Introducing the Baja Ray 2.0: An Exciting Upgrade for Four Wheel Drive Fans
A Closer Look at the Body Designs
The Baja Ray 2.0 has created quite a buzz among enthusiasts, and for good reason. While the focus has primarily been on their latest release in the two-wheel drive line-up, Losi hasn’t forgotten about their loyal four wheel drive fans. With the Baja Ray 2.0, they have delivered something truly exciting. These ready-to-run trucks come fully assembled and beautifully painted, with the electronics already installed. All you need to do is provide a battery and charger to get them up and running.
The standout feature of the Baja Ray 2.0 is not just a simple body refresh; it incorporates several new parts that greatly enhance its performance. In this article, we will delve deeper into these details, comparing them side by side with the previous version to truly appreciate the upgrades. But before we delve into the technicalities, let’s take a closer look at the captivating body designs that Losi has brought to the table.
One of the standout options is the Eisenhower Brothers truck. The retro Ford body exudes a sense of nostalgia and is absolutely awesome. Losi has consistently stepped up its game in recent years, and the attention to detail on this truck is evident. However, opinions may vary, so we want to hear what you think. Do you believe that Losi is heading in the right direction with their realistic scale bodies, coupled with high-performance chassis? Or would you prefer to see Losi focus solely on the chassis and leave the aesthetics aside? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Unveiling the New Features
Coming back to the Eisenhower Brothers truck, it shares similarities with its predecessor, such as multiple body panels for a more authentic appearance. However, Losi has made significant improvements underneath the hood. The Baja Ray 2.0 boasts a new cage with revamped mounting points, allowing for better stability and increased durability on any terrain.
Enhanced Suspension and Steering
Another area where the Baja Ray 2.0 shines is in its enhanced suspension and steering capabilities. Losi has reengineered this truck to provide optimal performance, whether you’re tearing through rough terrains or maneuvering through tight corners. The suspension system has been fine-tuned to deliver a smoother ride and improved handling, giving drivers the confidence to tackle any obstacle in their way.
Unleash the Power
Of course, we cannot overlook the powertrain of the Baja Ray 2.0. Equipped with a brushless motor and ESC, this truck packs a punch. Its upgraded electronics ensure maximum power output and precise control, whether you’re speeding through open spaces or executing precise maneuvers. Losi has truly taken the overall driving experience to new heights with the Baja Ray 2.0.
A Final Verdict
As Losi continues to push boundaries in the RC truck industry, the Baja Ray 2.0 is a testament to their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. With its realistic body design and powerful performance, this truck offers the best of both worlds. Whether you prioritize aesthetics or performance, Losi has carefully crafted a vehicle that aims to please all kinds of RC enthusiasts. So, strap in
Introducing the Intense and Modern V2 Raptor Truck
The V2 Raptor Truck has taken the off-road world by storm with its intense and modern design. From the molded plastic piece to the satin chrome finish, every detail of this truck screams power and durability. Let’s take a closer look at the various features that make this truck a standout in the desert truck category.
Aesthetically Pleasing Grille and LED Lights
One of the first things you’ll notice about the V2 Raptor is its striking grille. Made from a single molded plastic piece, this satin chrome grille is not only visually appealing but also functional. The clear lenses on the grille house LED lights, illuminating the road ahead with ease. Whether you’re driving off-road or on the city streets, the LED lights add an extra level of visibility and style to this already impressive truck.
New Body Panels for a Fresh Look
Another notable feature of the V2 Raptor is its updated body panels. The one-piece front clip is a new addition, giving the truck a sleek and modern appearance. Inside the grille, you’ll find the same LED lights as the real truck, providing a cohesive and authentic design. Additionally, the molded vent on top of the grille sets this version apart from its predecessors.
Elevated Exterior and Interior Design
As you move towards the rear of the truck, you’ll be captivated by its well-thought-out details. The seven LED light pod, previously seen on the F-100 truck, adds a cool and distinctive touch to the V2 Raptor. The truck is equipped with LED lights in the back, complemented by clear lenses in the front. The interior follows suit, with subtle changes in the decals to match the overall livery and graphics of the body. The result is a visually stunning truck that captures attention wherever it goes.
Attention to Detail: Rear Fender Panels and Dual Spare Setup
The V2 Raptor doesn’t just impress with its exterior design; the attention to detail extends to its rear fender panels and dual spare setup. The new rear fender panels enhance the truck’s overall look, adding a touch of sophistication. The dual spare setup, similar to the Eisenhower truck, further emphasizes the V2 Raptor’s off-road capabilities and ruggedness. Inside the truck, you’ll find the same level of detail, with logo changes on the reservoirs, a fire extinguisher, spare jack, and LED lights in the rear.
