HPI Racing goes direct with Great Planes in US

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HPI gives an exclusive US distribution deal to Great Planes

Rumors have been flying around for weeks about this. Rumors about HPI’s major change up in their US operations. Rumors ranged from HPI closings it’s door and going bankrupt to rumors it was sold to HRP or Great Planes.  I never could imaging them closing their doors for good but some believed it and passed around that news.

In our offices we received calls and emails about all the rumors. We thought for a while the HRP deal made sense for them but that was later debunked. Then we heard they had either made an exclusive deal with Great Planes or that possibly they were purchased by them. That deal did not sound as plausible with the recent purchases of Axial and Durango, why would they need another brand that they do not own at least a piece of. Well the facts have been posted by HPI and that is in deed what they have done. Hobbico/Great Planes/ Tower now has exclusive distribution of HPI products inside the US.  Seems like a strange move on both their parts to me but what do I know…??

One of the tidbits many media outlets did not notice is that when HPI announced their new revised (I say that loosely) HPI Baja they showed a “MAP” price which from what I can tell is the first time we have ever seen an official MAP price on an HPI baja. That was the first clue some major changes were coming our way. But don’t forget, Great Planes owns Tower Hobbies, the king of the low low price deals. Add a coupon here, a member discount here and a special price something or other and the end customer is buying at the same price their dealers are at Great Planes. They are not the favorite distributor in the business to say the least. So things could ge interesting for HPI as a company and for their customers. Lets just hope it’s all for the best. Because we are big fans of HPI and we want to see them and their 1/5 scale RC’s succeed.

Their press release has been posted below and can also be seen HERE.

 

HPI Press Release:

 

HPI Announcement

In light of recent media speculation, HPI would like to confirm that it has appointed Hobbico/Great Planes Model Distributors as their exclusive distributor for HPI RC Cars in North America. This distribution partnership is a further extension of the HPI’s exclusive distribution network that is operating very successfully throughout the rest of the world.

We would like to be clear that Hobbico has not purchased HPI, HPI’s assets or the rights to any HPI products. Hobbico/Great Planes Model Distributors have simply purchased the necessary product inventory to enable them to provide the service levels required from an exclusive distributor in such a large market area. Their comprehensive distribution facilities will ensure fast and effective supply of the entire HPI product line.

As the exclusive North American distributor, Hobbico will also be providing first-class customer services utilizing their extensive facilities and knowledgeable staff at their headquarters in Champaign, Illinois. The customer service facility will be operational for the HPI product range beginning March 1st, 2013.

HPI USA will retain its headquarters in California, where we will continue to develop market-leading products and maintain relationships with our high-profile corporate partners. HPI Europe will handle centralized purchasing and logistics operations, resulting in more efficient accessibility of global product demand. These combined efforts will enable North American shops and customers better and faster access to HPI’s kits, spares and support.

This exciting partnership will enhance HPI’s presence within North America by giving both companies the opportunity to concentrate their efforts on their own specialized areas of the business.

HPI’s dedication to product development, marketing collaborations and our distribution partners will ensure HPI will remain the front runner in the worldwide RC market.

 

 

Nitro Challenge 2013 Live Coverage from TeamChase

Nitro-Challenge-2013-live-coverageTeamChase brings LSN Live updates from The Dirt Nitro Challenge 2013

The boys at TeamChase have once again made the trip out to Arizona for The Dirt Nitro Challenge 2013. TeamChase has stepped up again as an official sponsor of the event and they are representing the heart of large scale racing fanatics.

Wana go? Check out the details of the event HERE.

We will be posting pictures and videos live as they send them in to LSN. The latest news will always be near the top with the oldest at the bottom of the page. Watch our YouTube Channel for videos to be uploaded HERE.

http://youtu.be/jAQDv0MJBR8

Sunday Update:

Looks like TeamChase did great! Kevin himself got the 1st,TQ, and 2nd in 2WD open. 4th in 4wd open. His sidekick E got 3rd as well! All top 3 racers in 2WD were Losi 5IVE-T’s with the TeamChase diff locker! Way to go TeamChase!

