Introduction
The MINI Basher RC Car Advent Calendar continues with Day 3, and today we have a very cheap and compact RC car. This little Basher is perfect for the young ones, but might not be the best option for fully-fledged adults.
The New Maverick Atom
Welcome back to our RC Car Advent Calendar, where we open a new door every day to reveal a different RC car or truck. Today, we are excited to open Door three and see what awaits us inside.
Unveiling the Surprise
As we eagerly open the door, we are met with a new Maverick atom. This little surprise comes with a bonus part – optional oil shocks. The packaging also informs us that the Maverick atom comes with friction dampers.
The Budget Brand
Maverick is known as the budget brand for HPI, offering affordable options for RC car enthusiasts. In the UK, this particular model is priced at £59, which would convert to approximately $75 for our friends in the US. Considering its size – 1/18 scale – this seems like a great price point for a Ready to Run Basher.
Limited Quality Assessment
Although the price is attractive, we must approach this purchase with caution. The first impression of the Maverick atom’s box reveals a familiar chassis. It seems similar to one that Ralo may have in their collection.
However, the Maverick atom does come fully ready to run with a battery included. You will only need AA batteries for the transmitter. The package also includes a USB charger, spare body pins, a screwdriver, and a wheel wrench.
Affordable and Functional
The quick start guide and the transmitter feel decent in quality, but it is evident that the materials used are cheap and plasticky. This is understandable given its price range. The throttle speed control on the transmitter is functional and serves its purpose.
We are excited to give the Maverick atom a test drive and see how it performs. As long as it drives well and the overall quality is satisfactory, this mini RC car at such an affordable price point is certainly worth considering for RC enthusiasts on a budget.
Throttle Trim and Steering Trim
The MINI Basher RC car comes with a throttle trim feature, which I initially assumed would help reduce the speed of the car. Before taking it out for a spin, I set the throttle trim to 100, expecting a slower pace. The steering trim, on the other hand, is a basic two-channel transmitter that allows for easy maneuvering.
Friction Dampers – An Outdated Choice?
Upon inspecting the truck, I noticed the presence of friction dampers. While they aren’t the worst I’ve encountered, they do feel rather bouncy. It surprises me that in 2023, we still encounter friction dampers on RC cars. It almost feels like oil shocks should be the standard by now. However, I speculate that the reason for their continued use is due to potential regulations and increased costs associated with implementing oil shocks.
Optional Oil Shocks
Although the MINI Basher comes with friction dampers, I do have the option to switch to oil shocks. For now, I plan to test the car without them. The initial run will include the obligatory speed test, followed by some mild off-road driving. Finally, I will take it to the skate park and put it through its paces. If the car performs well and the battery lasts, I will then install the oil shocks and observe how it affects the car’s overall performance.
Aesthetics and Design
One aspect that caught my attention is the appealing design of the MINI Basher. While I’m unsure of its origin, the rubber used in the car doesn’t feel too soft; it has a firm compound. The wheels have a standard appearance, and there’s even a wheelie bar located at the back, adding to the car’s overall charm.
In conclusion, the MINI Basher RC car offers some interesting features, including throttle and steering trim options. However, the use of friction dampers instead of oil shocks may raise some eyebrows among RC car enthusiasts. Nonetheless, the optional oil shocks provide an opportunity to enhance the car’s performance. Additionally, the MINI Basher’s design is visually appealing, with standard-looking wheels and a wheelie bar. Stay tuned to see how this budget-friendly RC car fares in various tests and terrain.
LED Lights and Body
The MINI Basher RC car in today’s advent calendar surprise comes with some interesting features. It has LED lights at the front and a skid plate on the roof. Although there are no lights at the rear, the overall design of the car is visually appealing. The body of the car is secured, and upon inspection, it reveals a simple interior with not much to look at.
Power and Connectivity
The RC car is equipped with a 1300mAh, two-cell lithium-ion battery, which needs to be charged. The battery has a Dean connector and a quick-release battery connector, making it convenient for use. The car consists of a 2-in-1 ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) and receiver, ensuring smooth and responsive control. Additionally, it features a three-wire micro servo that is suitable for its size.
Mechanical Components
Upon further examination, the car houses a small motor, possibly a 370 or 380, which is not explicitly stated. The heat sink is removable to prevent any overheating issues during operation. The car’s drivetrain consists of a metal center shaft and is shaft driven, providing four-wheel drive capabilities. The double wishbone suspension, along with plastic drive shafts, ensures stability while driving. However, the non-adjustable links limit customization options.
Durability and Performance
The MINI Basher RC car boasts a sturdy and well-built chassis, indicating its ability to withstand rough usage. Its design suggests that it can handle some rough play without any major issues. While there are no specific details on its performance, it appears capable of delivering a decent driving experience with its four-wheel drive system.