The V2 Raptor is a remarkable truck that combines intense design with modern features. From the eye-catching grille and LED lights to the updated body panels and attention to detail, this truck stands out among its competitors. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or simply appreciate a well-crafted vehicle, the V2 Raptor is sure to leave a lasting impression.
A Closer Look at the Upgraded Chassis and Cage on the New Trucks
The Differences in Cage Design
The first noticeable change in the new trucks is the enhanced cage work. Compared to the V2 version, the cage on the 2.0 is more robust and aesthetically pleasing. However, there is a slight downside to this upgrade with the addition of plastic discs that support the body. While they provide better structural support, they come in different sizes, making it necessary to ensure they don’t get knocked off. This aspect of the design could potentially be improved for ease of use.
Improved Functionality
Despite the minor drawback, the new cage design offers increased functionality. In the previous version, the entire cage needed to be removed whenever any work was needed on the truck. However, with the 2.0, it is now possible to remove just the front section, allowing easier access to the interior components. This development is undoubtedly favorable for those who enjoy tinkering with their trucks regularly.
Changes in the Front End
Moving on to the front ends of the new trucks, there are also notable changes. One noticeable alteration is the new shocks. In the V2 version, a single shock was used, but the 2.0 now features a different setup.
Improved Shock Absorption
The decision to incorporate a different shock system in the 2.0 suggests an intention to enhance its overall performance. The upgraded front shocks are designed to offer improved shock absorption, resulting in a smoother ride and better handling. This modification is sure to be appreciated by hobbyists and enthusiasts who love pushing their trucks to the limit.
Enhanced Durability
In addition to better performance, the new shock system also contributes to the truck’s overall durability. By employing a more advanced shock setup, the manufacturer ensures that the vehicle can withstand more significant impacts and rough terrains without compromising its integrity. This durability upgrade is a welcome feature for truck enthusiasts who enjoy engaging in off-road adventures.
Introducing the Upgraded Shock System
The latest versions of certain RC vehicles come equipped with new and improved shocks. These shocks are filled with oil, providing better performance and durability than their predecessors. Additionally, they feature bump stops on the bottom and silver caps instead of the previous blue ones. However, the most notable enhancement can be found behind the shocks – a dampening shock that further enhances the vehicle’s performance.
Improved Suspension Arms
In order to accommodate the new shocks, the upper and lower suspension arms have been redesigned. This modification greatly improves the overall damping feel of the vehicle, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. It is worth mentioning that these changes have been implemented to replicate the experience of driving a real desert truck during off-roading adventures. Therefore, if you are planning on performing big air jumps or driving on high traction surfaces, additional tuning might be required.
A Motorsports Experience at a Smaller Scale
The manufacturer has intentionally set up the vehicle differently from the factory settings compared to the previous version, with the aim of offering users a more authentic and scaled-down motorsports experience. Although this may not be ideal for those seeking out-of-the-box suitability for big air jumps or high traction surfaces, additional springs are available to allow for tuning and customization. So, while some adjustments may be necessary, this new setup caters to enthusiasts who are looking to replicate the thrills of motorsports on a smaller scale.
Considerations for Hard Driving
If you plan on pushing the performance limits of this RC vehicle, it is important to be aware of a few key points. Firstly, the flexibility of the upper arm may need to be addressed, as it is relatively more flexible compared to the rigid lower arm. Additionally, both the upper and lower arms feature the same steering knuckles on the exterior, along with faux disc brakes for added visual appeal.
The Updated Front End
The new version of the truck certainly has some noticeable changes to its front end. One of the most apparent differences is the presence of a new front shock tower. This tower looks slightly thicker compared to the previous version, giving the truck a more robust appearance.
However, one thing that seems to be missing is mounts for a sway bar. Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that there are no options to attach sway bars to this truck. This could be a downside for some users who prefer to have sway bars for added stability during off-road adventures.
Another significant change in the front end is the gear case. While this might not be immediately obvious, there has been an update to the gear case in this version. The exact details of this change are yet to be discussed, but it is worth noting that there have been modifications made to improve its performance.
Additionally, the amount of plastic in the lower hinge pin area of the truck has been increased. In the previous version, there was a recess in this area. The addition of more plastic in this region is aimed at enhancing durability, which is a welcome improvement for off-road enthusiasts who put their trucks through rigorous terrain.
Changes in the Rear Suspension
Moving on to the rear suspension, there are both similarities and differences when compared to the previous version. At first glance, the lower trailing arm appears to be unchanged. However, upon closer inspection, one can see that there is now a single shock in the V2, whereas the 2.0 version boasts an additional dampening shock in the rear.