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Saturday Update:

Still waiting for more large scale guys to show up. Word is Oneill Brothers and Bartalone Racing should be here by Sunday morning for the large scale event. We will keep you posted.

Chase says there is at least 3 Losi 5IVE-T’s racing in the 2WD class using the TeamChase Diff Lock. So lets see how the Losi’s keep up with the HPI Baja’s, MCD’s etc.

Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 1 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 2 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 3 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 4 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 5 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 6 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 7 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 8 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 9 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 10 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 11 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 12 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 13 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 14 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 15 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 16 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 17 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 18 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 19 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 20 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 21 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 22 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 23 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 24 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 25 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 26 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 27 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 28 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 29 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 30 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 31 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 32 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 33 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 34 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 35 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 36 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 37 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 38 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 39

 Friday Update:

More people are piling in, no word on Large Scale turnout yet. But there is over 700 cars entered already! Can you believe there is that many rc’s in one location. I am told this could be some sort of World Record. We will be waiting to hear the final count. Enjoy the new pic’s sent in from TeamChase!

Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 1 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 2 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 3 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 4 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 5 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 7 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 8 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 9 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 10 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 11 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 12 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 13 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 14 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 15 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 16 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 17 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 18 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 19 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 20Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 1 Nitro Challenge 2013 coverage 2

 

Thursday  update:

Weather is better today and Kevin Chase says the turnout is amazing. He has not seen any other large scale manufacture on location yet but he expects to start seeing some more racers show up tomorrow.

Kevin is going to try some 2WD practice tomorrow. See pics of him installing his diff locker. Some new pictures below.

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Wednesday 12 noon update:

TeamChase arrived at the track during a break in the weather. Rain later picked back up and even turned to snow. The forecast shows clear weather ahead so lets do our good weather dance. Here are a few pictures they were able to snap between downpours.

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Craftwerks-RC gets back to editing some great footage

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Craftwerks-RC gets busy with new video releases

You may know Craftwerks-RC for their HPI Baja products or maybe their Losi 5IVE-T goodies. But guess what…..they do more. Craftwerks-RC has been pumping out quality action packed large scale videos for years now. We have been lucky enough to be with him while at these events and share in the fun. Including the video below of our very own Losi 5IVE-T with the TeamChase Dif locker in 2WD out at Glamis. Most the other footage is from Dunetoberfest.

Below are just two new videos of which we hope is just a start of his resurrection of this great footage. Follow his channel of great videos HERE.

 

 

 

 

 

Inside OBR – Oneill Brothers Engines Exposed

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Go inside OBR with a new series of YouTube videos

Looks like the boys of speed have a new video series for us to watch. Like we needed more media these days to consume right? Well these videos may be worth cutting back on some cat prank videos to allow for some time learning about the guys who make our 1/5 scales HAUL ASS! Check out the 1st video of the series below, they show off their Methanol engines and show some great large scale footage.

Get your OBR products at TGN!

HPI announces the new HPI Baja 5b for 2013

hpi-baja-5b-new-model-for-2013

 

The new HPI Baja 5b for 2013

Another press release from HPI today. First they announced the new HPI Baja 5SC and this time its the Baja 5b for 2013. Again it looks like mostly cosmetic upgrades but take a closer look to see if you can find anything else new for us large scale fans.

More pictures HERE.

For 2013 the HPI Baja 5B receives an all new Matte finish treatment for an all around tougher and more distinctive look! The visuals are further enhanced by bold new graphics to freshen up the overall look of the kits.  Underneath the 2013 Baja 5B features a refined 23cc Fuelie Engine driving the ultra tough proven Baja 5B chassis, suspension and drivetrain. With standard features such as VVC/HD Shocks, 8000 RPM Clutch, High Flow Muffler, Viscous Torque Differentials, Monocoque Chassis, Dual Vented Disc Brakes and realistic high performance Beadlock Wheels the Baja 5B is a high performance machine right out of the box. The HPI 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum DSSS radio system is also standard equipment on the kit along with high performance servos and a built in failsafe function to prevent low voltage runaways.

