent choice of makers for hobbyists in their respective regions.
Radio controlled car racing is an excitable game that promotes accuracy, discipline, and car engine knowledge. It is no wonder that it's a well liked hobby across the globe.
About the Author: The above article was written by Nicole Steffanson on behalf of Baby Gift Station, a Baby Footprint Keepsakes & New Baby Gift Baskets online store specializing in Baby Einstein Gift Baskets, Baby Handprint Footprint Kits and other baby gifts and couture.
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