In total, the new truck features a total of eight shocks. The main shock in the rear looks similar to that of the previous version but with a change in colors. To further enhance stability, a rear sway bar has been included.
Another modification can be seen in the upper lengths of the rear suspension. The top links, located near the ball ends, have been made beefier. This change is intended to prevent elongation, which some users had experienced with the previous version, ensuring a more reliable and durable rear suspension.
Overall, the updated front and rear suspensions of the truck offer both aesthetic and performance improvements. These changes aim to provide users with a more enjoyable and reliable off-road experience. Whether these alterations meet the expectations of enthusiasts and whether they outweigh any potential shortcomings remains to be seen.
Unveiling the Changes in the Latest Version of the Suspension
So they made some changes to the suspension. You know it feels really good, love the long travel, but let’s get back to some more of those changes and I’m actually just going to spin it around and talk to you about the front gear case.
An Easier Access to the Differential
So there’s a big change up in the gear case, it’s now easier to access the differential in the 2.0. That case looks a bit beefier than the previous version, and you can remove the front plate of it and slide the differential out of the front. Absolutely awesome.
A Well-Built Assembly
Still, an oil fill gear, differential steel out, drive steel, universals and then let’s move onto the center drivetrain. Actually, you know you got dog bones to the Center Drive train set up pretty much similar to the previous version. I don’t think there were any changes. Actually, when I looked in, they still have the metal mod one gear so it’s a well-built assembly.
Improved Accessibility to the Pinion Gear
The motor drops out there’s easy access to the pinion gear. If you need to get to that and then some changes have been made when we get to the rear axle so that the slider drive shaft out to the rear axle, there is a metal Yokes on the universal. So that is more durable.
An Improved Sealed Differential
The new version of the truck comes with a fully sealed differential, similar to the front. This much-anticipated upgrade eliminates the leaking issue that plagued the previous model. Now, enthusiasts can tune the truck without any worries about oil leakage. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most significant changes in the new version.
Enhanced Axles and Variable Toe Options
The latest model of the truck also boasts dog bones out to the axles, providing better stability and control. Furthermore, the end of the axle now allows for easy insert changes. The truck comes with a zero degree insert by default, with the option to switch to a Three Degree rear insert. This intelligent design change offers three degrees of toe, greatly improving the truck’s overall performance.
Durable Chassis and Convenient Battery Slot
The chassis of the new truck boasts the same three millimeter thickness as its predecessor, ensuring durability and resilience during intense off-road adventures. The 2.5 millimeter top plate adds rigidity to the structure, promoting stability and control. The battery slot, located at the back, allows for easy insertion of a 2s pack, enabling enthusiasts to conveniently use their preferred power source.
Reinforced Steering and Efficient Electronics
The steering system has undergone significant improvements in the new truck, making it more robust and reliable. The upgraded electronics package includes a 614s steering servo, a 130 amp firm speed controller, and a high-performance 3800 KV Spectrum brushless motor. This full spectrum setup ensures optimal performance and responsiveness, elevating the overall driving experience.
The new Truck 2.0 showcases several noteworthy upgrades that make it even more appealing to RC truck enthusiasts. The sealed differential resolves the previous leaking issue, allowing for hassle-free tuning. The enhanced axles with variable toe options enhance stability and control. The durable chassis and easy-to-access battery slot add convenience to its design. Lastly, the reinforced steering system and efficient electronics package elevate its overall performance. With these improvements, the new Truck 2.0 is a worthy choice for both beginner and experienced drivers seeking an exciting off-road adventure.
The New Spectrum DX3 Radio System
This time, however, they wrapped it in that massive orange heat so thick that they have to help dissipate any heat inside there. That is a change.
Exciting Features of the Spectrum DX3
I really like seeing when I pop the panels off of this truck, and then they have a spectrum ABC receivers, so you get the benefits of using the ABC if you want to activate vehicle control. This gives you a little bit of counter steering and throttle manipulation to help settle the truck. If you don’t want to use it, you have the option to turn it off, which is really cool.
What’s Inside the Box?
The Spectrum DX3 radio system comes with everything you need to get started. The only other items in the box are the instruction manual and some servo inserts. If you want to swap out to an aftermarket brand servo, you have that option. Additionally, you get a Losi decal to customize your truck.
Testing the 2.0 on the Dirt Track
This is a really exciting release, and I can’t wait to go out and drive it. Let’s head out to the dirt track and see how the 2.0 handles!