When the designers at HPI released the original Baja buggy to the public, we didn’t realize the absolute storm of popularity it would enjoy. Racers everywhere loved it, reviews from all over the world absolutely glowed with enthusiasm, shops ran out of stock and brand new companies sprung up to make wild hop-ups for this one-of-a-kind machine. We had just as much fun tracking all the praise as we did for the Savage monster truck! Most encouraging of all, though, we heard back from customers everywhere about how much they enjoy their Baja, which is the best thing we could possibly expect.

After all that, you’ll understand that when it comes to updating such a legendary car, you can’t mess with the magic too much: we wanted to give our fans more of the same, without going overboard. It was a tricky subject, but we’re sure we got it right on the money.

Standard Parts

The Baja 5B has several great features and standard parts, many of them taken right off the kit-only SS version!

2.4GHz Radio System with Failsafe

The electronics included in every Baja RTR buggy and truck have to be suitable to the task of handling a car nearly a meter long that can go over 35 MPH – that includes a handy built-in electronic failsafe to prevent a runaway Baja! The stock 2.4GHz radio system makes running your Baja safer and more enjoyable than ever. No need to worry about radio conflicts, crystals, or radio interference, this Baja is equipped with the latest Spread Spectrum radio technology that delivers worry-free driving. The heavy-duty steering servo now includes tough metal gears and an aluminum steering arm for extra durability. A powerful sub-C type 6-volt receiver pack powers the servos for confidence and longevity. You’ll find that many Baja bashers don’t find a need to upgrade the radio system, as it’s already perfect for the task!

  • Spread Spectrum DSSS – no frequency worries when running with dozens of cars at the same time
  • 2.4GHz – high frequency operation eliminates radio interference
  • Easy operation – simplified feature list avoids the complexity of computerized radios
  • Ergonomic design – comfortable pistol grip handle and foam steering wheel
  • No crystals needed – saves money and improves reliability
  • Built-in failsafe function – protects the car from low voltage runaways
  • Steering dual rate – easily fine tune the steering to track conditions
  • Servo reversing switches – quickly reverse the servos for multiple applications
  • Low battery warning – a flashing LED indicates when the transmitter batteries are running low

New Body Colors

The tough body is now available in two all-new Action Sports inspired paint schemes: HPI Orange Graphics on Black and HPI Orange Graphics on Silver! These are pre-painted, pre-trimmed bodies that are ready to go right out of the box: no prep work needed! With their 2mm thick polycarbonate molded construction they will last for a very long time!

Refined 23cc Fuelie Engine

The refined 23cc Fuelie 2 Stroke Engine combined with the High Flow Muffler and 8000 RPM clutch, let’s you experience high top speeds, ripping acceleration and more than enough overall power to take you anywhere you want to go!

High Flow Muffler

The High Flow Muffler is tuned to give you plenty of horsepower on the track. It sounds fantastic, too! When the Baja 5B is ripping past the pits, you will know it!

8000 RPM Clutch

Formerly an option part, the high performance 8000 RPM Clutch from the Baja SS is used to give you more punch off the line. Lightweight clutch shoes and a strong heavy-duty spring are the integral parts of this unit, and you will feel the power out of the turns.

VVC/HD Shock Absorbers

These are the same damper units that equip the Baja SS, and are now standard parts for the 5B – these are oil-filled, externally adjustable coilover shocks for fantastic performance and heavy-duty action! Thick shock shafts provide security from crashes, threaded shock bodies allow instant ride height changes, and the externally adjustable design is tailor-made for trackside tuning.

Torx T27 Engine Screws

The engine features tough Torx T27 screws to make maintenance and rebuilds less of a chore. Torx screws are easier to work with and provide less wear and tear on tools and screws, making them the ideal screw option for a Baja buggy engine!

Gunmetal Anodizing

The very cool gunmetal look gives the Baja 5B the ‘race’ look, and it’s easy to add a bit of bling with Baja SS or original 5B color parts.

Fantastic Baja Features

The Baja 5B keeps the standard features that made the original Baja 5B such a stand-out large-scale buggy, and which continue to single it out from all the rest of the large-scale buggies – as well as all of the copies! The HPI Baja is the ONLY large-scale buggy line-up that has all of these great features!

