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R/C eXpo 2004
Horizon Hobby, Team Losi, etc.
Team Losi displayed their much-abuzzed LST monster truck and let me tell you, there's no way to describe just how crazy huge those shocks are if you haven't seen them in person. A box-stock model was run on the dirt track and appeared to drive just like a larger T-Maxx 2.5, but with significantly better brakes. The stock suspension settings seemed to strike a good balance between bump absorption and handling stability. Speed & acceleration looked good, but not overwhelming.
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The XXX-T MF2 was on display, but I didn't end up making my way back to talk with Matt Francis before closing time. You can get the full scoop on the new features (BK2 style transmission & variable width arms, universal drives, new stronger ball cups and more) at www.teamlosi.com. Check out that super-wide body, though -- it's purely functional, aiding the stability of the vehicle, especially in the air. And they said aerodynamics don't matter in offroad.
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Here's a shot of a full option Dynamite/Losi upgraded Mini-T:
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Around the corner, Horizon was showing off another new sub-brand, Sportwerks, with a debut product called the Mayhem. This is what some people had rumored to be an upcoming "Losi 1/8th scale buggy."
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More info on the Mayhem can be found here.
It's also worthy of note that a Horizon rep would not deny the possibility that another vehicle along the theme of the Mini-T platform "may" be in development. Yum.
Traxxas
The guys who invented the nitro monster truck phenomenon are reinventing the nitro monster truck phenomenon with their hot new Revo truck. You can read all about it on the UltimateTraxxas.com Revo forum and of course Traxxas.com. I got some shots of specific angles & parts that were interesting and perhaps not shown in sufficient detail in the marketing photos.
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The level of engineering work that has gone into this truck is absolutely awe-inspiring. I'm not sure I've seen an offroad R/C vehicle this advanced, period. I don't care one bit what any nay-sayers think. This is one amazing truck. My pre-order went in the day it was first announced, so I'm definitely putting my money where my mouth is. Ultimate Revo anyone?
Also on display was the Stadium Maxx or simply S-Maxx, basically a SportMaxx with 2-speed, Traxxas upgrade wheels & tires, and a racey new body.