Overview
Get ready for some big RC off-road action from the pocket rocket Tracer Truggy from FTX. The perfect entry into a world of RC fun, the FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Truggy Truck RTR is an exciting and accessible ready to run RC car that brings genuine off-road performance to drivers of all skill levels. Whether you're new to the RC hobby or looking for a fun basher to enjoy with friends and family, this compact yet capable truggy delivers everything you need straight out of the box.
Designed as a true ready-to-run RC car, the Tracer combines intelligent engineering with practical features that make it ideal for UK RC enthusiasts discovering the hobby for the first time. The 99% ready-to-run assembly means you'll be on the track or in the park within minutes of unboxing. With its detailed 4x4 off-road truck bodyshell, oversized wheels with block pattern tyres, and nimble proportions, this is a genuine RC truggy that looks the part and performs with genuine capability. The brushed motor delivers quick acceleration and responsive handling, whilst the comprehensive suspension system ensures smooth performance across rough terrain.
The Tracer represents excellent value for beginners and casual bashers seeking a ready to run RC vehicle that doesn't compromise on features or build quality. With a choice of multiple colour schemes available—red, green, and orange options—you can even bash with friends and family, creating a complete RC experience that keeps on giving.
Key Features
- 99% Ready-To-Run Design — This brushed RC car arrives almost completely assembled, requiring minimal preparation before you can start driving. Simply charge the included Li-Ion battery, install two AA batteries in the controller, and you're ready to enjoy authentic RC off-road action immediately.
- 2.4GHz Radio System with Full Proportional Control — The included radio system operates on the reliable 2.4GHz frequency band with fully proportional throttle and steering, giving you smooth, responsive control over every aspect of the vehicle's movement. This standard in modern RC technology ensures reliable signal strength and interference-free operation across the UK.
- Shaft-Driven 4WD Drivetrain — Power is delivered to all four wheels through a robust shaft-driven system, providing genuine four-wheel-drive traction in all conditions. This ensures the Tracer maintains excellent grip and forward momentum whether you're crossing grass, dirt, or gravel surfaces.
- Geared Differentials Front and Rear — The front and rear geared differentials work together to distribute power intelligently to the wheels, improving traction and handling during cornering and acceleration. This advanced feature helps prevent wheel spin and provides predictable, controlled behaviour across varied terrain.
- Coil-Sprung Shock Absorbers with Multiple Mounting Points — The sophisticated suspension system features genuine coil springs inside the shock absorbers, with multiple mounting points that allow tuning and adjustment. This gives you the flexibility to dial in the suspension geometry to suit different driving conditions and your personal preferences.
- Double Wishbone Suspension Design — Both front and rear utilise double wishbone suspension geometry, a proven design that provides excellent wheel travel, consistent handling, and reliable performance. This suspension type is found on far more expensive RC models and ensures smooth movement over obstacles and jumps.
- Front CVA Driveshafts — The front features constant velocity angle (CVA) driveshafts, which allow the wheels to articulate while maintaining consistent power delivery during steering inputs. This engineering refinement ensures the Tracer maintains traction even when turning sharply across rough ground.
- RC390 Brushed Motor with Heatsink — The proven 390-sized brushed motor delivers quick, responsive acceleration with excellent torque characteristics. The integrated heatsink helps manage motor temperature during extended running sessions, extending the lifespan of the motor and maintaining consistent performance throughout your driving session.
- Splashproof ESC and Receiver Unit — The electronic speed controller and receiver are sealed against water and moisture ingress, allowing you to drive in damp conditions or wet grass without worry. This practical weather resistance means you can enjoy your ready to run RC car even when British weather isn't at its best.
- Splashproof 1kg Rated Servo — The steering servo is also sealed against moisture and is rated for 1kg of force, providing responsive steering control that won't be overwhelmed by the forces generated during aggressive driving. The servo's reliability ensures consistent steering response throughout extended play sessions.
- Low Friction Ball Bearings Throughout — High-quality ball bearings are used throughout the drivetrain and suspension, reducing friction and improving efficiency. This means more of the motor's power reaches the wheels, translating to faster acceleration and better battery runtime.
- Micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion Battery with USB Charger — The included lithium-ion battery pack provides reliable power with a comfortable runtime for extended bashing sessions. The USB charger allows convenient charging from any household power outlet or computer, making it simple to keep your RC car ready for action whenever you want to drive.
- Speed Switch for Beginner Control — For those new to RC cars, the included speed switch allows you to dial down the maximum throttle, making the Tracer more manageable and forgiving for inexperienced drivers. As your skills improve, you can adjust the speed control to unlock the full performance potential of the vehicle.
- Plug-In Front LED Bumper Lights — For dusk or evening driving sessions, the supplied front LED lights simply plug into the vehicle, lighting your way as darkness falls. This fun addition extends your driving time and adds an extra dimension to RC bashing in low-light conditions.
- Oversized Wheels with Block Pattern Tyres — The generous wheel sizing with block pattern tread provides excellent grip and ground clearance across natural terrain. The tyre compound is designed for off-road performance, gripping dirt, grass, and gravel surfaces with genuine off-road capability.
- Detailed 4x4 Off-Road Truck Bodyshell — The bodyshell features authentic 4x4 truck styling with realistic detailing, giving the Tracer genuine scale appearance. The quality paint and body moulding reflect the care taken in design, making this ready to run RC vehicle look as good as it performs.
- Range of Hop-Up Options Available — The Tracer benefits from a comprehensive range of optional parts and upgrades, allowing you to customise and improve your vehicle as your hobby interest develops. From suspension tuning to performance upgrades, there are numerous ways to evolve your ready to run RC car.
Technical Performance
The FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Truggy combines practical engineering with genuine performance capability. At 285mm in length, 215mm in width, and 95mm in height, the Tracer offers a compact footprint that's ideal for parks, gardens, and controlled RC racing spaces across the UK. The 38mm ground clearance provides excellent obstacle clearance for a vehicle of this scale, whilst the 175mm wheelbase ensures responsive handling without sacrificing stability. Weighing just 740g fully assembled, the Tracer is light enough to throw around aggressively but heavy enough to maintain predictable, consistent behaviour. The 78mm diameter tyres with 41mm width provide a perfect blend of on-ground contact and rolling efficiency. The gear ratio of 1:10.71 is carefully calibrated to deliver snappy acceleration whilst maintaining a sensible top speed suitable for outdoor bashing and park driving. The RC390 brushed motor, paired with the micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S lithium-ion battery, provides responsive performance with genuine runtime for extended play sessions. The splashproof 1kg rated servo ensures consistent steering response, whilst the splashproof ESC and receiver unit mean you can confidently drive in damp conditions. This thoughtful engineering throughout ensures the Tracer delivers reliable, predictable performance that keeps delivering smiles lap after lap.
What's in the Box
- FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Truggy Truck RTR - assembled and ready to run
- 2.4GHz radio system with controller
- RC390 Brushed Motor with heatsink (pre-installed)
- Splashproof ESC and receiver unit (pre-installed)
- Splashproof 1kg rated servo (pre-installed)
- Micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion battery pack
- USB battery charger
- Front LED bumper lights (plug-in)
- Speed switch for throttle control
- Detailed 4x4 off-road truck bodyshell in red
- Oversized wheels with block pattern tyres (pre-fitted)
What You Need to Complete
- Two AA batteries for the radio controller (not included)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Truggy suitable for complete beginners to RC cars? — Absolutely. The Tracer is specifically designed as an entry-level ready to run RC car with Skill Level 1 rating. It arrives 99% assembled, requires no soldering or complicated setup, and includes a speed switch to help new drivers manage the throttle responsibly. The 2.4GHz radio system with proportional throttle and steering is intuitive to use, and the vehicle's balanced weight and suspension geometry make it forgiving during the learning process.
- What battery does the FTX Tracer 1/16 need, and how long does it last? — The Tracer uses a micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S lithium-ion battery pack that's included in the box, along with a USB charger for convenient charging. The 800mAh capacity provides a comfortable runtime for extended bashing sessions—typically 15-25 minutes depending on driving style and conditions. The included USB charger makes it simple to recharge from any household outlet or computer.