Scale Appearance

From the first glance, the Baja buggy looks just like the sand rails and desert racers you can see racing across the Sonora in Baja California, or blasting around the sands dunes of the American   Southwest. Nothing else in the RC world comes close! From the bumper and front suspension, to the cockpit and rollcage, all the way to the wing and rear bumper, in the looks department, the HPI Baja is second to none.

Extremely Durable

HPI has always been known for its extremely rugged cars and trucks, starting with our earliest touring cars and carrying on with monster trucks and large-scale machines. The Baja 5B uses the same suspension components as the Baja SS, so you know you’ve got a quality buggy in your hands. While the ones that came after the original Baja use cheap plastics and questionable methods to make their kits, the original is still going strong with original designs and compounds to keep you going, no matter what you put your Baja through!

Monocoque Chassis

Still a unique item among the large-scale racing crowd, the Baja 5B continues to use the unique Baja monocoque aluminum chassis. The chassis formed from strong 6061 aircraft aluminum for light weight and strength, then bent into shape with computer precision to make it into an extra-rigid and super-strong platform for the engine, suspension and all other components of the Baja.

Long Travel Suspension

For confidence-inspiring traction and control on any type of surface, the Baja 5B uses the amazing long-travel suspension used for all the kits in the Baja series. Extra-long oil-filled shock absorbers and durable suspension arms connect via specially tuned suspension geometry to give not only a fantastic look and style to the Baja buggy, but amazing versatility, tuning potential and great handling!

Viscous Torque Differential

The totally unique Viscous Torque Diff in the Baja series delivers power smoothly to the rear wheels. It’s set up out of the box perfect for most purposes already, but the diff can be tuned with different diff greases to suit any driving style or track. Hardened metal is used throughout the diff for reliable performance in all conditions.

Dual Vented Disc Brake

To bring something the size and speed of the Baja buggy to a safe and controlled stop, the brakes need to be extra-strong, reliable and foolproof. This is why we use two steel plates for brake discs, both of which are drilled for lightness. To keep the discs cool under pressure, a fan-shaped spacer is used blast rotating air through the vent holes drilled in each disc.

Long Wheelbase

In addition to everything else that makes the Baja 5B handle great, its long wheelbase is ideal for racing on large tracks designed for 1/5th scale vehicles, or just playing in big fields. The Baja 5B is more stable over jumps and rough ground than other large-scale cars, a tribute to its great suspension design and longer wheelbase.

Electronic Failsafe

Nitro racers have known for a long time that having a working failsafe system is important for those ‘just in case’ moments – some unforeseen event that could make their car go out of control. With a buggy as big as the Baja (over 800mm long and 9.5kg in weight!), this is even more important! The Baja 5B uses the same reliable electronic failsafe as all other Baja RTR kits. The adjustable failsafe setting ensures that should your Baja 5B lose radio signal, instead of flying out of control it will come to a safe and controlled stop! There’s nothing like peace of mind!

Sealed Radio Box

We know that most off-roaders love to blast through dirt, mud, water and more, so we protect the electronics of the Baja as much as possible with a sealed radio box. In addition to being under the body to protect from splashes, the radio box uses rubber plugs to provide access to the receiver battery and radio crystal, so you don’t need to unscrew anything to get to these often-accessed items. If you do need to remove it, it’s a simple matter of a few clips to take it out – no tools necessary!

All-Terrain tires & Beadlock Wheels

To allow the Baja buggies to go anywhere, we fit tires that are ideally suited for off-road conditions. Spiked rear tires and dash-style front tires provide the perfect amount of traction and control on nearly all dirt, gravel and grass surfaces. The Dirt Buster S Compound rear tires use a versatile square pin design that sheds mud and gets you the grip you need for massive top speed runs, while the Dirt Buster rib tires provide the direction and steering necessary for pinpoint accuracy on the track.

