ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 ต.ค. 2023
- This is the Traxxas Slash 4X4 VXL with TSM (68086-4). It's one of 5 variants of the Slash 4X4 VXL that Traxxas currently offers. The others don't all have 'Slash' in the name, but are the same platform:
Raptor R 4X4 (101076-4)
Slash 4x4 Ultimate with TSM and Clipless Body (68277-4)
Slash 4X4 Ultimate with TSM (68077-4)
Slash 4X4 VXL with TSM and Clipless Body (68286-4)
This is the cheapest of the Slash 4x4 VXL family, and yet it's one of the more expensive 1/10 brushless SCTs available today (late Oct 2023). I want to get to the bottom of why it's $70 more than the Senton 3S BLX and $60 more than the Associated Pro4 SC10. Let's take a look!
Notes:
As discussed in the video, the telemetry options can be found here:
traxxas.com/products/models/e...
GPS Module #6551X $100
Telemetry Expander Module 6550X $40
(or buy both for $130)
Traxxas Link BT Module 6511 $35
Temp Sensor 6526 $14
Voltage Sensor 6527 $14
Telemetry Exp. Mount 6555 $10
Power Tap Connector 6549 $7
Telemetry Trigger Magnet Bracket 6538 $3
Temp Sensor Mount $3
Radio Phone Mount 6532 $15
Total cost is $231
I may install some of these at a later date, along with addressing those shocks and the roll-over problem (sway bars for the win!). But first, I want to leave it stock and compare it to the other options for today's aspiring SCT owner.
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The Mojave 4S and Losi Baja Rey 2.0 are not technically SCTs, but they're roughly the same size and may appeal to the aspiring SCT buyer, so I'll include them in my upcoming roundup.
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Also Watch:
HPI Jumpshot V2 Review: • HPI Jumpshot SC V2 Ins...
Arrma Senton 3S BLX Review: • A Decent Traxxas Slash...
Associated Pro4 SC10 review: • Better AND Cheaper Tha...
SCT, MT or Buggy? • Best Choice for Fun If...
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#rcreview, #traxxasslash, #traxxasslash, #shortcourse - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
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The Slash 4x4 Might Be the Most Versatile , With its Part Support and Available Upgrade Options , So Easy to Build on a Slash 4x4 Chassis , Great Vid
I bought the Traxxas RaptorR, which is basically the same truck with a longer chassis, and a much higher price tag, and after one run, added the center diff. Now it’s a good truck. Then I replaced the shocks with the GTR upgraded shocks because the stock ones were crap. Now I’m around $700 into a truck that still isn’t nearly as good as my bone stock Mojave 4s.
Great video as always, thanks!
We're gonna need a support group at this rate!
How'd you fit the center diff? Thanks for the info!
@@RCTNT Traxxas sells one that’s a direct drop in. Pretty easy. But it was expensive, at $70. I really like the way it looks, it just didn’t perform up to its price. I do like the truck, but there are much better options for less.
Thanks, that's great to know! The RaptorR looks great, yes. Shame it's big dollars! Hope you're enjoying it anyway 🙂
this is what Traxxas is all about - making a car that is not quite fit for purpose so you have to go out and buy all their hop ups and upgrades. Which is a market they intentionally dominate. Sickening that this truck sells for so much despite lacking so many features that many of the cheaper trucks have! I'm really enjoying your SCT videos can't wait to see more of them esp that new Tekno
Haha me too, me too! Trying to pick a body for it today that's actually available in Australia without paying $200+! I think I've found one!
The Traxxas approach is disappointing in this regard, yeah. It'd be easier to be mad if the car was junk, but it really isn't bad. Just overpriced. Anyway, I'll continue testing and we'll see where we end up! Cheers
Wah wah wah 😭
Thanks for your helpful contribution to a nuanced discussion.
It's for the customer service and parts availability. You can go to any hobby shop and get parts for any traxxas. Plus like you said early on in the video. Traxxas is trying to help keep your local hobby shops open.
I'm sure that's a big draw in USA. Also I hear they sponsor a lot of events. That has a cost too. I still think the value is poor compared to nearly any other option but the car is certainly not bad. I've been enjoying it.
They're coasting on their brand recognition and whatever goodwill they didn't wipe out earlier this year.
Thankfully they still make some epic cars like the TRX4 and 6 and xmaxx!
Intelligent and honest as always, thank you!
Thank you, I appreciate it. Never quite know how criticism will land, particularly when it's a nuanced position. 🙏
Much love, friend 🍻
My 1st rc was aarma senton and in my case it was one problem after another... i then bought a slash vxl 4x4 and its a beast that has taken brutal beatings! I dislike the battery connector issue that traxxas has with batteries and chargers. Part availability is nice. Conclusion, if you don't want a traxxas, don't buy one.. Thank you for the videos! I dig the channel✌🏻
Thanks Austin!
Glad your slash has been good. My opinion of the car is high and I choose to use it often. It's more what you get for the money, particularly outside of the USA. But yes, it's a popular car for good reason and I'm glad it was a good choice in your case. Bash on, brother!
My look on traxxas that may, or may not make a difference; they are the only RC company that I've seen put big money into advertising to non-RC enthusiasts. Every time i would watch motorcross, tractor pulling, or any other slightly obscure motorsport as a kid I would see multiple traxxas ads and see tons of traxxas material, and in all honesty it is what got me into RC their ads were the first time rc cars looked interesting or cool to me. I dont have an RC ground vehicle but traxxas has been my pinnacle RC for years because of this advertising and support of my favorite racing events. To make a long story short they have more advertising so they have to charge more, but with more advertising comes a more dedicated fanbase. (Still think im going to get an arrma SCT and save my traxxas purchase for a far worth its price)
That's a very reasonable take on this, and I think it might be part of that hidden value a few of us have been discussing in the comments here. It's an astute observation and I reckon you're on the mark for at least some part of this whole pricing disparity with other manufacturers. Good call.
