February 13, 2020

Reedy Sonic 540-M4 competition brushless motor

Available now from Reedy is their new Sonic 540-M4 competition brushless motor. Internally, the 540-M4 is very similar to that of the 540-M3 that it replaces – it produces the same linear powerband and excellent mid-range feel that have become synonymous with Reedy’s modified motors. However, changes can be good when they serve a purpose. In the case of the 540-M4, the inner bearing has been moved so that it is part of the can instead of the sensor assembly, which more precisely aligns the rotor within the magnetic field while reducing noise and vibration. Externally, the motor has been shortened, which results in more centralised weight distribution within the chassis. The reduced 50.3mm length, combined with improvements to the can design, results in a 5g to 10g reduction in weight. A balanced, high-strength rotor provides powerful fade-free performance. A variety of optional rotors are available to fine-tune for specific applications and tracks. Precision stainless steel ball bearings have been fitted to reliably accommodate high RPM loads. Several versions, including .0T “even” and a 1/12th scale 1S variant, are available and all meet ROAR, EFRA, and IFMAR specifications.

View a list of the key features and another image here


February 11, 2020

Team Zombie 5800mAh CoG slim LiPo battery

Team Zombie is the latest brand to introduce a slim LiPo battery pack for the use with the latest breed of mid-motor touring cars. The “Narrowism” Centre of Gravity pack uses highest quality 140C cells for exceptional power supply in both modified and stock classes and while measuring 139×37.8×24.7mm it weighs in at under 240g. Using slim style batteries will make for a more centralised weight distribution, something that can improve overall handling of mid-motor touring cars.

Source: Team Zombie [team-zombie.com]


February 7, 2020

Hitec RDX2 mini AC balance charger

Coming soon from Hitec is their new RDX2 mini AC balance charger. The device is a two-channel charger, featuring independent circuits which allow the user to charge two batteries simultaneously, regardless of chemistry or capacity. With a powerful, combined 100 watt charging output and 5A current, the RDX2 Mini offers the punch needed to charge 2 to 4-cell packs at an affordable price. The convenient front-loading design has the balancing and XT60 ports readily accessible for ease of operation at the workshop or raceway. Additional features include AGM and Cold Charge Modes to safely and easily charge conventional lead-based and absorbed glass mat batteries in cold conditions.

View lists of the features and specifications here


February 7, 2020

Castle Creations Mamba Monster X 8S speed controller

Castle Creations have introduced their new Mamba Monster X 8S LiPo-compatible brushless speed controller for 1/6th scale applications. The ESC utilises Castle’s Cryo-Drive technology that, by reducing the rate at which the ESC heats up and removing heat more efficiently, the setup will be able to handle higher gear ratios, in heavier vehicles, with longer runs. These software advancements work in parallel with a unique open housing design to allow increased directional airflow to cool critical components. With the integration of a 40mm cooling fan and a forged elliptical fin heatsink, the design maximises airflow throughout the system, taking thermal performance to a whole new level. Constructed around a robust aluminium casing, epoxy potting guarantees protection around the circuitry and ensures all-weather use. Owners can also easily optimise the ESC for any driving condition, from rugged terrain to smooth pavement to the perils of rock and gravel. They can create, save and download setup profiles through the Castle Link Programming Suite on a Windows PC, or wirelessly with the convenience of the new B-Link Bluetooth Adapter and Castle Link app for Android or iOS.

Continue reading here


February 5, 2020

Intellect 2020 Platinum LiPo battery range

UK Intellect distributor Schumacher has introduced the 2020 Platinum LiPo range. Recognisable by the new labelling with metallic blue lettering the 2020 versions once again improve of 2019 specs by offering better power and runtime. Intellect offer a huge range of batteries for all applications and required weights for perfect chassis balance and centre of gravity with every battery having a burst current of 120C and LIHV technology. The new packs are BRCA/EFRA legal as of April 1st 2020 with the stick range including the following specifications: 2S 10000mAh 25.1mm, 2S 8400mAh 25.1mm, 2S 7600mAh 25.1mm, 2S 7000mAh 22.5mm, 2S 6000mAh 22.5mm, and 2S 5600mAh 19.5mm. The 2020 shorty range includes the following specifications: 3S 4200mAh 25.1mm, 2S 6200mAh 25.1mm, 2S 5000mAh 25.1mm, 2S 4400mAh 20mm, and a 2S 4200mAh 18.5mm . The range is rounded out by a 1S 8200mAh and a 1S 6600mAh Shorty.

View the other new 2020 series batteries here


February 5, 2020

Absima Cube 2.0 AC multi-chemistry charger

Absima from Germany have introduced their forthcoming new Cube 2.0 AC multi-chemistry charger. Of a simple design the compact device allows to charge 2S and 3S LiXX as well as one to eight-cell NiXX batteries, making it ideal especially for nitro racers who can conveniently fill modern transmitter as well as receiver batteries without having to carry around full-blown competition chargers. The display-less charger is less prone to be damaged due to dust and dirt with charge current selection being carried out by a simple sliding switch. An integrated 2S to 3S LiPo balancer makes for secure charging of Lithium batteries while the auto-detect NiXX program allows to charge old school NiMH battery packs. The charger comes including connection wires and it will hit stores in March.

Vie lists of the features and specifications as well as more images here


February 4, 2020

Reedy Zappers SG3 Competition 2S LiHV batteries

Reedy have introduced their new Zappers SG3 Competition 2S LiHV batteries for the 2020 season. They feature state-of-the-art silicon graphene LiPo cell chemistry with an emphasis on lower internal resistance with improved durability and cycle-life, resulting in more power, improved durability, and high capacity for exceptional performance. Zappers SG3 batteries feature a 7.6 nominal voltage, which means that the battery can be safely charged to 4.35V/cell. Even when the typical 8.40V charging limit is enforced, Zappers SG3 cells shine thanks to their inherently flat discharge curve, which results in higher voltage deeper into the race. The standard footprint stick line-up includes a 9600mAh 85C Stick (25.1mm/335g), 8200mAh 115C Stick (25.1mm/318g), 6000mAh 115C LP Stick (22.5mm/270g), and 5500mAh 85C ULP (19.5mm/230g). The shorty line up feature a 6100mAh 85C (25.1mm/225g), 4800mAh 115C (25.1mm/205g), 4100mAh 85C LP (18.5mm/155g), and a 3600mAh 115C LP (18.5mm/154g) battery pack. A high quality, durable hard case helps prevent damage while embedded socket connectors keep power-robbing resistance to a minimum. Male ESC connectors are included.

View the full line-up here


February 4, 2020

CML Distribution Centro & Voltz 4S LiPo battery packs

CML Distribution have introduced two new Centro and a single Voltz 4S 14.8V hardcase LiPo battery pack for 1/8th scale applications. The Centro packs target competitive racing and are available as 7600mAh 100C and 6800mAh 75C variant, while the Voltz pack is built using 5000mAh 50C cells, making it ideal for demanding bash applications and RTR vehicles. All utilise protective hardcases for security and they come pre-soldered with EC5 connectors and balancer ports.

View the other new battery packs here