High Capacity Fuel Tank with Clunk

The 700cc fuel tank takes pre-mixed 2-stroke fuel for run times of 45 minutes or more (if you’re going slow, but who does that?), and the handy ‘clunk’ inside allows you to get upside down and not worry about the engine cutting out. So when you’re mixing it up in traffic on the race track you won’t have to worry about getting flipped upside down!

Adjustable Rear Wing

For most Baja buggy owners, the rear wing is something that is never touched until the car needs to be picked up or flipped over. Racers, though, are a different matter: racers like to tune things and play around with settings to get a little extra edge. So for the racers, we made the rear wing of the Baja adjustable so you can get a bit of extra downforce on small tracks, or lower the wing a bit for more speed on big tracks. Will you feel the difference? Only you’ll be able to tell!

Hard Plastic Skid Plates

With tough nylon plastic skid plates front and rear, the chassis of the Baja 5B is protected from the inevitable hard landings, crashes and more that you’re sure to encounter while you’re running your Baja buggy. The skid plates are easily replaced, and are a much cheaper alternative than replacing the aluminum chassis or motor plate, so you won’t be afraid to pull off those crazy jumps with your Baja!

Complete Set of Ball Bearings

Finally, full set of high-quality ball bearings are used throughout the drivetrain for increased efficiency and long runtimes. Throughout the transmission and drivetrain, plus the front wheel hubs, ball bearings help keep maintenance to a minimum so you can just get out and run your Baja!

RTR – PERFORMANCE STRAIGHT FROM THE BOX

HPI makes it so easy for beginners to get into 1/5 scale! Just open the box, charge up the battery, add pre-mixed fuel and go! The Baja 5B is completely pre-built and ready to go right out of the box! Everything is assembled and tuned for you by professionals – engine connections, shocks and more are perfect before you even open the kit so you don’t have to do a thing to get going fast!

HPI Ready-To-Run models bring you the same high performance and quality that you’d expect from a high end model car kit but with the added convenience of being factory pre-assembled to the highest standards – giving you a high performance RC car straight from the box! HPI RTR cars are 98% factory assembled – they come Ready-To-Run and equipped with all the radio gear required. Just a few steps are needed to get your car up and running, such as adding the batteries to the transmitter and receiver and if you have a nitro powered car, running in the engine – which is now even easier with our comprehensive manual and HPI RC cars DVD which are both included in every box.

Full Assembly Instructions and HPI RC Cars DVD

As with all HPI cars and trucks, you get a full, in depth instruction manual with step by step instructions that allow you to easily disassemble and reassemble your buggy for maintenance and easy servicing. The information on the HPI RC Cars DVD provides a complete and detailed introduction to the fascinating world of HPI RC model cars and trucks. This DVD will show you step by step how to start and run in an engine, plus how to get the best performance from your HPI RC car. The HPI RC Car DVD is your personal RC car expert in a box!

Pre-Assembled 1/5th scale 2WD buggy with Fuelie 23cc gasoline engine, 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum radio system, 3300mAh receiver pack and painted body. Receiver pack charger not included. Includes a comprehensive instruction manual and HPI RC Cars DVD.

HPI shows off new Baja 5SC for 2013

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The new HPI Baja 5SC model for 2013

Check out the new press release from HPI. It does not look like an incredible update but its something…I am sure many of you (including us) would have liked more from HPI but at least the 2013 Baja 5SC has been updates some with some new looks. Can you read anything else new on this version of the baja as far as specs?

More pics HERE.

The 2013 HPI Baja 5SC, the original 1/5th Scale Truck!
For 2013 the HPI Baja 5SC receives an all new Matte finish treatment for an all around tougher and more distinctive look! The visuals are further enhanced by bold new graphics to freshen up the overall look of the kits.  Underneath the 2013 Baja 5SC features a refined 26cc Fuelie Engine driving the ultra tough proven Baja 5SC chassis, suspension and drivetrain. With standard features such as VVC/HD Shocks, 8000 RPM Clutch, High Flow Muffler, Viscous Torque Differentials, Monocoque Chassis, Dual Vented Disc Brakes and realistic high performance Beadlock Wheels the Baja 5SC is a high performance machine right out of the box. The HPI 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum DSSS radio system is also standard equipment on the kit along with high performance servos and a built in failsafe function to prevent low voltage runaways.

