Overview
Push past boundaries and conquer more trails with the Axial AX24 XC-1 Rock Crawler RTR, an exceptional ready to run RC car that brings extreme rock crawling capability to the 1/24 scale platform. This is not just another mini RC crawler — it's a purposefully engineered machine designed for those who see rocks, roots, and barriers as puzzle pieces to solve rather than obstacles to avoid. Whether you're a seasoned RC enthusiast looking for a capable weekend basher, a full-scale off-road adventurer wanting to refine your skills, or someone completely new to the RC hobby, the AX24 XC-1 delivers the performance and reliability you need to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.
The Axial AX24 XC-1 represents a significant leap forward in 1/24 scale rock crawling. With its revolutionary three-mode 4-wheel steering system, extreme articulation, oversize tyres, and exceptional ground clearance, you'll be able to crawl over bigger obstacles and pull tougher lines than any other comparable 1/24 scale rig on the market. This ready to run brushed RC crawler comes fully assembled and equipped with everything you need to start exploring trails immediately — no additional components required, no complicated assembly, just unbox and drive. For UK RC hobbyists seeking a capable, feature-rich mini crawler that doesn't compromise on engineering quality, the AX24 XC-1 is the perfect choice.
In 2007, Axial revolutionised RC rock crawling with the legendary 1/10 scale AX10 platform. The AX24 XC-1 pays homage to that groundbreaking heritage with a replica body design, authentic livery, and the same Rockster wheels and Rock Lizards tyres that made the original famous. This is more than nostalgia — it's a commitment to the extreme crawling philosophy that has defined Axial's reputation for nearly two decades.
Key Features
- Three 4-Wheel Steering (4WS) Modes — The unique AX24 4WS system provides three transmitter-activated steering modes that give all drivers new terrain conquering ability. Choose between no rear tyre input for traditional steering, mirrored rear tyre input for enhanced manoeuvrability, or full "crab crawl" mode where all four wheels steer in the same direction. This flexibility means you can navigate over or around almost anything in your way, whether you're squeezing through tight rock formations or picking your line over massive obstacles.
- Side Plate Chassis with Rock Sliders — The durable side plate chassis is engineered to provide high clearance and generous articulation, allowing the vehicle to flex and conform to uneven terrain while maintaining stability. Angled rock sliders help you manoeuvre past rocks, roots, ledges, and other large obstacles without catching or rolling, ensuring you go where you want to go regardless of the terrain.
- LED Rock Lights — LED rock lights mounted in the rock sliders keep your path visible in low light conditions, allowing you to see and surmount obstacles you might not otherwise spot during dawn, dusk, or indoor crawling sessions. Day or night, the AX24 XC-1 keeps your adventure alive and lets you push your limits whenever inspiration strikes.
- Long Travel Coilover Shock Absorbers — The 51mm coilover shocks are new for the AX24 platform and mounted at a lay back angle in the side plate chassis. This design allows increased articulation to keep the wheels on the ground, maximising traction over uneven surfaces and rough terrain where maintaining wheel contact is essential for climbing power.
- 4-Link Front and Rear Suspension — The suspension geometry uses a sophisticated 4-link design that works in harmony with the AX24 side plate chassis to increase articulation and reduce axle steer and torque twist. This engineering approach delivers improved handling over rough terrain and more predictable vehicle behaviour on challenging lines.
- Front and Rear Lockers with Worm Gear Setup — The front and rear axle housings each feature a worm screw and worm gear setup that not only delivers power to the axles but also creates higher ground clearance. This design choice maximises your ability to clear rock formations and rough terrain that would stop lesser crawlers.
- Steel Construction Throughout — Steel front and rear axles, stub axles, and dog bones provide the strength and durability needed to keep running with confidence during tough climbs and over rough trails. The stamped aluminium motor mount keeps motor flex to a minimum and protects the gears from damage during impacts.
- Splined and Sleeved Drive Shafts — The drive shafts are splined and sleeved to allow for maximum suspension travel while keeping consistent power delivery to the wheels. This engineering detail prevents binding and allows the suspension to articulate fully without losing drivetrain efficiency.
