Introduction
Team Associated has released another addition to their Pro two short wheelbase platform, the Pro2 Hot Rod. This RC vehicle is a two-wheel drive platform that is ready to run with a brushless motor. Today, we will take a closer look at this hot rod and see if it lives up to its name.
Design and Body
The Pro2 Hot Rod features a sleek and eye-catching design. Its murdered-out look with a black lexan body and simple flame decals on the sides adds to its cool factor. The front of the truck is adorned with a large scoop, giving it an aggressive appearance. However, one small downside is that the front grill decal is slightly misaligned, which may bother some perfectionists. Overall, though, it is a visually appealing RC vehicle that will turn heads as it races down the street.
Chassis and Suspension
The Pro2 Hot Rod shares its chassis with the short wheelbase platform that Team Associated has used in their previous models. This chassis design gives it a buggy stance, with buggy-swept arms and truck shock towers. The long travel oil-filled aluminum shocks provide improved suspension performance, but it is worth noting that one of the shocks was found to be leaking from the factory. This is a minor issue that can easily be fixed, but it would be better if it didn’t occur in the first place.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Pro2 Hot Rod delivers exceptional on-road awesomeness. Its two-wheel drive configuration provides a thrilling driving experience, especially on paved roads. The brushless motor adds a significant boost in power and speed, allowing the hot rod to reach impressive speeds. The Pro2 Hot Rod handles well, making it easy to maneuver and control. Whether you’re racing it against friends or performing tricks, this RC vehicle will keep you entertained for hours.
Price and Value
Now, let’s talk about the price and value of the Pro2 Hot Rod. Team Associated offers this RC vehicle at a relatively affordable price point. Considering the performance and quality it delivers, it offers great value for money. However, it is disappointing to encounter minor issues such as the misaligned decal and the leaking shock. These issues suggest that there might be some oversight in the manufacturing process. Despite these drawbacks, the Pro2 Hot Rod still provides a thrilling and enjoyable experience, making it a worthwhile investment for RC enthusiasts on a budget.
The Features of the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod
The Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod boasts an array of impressive features that make it a standout in the world of on-road racing. From sturdy arms and shock towers to adjustable tie rods for camber and toe, this vehicle has it all. The steel pin plate up front and the swept rear arms add to its durability and stability on the road.
Impressive Tires and Wheels
One of the standout features of the Pro2 Hot Rod is its large hub carriers and 12mm hex wheels. These components not only enhance the vehicle’s performance but also lend it a stylish look. The street tires equipped on this car come with soft sponge inserts, ensuring a smooth ride on the road. However, users have reported that the rear sponge inserts tend to collapse, suggesting that the manufacturer should consider using larger foam inserts.
Enhanced Body Mounts and Chassis
The Pro2 Hot Rod features simple body mounts that can be easily adjusted to accommodate different body types. This gives users the flexibility to customize their racing experience. The composite chassis provides a lightweight yet durable structure, ensuring optimal performance and durability. Additionally, the velcro straps used to secure the battery are a welcome improvement over the older plastic straps, making battery replacements quick and hassle-free.
Top-Notch Components and Transmission
With a gear differential housed within its transmission, the Pro2 Hot Rod offers smooth and reliable power distribution. The vehicle is also equipped with a dual pad slier clutch and an aluminum motor plate, guaranteeing exceptional performance. The front steering cranks are ball bearing supported, adding to the precision and control of the vehicle. The inclusion of a servo saver on the servo itself, along with a metal gear output, further enhances the durability and reliability of the Pro2 Hot Rod.
Overall, the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod is a highly capable on-road racing vehicle that offers a range of impressive features. With its sturdy construction, adjustable components, and superior performance, this car is a true contender on the race track. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a novice looking for an exciting new hobby, the Pro2 Hot Rod provides an exhilarating on-road experience.
The Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod: A Closer Look
From what I could see, the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod comes equipped with the REI: sc600 BL, a 2 to 3s capable speed controller. This means that it has the power to deliver an exhilarating on-road experience. The 3300 KV motor provides the necessary torque to propel this hot rod forward. It’s evident that Team Associated has put thought into the design and performance of this car.
Advanced Features
Upon opening the receiver box, I was pleased to discover the presence of the DVC receiver. This indicates that the Pro2 Hot Rod is fitted with a gyro, an important feature for a two-wheel drive car that is meant to tear up the streets. With a gyro, you can expect greater control and stability, especially when pushing the limits. Team Associated has provided multiple settings to adjust the gyro to your preference, adding to the customization potential.
Unleashing on the Streets
Taking the Pro2 Hot Rod for a spin in an empty parking lot was an absolute blast. Running it on full throttle with a 3s battery, the car showcased its true capabilities. Even towards the end of the battery pack, the performance was impressive. I must admit, I had reservations about how well this car would handle on the road. But let me tell you, those doubts were quickly put to rest.
An Unexpected Gem
As someone who has had fun with other RC cars, I was not prepared for just how “sick” the Pro2 Hot Rod would be. The Team Associated team has truly outdone themselves with this model. The handling, speed, and overall driving experience were beyond my expectations. The Pro2 Hot Rod is more than just a budget-friendly option; it is a powerhouse on the road.
On-Road Performance
The first thing that caught my attention about the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod is its impressive ground clearance. Unlike other on-road vehicles, I don’t have to worry about the small imperfections on the pavement. The car’s suspension travel is so exceptional that it effortlessly absorbs any ripples or cracks on the road. It’s like listening to music while driving – smooth and enjoyable.