1/5th Scale Short Course Thrills!
Jump into the thrill of Short Course racing with the Baja 5SC truck from HPI! The Baja 5SC takes the HPI Baja line-up on to the Short Course Track with the SC-1 body that gives the Baja 5SC authentic Short Course looks. Adding to the durability and realistic look is the skid-plate front bumper and large rear bumper with real rubber mud flaps. Power comes from a massive 26cc Fuelie engine that propels the Baja 5SC to speeds in excess of 40mph and it runs for more than 45 minutes on a single tank of regular unleaded pump gasoline. For extra traction on any dirt surface, HB Rodeoo tires are now standard equipment, mounted on new TR-10 bead-lock truck wheels. Durability is assured with the Super Heavy Duty 9mm drive shafts, Heavy Duty rear hub carriers, and Heavy Duty front hex hubs. A 2.4GHz radio system is standard equipment for precise control and long distance reception without the hassles of frequency crystals. It’s all ready-to-run right out of the box, pre-assembled by our expert crew so you can hit the dirt quickly.

Not sure what ‘Short Course’ is?
Short Course racing is off-road truck racing in an enclosed dirt arena. Filled with jumps, straight sections and tight corners, short course racetracks are just like the RC version of off-road tracks…just imagine them filled with 20 full-size trucks, each with 700hp, scrambling for track position and bashing each other in the turns! You can bump and batter each other but keep the truck on its wheels, thanks to the fully enclosed wheels and tires.

Baja Short Course specific Parts
The Baja 5SC is fitted with a wealth of awesome Short Course parts that make it ideal for tackling off-road tracks shoulder-to-shoulder with hordes of other racers. Check ’em out!

Short Course Body
The wide Short Course body is the first thing you’ll notice about the Baja 5SC: it’s more realistic and it fits completely over the wheels and tires to let you take corners deep, run the competition wide coming out of the corner and really bang together with other trucks! The Baja 5SC comes pre-painted in your choice of HPI Orange Brand Livery on Black and HPI Brand Livery on Silver.

HB Rodeoo Short Course Tires
For high traction on a variety of dirt surfaces, HB Rodeoo tires are standard equipment on the Baja 5SC. The asymmetric tread pattern mirrors the design of full-size off-road racing tires. The sticky rubber compound, block treads and wide grooves give the right mix of sliding and gripping. Concentric rings on the sidewalls give extra grip if things get really hairy! Bold new 10 spoke wheels using heavy duty beadlock rings add to the realistic Short Course looks of the Baja 5SC.

Front & Rear Short Course Bumpers
The final touch in completing the scale look of the Baja 5SC is a set of bumpers that allow you to give your fellow racers a ‘love tap’ without risking a major incident. The bar-style front and rear bumpers look great and add that extra bit of Short Course realism!

Super Heavy Duty Parts
Because of the ever-increasing power demands of Baja owners around the world, and the constant desire to cram as much power in the Baja chassis as possible, the SUPER Heavy Duty drivetrain parts comes stock to make sure the Baja 5SC can handle extreme conditions and massive power!

Super Heavy Duty Drive Shafts
The extra-thick 9mm dogbones are the starting point of the 5SC drivetrain – these are thick and strong to outlast the roughest rides and racing action you can find! Wide rubber boots are included to keep the dirt and mud away.

Super Heavy Duty Diff Shafts
Getting the power from the diff gears to the dogbones is a wide diff shaft that perfectly fits the large diameter of the dogbones.

Super Heavy Duty Drive Axles
Getting the power to the wheels are Super HD drive axles, which fit the thick doggones.

Heavy Duty Rear Hubs
Heavy duty rear hubs are stock for ultimate durability and easy adjustment of the toe-in setting. The hubs are light weight and allow toe-in adjustments of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 degrees to help match the truck performance to track conditions.