- What are the main differences between the Tracer Truggy and the Tracer Truck? — FTX manufactures both a Tracer Truggy (this model) and a Tracer Truck on the same platform. The primary difference is in the bodyshell—the Truggy features a high-riding truggy-style body with more dramatic proportions, whilst the Truck offers traditional pickup truck styling. Both share the same mechanical platform, drivetrain, and running gear, so your choice is primarily about which bodyshell appeals to you more.
- Can I drive the Tracer in wet conditions? — Yes, the Tracer features splashproof electronics throughout, including the ESC/receiver unit and servo. This means you can confidently drive on wet grass and in damp conditions without fear of water damage. However, avoid submersion or driving in standing water, as splashproof protection is not the same as fully waterproof sealing.
- What motor does the FTX Tracer 1/16 have? — The Tracer is powered by an RC390 brushed motor with an integral heatsink. This proven motor size delivers responsive acceleration and reliable performance suitable for outdoor bashing and recreational driving. The heatsink helps manage motor temperature during extended running sessions.
- Are there upgrade options available for the Tracer? — Yes, FTX offers a comprehensive range of hop-up options for the Tracer, allowing you to upgrade components as your interest in the hobby develops. Drivetrain upgrades are available including machined metal spur gears and differential gears, and you can explore options for suspension tuning, shock oil-filled upgrades, and other performance enhancements.
- How fast is the FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Truggy? — The Tracer delivers snappy acceleration suitable for recreational bashing and park driving. The RC390 brushed motor paired with the 1:10.71 gear ratio provides responsive, manageable speed that's fun without being overwhelming. The included speed switch allows you to further manage the throttle output for a perfect fit with your skill level.
- Does the Tracer come with LED lights? — Yes, plug-in front LED bumper lights are included. These simply connect to the front bumper area, allowing you to extend your driving into dusk and evening conditions. The lights add a fun visual dimension to your RC experience and make it easier to see the vehicle in low-light environments.
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 FTX TRACER 1/16 4WD TRUGGY TRUCK RTR - RED FTX5577R 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.
- Scale: 1/16
- Vehicle Type: Truggy
- Assembly Type: Ready-to-Run (RTR) - 99% assembled
- Skill Level: Skill Level 1 (Beginner)
- Drive System: Shaft-driven 4WD
- Motor Type: Brushed
- Motor Size: RC390
- Motor Heatsink: Yes, integral heatsink included
- ESC Type: Electronic Speed Controller
- ESC Waterproofing: Splashproof
- Receiver Unit: Integrated with ESC
- Receiver Waterproofing: Splashproof
- Battery Type: Micro Li-Ion (Lithium-Ion)
- Battery Voltage: 7.4V
- Battery Capacity: 800mAh
- Battery Configuration: 2S
- Battery Charger: USB charger included
- Radio System: 2.4GHz
- Radio Channels: Fully proportional throttle and steering
- Radio Controller: Requires 2x AA batteries (not included)
- Transmission: Shaft-driven with geared differentials
- Gear Ratio: 1:10.71
- Differentials: Geared differentials front and rear
- Suspension Front: Double wishbone with coil-sprung shock absorbers
- Suspension Rear: Double wishbone with coil-sprung shock absorbers
- Shock Absorbers: Coil-sprung with multiple mounting points
- Front Driveshafts: CVA (Constant Velocity Angle) driveshafts
- Bearings: Low friction ball bearings throughout
- Servo Type: Brushless servo
- Servo Rating: 1kg rated
- Servo Waterproofing: Splashproof
- Tyre Type: Block pattern
- Tyre Size: ø 78mm x 41mm
- Wheel Diameter: 78mm
- Wheels: Oversized wheels included
- Ground Clearance: 38mm
- Chassis Length: 285mm
- Chassis Width: 215mm
- Chassis Height: 95mm
- Wheelbase: 175mm
- Weight: 740g
- Bodyshell: Detailed 4x4 off-road truck bodyshell
- Bodyshell Material: Moulded plastic
- Bodyshell Colour: Red
- Paint Finish: Detailed paint scheme
- Waterproofing Rating: Splashproof electronics
- LED Lights: Front LED bumper lights included (plug-in)
- Speed Control: Speed switch included for throttle management
- Included Accessories: USB battery charger, front LED lights, speed switch
- Optional Upgrades Available: Yes, range of hop-up options available including drivetrain upgrades
- Surface Type: Off-road
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