Challenges of a Two-Wheel Drive
However, like any other two-wheel drive car, there are a few challenges to be aware of. When releasing the throttle and entering a corner, the Pro2 Hot Rod tends to lose traction and spin out. It requires careful attention and skillful maneuvering to avoid this issue. But if you manage to maintain a consistent throttle and take wide turns in open spaces, the car performs exceptionally well. It offers plenty of steers and even has an automated stability control system called ABC, which kicks in when you overcorrect, helping to straighten out the car.
Unexpected Thrills
One unexpected bonus I experienced with the Pro2 Hot Rod was its ability to handle minor off-roading. As I encountered ripples in the pavement or rough sections, the car effortlessly took on a little bit of air time, giving me a taste of off-road excitement. The ABC system worked wonders in keeping the car under control even in non-traditional on-road conditions.
An Unforeseen Delight
To be honest, when I first laid eyes on the Pro2 Hot Rod in my workshop, I was skeptical about its on-road performance. I knew it was designed for off-road purposes, so I had doubts about how it would handle on regular roads. However, my experience in the parking lot proved me wrong. The Pro2 Hot Rod turned out to be a delightful surprise, providing an exhilarating and enjoyable on-road experience.
Despite a few challenges inherent to its two-wheel drive nature, the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod delivers impressive on-road performance. Its outstanding ground clearance and suspension travel make it a pleasure to drive, effortlessly handling bumps and cracks on the road. The car’s steering capabilities and the added bonus of off-road capability make it an appealing choice for those seeking a versatile and thrilling on-road experience. Team Associated has truly captured my attention with this release – an on-road awesomeness that may not be a budget bust after all.
Value for Money
The Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod certainly delivers on-road awesomeness. With its impressive top speed of 28 mph on a 3s battery pack, it offers a thrilling experience for enthusiasts. Whether you want to race it on the street or simply have fun in your driveway, this RC car is up for the task. Its unique variation on the chassis adds an interesting touch, making it a noteworthy option for on-road enthusiasts to consider.
Pricing Concerns
However, the one major drawback of the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod is its price. Priced at $350, it falls on the higher end of the spectrum compared to other similar options available in the market. For instance, the Trophy Rat, also from Team Associated, is priced at $297, a significant $50 cheaper. While it may have a different body and wheels, it offers a similar platform for on-road racing. Some users have pointed out that the Trophy Rat may even have a longer chassis. Considering the price difference, it would be more favorable if the Pro2 Hot Rod were priced similarly or even slightly lower.
Competition
Moreover, when considering the Pro2 Hot Rod’s price tag, it’s hard to ignore the availability of other options at a lower cost. There are options available for an additional $50 that are four-wheel drive, providing more versatility and performance for those willing to spend a bit more. This raises questions about the Pro2 Hot Rod’s competitiveness in the market, especially when buyers have alternatives that offer more features at a similar or lower price.
The Pro2 Hot Rod’s Design
The Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod is a marvel of on-road awesomeness or budget bust, depending on your perspective. Its design certainly catches the eye, with a stylish and sleek appearance that immediately demands attention. The lowered profile gives it a distinct and aggressive look, which personally, I find quite appealing.
However, I must admit that there are a few minor issues that need to be addressed. One thing that stands out is the shock system, which tends to leak. Now, it’s important to note that each car is built differently, so not everyone might face this problem. Nonetheless, it can be quite frustrating.
Shifting Gears with Some Tune-ups
To remedy the leaking shock, the solution lies in a simple swap-out of some O rings and a slight change in the oils. These adjustments can help firm it up and prevent any future leaks. It’s a quick fix that can significantly improve the performance of the Pro2 Hot Rod.
Enhancing Performance with Customization
While the Pro2 Hot Rod is undeniably impressive straight out of the box, the true potential of this machine can only be realized with some additional tuning. Tinkering with the settings and making personalized adjustments can take it from good to awe-inspiring.
Investment Worthwhile
Now, let’s talk about the price tag. Some might argue that the Pro2 Hot Rod is a budget bust, but I beg to differ. Sure, it may require a bit of additional investment to optimize its performance, but isn’t that the case with most high-performing vehicles?
Considering the thrill and sheer enjoyment that the Pro2 Hot Rod offers on the road, I believe that the investment is well worth it. With its eye-catching design and the potential for customization, this machine is an excellent choice for those seeking on-road awesomeness.
In conclusion, the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod has the potential to deliver an exhilarating experience on the road. Its design and performance make it a head-turner, and with some simple adjustments, it can reach new heights. Don’t let the minor issues deter you; embrace the opportunity to tune and customize this hot rod to suit your preferences. So, if you’re ready to unleash the full potential of the Pro2 Hot Rod, strap in and prepare for an exciting ride!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pro2 Hot Rod from Team Associated is an impressive RC vehicle that offers an exciting on-road experience. Its sleek design, powerful brushless motor, and agile handling make it an enticing choice for those looking for on-road awesomeness. While there are some minor issues with the build quality, overall, it provides good value for money. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly RC hot rod that doesn’t compromise on performance, give the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod a try.
In conclusion, the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod is a force to be reckoned with. Its advanced features, such as the DVC receiver and gyro, ensure a thrilling and controlled driving experience. Whether you’re ripping down driveways, zooming through the streets, or dominating parking lots, this hot rod will not disappoint. Team Associated has once again proven their commitment to delivering on-road awesomeness without breaking the budget.
In conclusion, while the Team Associated Pro2 Hot Rod offers on-road awesomeness and delivers an exciting experience, its pricing may deter potential buyers. With other options available at a lower cost and even offering additional features, Team Associated may need to reevaluate the pricing of the Pro2 Hot Rod to make it a more enticing choice for consumers. Until then, enthusiasts may find themselves torn between the Pro2 Hot Rod’s on-road capabilities and the more budget-friendly options available.