The Tamiya MB01: Small RC Car, Big Problems
As I stand here, surrounded by a number of Tamiya cars, it’s clear that I have a lot of work ahead of me. The summer racing season may be over, but it’s time to turn our attention to indoor carpet racing. And this year, I added the Tamiya MB01 to my collection. The newest offering in terms of M chassis racing, I wonder how it will compare to the other Tamiya M chassis models I already own.
The Stalwart MO3 Chassis
One of our favorite M chassis models is the MO3, which unfortunately is quite hard to find these days as it is no longer sold new. However, there is the MO5, a car that I’m eager to feature on the channel soon. And then there’s the MO7, the racier version of the front-wheel-drive mini.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Let’s talk about the Tamiya MB01’s appearance. The shell of this car is absolutely amazing. The level of detailing is impeccable, from the exhausts to the engine hanging out the back of the car. It’s truly a sight to behold. I can’t find a single flaw in its design.
Underneath the Shell
But let’s take a look at what’s underneath that stunning shell. As I set the shell aside for now, I’m left with some mixed feelings. The construction feels a bit flimsy, and it doesn’t give me the confidence I expected from a Tamiya car. It’s as if the sturdy craftsmanship I’ve come to associate with the brand has been lacking in this model.
Furthermore, the performance leaves something to be desired. The Tamiya MB01 lacks the agility and speed I’ve experienced with other M chassis models. It’s almost as if it’s struggling to keep up, tripping over its own wheels as it navigates tight corners.
A Need for Modifications
It’s clear that if I want to get the most out of the Tamiya MB01, some modifications will be necessary. Upgrading the shocks and fine-tuning the setup might help improve its performance on the track. It’s disappointing that out of the box, this car falls short of expectations.
The Problem with the Tamiya MB01
When I first got my hands on the Tamiya MB01, I was excited to see what this small RC car could do. However, right out of the box, I noticed a few issues that needed to be addressed. The main problem was the excessive amount of slop in the car’s front and rear. As I examined the car closely, I could clearly see just how loose it was.
Loose and Sloppy
Now, don’t get me wrong, a little bit of give in a car can be advantageous when driving on the roads or in the street. It helps to prevent damage to the parts and ensures that you can easily pop them back into place if they come loose. But when it comes to racing, precision is key and the sloppiness of the Tamiya MB01 was hindering its performance.
A Change of Shell
For practice runs, I took out the original Fiat rbath shell and ran the car as it was meant to be. However, when it came time for actual racing, I made the decision to switch to a mini shell that I had painted myself. The reason behind this switch was simple – I didn’t want to risk damaging the original shell. The mini shell had a more exposed boot, which made it more susceptible to damage with just one little hit.
Gripping Performance
With the mini shell in place and the tires warmed up, I could immediately feel the difference in the car’s performance. The grip was excellent, allowing me to take turns with precision and confidence. It was a relief to see that the alterations I had made had a positive impact on the car’s overall performance.
While the Tamiya MB01 may have its fair share of problems, with a little bit of tweaking and customization, it can be transformed into a formidable racing machine. However, if you’re looking for a car that offers precision and tight handling right out of the box, this may not be the best option for you. But if you enjoy the challenge of fine-tuning and making adjustments, then the Tamiya MB01 could be the perfect choice for you.
The Need for Speed
The Tamiya MB01, although impressive in its performance, falls short in terms of speed. While it was able to keep a decent line around the track, it simply couldn’t match the pace of the other cars on the circuit. This lack of top-end speed became a major setback, causing me to struggle and compromise on my racing experience. Even in the corners, the car failed to maintain the necessary velocity, preventing me from achieving the desired level of excitement.
Great Handling, But…
Despite its speed limitations, the Tamiya MB01 did have one redeeming factor – its excellent handling. Straight out of the box, the car boasted a remarkable degree of maneuverability, providing a satisfying and enjoyable experience. It felt akin to running my trusty mo3, delivering a sense of familiarity and control. In an ideal world, this would be the perfect car for beginners entering the world of racing, offering a unique and thrilling alternative in the M chassis racing scene.
A Missed Opportunity
Unfortunately, there are several reasons why I wouldn’t wholeheartedly recommend the Tamiya MB01 for racing purposes. The most glaring issue is the excessive slop present in both the front and rear ends of the car. As I mentioned earlier, the rear wheels were alarmingly loose, flopping around like fish out of water. To rectify this, I resorted to a quick fix – adding a small o-ring to reduce the slop. Shims would have been the optimal solution, but regrettably, they were not available at the time. I had to make do with what I had, resulting in a less stable and precise setup.
A Matter of Preference
In the end, whether or not the Tamiya MB01 is the right choice depends on personal preferences and priorities. If speed is your primary concern, you may find yourself disappointed by its limitations. However, if you value excellent handling and a unique racing experience, the MB01 could still be a worthwhile investment. Just be prepared to address the issues of slop and instability that accompany this small yet problematic RC car.
Motor Overheating
The first problem I encountered with the Tamiya MB01 was the motor getting excessively hot. To address this issue, I decided to add a fan to cool it down. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the necessary tools to attach the fan properly, so I resorted to using cable ties to secure it to the side of the car. Surprisingly, this makeshift solution actually helped in keeping the motor a little bit cooler. However, it was definitely another added task that I had to tackle.
Sensitivity to Touch
One of the major drawbacks of the Tamiya MB01 is its extreme sensitivity to touch. As a result, I would not recommend this car for beginners. Any slight brush against the side of the track can cause vital components to pop off, rendering the car useless. Throughout my run, I lost count of how many times the lower suspension arms popped out. It happened almost every time I accidentally touched the side. Additionally, the cups on the car were also prone to popping out. This aspect of the car greatly disappointed me and hindered its overall performance.