There are a lot of companies seeking to benefit from existing products. I respect what Traxxas is doing. They invest in advertising and marketing. I know you think their products are junk but it's still in the business to turn a profit. I think a lot of people forget that. As soon as a product comes out loaded with features, it automatically jumps to the top of the charts and it becomes the next best thing since sliced bread. Additionally, they make their products better by bashing Traxxas. You see it time and time again with bandwagoners on here. I know most of my local hobby shops couldn't exist without Traxxas. Around here, Traxxas is holding spec races for different age groups and even providing batteries for people to borrow/use.
I don't think either of us think traxxas products are junk. In this discussion thread, both of you have a nuanced outlook with which I agree. The hobby moves forward with more than just products. Traxxas definitely has its place.
I really like some Traxxas vehicles! I have even visited their headquarters. But I feel some of their vehicles need a new design and are NOT a good value for the money! This is one of them. Good review!
I'm a huge fan of some of their vehicles too. Well said.
Loving this SC/desert truck series... Waiting for the Losis now... 😋😋😋
Subbed bro, your Crack up...
Got a traxxas slash ultimate 4 Driveshafts later and a shirt load of tires.....I love it
Haha cool cool, welcome
I've been driving my slash a fair bit. It's a lot better with sway bars in particular. Glad you're enjoying yours 😎
My Senton has been to hell and back several times...and has never missed a beat. I have tons of spare parts that I've never needed. Same with my Mojave....just a joy to rip around.
They know how to make a tough rig, that is for sure!
Thank u so much for the in-depth review with the comparison. I knew i had to avoid slash and get something better.
Slash is popular for good reason. You know, I still choose to drive this thing, as it really is quite good - but that is with sway bars and alu shock caps added. Without them, yeah, not so much.
If you buy the ultimate version you get the LCG, sway bars and lots of aluminum bits for another $150 usd, but vs the associated, thats still $200 more
This is true, yes! A lot of money eh. And I like the Slash, I hope that was clear in my video here. It's just that for the money, expectations are higher. I chose the base model 4x4 vxl in particular to make the point. Cheers 🙂
@@RCTNT yes, having driven an sc10, I much preferred it especially for the price. I'm glad someone is doing a full comparison of all (or most) of the available short course trucks.
Thanks, I'll do my best to make it comprehensive, useful and fair. Cheers
I'm enjoying this series of short course trucks 👍 I agree, where's the money going? I've got a slash copy (9EMU). No gyro, adding those generic sway bars and slight negative camber help getting the wheels planted when cornering. looking forward for the Hobao Vid. thanks for sharing 👊
Ah nice, I've considered hitting the company up for a 9emu, it looks interesting. Cheers
My slash doesn't roll at all I just used a sway in the rear only
I got some kind of washers years ago for my e-firestorm and also foam stick on rings underneath the body. Kept the body in one piece for many years. I drill or Hot wire punch through the washers, and with a piece of string, i go washer 1 -> bodyclip 1 -> bodyclip 2 -> washer 2, with some slack inbetween every part. So when i pull i clip, then the string directs my hand to second clip, after pulling wich, i pull up, and both washers come off and they dont get lost that easily.
Nice solution!
Great review, and poiting the right detail. They finally upgrade the Stampede platform, after hummm, 15 years? So there is hope for the Slash. What make them popular is that you can find thousands of different option parts, and make you able to make it a sort of race vehicle, a good basher. But at this price, you can expect better tires, better steering servo and aluminum shock cap. But they sudy their market, and I believe those trucks go out without issue, they might be not that wrong in the end.
I've found parts hard to come by in Australia, but in Traxxas' home country of the USA, I'd expect they have everything covered. I don't even mind the vehicles, honestly - I do have like 13 or 14 Traxxas models after all - but they're overpriced for what you get in my opinion. I guess that's the thrust of this video. The car can be made truly great. You just need a deep enough bank account to roll it!! Cheers :)
@@RCTNT I'm in France, and the brand is correctly distributed, no big trouble finding spares. However, and as you mentionned, you do not get what you pay for. As you have a better proximity than me with Asia, you should have a look on the KKpit K1 sc V2. Nice piece of a short course kit!
I got a second handy Slash 2wd literally this week which has the LCG chassis installed. It's a riot. So much fun but I am yet to take it off road as such. I'll be interested to see how it goes on some dirt.
Oh great! I bet it's fun! Nothing wrong with them, I'm just having a whinge about the value for money. Second hand is a different kettle of fish entirely. Enjoy!
I have a friend in the hobby who had the Slash for several years and complained that in addition to being expensive, they had to spend a lot to update it. I see that it continues the same and if you want a well-finished Slash you have to buy the Ultimate.
That could be the case, yes.
This RC is a beast💪😁💯
It's a great car, no doubt about it. Overpriced, but definitely a solid choice.
Love the vid keep them up👍. I’m keen to see the comparisons of all your short course trucks. I’m actually Looking at buying myself one and would love an honest opinion of the best one to buy. Cheers.
Thanks, I'll do my best for you then! Cheers
Bought a used one for 150 US. Getting back into this after 40 years, picked up bandit for 130, Stampede for 70.00 Lcg slash or two for 100.00 US here in greater Detroit area. Theyll all spin the tires on cement, 40 foot wheelies on demand, pretty much uncontrollable. Too violent for local dirt track... Heehee, giggle
Caulked those back ribs, then duct taped the underside.
Nice little mod there!
