Xray RX8 1/8th nitro on-road kit

Xray have introduced the latest variant of their popular RX8 1/8th scale nitro on-road kit. The machine underwent some changes especially at the rear end, in order to improve overall traction. First up is a new, narrower main chassis plate that retains the front shape of the previous model but that became slimmer in the centre and rear section. The rear bulkheads are spaced 8.4mm closer to each other, while the rear arm mounts move the inner suspension pins 2.5mm closer to the centre line which, combined with the bulkhead placement, generates more rear traction and improves the stability of the car.

The chassis also features a unique, innovative front flex adjustment using a removable aluminium brace. The chassis is narrower to increase chassis flex and to generate more traction and steering. The narrower design also prevents chassis rub during cornering to help eliminate the feel of the car loosing mid-corner speed. Adjustable weight positions on both sides of the chassis offer quick and easy weight balance adjustment. In addition the chassis features cut-outs for the bulkheads, arm mounts, radio plate mounts, and front layshaft holder for perfect fitment and to ensure that these parts will always mount into the same precise position.

Part of the updated kit are new-design bulkheads made of high-quality 7075-T6 aluminium that now feature ball-raced front and rear anti-roll bar mounts with composite bushings. The update will eliminate wear to the bulkhead and the rear bulkheads are also an integral part of the rear suspension Multi-Flex system that offers the choice of different flex adjustments.

Moving back to the rear lower suspension mounts, the 7075-T6 alloy hangers move the rear lower arms 2.5mm closer together for improved traction and stability. The front and rear lower suspension holders are fully independent from the bulkheads, mounting directly to the chassis to increase traction and make the car easier to drive.

All-new rear suspension extensions update the shock mounting positions to match the new rear suspension pivot pin and arm locations. Both front & rear extensions are made of laser-cut steel and are black coated for improved durability while also featuring optimised shock mounting positions.

To match with the updated rear end geometry, the kit rocks all-new graphite upper arm holders that feature new positions for the eccentric bushings in order to position the upper pins 2.5mm closer together. The rear upper arm holders are machined from 3.5mm graphite material for optimal flex of the rear suspension. Both front and rear mounts are mounted on the rear upper clamps.

The new rear pivot balls were lengthened to work with the new lower rear arm mounts to still achieve the desired vehicle width. The RX8 pivot ball suspension contains precision pivot balls that are specially hardened to better withstand harsh crashes and extend their lifespan. Standard pivot balls are made from steel for maximum durability and lifespan. For those who are focused on minimising unsprung weight, optional lightweight aluminium and titanium pivot balls are available.

The rear shock tower was redesigned to work with the new rear narrower bulkheads mounting and updated suspension geometry. Both front and rear shock towers sport optimised shock mounting positions. The towers are made from thick 3mm graphite material for maximum durability.

The front wire anti-roll bar was redesigned to work with the new adjustable system that allows easier adjustment of the bar as well as remove any excess play from the system. The kit includes both wire &and blade-style front anti-roll bars for freedom of choice based on track conditions. The wire anti-roll bar is used to increase steering response on small, technical tracks. The wire anti-roll bar is mounted to the bulkheads from the outside to allow quick and easy changes and adjustment. The rear wire anti-roll bar was redesigned to work with the new adjustable system which allows easier adjustment of the bar and reduce play.

The rear 2.8mm anti-roll bar helps to reduce rear chassis roll. The roll bar turns in ball-bearings for maximum precision and freedom of movement. For fine precision tuning, optional wires of different thickness are available.

Moving away from the suspension side of things, the RX8’s all new rear solid axle shaft and lightweight composite pulley were redesigned to fit the new narrow positions of the rear bulkheads. All outdrives are manufactured from Hudy Spring Steel and are specially ground for maximum precision. All pulleys have self-cleaning holes to reduce buildup. The front 1-way and rear solid axle are small and light, ensuring super-low rotating mass and lowest CG. The super-lightweight front 1-way bearing is inserted directly in the axle, and the axle body is machined from Swiss 7075-T6 aluminium.

Features:
– All-new narrower chassis with new rear end geometry improves traction
– All-new lower rear suspension holders shift the rear arms 2.5mm inward for improved geometry
– All-new steel extension plates for the rear suspension arms update the shock mounting geometry to work with the new narrow inner pivot location
– All-new rear shock tower and upper arm holders to work with narrower rear bulkhead positions
– New extended rear steel turnbuckles and upper ball joints to work with new narrow rear end
– New longer rear pivot balls combined with the narrower inner pivot location update the rear suspension geometry for improved traction
– All-new rear solid axle shaft and composite pulley for the new narrow rear end configuration
– All-new front and rear bulkheads redesigned to work with new composite anti-roll bar bushings to extend the life of the bulkheads and eliminate unwanted play
– All-new anti-roll bar adapters with less play
– All-new front and rear wire anti-roll bars

Find the full presentation here.

Source: Xray [teamxray.com]