Handling Issues
Despite its sensitivity, I believe that with some adjustments and patience, the Tamiya MB01 can actually handle quite well. By adding shims and making small tweaks, we can improve its handling capabilities. However, the design flaw of the car becomes apparent when examining the ease with which the components can pop out. Even a light tap on the side can result in the dog bone getting dislodged and the wheels flapping around. This flaw adds a level of frustration and instability to the car’s overall performance.
The Fragile Tamiya MB01
When it comes to the Tamiya MB01, it’s hard not to notice its undeniable charm. This small RC car may be compact, but it carries with it big problems that have left many enthusiasts feeling perplexed.
A Push-And-Pop Dilemma
One of the major issues with this car lies in its delicate lower arm. Every night, as I sit and ponder the potential damage that may have been done to it, I can’t help but feel frustrated. The sensitivity of this component is astonishing. Even the slightest push causes it to pop out, only to effortlessly slide right back in again. The other side is no better, as it too succumbs to this recurring issue. It leaves me wondering if there is any way to address this recurring problem, to make this car more resilient and reliable.
Great for Casual Fun, But Unfit for Racing
For casual bashing around the streets or simply having fun outside the front of the house, the Tamiya MB01 is a great companion. Its ability to easily pop the front back in after a crash or collision is convenient and time-saving. However, when it comes to racing, things take a turn for the worse.
Imagine the scenario: you’re in the midst of a heated race, adrenaline pumping, when suddenly you clip the side and the front pops out. In that moment, your race is over, and any chance of victory vanishes. This fragility renders the car unfit for competitive racing. Its delicate nature simply cannot withstand the intense demands of the track.
A Mini Class of Uncertainty
The mini class at my local racing club is known for open and enjoyable racing experiences. It’s an opportunity for enthusiasts to have a great time and test their skills. Unfortunately, the Tamiya MB01’s fragility poses a hindrance to the excitement. Even those who are experienced in racing, like my friend Luke, have fallen victim to its delicate structure.
When Luke got behind the wheel of the MB01, he was thrilled. However, as soon as he hit the straight, the car’s excessive play in the front caused it to weave and snake instead of driving in a straight line. A mere glance against the side barrier resulted in the front popping off, ultimately ending his race prematurely. It was a disappointing moment for him, as it highlighted the limitations of this otherwise promising car.
A Balance Between Fragility and Enjoyment
The Tamiya MB01 may have its fair share of problems, but it also has an undeniable charm. It is a delicate car that requires gentle handling and cautious driving. While it may not be suitable for intense racing, it still holds its own in other casual situations. For those seeking a bit of fun and adventure outside the house, this small RC car can provide hours of entertainment.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual to strike a balance between the car’s fragility and the enjoyment it brings. As for me, I’ll continue to tinker and search for solutions to address the recurring issues of the Tamiya MB01. Perhaps one day, there will be a fix that allows us to fully embrace its charm without the constant worry of
The Tamiya MB01: Small RC Car, Big Problems
When it comes to small remote-controlled cars, the Tamiya MB01 is definitely an eye-catcher. Its sleek design and compact size make it a popular choice among enthusiasts. However, despite its appeal, the MB01 poses a number of challenges that can leave owners perplexed.
The Need for Speed: Racing with the MB01
Many RC car enthusiasts are drawn to the thrill of racing, but when it comes to the MB01, speed may not be its strongest suit. In a recent competition, the fastest car on the track was actually the MO5, leaving the MB01 trailing behind. This raises the question: is the MB01 suitable for racing, or is it better off as a display piece?
The Iconic Cup: A New Challenge
The MO5 has gained recognition in the RC car community, especially as it has now become a legal car for the Iconic Cup competition. This has sparked interest among enthusiasts, including myself, who are eager to get involved next year. However, the MB01 may not be the ideal contender for such a prestigious event.
A Shelf Queen or a Revived Beauty?
As I ponder the future of my MB01, I find myself at a crossroads. Should I simply place it on a shelf, where it will collect dust and serve as a mere display piece? Or should I invest time and effort into restoring it to its former glory? One option that comes to mind is sending it to Rochester RC, where they can transform it into an exquisite display car.
Exploring Alternative Uses
Perhaps racing is not the MB01’s calling, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways to enjoy this small RC car. As I consider its potential beyond the racetrack, I start to brainstorm alternative uses. Could it be repurposed for off-road adventures or become a delightful addition to a collection? The possibilities are endless.
Unleashing the Performance
While the MB01 may not be the speedster I had hoped for, there is still potential to enhance its performance. With a few tweaks and modifications, I’m confident that I can squeeze more power out of this little machine. It may never be a champion on the racetrack, but it can still provide hours of enjoyment.
A Car for Someone Else
If I decide not to pursue racing with the MB01 and if it remains a shelf Queen, I can’t help but think there’s someone else out there who could appreciate this car. Whether it’s through selling, trading, or simply passing it on, finding someone who will enjoy and utilize the MB01 feels like the right thing to do.
As I contemplate the future of my Tamiya MB01, I’m faced with a multitude of options. From racing to restoration, from off-road adventures to finding a new owner, the small RC car presents both challenges and opportunities. While it may lack some of the qualities I initially sought, there’s no denying the unique charm it possesses.
Conclusion
Overall, while the Tamiya MB01 may be visually stunning, it fails to deliver in terms of construction and performance. It’s a reminder that even trusted brands can have missteps in their product lineup. As an RC enthusiast, I appreciate the effort put into this model, but I can’t help but feel a bit perplexed by the missed opportunities. While it’s not without potential, the Tamiya MB01 requires some extra attention to truly shine on the racetrack.