Baja 5SC Features

2.4GHz radio system
Controlling everything is easy with the HPI 2.4GHz radio system. No need to worry about changing crystals, the radio prevents frequency conflicts automatically. If the truck loses radio signal or battery power, an electronic failsafe will bring it to a safe and controlled stop.
Spread Spectrum DSSS – no frequency worries when running with dozens of cars at the same time

  • 2.4GHz – high frequency operation eliminates radio interference
  • Easy operation – simplified feature list avoids the complexity of computerized radios
  • Ergonomic design – comfortable pistol grip handle and foam steering wheel
  • No crystals needed – saves money and improves reliability
  • Built-in failsafe function – protects the truck from low voltage runaways
  • Steering dual rate – easily fine tune the steering to track conditions
  • Servo reversing switches – quickly reverse the servos for multiple applications
  • Low battery warning – a flashing LED indicates when the transmitter batteries are running low

High Quality Radio Equipment
The steering servo is a massive metal geared unit for quick steering, and lots of torque. Standard equipment includes a high capacity NiMH rechargeable receiver pack and an AC charger. A powerful large-scale SFL-11MG steers the front wheels with ease.

Sealed Radio Box
The radio system is protected by a sealed housing with an external charging jack, and both servos are water resistant designs that allow the Baja 5T to be driven in extreme off-road conditions.

Heavy Duty Shock Absorbers
VVC/HD shocks deliver improved handling over rough terrain and feature large 6mm diameter shock shafts for increased durability. Threaded shock bodies are used for easy adjustment of ride height.

Long Travel Suspension
The awesome Baja suspension really comes into its own with long-stroke VVC/HD shock absorbers and high-sidewall truck tires, letting the tires do their business whether you’re driving over rutted-out whoops or flying over a big tabletop!

Fuelie 26cc Engine
The powerful refined Fuelie 26cc gasoline engine propels the Baja 5SC to speeds in excess of 40mph. With a dual-element air filter, easy pullstarting and convenient Torx T-27 screws, it’s easy to keep running on standard pump fuel and 2-cycle engine oil. And best of all, you can run for more than 45 minutes on a single tank of gas!

8,000 RPM Clutch
Standard on the Baja 5SC, this lightweight racing clutch combined with the heavy duty spring gives the 5SC a powerful launch at high RPMs for faster acceleration!

Metal Transmission Gears
From the input shaft and idler gear to the alloy-encased differential, every gear inside the sturdy Baja 5SC transmission is made from long-life alloy to keep your truck running all day long with minimal maintenance.

Viscous Torque Diff
Unique in the world of large-scale racing, the HPI Viscous Torque Differential gets the power to the rear wheels as smooth as silk. It’s easy to tune with optional diff oils and is fully fitted with hardened metal gears and an alloy case.

Dual Vented Disc Brakes
Steel/aluminium hybrid brake rotors and semi-metallic brake pads handle braking duties, while a special venting system keeps the brakes cool for consistent stopping power.

Dirt Guards
The Baja 5SC has full-length dirt guards to keep mud, rocks and water out of the main chassis area. The guards continue all the way to the engine and help keep cleaning time to a minimum. And, mud flaps on the rear bumper add to the realistic Short Course appearance.

Large 700cc Fuel Tank
For runtimes of up to 45 minutes, the Baja 5SC fuel tank holds up to 700cc of pre-mixed fuel – that’s over half a liter! And just in case you clip a track barrier and flip over, the tank is equipped with a ‘clunk’ device that allows the engine to continue running even if the truck is resting on its roof.

RTR – Performance Straight From the Box
HPI makes it super-easy to get into large scale! The Baja 5SC is completely pre-built, painted and assembled right out of the box, so hitting the dirt is fast and easy! All you have to do is open the box, add AA batteries to the transmitter, charge the receiver battery (we suggest our #2037 or #2038 wall charger, or your own fast charger – not included), add 25:1 pre-mixed fuel and go!

Full Assembly Instructions and HPI RC Cars DVD
As with all HPI cars and trucks, you get a full, in-depth instruction manual with step by step instructions that allow you to easily disassemble and reassemble your truck for maintenance and easy servicing. The HPI RC Car DVD is your personal RC car expert in a box!