Oil Shocks
Before we charge the battery, let’s take a quick look at the oil shocks. These shocks are essential for providing suspension and damping abilities to the car. By absorbing impacts and vibrations, they enhance stability and control during off-road driving. While further details about the oil shocks are not mentioned, their inclusion suggests that the RC car is equipped to handle bumpy terrains and jumps.
In conclusion, the third day of the RC Car Advent Calendar surprises us with a very affordable MINI Basher. Despite its small size, it offers LED lights, a solid chassis, and a drivetrain capable of delivering four-wheel drive. With its oil shocks, it promises a smoother driving experience even on rough terrains. Although lacking adjustable links, the car’s overall build seems durable and suitable for some outdoor fun.
The MINI Basher RC Car
Today, we have a very exciting entry in the RC Car Advent Calendar – the MINI Basher! As always, I am eager to explore its features and put it through its paces. Let’s dive right into it!
Impressive Oil Shocks
One of the standout features of the MINI Basher is the set of oil shocks that come with it. Although I am unsure about their price, they feel incredibly well-built. Made of alloy and fully adjustable, these shocks promise to deliver a smooth and controlled driving experience.
An Unexpected Surprise
Just as I was about to complain about the inconvenience of turning the car on before putting on the body, I discovered the on/off button tucked away neatly. What a relief! Now we can proceed without any hindrances.
A Powerful Performer
Upon starting the car, I immediately notice its impressive steering capabilities. The torque is commendable, and the speed is more than adequate for regular driving. However, it is clear that this car is not meant for speed competitions.
The Back Flip Test
I always enjoy testing the agility of these mini RC cars, and the MINI Basher is no exception. With a ramp in place, I prepare to witness a back flip. Although uncertain, I am keen to see if this car can handle the challenge. A little bit of momentum should do the trick!
Pavement and Grass Trials
To explore the capabilities of the MINI Basher on different terrains, I decide to run it on both pavement and grass. Starting on the pavement, I am pleasantly surprised by its performance. However, as I transition to the grass, I experience a slight interruption in the signal. Oh well, can’t have everything!
A Noteworthy Observation
While steering the car, I notice that it doesn’t self-center easily. This may pose a slight inconvenience for some, but it is by no means a deal-breaker. The MINI Basher still manages to deliver a fun and enjoyable driving experience.
A Need for Speed
To truly test the speed capabilities of the MINI Basher, I decide to accelerate it to its maximum limit. Unfortunately, it only reaches a speed of 12 miles per hour. Nevertheless, considering its size and price point, this is still a decent achievement.
A Grass-Driving Champion
One advantage of the MINI Basher is its ability to drive on grass with relative ease. This is a definite bonus for those looking to enjoy their RC car outdoors. However, as I push the car to its limits, I witness the slowest roll over ever recorded.
So there you have it – the MINI Basher! While it may not be the fastest or most advanced RC car out there, it certainly delivers a fun and enjoyable driving experience. Stay tuned for more exciting entries in the RC Car Advent Calendar!
A Very Cheap MINI Basher! RC Car Advent Calendar – Day 3
Alright, let’s talk about this very cheap MINI Basher! RC Car that we’ve got here for Day 3 of the advent calendar. Now, this little car claims to do 12 mph both offroad and on road, which is quite impressive considering its size. But one thing that caught my eye is that it comes with a wheelie bar. Do we really need that? Let’s see if we can do a reverse to forward wheelie with it, shall we?
Definitely for the Kids
First impressions, I must say that this little RC car is definitely one for the kids. While it may not be as high-quality as the ones you can find at Walmart or Smiths toys, it’s certainly better than what you can get for 59 pounds here in the UK. Plus, it can handle some Offroad action, which adds to the fun factor.
Adequate Speed for Beginners
For a young kid who has never had an RC car before, the speed of this MINI Basher! is plenty fast enough. I don’t understand why you’d need to turn, let’s turn the trim right down. But hey, that’s part of the learning experience. Let’s see how it performs with the trim turned almost all the way down. Flat out, flat out, and turbo… let’s run this pack down!
Testing at the Skate Park
Now, let’s take this little RC car to the skate park and test out those oil shocks. But before we do that, we definitely need some fun music, don’t we? Music on, and off we go to the skate park! If you want a chance to win a really cool RC bundle, make sure to check out the link in the description for the prize competition. You could be the lucky winner of all of this… not the bear, and not the wpl, just this MINI Basher!
Jumps and Steering Troubles
Alright, let’s give this thing a few little jumps with the stock shocks first. Hmm, the steerings terrible, it almost feels nonproportional. There’s just not enough speed for a proper jump. Let’s go big straight away and see what this little car can do!
Day 3 of the RC Car Advent Calendar: A Very Cheap MINI Basher!
Slow and Steady, Perfect for Young Kids
When it comes to RC cars, sometimes going big is the way to go. But today, we’re going to take a different approach. Introducing the MINI Basher, a surprisingly affordable and small RC car that may not be the fastest, but it’s perfect for young kids. Its slow speed ensures that even the youngest of drivers can enjoy it without any worries.
