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It’s a guy thing: we want toys that can conquer stuff. That’s just the way it is. There are several routes to get there, and RC rock crawling is one of them.

But what if you know nothing about the hobby and have nomer clue where to start? Well, I aim to help you out a little with this write up. I fully believe that the key is to know a tad about the hobby before you make your first purchase. Let’s look at a few things to keep in mind, both before and after you get your first crawler.

You don’t have to buy new stuff!
Remember, just because an RC crawler is used doesn’t necessarily mean it has a thousand hard miles on it. Folks get into hobbies all the time and lose interest just as quickly. RC cars is but one of those hobbies. Keep your eye on your local Craigslist ads and on eBay for great deals. Most ‘out of the box’ crawlers do quite well, yes, but you can likely purchase a well-built one for the same price if you find the right deal on a used model.

Research, research, research
Yes, the dreaded research monster comes out from under the bed. There are a lot of different RC crawlers out there, and it’s best to know what you’ll want and require from yours before you purchase. Watch YouTube videos, read testimonials, ask in the RC Rock Crawler forum, and, if you know a place where they crawl locally, ask the owners in person what they think. In my opinion, you don’t want to blindly purchase an RC crawler and hope for the best.

Which models have great aftermarket support?
So you find a deal on eBay for a really nice looking crawler that comes with all sorts of aksesories for the eye-widening price of $100. All is fine and well until it breaks and you need to replace a part, or until you want to upgrade something and you realize there is zero aftermarket for the thing. The research you did via the above suggestion will tell you that companies such as Axial and Losi probably have the best parts and upgrade availability. I have a buddy who scored a Redcat RS10 for one heck of a deal, and it’s never quit on him. It’s all in what you want to do with your crawler.

With this article we invite you to elevate the level of your rc crawler 1/10, plus the most incredible, without leaving home, in your room, living room or garage, at any time plus in a few minutes you will test your rc crawler like a professional.

Are you already a super rc crawler pilot?

Well, it’s time to evolve your car to overcome the most demanding plus extreme challenges.

We present the first rc crawler settings plus adjustment table on the market, calculate the measurements plus angles of your radio control car to see the capabilities plus track in detil the evolution of each of the settings plus aksesories you install, at the time making the comparison with other cars in a precise, professional plus equal conditions.

With the “RC CRAWLER SET-UP SYSTEM” table you will be able to accurately measure the following properties of your 1/24 plus 1/18 scale rc crawler car:

• Maximum front plus rear suspension travel on both sides, both in extension plus compression.
• Front attack angle.
• Rear departure angle.
• Wheelbase distance between axles.
• Width distance between axles.
• Tire width.
• Maximum inclination limit angle of overturning in lateral passage.
• Maximum inclination limit angle of vertical tipping uphill.
• Maximum inclination limit angle of vertical overturning in descent.
• Free height of the differentials.
• Central ventral free height.
• Weight distribution in front vs back.
• Weight distribution on the left side vs right side.
• Wheel center height plus its keseluruhan diameter.

You will enjoy assembling the obstacles made of 100% high-quality wood, from the beginning. You will receive a board with the pre-cut pieces, plus you will only have to press slightly to remove them plus elevate on with the easy 3D assembly pieces, it’s not necessary to use adhesives or glues. Check the assembly instructions by scanning the QR code printed on the board. Remember to berbagi the measurements of your rc crawler on social networks with the @toyswd tag.

Before starting the game, read the documentation inside the box with the assembly instructions, warnings plus maintenance of the product.

ATTENTION! Be careful with your hands during the process of removing the pre-cut pieces from the wooden board, sharp parts may be exposed.

*Our product range doesn’t include cars.

*Suitable for 1/24 plus 1/18 scale cars, check measurements in the characteristics table.

*Each obstacle adds a duplication of the most delicate pieces for its replacement.