Hey I'm glad you're enjoying them. It's such a top hobby! Cheers
Great video! I just picked up the tekno myself, and plan on running it on my track 🍻🍻
Very nice. I'm looking forward to building mine! Gonna paint a body this weekend for it.
@@RCTNT what color scheme are you going with? I plan on actually attempting to race mine so I need something unique to be able to focus on my car and not get side tracked by anyone else's HAHA
@the-ab-outdoors still masking the body. Probably a two tone thing. If I was racing, I'd be doing a high contrast, two tone model with colour split on the sides somewhere, so it was obvious from all angles!
You know I'm 😂🤣😂🤣 for you buying Slash. My electronics lasted 5 minutes before shutting down. I have the Hobbywing Exrun Max8 G2 with the 2250 kV motor. The Radiolink r6f receiver. It's amazing now, but I refuse to buy Traxxa$ replacement parts 😊 love your office today 😊
Man, I was laughing along with you. I wouldn't have bought this if it wasn't for the Serious Business of comparing 1/10 SCTs!
@@RCTNT 😎👍
Jusy bought my wife her 1st rc. A brand new Slash vxl 4x4. It came with different A arms, axles, clipless body, lights, gyro, etc. $400. Ive had the old slash ultimate for years and it's still kicking. Idk. I think it's worth it.
If you're in the USA it totally is. Glad you're enjoying them!
I kept looking at Slashes every model that was 4 wheel drive. Several times I almost got a VXL version but wound up getting a Rustler 4x4 VXL you definitely have to try one it’s awesome. I have a a few Traxxas Crawlers but don’t much car for any other models I’m more of a Arrma fan. But I’d have to say the Rustler is worth it the price is somewhere around $330 I believe. Unfortunately mine is down but my fault I ran right into a curb & everything held up but the esc went out so just gotta get another & it’ll be back to ripping around.
Glad you're loving it and I don't doubt they're fun. But oh boy, a Rustler 4x4 VXL in Australia is USD$500-$650, depending where you buy (or around AUD$870-$1050). That's a lot of money for what you get... I might give it a miss! But I don't doubt it's fun!
Hey man I hope you don’t replace that esc with a traxxas one. Get a hobbywing or castle or almost anything else. My biggest complaint with traxxas (other than their big bully company that sues anyone they can attitude) is their electronics Anyway….
Lol I don't think I'd ever, ever go out of my way to actually buy traxxas electronics if it didn't come with a car. Don't worry about that! 😂
Love your channel and I hope this brings more eyeballs to it. Are you going to give the LC Racing SCT a go - I know it is more 1/12 but is under 300aud and by the sounds of it could be better than a Slash.
G'day Brad, I have nearly bought that thing a few times now. But I wasn't planning on including it in this round up given its smaller size. But maybe - my LC Racing Truggy is incredible. I don't doubt the SCT would also be great!
“ i got oil on my hands 💅🏽”
It happens 🤷
The slash ultimate is 500$ for almost the same thing. Let that sink in. Center diff, metal shocks are its main features. 100$ more
From $400, that doesn't seem so bad. The center diff alone costs around $110 here. I think the main problem I have is that this 'base' model VXL is $400 rather than something like $350. Make the Ultimate $470 and then you have some compelling options!
@@RCTNT remember. The mojave 4s with center diffs and far superior axles and durability overall is 500$. Metal shocks
I would argue that every other SCT is better performing than the slash on a racetrack. And durability wise. There is a reason traxxas needed a special class to race their vehicles on a racetrack. And that reason is because they simply aren't competitive with the other brands. Everyone that has had an RC car either knows about traxxas or has owned a traxxas. Let's support the other brands that are doing it better for cheaper, and not trying to sue lol.
I personally have had a great experience with my slash. The original shock do suck, I landed a funny jump and exploded 2 of them, what a mess, but I upgraded them to the traxxas metal ones, never had a problem since (have blown out a tire once when I put on the high speed gearing). sadly Traxxas had an asbestos problem, so I cant really do much with parts, I have had to use a lot of aftermarket parts as there are none in stock, it sucks. Great video, I love to hear others opinions about stuff 👍
Oh geez, I know nothing of the asbestos problem! I'm going to have to look into that right now, I've been fiddling with Traxxas parts for 11 or 12 years, including cooking a couple of slippers about a decade ago. I really hope that wasn't where the asbestos was, as I still remember the smell and working on them over 2013 in particular.
@@RCTNT It was only recent, in the slipper and the brake pads. (I am not 100% sure on the situation, just that's why there is not a lot or traxxas at the moment is aus)
@WowoodogPlays thanks, I've just looked it up and found the recall notice. It affects all vehicles with 5552x pads, which means 7 or 8 of my cars are affected. It covers 2002 to 2023. What a headache!
@@RCTNT yea, sorry to let you know
Never shoot the messenger! I'm grateful to know!!
I just bought the new Traxxas Slash BL-2S 4x4 with upgraded heavy duty parts for $330. Got it for short course racing and because there are so many aftermarket mods for it.
Sounds like a great choice. By all accounts, they've done a great job with the updates to the good old XL5 model. Enjoy!
You need to do the MER procedure to prevent the sticking throttle and steering
I must profess ignorance on this one. I've had many traxxas cars over the past 15 years but I haven't heard of the MER procedure before. Is that another name for throttle calibration?
I've run 8 packs through it now and she's been well behaved. 👍
@@RCTNT Set everything to ZERO and perform the Master Endpoint Reset aka MER. It makes the steering and trigger more linear w/ 1 to 1 response
Nicely explained, thanks. Will do.
25:24 Buff dude always watching 😅😂🤣
U wot m8?
