Welcome to your ultimate beginner's guide to getting into RC car racing in the UK. Whether you've been fascinated by the thrilling speed and precision of RC cars or you're just looking for a new hobby, this guide will help you navigate your way into the exciting world of RC car racing.
In this article, we'll explore the various types of RC car racing clubs and how to find one that suits you. We'll delve into the different RC racing car classes, highlighting which are the best for newcomers. You’ll learn how to find and choose the perfect car to race, along with essential tips on practicing and honing your skills before hitting the track. We'll also cover the first upgrades you should consider for your car to improve performance and reliability. Finally, we'll outline the essential items you'll need for racing, such as pit towels and licenses, ensuring you're fully prepared for your first race day.
How to Find a Local RC Car Racing Club in the UK
Before you invest in an RC car, it's a great idea to visit a few local RC clubs. Observing what cars they race and understanding the club's atmosphere can save you from making costly mistakes. Many new starters arrive with unsuitable cars that could have been avoided by seeking advice beforehand. Often, there are more affordable and better-performing cars that align with the club's standards and preferences.
To find a local club, you can start by checking the British Radio Car Association (BRCA) website at www.brca.org. The BRCA is a comprehensive resource listing clubs across the UK. Additionally, a quick search on Google or Facebook for RC car racing clubs in your area can yield useful results.
Once you've identified potential clubs, visit them and speak with the club officials or members. Clubs are generally very welcoming and eager to help newcomers get started. This provide invaluable insights and recommendations, ensuring you choose the right car and class for your initial races.
How to Pick the Right Car Class to Start RC Racing
After visiting a few local RC clubs and getting a feel for the racing scene, it's time to choose the right class to race. Your choice of class can significantly impact your enjoyment and success in RC car racing, so it's important to make an informed decision.
Go for Popular Classes
We recommend starting with a popular class. Classes with fewer participants are typically less engaging because you'll have fewer people to race against, which can quickly become boring. More racers in a class not only mean more exciting races but also provide greater opportunities to learn from others and improve your skills.
Modern Classes Over Retro Classes
Starting with a modern class is generally a good idea. Retro classes can be appealing, but they often come with challenges related to finding parts and setup information. Modern classes tend to have better support, more available parts, and a wealth of resources to help you get started and keep your car running smoothly.
Pick a Class you can Practice at Home
Choose a class that allows you to practice with your car away from the track. For instance, cars like Tamiyas, with enclosed gearing, can be driven on gravelly surfaces, making them versatile for different terrains. Buggy classes are also an excellent choice as they are designed to race on a variety of surfaces, from off-road tracks to your local park, providing ample opportunities for practice.
By picking the right class based on these criteria, you'll ensure a more enjoyable and rewarding RC car racing experience, with plenty of opportunities to race and improve your skills.
How to Find a Good Starting Car for RC Car Racing
When starting out in RC car racing, finding the right car is crucial. The best option for beginners is often to purchase a second-hand car that's ready to run (RTR). This approach allows you to get into the hobby without a significant upfront investment and provides a practical way to learn the ropes.
Where to Look
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eBay and Facebook Marketplace: These platforms are excellent for finding a variety of second-hand RC cars. You'll often find listings from other racers who are upgrading or exiting the hobby, offering you the chance to pick up a well-maintained car at a fraction of the new price.
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Local RC Clubs: Your local RC club can be a valuable resource. Club officials or members might know someone selling a kit or have their own cars for sale. Engaging with the club community can also provide insights into the best deals and reliable sellers.
Benefits of Buying Second-Hand
Purchasing a second-hand RC car is generally cheaper, making it a more accessible way to sample the hobby. While there may be issues with second-hand kits, these can be excellent learning opportunities. As you fix and upgrade the car, you'll gain hands-on experience with the mechanics and electronics, deepening your understanding and enhancing your skills.
By starting with a second-hand car, you can immerse yourself in the world of RC car racing without a hefty initial investment, while also building a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise.