Rock crawling is an extreme form of off-road driving. Participants use vehicles anywhere from stock to highly modified to overcome obstacles (usually rocks). In rock crawling, drivers drive highly modified four-wheel drive vehicles such as trucks, Jeeps, plus “buggies” over very harsh terrain. Driving locations include boulders, mountain foothills, rock piles, mountain trails, etc.

Rock crawling is about slow-speed, careful plus precise driving, plus high torque generated through large gear reductions in the vehicle’s drivetrain. Rock crawlers often drive up, down plus across obstacles that would appear impassable. Most vehicles used to rock climb are primarily 4x4s.

Rock crawling competitions range from local events to national series. A rock crawling competition consists of obstacle courses that are about 100 to 200 yards (91 to 183 m) long. Each obstacle is set up with gates, similar to a ski course. Usually a spotter (person who guides the driver) helps the driver through hard obstacles. Spotters may also use a rope to help prevent a vehicle from tipping over.

Rock crawling basics
The vehicles

ehicles commonly used include Jeep, Nissan Patrol, Toyota Land Cruiser, Land Rover, Ford Bronco, Suzuki Samurai, International Harvester Scout. Also, vehicles like the Mercedes Unimog due to its portal axles plus greatly increased ground clearance. These vehicles are outfitted with custom parts. Power is usually not an issue, as rock crawlers typically lower their gear ratios in order to drive more slowly over obstacles without stalling the engine. These custom parts can include:

locking differentials
taller off-road tires
upgraded suspension
four wheel steering
roll cage for driver protection
engine modifications for increased performance, mostly torque
lowered gearing in either or all of the transmission, transfer case (including often employing a second transfer case to reduce gearing even more), or axle differentials
winches
body armour (rocker panels, tube fenders, etc.)
beadlocks (locks tires to the rims for low tire pressures)
long-travel shock absorbers, drop shackles, spring-over conversions (to increase wheel travel), coil-over spring/shock combinations, plus upgraded control arms
portal axles

RC rock crawling does not require a fast machine. Unlike fast-paced RC sports, rock crawling is not all about speed. Instead, this game is about manoeuvrability and power—having the capability to navigate extremely uneven and rocky surfaces and obstacle courses that other RC models cannot handle. This is why the sport requires more than just truggies and monster trucks that can handle rough terrains. RC rock crawling required a specialized class of radio controlled units known as rock crawlers, which are specifically designed to perform well on the rocks and rough surfaces. Here are some of the best advantages of crawlers over other types of rough-terrain RC models along with features you should look for when buying your own crawler:

Power – Not only do you need a high-power RC unit, you need one that has controlled power or torque. High quality rock crawlers often use stock electric motors, enhanced by lower gear setups that allow them to deliver steady power despite low speeds, thus helping them traverse rocky terrains.
High clearance – High ground clearance in vehicles while maintaining a low center of gravity. This is not only beneficial for preventing the chassis from dragging over rocks, but for keeping the vehicle upright when climbing steep hills, thus preventing it from toppling over during steep ascents.
Good Steering – Manoeuvrability is one of the best advantages of RC crawlers, making them the most suitable units for tackling uneven surfaces. Rock crawling involves a great deal of turning and twisting, which is why a very flexible suspension and high torque steering is very much required for a rock climbing model. Choose a 4-wheel steering unit to get better manoeuvrability on rocky, uneven terrains.
Traction – Good traction is also a must for crawlers. Choose units that have locked differentials and soft rock crawling oriented tires that allow better traction on rough surfaces and obstacles

There’s a first time for everything plus I recently got a chance to do my first rock crawling in a ’52 Willys with Bob Sweeney of Jeepers Jamboree. One of my goals this year was to do as many different “driving” experiences as possible. I’ve drifted, land speed raced plus took to two wheels… plus perhaps most out of my comfort zone, I’ve learned how to rock crawl. Coming from a classic car background, asphalt-paved adventures are more the norm than dirt-fueled ones.