Slash prices in the US
Slash 2wd usb-c w/battery charger $240
Slash 2wd BL-2s brushless $270
Slash 4x4 BL-2s brushless $330
Nitro Slash $350
Slash VXL 2wd Pro Series Magnum 272R $380
Slash VXL 4x4 $400
Slash VXL 4x4 new clipless body mount $430
Slash Pro 4x4 nitro $460
Slash 4x4 Ultimate Clipless body $530
There is a lot of difference in these trucks. From stock brushed to full on 4x4 chassis with aluminum upgraded parts already on the trucks!
That's completely true -, though I chose this model carefully: I've reviewed the most basic VXL 4X4 model so it's comparable to the other 1/10 brushless 4x4 SCTs I discussed on the video. Cheers
You've deleted your comment about the slash having a center diff so I'll edit this comment for anyone else reading: turns out you can actually get a center diff for this thing! Part number is 6780 and it replaces the slipper assembly the car comes with. Expensive, but the option is available 🤔
The slash is a great driver. The only problem is no blocker for sand, trees, leaves, about and water getting in the chassis. They need to put a sealed debris blocker in the front like the arrma grom.
That is a good idea, yes!
its in the name. TrAXxas. They give you a base to build from. It is all about hop ups with taxus.
That would be forgivable if not for the premium price we pay over all other brands here. I don't mind that approach, within reason. It is a hobby after all. But the slash should not be hundreds more than other similar brands here. In the USA it's different, the car is cheaper. But those shocks at minimum need alu caps from factory, it's not good they're shipping a car not fit for purpose.
Looking forward to seeing the new Tekno and 4s Mojave. The 6s Mojave is only around $100 more in Aus..
Oh I know, it's crazy isn't it! I had to think about the 4s vs 6s, pretty carefully! Went with the 4s for this comparison but only after thinking on it! I can't wait to see the Tekno as well, it should be a beast!
@RCTNT I'm interested to see what running gear you put in the Tekno. Soo many possibilities! I'm very tempted to order it and fit all high end components... Did you order it locally or from overseas? I can only find 1 seller in Qld taking pre orders.
@Nixxtrr I ordered directly from Tekno, but they contacted me and refunded the money, saying I should buy from that north coast rc mob, so that's what I've done. Their site still says they're awaiting stock, but Tekno is already shipping so I'm expecting they'll get their allotment soon, hopefully.
I'm going to fit basic brushless and a basic durable servo, as I want the kits in my SCT round-up to be similar in spec. After the comparison series is done, yes, I'll probably boss this unit right out and keep it as a regular driver 😊
@RCTNT Very exciting! One thing to note- There are no dedicated bodies so you kind of have to find one and make it fit. Wondering if this will be annoying as you don't want wheels rubbing and body parts flapping about etc
Ah, I see. Thanks for the info, I hadn't gotten around to that yet. I'll do some reading and get something on the way then!
This seems helpful:
www.teknoforums.com/threads/410-3-body-options-whats-everyone-running.618/
I steered away from the 4wd Slash, as the 2wd is the really entertaining and less things to go wrong.. I’m still enjoying it brushed motor and all. I fitted a center diff to my Stampede VXL, can only do 2-cell with the diff but a very good and well driving small monster basher now.
That sounds like a great modification for the Stampy. I only learned of the centre diff being available yesterday (though it's not in stock in Australia anywhere, in my searching so far!). I don't doubt that will have made your truck so much better!
2wd SCT is a great combo, yeah! I've got a video floating around of the HPI Jumpshot V2 here, and it's similar money to what the VXL center diff costs! Fun car, too 🙂
@@RCTNT Haha! Yep, there’s some upgrades that are drowning in less useful aluminium parts.. 🙄 I remember I was in doubt - as it would make the Stampede less capable in climbing, so I was afraid it would end up swapped out again, but no, with a two cell it’s still a handful, but it handles so much better, being wide track and short wheelbase it turned around too much to my liking (I like the stability management turned far down) The center diff made it a new car!
Much more like an MT10 Rival, I suspect. Having had a Stampede for years, the Rival was a pleasant surprise. Great handling and still really bashable - AND I can buy two MT10 for less than I can buy one Stampede 4x4 VXL and a centre diff and sway bars, which would help bring the Stampy up to MT10 levels of performance. Geez!
With Traxxas, you're mostly paying for the name and the part support...oh, and a team of well-paid lawyers!
I'm not surprised that the shocks and axles are weak points, they're probably the same parts used on their 2wd line-up which go back to the 90's.
In subsequent discussion here we've also found that traxxas sponsors a lot of stuff that helps with public awareness of the hobby. There's probably a hidden cost there baked into their models.
Traxxas business model is "Whatever the market will bear"
I mean, they're not wrong exactly. That's an acceptable approach - but it means informed buyers can vote with their wallets.
@RCTNT Thus, I don't own much in the way of Traxxas. 😉 They tend to turn out "new" models that are on the same old platform.
That's almost an understatement given how similar this slash is to the 2011 VXL model I'm familiar with!
Either Traxxas sells the Xmaxx and XRT at bargain basement prices or grossly over charges for every other model. Every model they offer besides those are much higher than comparable competitors.
Now that is an interesting thought! Well put, I broadly agree. Hmm!
This is the ultimate version?thx!
No, this is the base 4x4 vxl version
I have the deerc stc and I've run almost a 100 packs through it so far and it still running like it's new. I'll never waste my money on a bully company like Traxxas. Give me the cheap cars or trucks any day there just as fun and maybe more durable. Just my opinion
That model just arrived here. Looking forward to testing it out! Cheers
For that amount of money, youd expect it to be the best...!! Which its not!!
