[Review] DriftArt 3S 1/28-1/24 RWD Drift Car

Introduction

When it comes to R/C drifting, choosing the right chassis is crucial for optimal performance. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming for beginners. In this article, we will discuss the best R/C drift car chassis and provide some advice on which chassis to choose for both beginners and experienced drifters.

A Quick Review of the Brief R3S

Before we dive into the details of the Brief R3S, I would like to extend my gratitude to Brief Art for providing me with this car for review. I apologize for the delay in this review, but now let’s get into it. As always, photographs are included to accompany this article.

Features and Specifications

The Brief R3S is a 128th to 124th scale car with an adjustable wheelbase and width. It utilizes mini set all-wheel drive wheels and comes at a price of $240, which is quite standard for this type of product. However, it is worth noting that the car does not come with a body mount. This means you will have to purchase it separately, but the good news is that you have options. You can choose between a mini set-style body mount with side clips and a front lip, or a magnet mount. If you prefer to customize, you can even create your own body mount using M2 screws and small magnets.

Easier to Build than Previous Versions

Compared to older versions of this car, the Brief R3S feels more like a proper kit car rather than a DIY project. The process of building it has been made easier, eliminating the need to file a carbon fiber plate. The lower chassis plate is now made of aluminum, and inserting the lower arms is a breeze. Other improvements I have discovered include the adjustment of the Bell tension on the main pulley, which can now be easily adjusted from the gearbox. Additionally, the lower arms are now equipped with shims instead of needing filing to make them fit. This does make the process a bit more intricate during assembly, but the advantage is that adjustments are reversible. If there is anything you don’t like, you can simply adjust the shims until it is perfect and works smoothly.

The Importance of Front Knuckles in Car Handling

Understanding the Scrub Radius

Front knuckles in cars play a crucial role in determining the handling and stability of the vehicle. One important factor to consider when it comes to front knuckles is the scrub radius. The scrub radius is the distance between the pivot point of the steering system and the tire contact patch on the road.

The Dilemma of Deep Dish Wheels

Many car enthusiasts love the deep dish look of wheels with offset. However, achieving this look while maintaining a proper scrub radius can be challenging. When the wheels are further away from the pivot point, a large gap is created, which negatively affects the handling of the car. The increased scrub radius slows down the steering response and makes the car less stable, especially while drifting.

A New Design for Improved Handling

Fortunately, there are new front knuckle designs that address these issues. By moving the shaft inward using shims, the scrub radius can be effectively lowered. This design modification allows for better handling, as the car no longer needs to drag the front wheels further across the surface. This improvement in steering response and stability enhances the overall driving experience.

Additional Changes for Enhanced Performance

In addition to addressing the scrub radius, there are other changes in the front knuckles that contribute to improved performance. One notable change is the floating rear gearbox, which is now mounted on separated chassis plates. While this setup may seem unconventional, it actually offers benefits in terms of adjustability. However, it can be a challenge to properly align and straighten the chassis due to the floating nature of the rear gearbox.

Concerns about Weakness and Durability

There are some concerns about the front upper plates of these new front knuckles. They are reported to be soft and flimsy, raising worries about potential breakage in the event of a collision or crash at the front of the car. This structural weakness may make the car appear fragile and less reliable.

Solution and Upgrade Options

Fortunately, as with any drifting-related product, there are always upgrades available. At the time of this recording, a new upgrade kit called Moonwalk has been released. This kit addresses the concerns about the front upper plates by providing a more robust and sturdy design. In addition to improving durability, the Moonwalk upgrade also enhances the ease of tuning, allowing for better stability and performance.

In conclusion, front knuckles in cars are essential components that significantly impact handling and stability. The scrub radius plays a critical role in steering response, and finding the right balance between aesthetics and functionality can be challenging. However, with the availability of new designs and upgrade options, car enthusiasts can enjoy improved performance, durability, and ease of tuning in their vehicles.

The Best R/C Drift Car: Choosing the Right Chassis

The 5 or 2.6 Chassis

One of the most popular choices among drift enthusiasts is the 5 or 2.6 chassis. This chassis offers a narrow design and rear-wheel drive, which is ideal for drifting. What makes this chassis stand out is its versatility. If you already own a 5 or 2.6 chassis, there’s no need to upgrade the entire car. You can simply purchase the specific upgrade pieces you desire separately.

Upgrading Your Chassis

For those who already have a 5 or 2.6 chassis, upgrading specific components can greatly enhance its performance. Whether you want to improve the suspension, add a higher-performance motor, or upgrade the tires, there are plenty of aftermarket options available. By investing in these upgrade pieces, you can customize your chassis to suit your specific drifting style and preferences.

The R/C Drift Car for Beginners

If you are new to R/C drifting and looking to purchase your first drift car, the R/C Drift Art 3S is highly recommended. This chassis is considered the best 1:20 scale narrow chassis for rear-wheel drive drifting. Its compact size allows for better control and maneuverability, making it perfect for beginners to learn the art of drifting. With this chassis, you can hone your drifting skills and progress to more advanced levels in no time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Brief R3S is a well-designed and impressive car in the mini set category. With its adjustable wheelbase and width, it provides a customizable experience for RC car enthusiasts. The improvements in its construction make it easier to build while maintaining a high level of performance. Despite the additional cost of purchasing a body mount separately, this car offers flexibility in terms of style and customization. If you are looking for a kit car that is easy to assemble and offers an enjoyable driving experience, the Brief R3S is definitely worth considering.

Choosing the right chassis is essential for a thrilling and successful R/C drifting experience. Whether you opt for the popular 5 or 2.6 chassis or the beginner-friendly R/C Drift Art 3S, make sure to consider your skill level and desired performance. Investing in upgrade pieces for your current chassis can also significantly improve its capabilities. Remember, practice makes perfect, so get out there, drift, and have an exhilarating time with your R/C drift car!