- Hinged Body System — The hinged body system with hook-and-loop hinge design provides fast, easy access to on-board components. You can swing the body up simply to reach the chassis and battery, making maintenance, battery swaps, and troubleshooting quick and hassle-free.
- Rockster Wheels and Rock Lizards Tyres — The 1.0" Rockster wheels wrapped in 2.44" Rock Lizards tyres deliver nostalgic looks that pay tribute to the legendary AX10 whilst providing genuine trail-taming traction on real terrain. These tyres are engineered for grip on rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces.
- Full Ball Bearing Throughout — The entire vehicle features sealed bearings with no bushings anywhere in the drivetrain. This means smoother operation, reduced friction, extended component life, and better overall performance compared to vehicles using traditional bushings.
- Dynamite 88T Brushed Motor — The Dynamite 88T brushed electric motor provides the right amount of torque to conquer steep climbs and deliver responsive acceleration when you need it. Brushed motors are renowned for their simplicity, reliability, and low maintenance requirements — perfect for both beginners and experienced crawlers.
- Spektrum SLT3 Radio System — The included Spektrum SLT3 2.4GHz 3-channel transmitter is ergonomically designed for fatigue-free driving with a foam wheel for precise fingertip control. The 2.4GHz signal lets you crawl in the company of multiple other rigs without worrying about interference, making it ideal for group crawling sessions.
- 2-in-1 ESC/Receiver Combo with Improved Features — Paired with the transmitter is a Spektrum 2-in-1 ESC/Receiver that combines electronic speed control with radio reception in one compact unit. A new throttle port serves as an ESC bypass for using aftermarket ESCs without having to purchase a new receiver, providing upgrade flexibility.
- Fully Equipped Ready to Run — Everything required to begin driving is included in the box — battery, charger, radio system, all servos, and complete electronics. You can be on the trails within minutes of opening the package, making this an ideal choice for UK RC enthusiasts who want instant gratification.
Technical Performance
The Axial AX24 XC-1 represents a carefully balanced approach to 1/24 scale rock crawling, combining conservative but effective power delivery with exceptional mechanical design. The brushed electric motor system uses a Dynamite 88T brushed motor paired with an 11-tooth pinion and 55-tooth spur gear, delivering smooth torque characteristics ideal for rock crawling rather than speed. The Spektrum 2-in-1 ESC/Receiver handles power management with integral braking functionality, whilst the 350mAh 2S 7.4V LiPo battery provides sufficient runtime for extended crawling sessions whilst maintaining manageable weight. The 4WD solid axle suspension on both front and rear is paired with a worm gear differential (16-tooth/4-tooth ratio) that increases ground clearance whilst providing the locking characteristics essential for rock crawling traction. The vehicle measures 198mm in length, 114mm in width, and 94mm in height, with a 135mm wheelbase and 34mm ground clearance — proportions engineered for maximum obstacle clearance relative to the 1/24 scale. Front and rear track width both measure 113mm, providing a stable stance essential for traversing uneven terrain. The long travel coilover shocks (ranging from 35-51mm) mounted at a lay back angle work with the side plate chassis to deliver exceptional articulation whilst keeping all four wheels planted. Every component has been selected for durability — sealed bearings throughout eliminate maintenance headaches, steel axles resist bending under load, and the plastic shock bodies are proven robust through Axial's testing. The PH 2.0 high-current ultra micro connector system has become the standard for 1/24 scale crawlers, ensuring compatibility with a growing ecosystem of batteries and accessories available to UK hobbyists.