I have a couple of short course trucks. A Senton Mega, thats now running a Max10 Hobbywing system, with a 3500kv motor, and bigger wheels and tyres, and an FTX Zorro Brushless chassis, running the same Max 10 system and motor.
Both handle really well (the Zorro has a Dumbo RC receiver with a giro), and cost waaayyy less than the Traxxas.
Smiles per Pound/Dollar, both id have over the Traxass!! 🤷🏻♂️👍🏻
Sounds like some prudent upgrading. Nice job!
@@RCTNT cheers. 😎👍🏻
I think Traxxas trade on the name a bit. You want a SCT, you immediately think Traxxas Slash. Well i do anyway.
I'm inclined to agree, yeah
The 2wd vxl in Oz is $692!!
Pretty steep, isn't it!
Because traxxas is a load of smelly bollocks That’s why.. just my opinion but there you go. I always enjoy your videos. 👍
In the case of this 'high-end' Slash, the price is dictated by the endless list of entry-level & mid-level Slash models + it's evolution logfile. If this high-end model had a decent price, the entry level Slash would cost 40$. Only one option for Traxxas : start over with a fresh chassis
This is the cheapest of the brushless 4x4 variants, don't forget! There are 3 or 4 more expensive models!! From a choice perspective, I don't know that I'd be doing so many options, as too much choice can actually cost you sales, but respect where it's due, they know how to sell! A new traxxas model definitely feels like fun when you open the box!
I feel your pain with that it's even worse if you want a Corolla all 10 scale crawlers are way overpriced I wanted one lousy Outback but you can't get the money it's not in the United States because they're cheaper I think all the other companies have blocked blocked them from being sold here in the United States
I'm not sure other companies can really block FTX, but it may not be profitable to sell there? I dunno. Possibly RGT Rescuer is available? Though it, along with the Cross RC EMO AT4, are probably more expensive than what a TRX4 costs in the USA. In that case, the TRX4 makes more sense. In Australia, the others are about 25% cheaper, so they make more sense here than Traxxas.
First world problems though, I guess!
Traxxas has been disappearing from the market where I live in the EU. Hobby shops used to carry pretty much every Traxxas model available, and have entire walls covered with official parts. Now, it's hard to find even basic parts for the Slash and their models have been replaced with new cheaper brands.
Dunno the reason for this, but if Traxxas has lost their foothold on the European market. Then they're not going to have very high chances of a comeback. Consumerism has changed drastically here over the last few years. And as part support was their only strong selling point.. well.. they'll either need to cut prices or gravely improve quality of their products to match their price tag. Neither which I believe will ever happen.
Guess only time will tell if my upgrade 1400€ Slash 4x4 VXL will ever get bashing again or remain a shelf queen as a casual conversation piece 😅
The regional policy they put in place really slowed things down in Australia, as their Aussie pricing is just eye watering. Used to get things cheaper from USA but I can't do that anymore. I dunno, guess we'll see.
Wait till you drive a Losi TT Pro, now that feels premium!
I understand they're discontinued (is that right?) or else I'd have included it in this 8x SCT round up series! Closest I could get from Losi was the desert truck, the Baja Rey 2.0. But speaking of premium, I'm looking forward to building the new Tekno SCT410 2.0 !
@@RCTNT I was going to mention the Losi tenacity also. I have a DB pro and TT pro. love them. They are not discontinued here in the US anyway. Out of 1/10 SC trucks I think the Tekno is the best with the Losi coming in 2nd and Associated 3rd
You'll find all the of these on the channel and they'll be included in my 12x SCT round up video coming soon
RC TNT. What’s your favorite? Company. That makes RC cars.
Hmm, I've never thought about a favourite before. I guess if I choose based on how much enjoyment and how many raw hours I've gotten from their vehicles, it's probably a rough tie between Boom Racing (BRX01 in particular), Cross RC (BC8 especially), Traxxas (for their TRX4 & TRX6 platforms) and Axial (SCX10, UTB & UTB18, & SCX6). The problem is that I really love the products from so many others, large and small.
I haven't considered a favourite company before because I evaluate vehicle models on their merits, rather than on the factory or company that created them. Vanquish, Element, Arrma, Team Corally, Kyosho, HPI, RC4WD, Tekno, LC Racing, RGT, Team Associated, Losi, FMS, the list just goes on and on! And that's to say nothing of the boutique creators, of whom there are many. How to pick a favourite? What a fantastic time to be in the hobby!
@@RCTNT OK do you like the slash that you were driving in the video
Sorry if the video message wasn't clear. Here's the simpler version: it's a great car. It should have alu shock caps out of the box and sway bars are standard on most SCTs now. If the Slash was not one of the most expensive options, it would be easier to swallow. In Australia, it's a poor choice.
Now, Traxxas sells their cars in the USA market for much less than here in Australia. This makes it much more reasonable value. Go for it, if you like it.
There are better cars out there in this price range (Pro4 SC10 is a better driver, for example, and the Arrma Senton 3s BLX is more durable if comparing both out of the box), but for the money at least in the USA, it's a reasonable choice and it'll give you hours of fun. Just consider those two mods (shock caps and sway bars) as they vastly improve the car.
Hope that helps!
It's because in america traxxas is at every single hobby shop if you break it you can fix it same day no waiting for Amazon parts but yeah over priced af
Time is money so that helps! Thanks for the insight
@@RCTNT it's the reason I stopped running losi I'm in Seattle not one hobby shop carries parts you break a strut tower now fun times over for a week
Heh fair enough. If I break anything here it's out of commission for at least a couple of weeks! But if I had same/next day parts available from a particular brand I think I'd be more inclined to run that too.
Be careful of what you say Traxxas just might slap a gag order or a lawsuit on you. But I really do agree with you about the high cost of that especially when there are so many better alternatives.
