How to Drag Race Remote Controlled Cars

Drag racing remote controlled cars is a serious hobby that requires considerable skill, expertise and financial resources. If you have a need for speed but do not relish the thought of locking yourself behind the wheel, R/C drag racing may offer the perfect alternative.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• First aid supplies in case any of the cars collide with onlookers
• Place to race safely
• Remote controlled car, preferably a nitro or a fuelie

Join the Club

1. Join a major remote controlled car hobbyist club in your area. Different states offer different clubs, so you may need to visit the message boards for a nearby chapter.
2. Pay your dues. Many clubs offer semi-annual and yearly rates, though you may also be able to find per-race fees that allow you to get your feet wet before you commit.
3. Check the schedule to find a race that suits your timeline. You may need to account for additional setup time if your car has to be tweaked and assembled on-site.

Prepare the Vehicle

4. Upgrade your car. Hobbyist sites and individual vendors offer hop-up speed kits ranging from subtle to extreme. If you really know what you're doing, you can design and create your own parts from scratch.
5. Tune and clean your motor for high performance. Most nitro and fuel motors require denatured alcohol and compressed air blowers for maximum speed.
6. Check the wheels, chassis and motor for any signs of wear or debris. You will need to replace broken or damaged parts, as well as anything that has become loosened. The track can be punishing to poorly made cars, so make sure your maintenance regimen is complete!

Hit the Track

7. Head to the track with your car and practice with it. This is your best chance to get a feel for acceleration, braking, torque and drift.
8. Race hard but fair. It's easy to get reckless in the heat of the moment, but nobody leaves happy if multiple cars are destroyed during the race.
9. Be a good sport. This is a pleasurable hobby that may spawn lifelong friendships if you are willing to play nice with your competitors.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch the pros do it first. Some of the best drag maneuvers come only with practice.
• Be prepared to repair or replace a good portion of your car when the drag race is over.
• Never handle hot-glow engine or gas engine parts immediately after a drag race.