A Thrilling Trip to the Skate Park
Imagine the joy on a child’s face as they take their MINI Basher to a skate park. This tiny car can handle all sorts of jumps and tricks without breaking a sweat. Even a front flip off a big ramp? No problem for the MINI Basher. It lands smoothly and effortlessly, making every jump a thrilling adventure.
Testing the Limits
Curiosity gets the best of us, and I couldn’t resist testing the MINI Basher myself. A quick jump off the ramp, a front flip, and perfect landing. It was a success! The chances of repeating that incredible stunt? Slim, but it’s always worth a try. I’m glad I captured it on camera to relive that adrenaline-filled moment.
Powering Up with Oil Shocks
To give the MINI Basher a little boost, I decided to add some oil shocks. It’s a simple upgrade that can make a significant difference in performance. With the shocks in place, the car now glides effortlessly over rough terrain. I could throw it down, and it would still remain intact.
Amping up the Power with a Lipo Battery
Not satisfied with just the oil shocks, I also swapped out the battery for a 2s Lipo. This small change gave the MINI Basher a bit more punch, allowing it to tackle obstacles with ease. The car even managed to do a wheelie! It’s clear that the Lipo battery gave it the extra power it needed.
Seeking Airtime with the Lipo Battery
With the MINI Basher now running on a Lipo battery, it was time to see if it could catch some air. I positioned it on a ramp, aimed, and went for it. Yes! The MINI Basher soared through the air, no front flips this time, just a smooth takeoff and landing. Those oil shocks really paid off.
Some Unexpected Paintwork
In the excitement of the jump, I couldn’t help but get a little carried away. I ended up splattering some mud on the steering wheel. It was a small price to pay for the exhilaration the MINI Basher provided. The joy and thrill it gave me were worth every bit of mess.
No More Front Flips, Just a Little Kick Up
As the day came to an end, it was time to wrap up the adventures with the MINI Basher. Although we didn’t manage to pull off any more front flips, we did have a little kick up. The car showcased its agility and versatility one last time before we packed up.
And that concludes Day 3 of the RC Car Advent Calendar. Stay tuned for more
Shaky Steering and Sluggish Speed
Upon testing this miniature RC car, it became evident that it lacks the precision and speed that an adult might desire. The steering is a bit all over the place, making it difficult to control. As a fully-grown adult, I found it a bit slow and sluggish, but my daughter, who is quite accustomed to such erratic steering, didn’t seem to mind.
A Challenging Controller
The controller, despite its diminutive size, presents a few obstacles for adult hands. The grip is not ideal, as it doesn’t allow for full control. When trying to wrap my hand around it completely, my finger barely reached the trigger, limiting my ability to maneuver the car effectively. Consequently, I had to resort to using the front part of the controller, which was less than satisfactory.
Lost and Found
During the course of my test run, I discovered that the MINI Basher had a tendency to lose essential components. I misplaced a body pin, which I eventually found after I had finished playing. Additionally, I seemed to have lost the power button around the same time I encountered an unfortunate patch of foul-smelling dirt.
RC Car Advent Calendar – Day 3: A Very Cheap MINI Basher!
When I first tried the MINI Basher, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. The car may be cheap, but it has some impressive features that make it worth considering.
A Resilient Little Car
One thing that amazed me about the MINI Basher is its resilience. When I accidentally landed it on its roof, I thought it was game over. But to my surprise, it still worked! Sure, it had a bit of straw sticking out and the power button was missing, but that didn’t stop it from functioning. It’s a testament to the durability of this little car.
Premium Feel with Oil Shocks
The MINI Basher comes with oil shocks, which is quite surprising considering its price point. These shocks give it a premium feel and enhance its performance. While the car isn’t blazingly fast, it’s definitely slow enough to not require oil shocks. The ones that come with it are more than adequate, as you could see when I tested it at the skate park and on rough terrain.
A Great Deal for Kids
Priced at just 59 pounds in the UK, the MINI Basher offers excellent value for money. It can be compared to the FTX Tracer, which is a proven platform for kids. I believe the MINI Basher fits in the same category and will be enjoyed by children. With its affordable price and decent performance, it’s a great option for those looking to get their kids into remote control car racing.
In conclusion, the MINI Basher is a surprisingly good RC car for its price. It may not be the fastest or most high-end option out there, but it offers durability, decent performance, and a premium feel with its oil shocks. For just 59 pounds, it’s a worthy contender in the affordable RC car market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MINI Basher RC Car offers a cheap and compact option for young RC enthusiasts. Its slower speed and erratic steering might not appeal to adults seeking a more thrilling experience. The controller’s design poses a challenge for those with larger hands, limiting their control over the car’s movements. Furthermore, the tendency to lose small parts like body pins and power buttons adds a level of frustration. However, for kids who are more forgiving and eager to have fun, this little Basher might be a great choice. So, despite its drawbacks, the MINI Basher RC Car could still bring joy to the young ones.