What's in the Box
- (1) Axial AX24 XC-1 1/24 Scale 4WS RTR Rock Crawler — fully assembled and ready to drive
- (1) Spektrum SLT3 2.4GHz 3-Channel Radio System — transmitter with 2.4GHz frequency for interference-free operation
- (2) Axial AS-1 Servo — high-quality steering servos mounted with servo savers for protection
- (1) Spektrum 2-in-1 ESC/Receiver Combo — combined electronic speed control and receiver unit with throttle port for ESC bypass
- (1) 0.5 Amp USB Charger — convenient charging solution for LiPo batteries
- (1) Dynamite 88T Brushed Electric Motor — reliable torque-focused motor
- (1) Dynamite 350mAh 2S 7.4V LiPo Battery — pre-balanced and ready to use
- (4) AA Transmitter Batteries — power source for the radio transmitter
- (1) Product Manual — comprehensive instruction guide in multiple languages
- (1) Miscellaneous Tools — spanners and tools for basic maintenance and adjustment
What You Need to Complete
Nothing! Everything you need to begin having fun with the 1/24 AX24 XC-1 4WS Crawler is included in the box. This is a genuinely complete ready to run system — simply charge the battery, install the AA batteries in the transmitter, and you're ready to explore trails immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Axial AX24 XC-1 suitable for RC rock crawling beginners? — Absolutely. The AX24 XC-1 isn't just for experienced RC rock crawling hobbyists — newcomers will find it to be a fun and highly capable mini crawler to run on indoor or outdoor courses. The fully assembled ready to run format means there's no intimidating build process, and the three different 4WS modes let beginners start with traditional steering before exploring the more advanced crab crawl technique as their skills develop. The comprehensive manual and straightforward controls make this an ideal entry point into serious rock crawling.
- What battery does the Axial AX24 XC-1 use and how long does it run? — The AX24 XC-1 comes with a Dynamite 350mAh 2S 7.4V LiPo battery featuring a PH 2.0 connector. This battery provides approximately 15-20 minutes of moderate to heavy crawling per charge, though actual runtime varies based on driving style, terrain difficulty, and ambient temperature. The included 0.5 Amp USB charger will fully charge the battery in roughly 30-40 minutes. The 2S LiPo is the only officially recommended battery type for this model.
- What makes the 4-wheel steering system special on the AX24 XC-1? — The three transmitter-activated 4WS modes are truly innovative. Mode 1 provides traditional two-wheel front steering with no rear tyre input, familiar to anyone who's driven RC vehicles. Mode 2 activates mirrored steering where the rear tyres mirror the front wheel angle, improving manoeuvrability through tight formations. Mode 3 engages full crab crawl mode where all four wheels steer in the same direction, allowing the vehicle to move diagonally across obstacles. This flexibility means different drivers and different obstacles can be tackled with the optimal steering configuration.
- How does the AX24 XC-1 compare to the smaller SCX24 platform and other 1/24 scale crawlers? — The AX24 XC-1 takes on even steeper inclines and bigger obstacles than Axial's SCX24 platform rigs, whilst maintaining the 1/24 scale dimensions that make it portable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The extended 51mm coilover shocks, side plate chassis, and dedicated 4WS system represent a higher level of engineering compared to most competing 1/24 scale crawlers. If you want ultimate capability in a mini crawler, the AX24 XC-1 is the platform to choose.
- Can I upgrade components on the AX24 XC-1? — The AX24 XC-1 has an active parts ecosystem. Replacement and upgrade components are available including brass upgrade parts, optional accessories, and a complete exploded parts diagram to guide you. The new throttle port on the ESC allows connection of aftermarket ESCs without purchasing a new receiver, providing excellent upgrade flexibility as your skills develop.
- What surface types is the AX24 XC-1 designed for? — The AX24 XC-1 is specifically engineered as an off-road rock crawler. It excels on rocky terrain, tree-root-filled trails, backyard obstacle courses, and loose substrates where articulation and ground clearance matter most. Whilst it can be used on smooth indoor flooring for practice, its design prioritises extreme terrain over speed or smooth surface handling.
- Is the 88T brushed motor adequate for steep climbs? — Yes. The Dynamite 88T brushed motor is specifically rated to provide the torque required to conquer steep climbs. The motor is paired with an 11-tooth pinion and 55-tooth spur gear ratio that prioritises low-end climbing torque over top speed, making it ideally matched to rock crawling demands. This gearing is a deliberate design choice to maximise climbing ability.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the AXIAL 1/24 AX24 XC-1 4WS Crawler RTR Green C-AXI00003T1 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.