I'm always careful of what I say and this entire video is fine from that regard. There's no slander, no dishonesty, just a truthful sharing of my experience and the questions that arose from it. Cheers 😎
For those bashing Traxxas id also like to remind some of you that dont remember back before say.... 2007/2008. Traxxas pretty much single handedly SAVED the entire RC industry. No that doesnt excuse them pretty much ridding the fame of that for the rest of history but.... At the same time. The company is still around for a reason. No they dont "update" like the other companies but when they do it tends to change the entire direction of the industry. They made NITRO usable for everyone. They released the Slash and introduced and entire generation and millions of new RC fans to the scene which is still happening to this day. They released the TRX and took a struggling sub culture of RC and brought it to the main stream yet again introducing millions to a world of RC.
Just about every company that gets compared to Traxxas now wouldnt even exists if it wasnt for Traxxas. I seen a comment here talking about how anti competitive Traxxas is and im not sure what that means. Yes they do some lawsuits every once in a while but you may wanna study what those are about and why they are happening. Traxxas has made it so other companies even have customers brining people into RC. Even with the price of Traxxas its still the easiest RC to own especially in the US with parts being in just about every hobby shop. Even to this day Traxxas is the only company even trying to bring new fans and customers into RC. Those people will also want other brands, and expand out into other areas of RC making sure other companies also have customers.
Some people are so closed minded to "branding" they refuse to even see a bigger picture. We may not like everything they do... But the RC world would be so much worse off without them.
Its almost 3am and im in bed writing this sorry for all the mistakes above. Ill try and correct them later :(
Well written, good points. I just finished playing with the slash with my boyo. It's a great truck. Overpriced, yes, but decent.
For clarity, my criticisms in this video are around the value for money for this vehicle. It's quite fun to bash with, just overpriced. That's my opinion currently, but I'm open to being convinced otherwise. Gotta run 8 or 10 more packs through it first and we'll see.
@@RCTNT Your opinion i dont think is wrong at all. It deff is a bit over priced. And while i cant say why i dont think the answer is as simple as "they are greedy" (not that you said that). I do think they know parts are easy to get and they ride a bit high on that. Example... We have a auto parts store here in town. NOT a hobby store just a normal auto parts store that carries traxxas parts. Thats the only hobby anything they have... Without Traxxas making that possible no one in this town would have anything related to rc.
IF.... IF i were to guess about the price i would say it comes to availability, and marketing. Doing either of those isnt cheap, and Traxxas is pretty much a master at both. Its like Redbull. Everyone knows it doesnt take $3-$4 to make whats in the can. But you understand you are paying for all the commercials (which traxxas has), the race teams (which Traxxas also has) and the massive amounts of sponsorships they pass out (which traxxas also does).
Traxxas does more to get thier name out and the RC hobby known than all the other brands combined.
Edit...
Would also add that a few years back I worked at a hobby store that had an indoor race track. Traxxas would donate 15-20 Slashes a year to the store to help with rentals, and the beginner classes of racing leagues held at the track. No other brand would even think of doing that.
You write very well and make some compelling arguments. Quite honestly, I'd like to turn your two posts here into an editorial opinion piece on my website, with some light editing. It'll point to this video and open the floor to discussion about the topic of price vs the hidden added value a company might deliver. What do you think, would that be okay? I'll credit you fully in the piece so it's clear you wrote the parts you wrote. Ok to decline too
Cheers
@@RCTNT I dont mind at all. I think its a point that most people never think to take into account.
Cant wait to read it!
Thank you kindly!
Traxxas should just call it quits
Oh, I disagree. Honestly, if they just shipped all Slash models with alu shock caps and sway bars, they'd have a much more compelling vehicle.
Their marketing and image is excellent so I guess they simply don't need to improve the cars that sell so well. But that's what I'd like to see from them for this model. The rest of the vehicle is pretty good, if considerably more expensive than the competition!
@@RCTNTMan. An ultimate 2wd would be sweet. Not all models are fair as others in price.
True! (I also have a Kyosho Rampage Outlaw Pro kit that's been built and is awaiting review, it looks great too)
The AE SC10 PRO4 has lights & sway bars, drives better than a Slash and costs less. Traxxas are always overpricing their products...
Man, that took 5 seconds to read. Quite a bit more efficient than my movie length review video here, with the same message! I've gotta work on my delivery, lol
Tricksus...
Crappsus !
traxxas you goofballs
Traxxas
Heavy offroad use and sway bars make no sense, metal driveshaft are nice and are a decent uograde
I hear you, but watch how sway bars make a huge difference to a car like this. It'll stop it lifting the inside front wheel and traction will drastically improve also.
@@RCTNT idk, i mean, the sqay bar will just lift the counter weel every bups or rocks u meet, i totally agree if u plan to put some slick tires and go for onroad but offroad one change may be a 0 or positive camber and some toe out, i wanted also to put some sway in my xv01 but , after checking online, i decided not to
@enricomiceli5517 I agree with you about the bumps, that's a negative consequence. But it isn't the only thing the sway bars will do. It's on the corners under acceleration that the difference is apparent, and for this rig that is an area I want to address.
I can only speak to my experience with having done this on similar cars before, then testing before and after. The proof is in how it drives. Again, that's my experience - and we both know people can have really strong opinions about tuning and components and such. All I can really say is I don't feel strongly about it, but my experience leads me to recommend it. That's about it!
Agreed on a little toe out and positive camber, sure, can't hurt. I'm not racing but even on my rickety track, the changes are definitely noticeable!
Like Talbot says, "I'm not in it!" - I'll change, test and report back. Cheers!
