The Best Upgrades For Your RC: Choosing the Right Bumper

Exploring ScalerFab Bumper Styles and Options

Class 1 - Stock-ish Vehicle

• Bumper Requirement: Class 1 typically focuses on stock or minimally modified vehicles. Bumpers must be stock, adhering to the vehicle's original design. This limitation emphasizes the importance of full-size bumpers, which align with the width of the windshield. ScalerFab’s full-size bumpers would be ideal for this class due to their robust construction and compatibility with the stock design.

Class 2 - Stock Modified

• Bumper Requirement: In Class 2, there are no specific restrictions on bumpers. Vehicles can use modified bumpers as long as they comply with the minimum width requirement, which is usually at least the width of the frame rails. ScalerFab bumpers, designed to be at least the width of the rails, are suitable for this class. The Pro-series bumpers, known for their extra strength and scale appearance, could be particularly advantageous in this class.

Class 3 - Unlimited

• Bumper Requirement: Class 3 offers the most freedom, with no limits on vehicle modifications, including bumpers. This class allows for creative and performance-focused upgrades. The prerunner-style bumpers, which are more scale and less performance-based, might be a stylish choice for this class, although they might not offer the same level of protection as full-size bumpers.

Choosing the Right Bumper for Your RC

• Prerunner Bumpers: Ideal for more scale appearance but less focused on performance. Suitable for Class 3 where there are no restrictions and aesthetics are a priority.
• Full-Size Bumpers: Best for heavier crawling and for classes requiring stock or minimal modifications like Class 1. They provide robust protection and align with the width of the windshield.
• Comp-Style Bumpers: Offer a low-profile design with an excellent approach angle, making them suitable for competitive scenarios where maneuverability and clearance are key.
• Pro-Series Bumpers: Combine strength with scale appearance. They are built to be robust, making them a good fit for Class 2 competitions where modifications are allowed but certain restrictions still apply.
• Retro Bumpers: These might be more about style and personal preference, suitable for classes with fewer restrictions on modifications.

In conclusion, the choice of bumper for a 1/10 scale RC vehicle largely depends on the competition class and the specific requirements of each. Full-size bumpers are ideal for stock-ish vehicles in Class 1, while Pro-series and Comp-style bumpers could provide an edge in the Stock Modified Class 2. In the unrestricted Class 3, Prerunner and Retro bumpers can add a unique style to the vehicle. Understanding these requirements and options can greatly aid in making the best choice for competitive RC crawling and scaling.

Sources: Radio Control Micro Crawler Competition Association, RC Arena, and World Radio Controlled Crawler Association.