Good day drifters,
Choosing your first chassis can be a little overwhelming when it comes to RC Drifting.
However in the grand scheme of things it really just balls down to how committed you're going to be to the hobby.
We're assuming you're going to be EXTREMELY committed!
There are an abundance of chassis available and on top of that an extensive array of aftermarket upgrades.
- Aluminium parts
- Electronics
- Wheels
- Bodies
The list could quite literally go on.
But lets keep things simple and start with kits that you can buy, charge the battery and start drifting out of the box.
Ready to Run (RTR) Drift Kits
Below is a table of the most common and widely supported ready to run RC Drift kits where I've included the brand, chassis model and price range.
| Brand | Chassis Model | Price Range |
|---|
| Yokomo | YD-2Z | $200 ~ $700 |
| MST | RMX 2.5 | $300 ~ $450 |
Ready To Run kits typically come out of the box with settings pre-configured on the chassis, where you have limited adjustable parts for your suspension, steering, motor, servo and ESC.
This isn't a bad thing! Quite the contrary actually because if you're buying something that's ready to run, I'm thinking it's on the premise of learning or getting started for the first time.
Use the Ready to Run kits to learn how the car reacts to the way you drive it.
The above is very important, because we can make mistakes if we adjust or change something that we're unsure of and the car will respond accordingly, being unsure and all over the place like a fart in a fan factory.
So these RTR kits make for a great first-time buyers chassis to get sliding.
It isn't about how cool it looks when you're starting out, it's how it handles.
Build Chassis Kits
Now we're moving into the highly motivated territory.
Apart from the satisfaction you gain from assembling your own drifting machine, understanding its inner workings, and tuning it precisely to your liking is the real adventure.
It is a great way to learn about RC car mechanics and truly a personalized experience.
Why Build a RC Chassis Kit?
Deeper Understanding: Building a kit gives you an intimate understanding of how all the components work together. This knowledge is invaluable for tuning, maintenance, and repairs.
Customization: Kits often offer more customization options from the start, allowing you to choose specific components and tailor the car to your driving style.
Learning Experience: The building process itself is a rewarding experience, teaching you valuable skills and patience.
Performance Potential: Kits are often designed with performance in mind, using higher-quality materials and offering more advanced adjustability.
Popular RC Drift Kit Brands:
Here are some of the most popular brands in the RC drift kit world, and what makes them stand out in a table a long with some of the company descriptions below.
| Brand | Kit Model | Price Point |
|---|
| 3Racing | Sakura D6 - AUPER | $ |
| Yokomo | RD, YD, MD, SD | $$$$ |
| MST | FXX, RMX, FRX, MRX | $$ |
| Overdose | GALM, XEX | $$$$ |
| Wrap Up Next | RDX, BT-01 | $$$ |
| ReveD | RDX, MC1, MC2 | $$$ |
3Racing: Established in 2008 3Racing democratized RC drifting with their affordable and capable "Sakura" chassis, particularly the popular D4. They balanced accessibility with innovation, adapting to trends like RWD and offering higher-end models. Their focus on community feedback and wide availability solidified their position as a key player in the drift scene.
Yokomo: A legendary name in RC drifting. Yokomo kits are known for their high quality, precision engineering, and exceptional performance. They are a top choice for serious drifters and competitors. Their YD-2 series is particularly popular and offers various versions to suit different skill levels and budgets. Yokomo's reputation for smooth, predictable drift performance is a major draw.
MST (Max Speed Technology): MST has gained a strong following for its innovative designs and high-quality components. Their kits often feature unique features and offer excellent adjustability. MST is known for pushing the boundaries of RC drift technology and offering very realistic-driving chassis performance.
Overdose: Overdose is another premium brand that caters to experienced drifters. Their kits are known for their high-end materials, meticulous engineering, and focus on ultimate performance. Overdose often incorporates unique design elements and their cars are highly sought after for their refined handling characteristics. The company also builds and drifts 1:1 cars on the professional stages
Wrap Up Next: Wrap-Up Next distinguishes itself in the RC drift world by focusing on high-end, realistic aesthetics and meticulous engineering, catering to enthusiasts who prioritize visual fidelity and nuanced performance. They've gained a reputation for innovative designs, particularly in their "YD2" conversion kits and unique chassis layouts, which emphasize realistic weight distribution and suspension dynamics.
ReveD: ReveD entered the RC drift scene with a clear focus on high-performance, precision-engineered components and chassis, quickly gaining recognition for their innovative designs and dedication to pushing the limits of RWD drifting. They stand out by prioritizing performance and adjustability, developing products that cater to the needs of competitive and experienced drifters.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kit:
Skill Level: Some kits are designed for beginners, while others are more suitable for experienced builders and drivers.
Budget: RC drift kits can range in price from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping.
Features: Consider the features that are important to you, such as adjustability, materials, and design.
Availability: Make sure the kit and replacement parts are readily available in your area.
Community Support: A strong community can be a valuable resource for building, tuning, and troubleshooting.
Building Tips:
Read the instructions carefully: Take your time and follow the instructions step by step.
Organize your parts: Keep your parts organized and easily accessible.
Be patient: Building an RC kit can take time and patience. Don't rush the process.
Double-check your work: Make sure everything is assembled correctly before you start driving.
Ask for help: If you get stuck, don't hesitate to ask for help from experienced builders or here on the forums.
Building your own RC drift car is a rewarding experience that will deepen your appreciation for this exciting hobby.
Choose a kit that matches your skill level and budget, and enjoy the process of bringing your drifting machine to life!