An Intense Speed Experience
As we embark on a quick run through on the drive, I can already feel the impact of the intense heat. It’s 98 degrees out and super humid, and I’m already drenched in sweat. But man, this thing is fast! I don’t remember it being this fast before. It’s on 3s and the suspension travel is impressive.
A Test of Endurance
The intense speed and power of the 2.0 make this a thrilling experience. I push the truck to its limits, testing its endurance. The performance is exceptional, and I can’t help but be impressed by its capabilities.
The Thrilling Performance of the F-100 Desert Truck
Impressions on the Truck’s Handling
What stands out the most about this truck is its ability to conquer any terrain. With its powerful engine and impressive suspension, the F-100 is capable of handling even the most challenging off-road situations. However, it’s important to carefully choose your route, especially when dealing with soft sand. If you pick the right lines, this beast of a truck will effortlessly roll over any obstacles in its path.
The Power of the F-100
Many enthusiasts prefer running the F-100 on 2s power rather than 3s. While it still performs admirably on 2s, the truck becomes a wild beast on 3s. Its speed and agility are unmatched in loose terrains, giving it an edge over foreign trucks of its class. The F-100 is fast becoming a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, earning its reputation as a truck with incredible power.
The Unforgettable Driving Experience
Even in extreme weather conditions, the F-100 continues to deliver an unrivaled performance. The temperatures may be brutal, but the joy it brings outweighs any discomfort. Watching the dust trail behind as you speed through the dirt is a sight to behold. The thrill of seeing the dirt roll off the tires while maneuvering through turns, or the blast of sand in the air as you go over bumps, is enough to get anyone’s adrenaline pumping. Driving the F-100 is an adrenaline-inducing experience that leaves you eager to push the throttle even further.
Exterior Design and Issues
Visually, the F-100 is an impressive truck, especially when tearing through dirt like a true desert monster. However, there is one minor gripe with its appearance: the Eisenhower body. The front clip tends to chatter while driving due to the mounting point being situated in the midsection of the hood. A slight modification, such as adding more support up front or a foam block behind the grill area, could easily resolve this issue. Despite this minor flaw, the overall look of the F-100 is awe-inspiring.
The F-100 desert truck is a game-changer in the world of off-roading. Its exceptional performance, thrilling driving experience, and visually stunning design make it a top choice for any off-road enthusiast. Whether you prefer running it on 2s or unlocking its wild beast mode on 3s, this truck will never fail to impress. Just make sure to choose your lines wisely and prepare for an adrenaline rush like no other.
Improving the Handling of Off-Road Trucks: A Closer Look at the Eisenhower Truck
Off-road trucks are designed to withstand rough terrains and challenging conditions. One of the key factors that determine the performance of these trucks is their handling capabilities. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Eisenhower truck and discuss how its handling can be improved for a better off-road experience.
The Importance of Bumper Tabs
One of the possible solutions to improve the handling of the Eisenhower truck is by installing bumper tabs. Bumper tabs can help soften the impact of bumps, making the ride smoother. While the bodies of these trucks are generally sturdy, it is advisable to add bumper tabs to ensure maximum protection.
Enhancing the Aesthetics
If you’re someone who loves the rugged look of an off-road truck, you might consider adding a personal touch to the Eisenhower by painting the underneath silver. This will give the truck a cool and unique appearance, especially if you have scratches and dings on the exterior. The contrast of silver underneath and the scratches on top will make it stand out from the crowd.
Tuning the Truck
It is important to note that the Eisenhower truck is not designed to perform flawlessly out of the box. To fully enjoy its capabilities, some tuning is necessary. The manufacturer, Losi, intends for users to have an authentic desert floor experience. This means you may have to tweak the settings to achieve optimal performance.
The Versatility of the Suspension
One of the standout features of the Eisenhower truck is its suspension system. Equipped with eight shocks, this truck is able to soak up bumps and rough terrains with ease. Whether it’s going through straight line bumps or tackling uneven surfaces, the suspension keeps the truck stable and ensures a smooth ride.
Challenges in Loose Corners
While the truck performs exceptionally well in most scenarios, it can face challenges when it comes to loose corners. The abundance of loose dirt can cause the truck to lose traction and potentially roll over. To circumvent this issue, it is advisable to approach loose corners with caution. By easing off the gas and allowing the truck to roll through the corner, you can maintain control and avoid any mishaps.
Special Springs for Big Jumps
For those who aspire to go big jumps with their Eisenhower truck, it is important to equip it with the right springs. Special springs designed for big air jumps can provide additional stability and control, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience. By choosing the appropriate springs, you can unlock the full potential of your off-road truck.