Practise and Training Skills Needed for RC Car Racing
Mastering the control of an RC race car from a single vantage point can be challenging, but with the right practice, you can significantly improve your skills before hitting the track. Here are some effective methods to help you get started:
Practicing Control
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RC Car Racing Computer Games: Simulating RC racing through computer games can be an excellent way to get used to controlling a car from a fixed point. Look for games that offer this perspective, as it closely mimics real RC racing. A great PC game to try is VRC-Pro. This game allows you to race with your own transmitter, providing a realistic and immersive practice environment.
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Street Practice with Cones or Markers: Another practical method is to create your own course using cones or markers on your street. Lay out a course and practice navigating it as quickly and accurately as possible. This hands-on approach helps improve your reflexes and control skills in a real-world setting.
Building Mechanical Skills
- Rebuilding Your Car: Spend time learning how to rebuild your car. Practice taking parts off to inspect and check for any issues. This skill is invaluable, as you may need to make quick repairs or adjustments trackside during a race. Understanding the mechanics of your car will also give you a better grasp of how to optimise its performance.
Safety and Regulations
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Battery Handling: Research guidelines on how to correctly charge and store batteries, especially newer LiPo batteries. Improper handling can be dangerous, so it's crucial to understand the best practices for safety.
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Club and Hobby Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules and regulations of your local RC car racing clubs and the broader racing community. Knowing these guidelines will ensure you are prepared and compliant when you start racing.
By incorporating these practice methods and building your mechanical skills, you'll be well-prepared to take on the exciting challenges of RC car racing.
How to Upgrade Your RC Car the Right Way
When upgrading your RC car for racing, it's good to prioritise certain components to ensure your car handles well and performs reliably on the track. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you focus your upgrades effectively:
Start with Repairs
Before considering any upgrades, make sure your car is in good working order. Check for any bent or broken parts and repair or replace them as necessary. If something is damaged, it can significantly impact the car’s handling and performance, making it difficult to control and potentially leading to further issues.
Handling Over Speed
Once your car is in good condition, focus on upgrading the handling components before adding speed-based upgrades. Here are key areas to consider:
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Servo and Radio Gear: Investing in a high-quality servo and reliable radio gear is crucial. A good servo ensures precise and responsive steering, which is fundamental to mastering your driving skills. Cheap servos can make handling unpredictable, and adding extra power without stable control can worsen performance and lead to crashes.
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Tyres: Tyres play a vital role in handling and overall performance. Check the condition of your tyres regularly and replace them if they are worn out. Additionally, ensure you are using the same type of tyres as others in your local club. Consistency in tyre choice helps in understanding your car’s behaviour and achieving competitive performance.
A few Extra Items you Might Need Before Going RC Car racing
Before diving into the world of RC car racing in the UK, there are a few final essentials you'll need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the track. Here's a checklist of important items and requirements:
Race Licence
For racing in the UK, you will eventually need a race licence. However, for your first three meetings, this licence is not required, allowing you to test out the hobby and see if it’s right for you. After these initial meetings, a race licence becomes mandatory, as it includes liability insurance. Clubs will not allow you to race without it beyond the trial period, so it’s crucial to obtain your licence if you plan to continue racing.
In the UK you obtain a race licence from www.brca.org
Pit Mat
Most clubs require racers to use a pit mat if they provide tables. A pit mat protects the surface from damage and keeps your workspace tidy. It's a small investment that helps maintain club facilities and ensures a clean working area for your car.
Tables and Chairs
Some clubs may not provide tables and chairs, so be prepared to bring your own. Check with your local club beforehand to see what facilities are available, and plan accordingly to avoid any last-minute inconveniences.
Power Supply
For outdoor clubs, power sources are often not provided. In such cases, you may need to bring a leisure car battery to charge your equipment. This portable power solution ensures that your batteries are fully charged and ready for racing.
Hi-Vis Vest
All clubs now require racers to wear a hi-vis vest when marshalling after their race. This safety measure ensures that everyone on the track is visible and protected. Make sure to pack a hi-vis vest in your racing kit to comply with this requirement.
Fair Play and Fun
Finally, always remember to race fair and have fun. RC car racing is a hobby meant to be enjoyed, and maintaining a positive and sportsmanlike attitude enhances the experience for everyone involved.
By ensuring you have these final essentials in place, you'll be well-prepared for a successful and enjoyable entry into the exciting world of RC car racing in the UK.
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