March 6, 2024

Schepis Model 2024 MZ GT 1:8 GT chassis

Italy’s Schepis Model has released the 2024 version of it MZ GT, a car which took victory at the final round of the competitive Italian National 1:8 GT Championship in the hands of Rosario Giaimo.  The 2024 kit is available in a standard and limited ‘Black Edition’.  Not going into the specific details of either kit, on the new car Schepis Model published that, ‘With the same exceptional performance and reliability we have always trusted, this version is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of speed without compromise.  The 2024 MZ GT is ready to meet your expectations and overcome any challenge on the track.’  On the ‘Black Edition’ which gets black anodised aluminium parts, they wrote, ‘For the true enthusiasts who want to stand out on the track, we have created the limited edition Black Edition of the 2024 MZ GT!  With an exclusive design and unique details.  Available in limited quantities and by reservation only.’

View more images here


March 6, 2024

Xray RX8 Low Friction Composite Belt Pulley Set

Xray has release a set of Low Friction Composite Belt Pulley Set for its RX8 1:8 Onroad chassis. The molded composite pulley covers and collars are made from specially-formulated graphite composite mixture for increased strength and lower weight. Available as set or individually, they offer a balance between reliability and performance.

Source: Xray [teamxray.com]


March 6, 2024

O.S. Engines MAX-B21 1:8 Offroad/GT engine

Japanese engine manufacturer O.S. has introduce their new MAX-B21 which is intended for 1:8 Offroad 1:8 GT Onroad use.  The MAX-B21 is easy to use from entry-level users to sports users and has excellent cost performance.  Based on the O.S.SPEED series engine, it has a well-balanced combination of smooth speed and power delivery that can be used in both onroad and offroad racing situations.
 The engine head is based on MAX-21XR-B VER.3, it has been reduced weight for better performance and finish in O.S.’s trademark blue colour.  Also the shape of the combustion chamber of the inner head has been revised to improve combustion efficiency and response in the low speed range.
 In addition has improved stable idling and an easy to adjust carburetor.

View specs & images here


March 5, 2024

Fenix FWD prototype debuts at ‘Charity Race’

Best known for its Formula 1 chassis and in particular its classic body shells, Italian company Fenix Racing has revealed some details about its new prototype FWD car that was spotted whiled competing at the annual ‘Charity Race’ in over the weekend.  Commenting to Red RC on the project, Fenix Racing owner Giorgio Favaretto said, ‘It is not yet a real production model, but something rather different than usual.  It is clearly reminiscent the mid 90’s Yokomo at the rear, while the front it’s a bit different from the field.’  Check out the photos of the prototype taken by Francesco Redaelli during the event.

View images here


March 5, 2024

Orlowski wins ‘Charity Race’

While all the world’s attention was on the TITC in Bangkok over the weekend, Michal Orlowski was in Italy where he took yet another win at the annual ‘Charity Race’.   One of the few manufacturers to not have a team driver at the TITC, Schumacher instead sent their star driver as the reigning ‘Charity Race’ Champion to the RC Landia indoor carpet track in Scandiano.  The 13th running of the event, it has been raising thousands of euros over the years for local charities.  In qualifying Orlowski took the TQ, and in the finals gave the British manufacturer’s new prototype car yet another win, it having dominated at the recent MIBO International in the Czech Republic.  Joining the Polish driver in the podium would be Xray pairing Alessio Menicucci  in 2nd and Luca Romagnoli in 3rd.  The closest challenger to Orlowski over the four qualifiers, Filippo Domanin would finish P4.

Image: Michal Orlowski [Facebook]


March 5, 2024

JConcepts fluid holding station

JConcepts has released a fluid holding station capable of storing up to 8 different types of pit essentials.  Together with RM2 they already offer a large assortment of glue, grease, and oil, which are all build and maintenance items.  So, to up the ante on the road or at home, JConcepts have created an item to neatly organise these items to work with containers and bottles in the their line-up.  The all-silicon rubber part is precision molded uniquely shaped and designed specifically for the items it holds.  The bleacher style design steps each item up to maximize space and exposure while the tallest items in the rear used frequently are easy to gather quickly. Available in 3 colors, brilliant blue, stealth black, or cool gray, the holding station has a multitude of colours to choose from to match pit area or surroundings. Smallest compartments are placed at the front for clear diff lube, gold grease, and red O-ring grease.  The middle row is reserved for the larger containers, heavy metal grease and ghost gear grease.  The final row places JConcepts medium glue, bronze bearing oil, and finally thread lock.

View station empty here


March 5, 2024

Lens Bodies Maestrale GT 1:8 GT body

Lens Bodies has released digital renders of its first 1:8 GT bodyshell, the Maestrale GT.  Going beyond the norm to explore new horizons, this is the basis of the design of the Maestrale GT.  Freely inspired by the Tuatara SSC, the Maestrale GT calls into question the forms and functions of the bodyshells currently on the market.  At the front end it has less aerodynamic resistance meaning more speed in a straight line (about 2km/h from track tests) and in turn lower fuel consumption.  The sinuous shapes work together between the front and rear to generate excellent down force. Once trimmed and fitted on the car, the rear axle facilitates its advancement and gives an excellent feeling in fast corners without penalising tight sections.  Engine cooling is improved by the linearisation of the air flows on the roof thanks to the ‘reverse intake’.  The shaped bellies make it more stable on a straight line and facilitate the expulsion of exhaust gases on the engine side, moderating the quantity of oil that smears the rear wheel.  To facilitate assembly, axes of symmetry are imprinted on the bodyshell. The Maestrale GT will be available in 2 different options of Light 0.75mm and Standard 1.0mm and is EFRA approved.

View rear image here


March 5, 2024

JConcepts 48p ‘Silent Speed’ machined alu pinion gear

JConcepts has introduced their Silent Speed pinion gears for 48 pitch racing performance applications.  The heart of any RC vehicle is the transmission, at the top of the transmission lies the spur gear.  Pinion gears or straight-cut gears are some of the simplest forms of gears; however they directly influence the ratio, speed and sound of RC vehicles and they are extremely important.  These gears when meshed together correctly provide the transfer of power from the motor to the transmission and are one of the key elements in the versatility and sound of the vehicle.  The gear includes a durable 3mm set screw which uses a 1.5mm hex wrench.  Silent Speed pinion gears precision machined in aluminium and are very concentric giving the user a consistent gear mesh allowing a more precise adjustment and more “silence” on the race track.  The detailed machining and laser engraving provide a great option to have in the pinion caddy when appearing at any event.  The gears are marked for size and pitch so they are identifiable on or off the vehicle.  Silent Speed pinion gears are also branded with the small JC logo for brand identification and authenticity with the range running from 18T to 38T.

Source: JConcepts [jconcepts.net]