I think we're all tired of the Slash at this point, the only people I see buying these are people new to the hobby that don't do any research and the guy behind the counter is tired of answering the same questions
There are more people coming to the hobby every day. I think that still makes this relevant, given Traxxas is very well represented in hobby stores. Hopefully this video is useful - but I'm looking at no less than 8 different SCTs over the coming weeks, so like the rest of them, the Slash at least has its place in this round-up!
Very true, and that was never meant as a knock to your channel. I love the content you make and really appreciate the time, effort and research you put into every one of them. I just have a personal beef with Traxxas, everything they sell that goes fast completely falls apart or electronically fails. Every brand has their place in the market, I just wish Traxxas wouldn’t design their stuff to strategically fail
Gotcha. I am actually happy with the xmaxx at least, that's been really good so far. But the Big T is expensive, that's for sure!
Ive always had great luck with a Slash honestly. Arrma is the brand that ive had no luck with.
The Slash has needed work from new. The Senton did too, to be fair - but that work was free, as one of the front axles needed tightening with thread lock applied.
However, the Slash has needed me to spend another AUD$60 for alu shock caps and sway bars. The former were necessary, while the sway bars were just to stop it rolling so often. It helped, and I just had a brilliant bash session with it :) With the gyro on board, I think its more fun than the Senton.
They're close. Indeed, it's hard to separate objectivity from subjectivity when they're this similar. I think that's why I came back to price in the video. $70 is a big gap when they're so similar. Still, I'm really enjoying the truck now it's glaring shortcomings have been addressed!
Once again Traxxas have proven that they don't care about the consumer only about the profits, i believe that the rigs are made basic from a profit point of view so then you have to buy upgrades from Traxxas to make then as good as some of the other brands which in turn makes more money for the fat cat's at the top, from an engineering point of view Traxxas make good vehicles (which could be alot better for the money) but they are simply sold basic with the intent to upgrade for more profit :(
Some of their products are the result of thoughtful development and they've been killing it with the newer stuff these past few years. But the older models should be cheaper or updated with more than a new body.
On the flip side, I hear they sponsor a lot of events, particularly in the USA. That has a significant cost too. I do agree the value for money is lower compared to other options but this car is certainly not bad. I've been enjoying it a bunch!
I refuse to buy anything Traxxas anymore. You just end up chasing your tail with aftermarket parts! Chinese RC cars are better than Traxxas in my opinion
Fair enough. That was my experience with cheaper bashers from the Big T, but the nicer models like the TRX4 and the X-Maxx have been phenomenal. Maybe they have some niches they're just really good at and others where the same old schtick just isn't good enough. I dunno, I'm still thinking about it.
The money does not go to the retailers. If theres a sale the retailers sell it at a loss they DO NOT get pay back. Horizon pays Back up to 8 months after purchases. Meaning if a retailer orders a mojave 4s for 450$ but theres a sale and they go for 400$ horizon hobby will payback the retailer the missing 50$. Thats what i got told. For traxxas for example the trx4m drama a lot of retailers couldnt resell it because they didn't sell enough traxxas lipos
Hm thanks for that info
@@RCTNT made a typo. Traxxas doesnt pay pack its retailers During sales. Horizon does
I absalutely refuse to buy traxxas.. i have 3.. n they are the last 3... crossrc out does them at every turn.. as well as other brands..
Why is the Aussie importer ripping Australians off. I refuse to buy Traxxas anymore and l have at least five of them it's ridiculous!
I've come to believe it's a bit more complex than it first appears. But as for the Australia 'tax' on traxxas stuff, yeah, it could be a bit cheaper! There are some quality discussions in the comments for this video about traxxas pricing relative to other companies. Worth having a poke through them if this topic is of interest.
@@RCTNT it's more than coincidental that the Aussie price is just a tad higher than the price from the US. with shipping added?
No, they're making more money, I agree. Though the exchange rate varies significantly at times and they can't just change how much the cars cost every time to adjust. But it's a separate issue to traxxas being generally expensive for what you get, which I think has a few reasons and they're not bad reasons. In particular, they do a lot of event and club sponsorship, and their parts availability in the USA is probably unmatched. Not so good in Australia but they are an American company so that makes sense. They also do some assembly in the USA and have invested heavily in stores and their Hq, all employing American people. This costs heaps compared to many brands that rely on dealerships and internet for sales without having any kind of major physical presence in country.
That's where I'm at with Traxxas pricing currently. Its surprising their models don't cost even more than they do when you consider just how much western labour costs. In a small business with a handful of employees, labour costs account for the vast majority of expenses in most cases. I can only imagine what a larger business must spend on that!
Its like apple, u pay more for less.
In Australia, yes. In USA, maybe not so much. So that context matters at least!
The brand should just be forgotten entirely if ya ask me or change of owner. For the good of the hobby
I don't share such strong feelings about that, but I can understand where you're coming from.
This truck can go 60+ mph flat out. The others can’t.
This is true. The Senton and Pro4 will max out at around 50mph on 3S.
I mean, I could put optional gearing into the Pro4 and pull a similar top speed to the Traxxas. 3300kv power system will run cooler than the Traxxas 3500kv but the gearing would need to be a tad taller. Also, I'd have to spend $20 on gears to do it, so that would bring my total spend to $350.
The $400 Traxxas includes the bigger pinion already - but without that center diff you're really relying on the gyro for stability at that kind of speed. Been there, done it, not a fan. Short course trucks are happier on... short courses :)
Hey Craig, you might be a bit of a rubbish driver! No, wait, that's just me projecting again. You're a WAY WAY WAY better driver than I am. If you're rubbish, what does that make me? Inquiring minds want to know!
