Tamiya is a manufacturer with lots of years of experience, which helped create some of the coolest rc cars around. It’s been around in the rc car world for about 35 years and each car has been greater and greater. One of its classic rc cars is the Tamiya Grasshopper, which was originally released in 1984 and it was based on a 1-seater buggies seen around track in the 1980s. The original version was really popular among people who were first getting into the rc car world. The new release has become at least as popular as the original version.
Even if it’s a model designed for first time racers, this car is not ready to race, so you’ll have to assemble the kit. It’s easy to assemble even for a first time rc kit builder and the kit will provide all the things you need to put it together, including an electronic speed controller with forward and reverse, as well as the 380 type motor. The standard dimensions of the car are: 389 mm in length, 223 mm in width and 135mm in height, making it a standard 1/10 scale rc car perfect for first time rc racers.
The chassis, on which all the parts are mounted, is very solid and sustainable. It is simply assembled and features a tough exterior, thanks to the durable plastic body, which is fastened on the resin unitary construction of the chassis in order to create a solid frame. This durable combination helps in absorbing any type of rough handling.
The Grasshopper will easily jump on off-road tracks, thanks to this tough exterior and to its suspension. The coil spring dampers, combined with the independent swing axle front and rigid axle rear suspension will significantly improve the Grasshopper’s performance on off-road or dirt tracks. Moreover, the suspension is adjustable, so you can adapt it to the type of track you’re tackling or to your specific driving style. The rear two-wheel drive system contributes to the whole package, providing excellent control and handling of this rc car. The rear gearbox is sealed in order to protect differential gear from dirt or stones during off-road running. This way, you’ll be able to safely enjoy the driving or cornering and not worry about potential damage done to your gearbox.
All of these off-road features on this car would not be complete without a set of great tires that match. Paddle style rear tires and grooved front tires are combined on a three piece assembly to provide excellent grip performance on dirt tracks.
Perfect for a beginner, this car can adapt quickly to the growing experience of a driver. That’s why the Grasshopper’s engine can be upgraded to a 540 type motor, in order to boost more power and speed. Moreover, you can upgrade the oil dampers and ball bearings. All of these upgrades and possible adjustments can greatly improve your driving experience as you gain confidence on the race track. The Grasshopper is also great for race car enthusiasts, as it is a classic in the rc car world, so it’s always a pleasure to drive it. It could also be a collection item!
You need to remember one thing when you perform the assembly of the kit. Although the kit has the motor and the electronic speed controller, you’ll need to buy the rc unit with the receiver and transmitter in order to control it.