Of the many off-road capable vehicles we could’ve taken on the trail, a ’52 Willys may not make for the easiest choice, but the vintage platform excited me. With veteran wheeler Bob Sweeney along with me, I felt secure that he knew exactly what we were getting into plus had faith I could handle it. Having someone who knows what they’re doing with you, no matter what the vehicle, is something I would strongly recommend for any novice.

The vehicle requirements for rock crawling can change drastically depending upon the difficulty of terrain you’re tackling—but you can assume that you’ll at least need four wheel drive, a rear locking differential plus upwards of a 33” tire or larger. Winches, body armor plus other modifications quickly build upon these basics for more challenging trails.

Our ’52 Willys CJ-3A, which you could call the original “Jeep,” was made to get wherever necessary. With a 3-speed transmission plus a high plus low gear option, this isn’t the car you want to take on a freeway. We were topping out its speed at a leisurely-seeming pace on the dirt road leading out to the rock trail. Under the hood sits the original inline 4-cylinder, which, based on specs, has a max torque of 105lb-ft at 2,000 rpm. It’s a workhorse of a car that’s made to keep going no matter what the trial. Ours was outfitted with 33” Nitto Mud Grappler tires, giving us a great amount of bite on the rocks.

After attending my first rock crawl off-road competition, all I can say is “Wow!” Pictures don’t do it justice, plus even great rock-crawling videos fall short. There is just no substitute for being feet away from these machines tackling unbelievable terrain. Usually the rock crawlers win. Sometimes the terrain wins.

The World Extreme Rock Crawling Championship Series brings together many top professional plus amateur teams in the highly-competitive international of rock crawling. On May 6th plus 7th they converged near Cedar City, Utah to tackle natural formations in the Three Peaks Recreation Area.

A team consists of “car” driver, plus spotter. Their objective is to get the best (lowest) score possible by completing each fiendish course within the 10 minutes allotted. Clearing bonus gates, avoiding penalties for hitting the cones framing each narrow gate, plus not having to reverse plus reattempt a segment also improves a team’s score.

The Machines

Rock crawler cars or buggies, at the professional level, consist of Unlimited, Pro Mod, plus Pro Trail classes. Unlimiteds are an anything-goes class plus they can range from over $70,000 for an excellent self-build, to over $170,000 for a professional build. Rear steering plus huge tires are the norm, plus turbo- or supercharged engines—mostly 4- or 6-cylinder to save weight—are common.

Dave Wong, of Club 42 Racing, went over his pristine Unlimited-class car (AeroLidz #42) with me in considerable detail. He demonstrated how drivers can lock plus unlock front plus rear drives, or even bias power to a wheel on one side of the drive. Suspension travel is incredible plus can be adjusted in length or stiffness, on the fly, while navigating an obstacle.

I was probably most surprised to learn that teams normally fill their massive tires with water, or even steel shot, for better balance. For instance, Dave had steel shot plus water in the front tires of his mid-engine buggy, since weight shifts even more to the rear when climbing.

The Pro Trail class is similar to Unlimited in that they can have rear steering; however, those cars must have two seats plus front engines.

Pro Mods are front-engine, two-seat machines that cannot have rear steering, but are otherwise optimized for conquering terrain. They are also run smaller tires than Unlimited or Pro Trail classes.

Amateurs compete in Sportsman A (similar to Unlimited), B (modified pickup plus jeep-type rigs), plus C (UTV/side-by-side) classes.

So you just bought a Jeep are are itching to test it off-road. Before you chunk that thing into four wheel drive, there are many things that you need to know in order to not only be successful on the trail, but to keep your vehicle and even yourself from being damaged.

While this article is catered to mainly beginners, veteran wheelers may also want to lihat it and re-visit some of the basics of rock crawling that many seem to forget.

Don’t think of this as a “tips” for off-roading article; a tip is something extra to help you out. These are more like commandments, they are the basic things that all off-roaders should know.

