Monday, December 22, 2008

Classic Radio Control Models And More

As far as variety goes, there are about as many RC cars as there are models of the real thing, and probably even more. Take for instance the Chevy. There is no lack of RC models available if you go for the classics in this arena; or for their sports car line, like the Chevy Corvette.

Chevy RCs are definitely more for the collector than the racer, unless you custom-make your RC racer to have the body of a Chevy, that is. Let's take a look at some of the more popular Chevy RCs:

Muscle Machines 1957 Chevrolet

This comes in pretty big at a 1:8 scale and is truly a classic. Accessories included are the charger, battery pack, and features working headlights, a decidedly detailed interior, custom wheels, and super glossy paint. Average price for RC for Chevrolet is between $60-$80. Other Chevy Muscle Machine models available are the 71 Camaro and the Camaro Z28, also in 1:8 scale and similarly priced to the 1957 Chevrolet.

1969 Chevy Camaro Z28 RC Electric Car

Made by Playmaker Toys, this 1969 Camaro model is produced at a 1:18 scale and features working head and tail lights, and is a four-function car (as in forward, backward, left, and right). This is definitely for the real Chevy collectors out there, and at $30-$40, it's not a bad deal at all.

1998 Chevrolet Corvette GTS IR Control Mini RC Car

For the mini RC fans out there, this Chevy is for you. It features a body that is all metal, racing tires made of rubber, and a miniature Corvette engine. The remote control wristwatch doubles as just that, a watch, and the mini RC car itself claims to mimic everything that its real nemesis does; this is probably because General Motors itself is said to have licensed this baby as a true 1:32 mini RC. This has a MSRP of $49.95 to $69.95 but can be bought at less than half that price at many online hobby stores.

Chevy truck models are also available as RCs - such as the Chevy SSR RC Truck and the Chevy 4x4 Monster Truck. Average prices for RC trucks are a little over $100, but if you're lucky, some websites have them on sale for as much as 50% off.

Many Chevy owners who have at one point in their lives owned a classic are thrilled when they find model RCs that resemble the very cars they once owned. So, whether you're just a beginning collector of classics, or if you're a seasoned collector looking to expand your line of cars, then the Chevy is definitely the way to go.

you may be interested in reading my other guide: Best RC Car and RC Car Business

Friday, December 12, 2008

Starting A Remote Controlled Car Business

Starting an RC car business is a serious commitment to a hobby that many people take seriously. However, it isn't the business decision most people would care to take since it focuses on an enthusiast market.

However, if your passion is for this hobby, and you know where to find other people with this same passion, then you have, at least, the first qualification of a good RC businessman.

If you are considering opening a remote-controlled car shop, then consider the following while planning the course of your business.

1. Passion. This is the most important question you must ask yourself before starting a remote controlled car business. Do you have the passion for remote controlled cars? While it is possible to still start this business even if you do not have much of a passion for this hobby, an innate love for RCs definitely helps.

This is because as a remote controlled car fanatic yourself, you will be aware of the latest innovations in the hobby. This is knowledge you could incorporate into your business.

You will also be keenly aware of the needs of the enthusiasts - be they beginners or experienced. Knowing what your market wants also gives you a great advantage on knowing what they need. And filling their needs is what makes a good business tick.

2. Associations. It would be great if you knew your market. If you have contacts with a few RC associations then that would be great. You would have a virtual gold mine of potential customers to help keep your business afloat. Always keep yourself in the know regarding the latest in radio controlled technology and try to keep abreast of all the new developments.

This way your shop becomes more than just a place to sell remote controlled cars; it also becomes a place to sell the idea of having fun with remote controlled cars.

3. Producers. As a retailer, your first goal is to find a wholesaler of remote controlled car parts, models, and stocks. Make sure you find out which wholesalers give the best prices and the best terms. Make sure you stock up on the most popular parts around. But don't forget to get a controlled amount of pretty much everything else just to make sure your store is comprehensive.

4. Business Sense. Business sense is important in any business. You should learn how to take inventory of your stock, anticipate demand for certain parts, and keep the ratio between supply and demand stable. Also, you should keep good accounting records of your cash inflow and your expenses.

you may be interested in reading my other guide: Buying RC and Upgrading

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Saving Money On Buying Radio Controlled Parts

When the Car breaks down or requires repair after an accident, many owners send it back to the dealer. If the parts and the labor are too expensive, it is sent to a smaller shop that is much cheaper and uses surplus parts instead of the original ones.

The RC Car is often referred to as a miniature version of the real thing. When the toy gets broken due to wear and tear, the person has the choice of replacing it with the same parts or upgrading; making it better than it was before.

Most radio-controlled parts regardless of the name of the manufacturer are compatible with each other. If the individual needs to change the battery and finds the original to be expensive, it can be changed for something similar at a lower price. The customer must simply determine if the toy's performance is the same or will be better after the switch has been made.

But what should the hobbyist do if the item needed in the specialty store is expensive? Then its time to be resourceful and look elsewhere so that the radio-controlled car can still be used. Here are three places worth checking out to make that toy run again.

1. The first place to check is the electronics' store. This is because the establishment has wires, batteries and other electronic gadgets that can make the radio controlled cars work. The hobbyist should just ask the assistance of a sales clerk to will help get the right parts and even connect it/them properly to prevent the toy from short-circuiting.

2. Another place worth checking out is the Internet. There are some websites that sell these spare parts. The individual should buy two pieces so there is a spare and keep the contact number just in case another item will be needed in the future.

3. People will rarely find RC car parts in the classified ads of the newspaper. The person will have better luck checking out specialty magazines that feature these products.

Some of these items listed may be cheap because they are pre-owned. It would be a good idea to meet the seller in person so this can be checked before any payment is made.

As long as there is a market for RC cars, hobbyists can be sure of an ample supply of spare parts. The hobbyist can pay a lot for these by going to a store or save some money by looking elsewhere to get these goods.

you may be interested in reading this too: Drag Racing and Repairing RC Car