RAMS RC Club

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  • Traveling Domestically With Large-Scale RC Cars

    What to Know Before You Fly to Warm Springs Raceway

    As RAMS RC Club continues to grow, we’re excited to welcome more visiting drivers to Warm Springs Raceway in Fremont, CA. Traveling with large-scale RC cars (1/5, 1/7, and similar platforms) is absolutely doable — it just takes a bit of planning. Here’s a practical guide to help make your trip smooth and stress-free.

    1. What to Pack (and What to Leave at Home)

    When flying with large-scale RC cars, think in terms of essentials vs. convenience items.

    Recommended to pack:

    • Chassis (cleaned and free of fuel residue)
    • Wheels/tires (limit quantity; tires take space fast)
    • Radio & receiver (carry-on if possible)
    • Servo(s) you trust
    • Small hand tools (Allen drivers, nut drivers — checked baggage only)
    • Body shell (if you’re racing a known class)
    • Setup sheets and notes

    Usually better to source locally or at the track:

    • Tires (often available from fellow racers or local shops)
    • Fluids (shock oil, diff oil)
    • Fuel (for gas classes)
    • Misc hardware (screws, nuts, shims)

    RAMS racers are generally very helpful — don’t hesitate to ask ahead of time if you’re worried about access to something specific.

    2. Batteries, Electronics & Airline Rules

    This is where most airline issues happen.

    • LiPo batteries:
      • Carry-on only (never checked)
      • Typically limited to ≤100Wh without airline approval
      • Tape terminals or use proper LiPo cases
    • Transmitters:
      • Best carried on
      • Remove batteries if possible
    • Tools:
      • No tools in carry-on (even small hex drivers)

    Always check your airline’s battery policy before flying — they vary slightly.

    3. How to Prep Your Car for Air Travel

    A little prep goes a long way:

    • Clean the car thoroughly (no dirt, oil, or fuel smell)
    • Remove fuel tanks or ensure they are completely empty and aired out
    • Remove wheels to reduce bulk
    • Secure suspension arms so they don’t flop during transport
    • Use foam, towels, or clothing to immobilize the chassis inside the case

    Hard cases or padded roller bags work best. Label your case clearly.

    4. Shipping Instead of Flying With Your Car

    Many drivers prefer to ship their car instead of checking it as luggage.

    Popular options:

    • Ship via UPS, FedEx, or USPS Ground
    • Send to:
      • Your hotel (confirm first)
      • A local friend or club member
      • A nearby UPS Store for pickup

    Shipping also allows you to send:

    • Tires
    • Tools
    • Fluids
    • Fuel-safe items

    This often makes airport travel far easier.

    5. What You Can Expect at Warm Springs Raceway

    Warm Springs Raceway is an established on-road facility shared by RAMS RC Club and Pole Position RC. On race days you’ll typically find:

    • Experienced large-scale racers
    • Shared tools and setup help
    • Spare parts circulating in the pits
    • A welcoming environment for visiting drivers

    If you’re traveling in, feel free to reach out ahead of time — we’re happy to help coordinate spares or advice.

    Final Thoughts

    Traveling with large-scale RC cars doesn’t have to be intimidating. With smart packing, a little prep, and support from the local RC community, it can be smooth and rewarding.

    We’re looking forward to hosting more guest racers at Warm Springs Raceway this year. Whether you’re flying in or shipping ahead, RAMS RC Club is excited to have you join us on the grid.

    See you at the track!

  • Pole Position RC Race Classes

    PPRC Race Classes

    The Pole Position RC Club (PPRC) also organizes races that run at Warm Springs Raceway. PPRC works closely with RAMS RC Club to coordinate schedules and special events, and share track and facilities maintenance. The following are some of the popular race classes run by PPRC.

    1/7 Arrma

    The Arrma 1/7 Scale On-Road Class showcases the speed and durability of the ARRMA Infraction, Limitless, and Felony 6S platforms. This is an open class, meaning all hop-ups and modifications are allowed. This makes the racing fun, fast, and exciting, as drivers push their setup and driving skills to the absolute limit.