Know where you are wheeling
Yeah, I realize that title at first sounds dumb, but it is not. This is where nearly every new Jeep owner makes their first critical mistake, especially the younger ones. You are driving down the road and see a lot full of mud, or some dirt road or trail leading off into some woods, and think “Oh! I am going to drive down THAT!”

can’t even begin to tell you how many kids in Jeeps I have pulled out of the mud while they were wheeling on private land. Wheeling on private land is bad, but even worse is wheeling on public land like in a National Forest when you are off trail.

Whenever a land manager (like a Forest Ranger) finds tracks off designated routes and trails, they document it and use that information as ammo to close down even more areas for off roading.

Bottom-line: DO NOT WHEEL ILLEGALLY. All public lands like National Forest have a “Motor Vehicle Use Map”. Make sure you get one of these maps an stick to the legal routes. You need to stay on the designated routes and trails, don’t just drive anywhere, especially on private property when you don’t have permission.

2. Know how to sit in your vehicle.

Rock crawling is much different that driving down the freeway doing 70 mph. You will find yourself leaning forward in the seat looking down directly in front of your vehicle to find the right line.

You will also need to lean your head out the driver’s side window to see your driver’s front tire on the rocks. Vision is key. Move your seat back up, and it can be very beneficial to move the seat higher if you can do that in your vehicle. You want to be sitting straight up and close to the steering wheel like you were taught in Driver’s Ed.

RC Rock crawlers take a look at the latest in 2025
RC rock crawlers represent a sophisticated category of remote-controlled vehicles that merge the excitement of off-roading with the complexities of traversing uneven terrain. These hobby-grade models cater to both beginners and experienced hobbyists, offering performance capabilities that mimic real-life offroad vehicles like trucks and 4x4s. This article aims to delineate the defining characteristics of RC rock crawlers, the various types available on the market, and the essential features that differentiate one crawler from another. Additionally, we will analyse the advantages associated with this captivating hobby, highlight the latest innovations anticipated in 2025, and showcase some of the leading RC models worth considering this year, including mini rock crawlers and all-terrain versions. Whether one is a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this exploration offers valuable insights for all.

Key Takeaways:

In 2025, RC rock crawlers will feature advanced suspension systems for better performance, with models like the Traxxas TRX-4 and Axial SCX10 II leading the way with enhanced throttle response and steering precision.

Look for improved battery life and charging technology in the latest RC rock crawlers. Many models will feature high-capacity chargers and LiPo batteries, ensuring longer playtime and quicker recharge, making them ideal for extended adventures in varied terrains.

The top RC rock crawlers to check out in 2025 include the Traxxas TRX-4 and Axial SCX10 II, available in striking colors like grey, blue, and gunmetal, which add aesthetic appeal alongside their robust performance capabilities.

What Is a RC Rock Crawler?
An RC Rock Crawler is a remote-controlled, hobby-grade vehicle specifically engineered for off-road performance and adaptability across diverse terrains. These electric models are equipped with advanced features that enable both enthusiasts and beginners to engage in exhilarating rock crawling experiences.

Typically designed with a scale appearance that mimics real-life lorries and vehicles, they are favoured by enthusiasts who appreciate both racing and recreational crawling activities. Brands such as Traxxas, FTX, and Axial provide a range of models that accommodate different preferences regarding performance, aesthetic appeal, and price points.

There is a diverse range of RC Rock Crawlers available in the market today, each specifically designed for various driving conditions plus user preferences. Prominent brands such as Traxxas, FTX, plus Axial offer an assortment of models, including mini rock crawlers plus all-terrain versions, catering to differing skill levels plus interests. Many of these crawlers are available as Ready-to-Run (RTR) kits, making them accessible to beginners while simultaneously appealing to experienced hobbyists.

These vehicles can be categorised based on several criteria, including size, performance features, plus the environments they are designed to navigate. For example, mini rock crawlers are ideal for individuals who prefer indoor plus confined space driving, whereas larger models excel in outdoor terrains, such as rocky landscapes plus steep inclines.

