ARRMA's Ramped-up Raider-XL 1/8 R/C Buggy

Extreme performance in a budget-friendly, sub-$200 package.

It’s hard to ignore the recent rollout of new and updated R/C vehicles from ARRMA. From monster trucks, to truggies, and just about every off-road-style machine in-between, they have released many new, unique additions for hobbyists. Their latest, the 1/8 -scale Raider XL Mega (#AR102642), not only looks like a great vehicle that you can take anywhere and do anything with, but it won’t put a large dent in your budget or wallet. From here, that looks like a win-win.

Radio-controlled buggies aren’t my first choice when it comes to vehicle style, but the Raider XL Mega has some unique features that give it “scale” appeal and visual characteristics that distance it from a traditional R/C buggy. Arriving ready-to-run (RTR), this is a 2-wheel drive model which uses a brushed, 15T motor for power. While that isn’t the latest-and-greatest as far as motor technology is concerned, it does help keep the overall price of this vehicle low (under $200).

A waterproof, 35A electronic speed control (ESC) serves as the brain of this buggy, while a Tactic TTX300, 2.4GHz radio system gives you the control to take it anywhere you’d like. All of the electronics on the Raider XL Mega are waterproof/water resistant. That gives you some added freedom in where you drive and how hard you want to push this machine in certain situations.

Aside from the reasonable electronics and internal components, the chassis is made from durable materials that make this a bash-worthy vehicle (if that’s your thing) or at the very least, one that can take a bit of abuse. Riding on oil-filled, tunable shocks, you’ll be able to adjust the handling of your machine to adapt to changing terrain. Additional visual details such as a rear wing, molded roll cage, roof and decalled chassis lamps give the Raider XL Mega some fun scale perks.

Riding on dBoots tires, this buggy won’t be lacking for grip in most conditions. Couple that with an ADS-5 steering servo (also waterproof/water resistant) and you’ll be set to make quick maneuvers given the 5kg/70oz-per-inch of torque.

ARRMA Raider XL Mega Summary and Specifications

• Scale: ⅛
• Motor type: brushed
• Kit or RTR: RTR
• Drive type: 2-wheel drive
• Vehicle type: desert buggy
• Suitable terrain/surface: off-road
• Length: 18.31”
• Width (front/rear):
• Wheelbase: 12.99”
• Ride height:  11.42”/11.81”
• Weight (without battery: 3lbs, 9oz

Now that you’ve read the details, you’re wondering what this “less than $200” price tag weighs in at. Well, you (and your wallet) will be happy to hear that this ⅛-scale buggy can be purchased for $179.99. Not bad for what appears to be a tough, ready-to-roll, radio-controlled machine. Learn more about the Raider XL Mega buggy at arrma-rc.com.

Image credit: ARRMA