The issue of the inside tire lifting off the ground on high speed turns is kind of a non-issue for me. When I watch theses things race in full scale, they often lift a wheel going around corners, so that is kinda helping with the suspension of disbelief (see what I did there?). I get your point, especially when none of the others have this issue, and this issue contributes to an inability to not ride on its top all the time. I was just offering my own observation there.
You asked why it doesn't come with aluminum shock bodies/caps. They're obviously desperately needed in stock form. It's certainly a valid question, since cheaper brands do include those. But, that's not the question I'm asking. I think the more important question is, why did Traxxas build it to need them?
What I mean is, if this is such an obvious problem (and it is, has been for years with this design), why is the A arm travel controlled by the shock travel such that it allows this flaw? Why isn't there another method of setting and controlling the suspension travel so that the stress doesn't transfer to the shock top like this?? For the money involved, this is a stupid amateur issue to run into from such a big name distributor.
I'm still Team Associated SC10 Pro4 all the way. But, tell the truth, that's entirely a predisposed bias on my part, I'll probably be Team Associated SC10 Pro4 no matter what the outcome of the rest of this series of videos and the final shootout demonstrate. I'm funny like that.
final thought: I don't see the value either. My TRX4 made me a Traxxas fan, but there's a lot of disappointment outside of that. They could really do better. I'm not saying it's a bad car, any more than you are. But, for what you pay and what you get, they really could do a lot better. and should.
You write well! Nicely put, and agreed. And thanks!
To buy a traxxas and to cry about it. Whats up with that?
I make videos for TH-cam. I try to cover vehicles and concepts that are useful and interesting for people who are interested in RC. In this case, the message is that the car is great, but it's overpriced. I explore this idea as I compare the car to others that are similar to it, kind of a mix of a vehicle review and a discussion about price, value and choice. Hope that helps you understand what's going on here! Thanks for watching.
@@RCTNT if you are interested - in my country (Ukraine) Slash has part support like no other brand. It is impossible to get something for an arrma, not even speaking about stuff like Team Associated. Traxxas parts are wildly available and even cheep
That's great! I've had a few discussions in the comments that say something like this, now. There might be hidden value in the price of things behind what you actually get in the box. It's an interesting concept and one I'm going to look more into. Thanks for the extra info!
@@RCTNT also, yes USA absolutely rocks at trading. They get the best deals and the best markets in everything. Sometimes it is cheeper for me to order German made part from USA than from Germany itself!!! Hard not to become crazy consumer with opportunities like that. Thats why they need such a big closets in their houses! :D
Haha no doubt, it's the capital of capitalism alright.
So nice to see how much you detest traxxas as i do. Your channel should have hundreds of thousands of subscribers but it seems like the algorithm has shadowbanned you somehow.
I don't detest Traxxas. I'm critical of some of what they do, but also see the huge value they bring to visibility for the hobby. I think some nuance is important.
I don't believe I'm shadow banned or blocked somehow. There's something like 550 hours of footage uploaded to TH-cam every minute, it's an avalanche of information. There's plenty of audience to go round, but there's still a lot to watch.
My channel isn't yet 3 years old and I've passed 2m views, and am gaining 550 subs a month, give or take. The numbers are small but they're still decent for a niche channel. It certainly earns quite well already, so to grow, I've just gotta make decent videos!
Cheers for the kind words 👍
This is why I don't like traxxas. They're surfing on reputation with inferior products and to me their products are not with their price. Their business model is to bully competition, not out engineer them (see trx4m lawsuit).
My money is my vote, no traxxas in my garage.
I understand and respect your approach. I have a more moderate position in that I think some of their products clearly have passion and care behind them. But there is stagnation and excessive profit taking too, so it's messy. Hmm.
Talk about nitpicking..
It'd be nitpicking if it was cheap.
Buy an ultimate
Lol not in Australia. They're about USD$725 here and nearly impossible to find.
499$ here in the States plus a free $50 light kit. Sorry bro
Haha yes, I'm well aware. That's okay, I'm in Australia and very grateful to be here. We have it good here. Just not compared to the USA for RC 😅
Blaming Traxxas cuz you broke it is fucking stupid.
So is mischaracterising the entire video.
I shouldn't answer this comment further but I'm going to, this time, as maybe I wasn't clear enough in the video: I've tested 12 short course trucks here. Same driver, same location, same jumps. Only the Slash broke in this way, and it's so easily preventable. Even the budget entry in this line up has alu shock caps. It shouldn't be a hop-up, it should be standard equipment. Especially in such a ridiculously expensive car (the third most expensive of all of them - though I understand it's cheaper in the USA and perhaps more forgivable in that case).
This is constructive criticism in a nuanced discussion about an objectively decent car. The Slash is still clearly a great choice. Fun and broadly, quite durable.
Should I only be sharing my observations if they're positive? I'm trying to be useful with these videos.
If you've got constructive feedback, please, share with the class. Something useful to add, you know? We all do better together.
Traxxas is overrated.
I dunno about overrated. Maybe. I mean, they make some really fun cars. I own 13 different Traxxas vehicles and several of them are my favourite for their 'class' of model. They're overpriced for what you get, but the Big T does make fun models. I'm a bit conflicted.
I don't think you understand what a hobby is.
It's about what you're willing to sacrifice.
That's one possibility. Another is that I have opinions about things that I'm sharing with folks to discuss and think about.
I made a video about rc crawling a while back, regarding the heart of the hobby and what it's really all about. This reflects my approach to RC in general. It may help give you some context to my thoughts and criticisms in this video. It's only short, have a look:
th-cam.com/video/0F4m9nVd2ow/w-d-xo.html
I do think the Slash here is a great car. I've been using it since while I prepare for my 13-car SCT round up video, once all the individual reviews are done. It's a fine car. It's just quite expensive compared to others. That's what I was wrestling with in this video.