The Eisenhower truck offers a solid platform for off-road enthusiasts. While there are a few areas that can be improved, such as bumper tabs and specific springs for big jumps, overall, this truck delivers impressive performance and handling capabilities. With proper tuning and proactive driving techniques in challenging conditions, this truck will surely provide an exhilarating off-road experience for its owner.
Unlocking the Potential: Tuning Your RC Vehicle
When it comes to RC vehicles, there is always room for improvement. Whether it’s changing up the oils or tweaking the steering, tuning your RC vehicle can make a world of difference. In this article, we will discuss some key areas to focus on when tuning your RC vehicle, so you can unlock its true potential.
Getting Airborne: Suspension and Jumping
One of the most exhilarating aspects of RC vehicles is catching big air. However, if you want to go bigger and better, some adjustments may be necessary. Take, for example, the Eisenhower truck. In a recent video, it was observed that when landing after a big jump, the front end would pop right up off the ground. This indicated a need for suspension adjustment. By tinkering with the suspension settings, you can ensure a smoother landing and more control in the air.
Steering Sensations: Addressing Loose Corners
Steering plays a crucial role in how your RC vehicle handles on the track or off-road. While the steering on the Eisenhower truck was generally good, it exhibited some looseness in corners. This could be attributed to the harder Shore tires. To improve cornering performance, consider swapping out the tires for a different compound that offers better grip. Additionally, addressing any steering slop in the servo can greatly enhance the overall steering experience.
The Powerhouse: Fine-Tuning the Engine
The engine is the heart of an RC vehicle, and fine-tuning it can have a significant impact on its performance. Pay attention to factors such as fuel mixture, carburetor adjustment, and gear ratio to optimize power delivery. Experimenting with different setups and monitoring engine temperature and RPM can help you find the sweet spot for your vehicle’s engine, ensuring maximum performance and reliability.
Overcoming Obstacles: Suspension and Ground Clearance
Off-roading enthusiasts understand the importance of ground clearance and suspension. Adjusting the suspension to match the terrain you will be driving on can drastically improve your vehicle’s ability to tackle obstacles. Increasing ground clearance through suspension adjustments or aftermarket parts will help prevent bottoming out and get you through rough terrain without a hitch.
Are These Trucks Too Fast? A Closer Look
When it comes to RC trucks, speed is often a key factor that determines the level of enjoyment and excitement. However, one may wonder if there is such a thing as “too fast” when it comes to these powerful machines. After testing out the latest models, I can confidently say that the speed of these trucks can be quite overwhelming on a 3s battery.
Finding the Perfect Balance
During my testing, I found that driving these trucks on a 2s battery provided a much more manageable experience. The speed was slightly reduced, allowing for greater control and less edginess. This gave me the opportunity to fully enjoy the performance and capabilities of these RC trucks without feeling like they were constantly on the verge of spinning out of control.
Durability Concerns
When it comes to any vehicle, durability is a crucial aspect to consider. In the case of these RC trucks, I took a close look at their overall build quality and performance under various conditions. So far, I haven’t noticed any significant durability issues with these trucks.
There was, however, one minor concern that stood out during my testing – the steering. On occasions, I experienced a slight issue with the steering mechanism. It was not a major problem and did not affect the overall performance, but it’s something worth noting. Other than that, the trucks held up well and showed no signs of major wear and tear.
Conclusion
The latest advancements in shock systems and suspension arms have significantly improved the performance and driving experience of certain RC vehicles. With enhanced dampening capabilities and redesigned components, enthusiasts can now enjoy a more realistic and exciting ride. However, it is important to note that additional tuning may be required for specific driving conditions. So, if you’re planning on pushing the vehicle’s limits, be prepared for some adjustments to be made. Overall, these upgrades provide RC enthusiasts with increased control and the opportunity to emulate the excitement of motorsports on a smaller scale.
Tuning your RC vehicle is an exciting and crucial aspect of the hobby. Whether it’s adjusting the suspension for big jumps, fine-tuning the steering for tight corners, optimizing the engine for enhanced performance, or addressing ground clearance for off-roading, each modification brings you one step closer to unlocking the true potential of your RC vehicle. So, grab your tools, make the necessary adjustments, and prepare for an exhilarating ride like no other.
While these trucks may be fast, it’s important to find the right balance for an optimal driving experience. Switching to a 2s battery allows for better control and enjoyment, without sacrificing too much speed. Despite the minor steering issue, the trucks exhibited overall durability and performed admirably. If you’re looking for an exciting RC truck, give these models a try and experiment with different battery options to find your perfect match!