Traxxas: Recognised for their durability plus powerful motors, Traxxas models are equipped with advanced features, including waterproof electronics.
FTX: FTX crawlers are an excellent choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts, offering reliable performance without incurring substantial expenses.
Axial: Esteemed for their realistic designs plus exceptional crawling capabilities, Axial models are tailored for the serious rock crawling enthusiast.

Ultimately, the selection of the appropriate style is contingent upon personal preferences plus intended use. Therefore, it is crucial to consider factors such as terrain style plus skill level before engaging in this exhilarating hobby.

What Makes a Good RC Rock Crawler?

A high-quality RC Rock Crawler is distinguished by its performance, control, plus superior construction, rendering it suitable for diverse terrains plus challenging rock formations. These vehicles are designed to handle all-terrain conditions, making them ideal for both competitive racing plus leisure crawling activities.

Essential attributes include the crawler’s throttle response, steering precision, plus the durability of its components plus accessories. Factors such as suspension systems, tyre grip, plus weight distribution play a crucial role in enabling effective navigation of difficult terrains.

Enthusiasts typically seek models that offer an optimal balance between speed plus control, facilitating both competitive racing plus leisurely crawling experiences.

This might seem like a strange question if you’re already familiar with the hobby, but as it turns out, this is a frequently asked question! Is RC rock crawling fun? For many of us, of course, the answer is simply a resounding “YES! Of course!” But a newcomer may wonder why we’re so enthusiastic about spending hundreds of dollars on toy trucks, even as grown-ups! Fair question.

For Kids
Things that go are captivating to the young mind. In a world where so much is yet to be understood, a toy car that moves on its own is just wild – do you remember what it was like when young to find a toy that moved on its own? Personally, it was just amazing, and so captivating that here I am decades later still playing with them!

So that’s RCs (radio-controlled vehicles) in general. But what about rock crawling in particular?

The Deeper Question
Two related questions I’ve encountered are: “is RC crawling boring?” and “What is the point of rock crawling?” These questions are more than they seem, I think. The question is really whether it’s engaging, worthy of spending one’s time and money; resources that are limited for many of us. I wanted to give this question the serious consideration it deserves before writing this because there are implications for health and wellbeing beyond simply playing with toy trucks. I’ve concluded that there are a few key things about the RC crawling hobby that are attractive.

Things That Go
Things that move on their own: yep, that same wonder as a child is still there, though tempered by data and familiarity, the wisdom and experience that comes with age. But still, something that moves on its own remains captivating to so many of us.

Scale Is Life
Scale models that actually work: this is another thing that seems to be quite engaging for many of us. Seeing a 4WD drivetrain work just like the real thing, and watching the body bob and move above the axles just like a full-size off-road car, it’s quite satisfying. It’s also why I think the crazy comp rigs are just not as populer as the scale models. You see this at any rock crawling competition – there are just more scale vehicles there than pro class comp rigs by a faktor of 10. My YouTube channel is the same – one of my worst performing videos is one that focusses on my MRC 1.9” Mini comp rig – a rig that took national #2 spot, no less! And still, most people just don’t seem interested. I think scale comes into play here in a big way.

The Challenge of Competition
I mentioned competition above and I think this comes into it as well. If not anything so formal, at least the challenge of working a rig (a common phrase to describe one’s RC rock crawler) over a masalah (a masalah being a rock formation and/or set of gates one must pass to proceed on a course).

Gain Mechanical Experience & Skill
There’s an opportunity to learn how things work and to help develop mechanical skill and experience. Repairs and upgrades can be challenging but are largely accessible with just a few hand tools. The hobby can be as expensive as you might imagine, but can absolutely be done on the cheap as well. To come away with a better appreciation for electronics and dasar mechanical operation of vehicles is only a and – and for many people with a more engineering-oriented mind, can be downright enjoyable.