    • Arrma Limitless
    • Arrma Infraction
    • Arrma Felony

    1/4 Losi Promoto

    The Losi Promoto-MX has redefined the RC motorcycle category, offering an unprecedented level of realism and driveability that finally allows RC riders to experience true two-wheel action. The breakthrough lies in its proprietary technology, which includes a high-RPM internal steel flywheel spinning at over 22,000 RPM to create powerful gyroscopic stabilization, paired with Spektrum MS6X electronic stability that intelligently manages lean, turning, and wheelie control. Combined with a functional chain drive, a rising-rate rear suspension, and even a functional front disc brake, the Promoto-MX successfully captures the feel of a full-size motocross bike, making it a thrilling and addictive addition to any RC enthusiast’s collection.

    • Losi Promoto

    1/5 Scale Electric

    For the ultimate expression of size, speed, and engineering, the 1/5 Scale Electric On-Road class is unmatched. These massive, four-wheel-drive supercars—such as the MCD XS5, MCD XR5, and Genius XR4E—are a spectacular sight as they devour the Warm Springs Raceway tarmac. Powered by high-voltage systems, they use specialized chassis and huge race tires to manage immense torque and cornering forces. This class is where large-scale racing precision meets cutting-edge electric power, creating a class that is as technically demanding to master as it is thrilling to watch.

    • MCD XS5 or XR5
    • FG SPORTSLINE 4WD 530E
    • Genius XR4E

    The complete racing calendar for Warm Springs Raceway includes all the practice and race sessions organized by both RAMS RC Club and PPRC and can be found here: https://rams-rc.com/race-calendar/

    For more information on PPRC, visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/1pprc/.

  • RAMS RC Race Classes

    RAMS RC Race Classes

    1/5 Super Touring Car – Expert Class

    The ultimate expression of large-scale on-road racing. These massive, high-performance cars are based on closed-wheel touring cars and are powered by large gasoline engines, providing incredible speed and a commanding track presence. This is our premier Expert Class, demanding precision driving and advanced setup knowledge to manage the power and handling of these top-tier 1/5 scale machines.

    • Mecatech FW01
    • Genius XR4

      1/5 Sportsman – Spec Class

      A competitive and accessible entry point to 1/5 scale racing. This Spec Class mandates engine restrictions to ensure close, equal racing where driver skill is the primary factor. It provides the thrill of the large-scale experience with a focus on consistent performance and budget-friendly competition.

        • Mecatech FW01
        • Genius XR4

        1/5 MCD Rally

        A unique and thrilling class featuring the robust 1/5 scale MCD Rally platform. These 4WD cars are modeled after full-size World Rally Championship vehicles, known for their durable chassis and powerful performance. Expect impressive speed and handling, making it a spectacular class to both watch and race.

          • MCD XR5

          1/5 Formula 1

          Experience the glamour and speed of open-wheel racing in the large 1/5 scale. These cars are striking replicas of full-size Formula 1 machines, featuring wide, aggressive wings and specialized chassis designed for maximum grip and downforce. A true challenge for any driver looking for a high-speed, technical racing experience.

            • Genius FR2.24

            1/8 Nitro

            The world standard for high-speed, on-road nitro racing. These 4WD cars are meticulously engineered to be fast, stable, and highly tunable, often reaching incredible speeds on the straightaways. The powerful, high-revving nitro engines provide an authentic and visceral racing experience defined by the distinctive sound and smell of model glow fuel.

              1/8 Electric

              Offering the same high-traction, high-downforce performance as their nitro counterparts, the 1/8 Electric (or 1/8 GT-E) class utilizes powerful brushless motor and LiPo battery systems. This class provides instant torque and blistering speed with silent, low-maintenance operation, making it a popular choice for high-level, adrenaline-fueled racing.

                1/10 Nitro

                A classic and competitive class featuring 1/10 scale sedan-style cars powered by smaller nitro engines (typically .12 or .15 size). Known for their agility and close racing, these 200mm-wide 4WD cars are a stepping stone for drivers looking to master the unique characteristics of nitro power and precision handling.

                  1/10 235

                  A thrilling, wide-track on-road class featuring 1/10 scale “pan car” style chassis with a width of 235mm. These cars often resemble older Le Mans-style prototypes, utilizing a simple, lightweight design and foam tires to achieve incredible cornering speeds and quick lap times. It’s a high-traction, high-speed class for skilled drivers.

                    1/10 FW-06

                    A popular and user-friendly class built around the Kyosho FW-06 chassis. As a ReadySet (RTR) platform with a durable shaft-driven 4WD system and a beginner-friendly KE15SP nitro engine, this class is ideal for newcomers to nitro on-road racing. It provides reliable performance and close competition right out of the box.

                    • Kyosho FW-06