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Kyosho´s new items featured at the 2012 Hobby Show in Shizuoka

 

Kyosho miniz moto ducati rossiKyosho  recently presented a new design for the Mini-z Moto Racer at the Shizuoka fair, as well as some related accesories. The motor cycle chassis will remain the same. The only thing that has changed is the design of the pilot and the design and shape of the fairing, fuel tank and motor tail piece.  

In the case of the Ducati model, Kyosho also has the rights to produce replicas of the pilot and helmet. In this case it is Valentino Rossi. In this manner, unlike the first racer that appeared on the market, the Yamaha M1; both the pilot suit as well as the helmet, were exact replicas of those worn by Valentino.   

Vista frontal de la Kyosho Mini-Z Motoracer Ducati RossiHere you can see a front view of the Ducati design. The degree of detail on the fairings is more than acceptable. The fairing designs of the Ducati are, of course, different from those of the Yamaha M1, thus giving a very authentic look to the final product. With this in mind we would also like to mention that this isn´t the only fairing on which the design has been changed.  

 The central part of the fairing, that of the fuel tank and the mono tail piece, are also replicas of the Ducati world MotoGP. 

 

 

In addition to this motor cycle model,  Kyosho has offered some new spare parts and options for the Mini-z Moto Racer. Below you can find some images taken just recently at the Kysoho stand set up at the fair.   

Carenado y piloto blancos para pintar de la Kyosho mini-z motoracerThis is the image of the transparent fairing  and of the fuel tank and the tail piece in white for future painting. 

IT appears that this optional kit also comes with the pilot figure, also in white for future painting. 

 

 

 

 

Basculante trasero en aluminio para la Kyosho Mini-Z Motoracer Swinging rear assembly set made of aluminium. This piece contains the cascade of gears that transmit the motor power to the rear wheel and is also responsible for the rear assebly suspension.  

 

 

 

 

Horquilla delantera en aluminio para la Kyosho Mini-z Motoracer

This is the inverted front fork. In addition to having a real-looking finish, it is much more robust and operates with greater precision than the original model.  At the moment we are still not sure as to whether it operates with oil or friction grease.   

 

 

 

 

Llanta delantera en aluminio para la Kyosho Mini-Z MotoracerWe can see in this photo the front aluminium rims with a silver or black finish.

Given that they are made of aluminium, in addition to gaining more robustness and greater resistance to cracks, and fissures, they  also provide greater sturdiness. In different scale motor bikes the front rim generally has an extra weight that helps to give the bike greater stability when it spins together with the rim.     

 

 

Neumático delantero y trasero para la Kyosho Mini-Z Motoracer Set of spare tires. At the moment we don´t now if Kyosho plans to launch tires of different hardness or compunds onto the market. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reenvio o brazo de dirección par ala Kyosho Mini-z Motoracer

This is the steering arm used by the Mini-Z Motoracer. This part, located on the end of the arm of the servo, transfers the movement of the servo de the front fork, similar to the original model. 

 

 

 

 

Patinadores laterales con rodamiento para la Kyosho Mini-Z MotoracerIn this image you can see a pair of optional lateral crash bars for the motor cycle. 

As you are well aware, this part is mounted on the two lateral sides of the fairing and their functin is to prevent the motor cycle from leaning execisvely. If the motor cycle leans too much the tip of these crash bars touches the ground and thus prevents the motorcylce from falling over. In the original part the cars bar had plastic ball in the tips. In this optional model the tip uses ball bearings instead.

 

This option could be very interesting for those who want to race this motor cycle on foam tracks such as the  RCP Track.

In the Kyosho stand at the Shizuoka hobby show, Kyosho also presented its new line of car bodies. You can see the images below:

Carroceria enzo ferrari en negro mate para Kyosho Mini-Z As a new feature, Kyosho presents us with this new paint design of the Ferrari Enzo, with a matt black finish. Also incorporated are some openings for air circulation in the rear section and a really outstanding spoiler. .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carrocería del Ferrari enzo en color negro mate, para los Kyosho Mini-ZAnother view of the car body. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Carrocería Audi R8 LM v10 para los Kyosho Mini-Z

Finally, we have this spectacular body of the Audi R8 LM V10 that Kyosho officially presented at the Hobby show.   

 

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Plasti Dip, an all round problem solver

Not a day goes by that I don´t get more and more surprised about the muiltitud of uses that are being ascribed to this liquid rubber manufactured by  Plasti Dip. This time I was really realy taken aback by the ease at which this product can even change and protect the rims of real cars.

With the use of a few simple bits of paper and a bit of Plastidip spray, you can appreciate in the video just how easy its application and extraction is.
 

 

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TRPscale V3 (V3L1) Slot GroupZ

 

 

miniz slot groupz trpscale

TRP has started comercializing its new version of the GroupZ chassis for Slot cars on its Level 1. 
This new version features some considerable improvements on its chassis such as the use of noble materials ( e.g. Carbon SSG) that incorporates aluminium in its interior. It is also mechanized with numerical precision control of its motor mount and a spectacular anodized aluminium look.

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TRPscale Slot GrupoZ – more novelties

 

Slot GrupoZ TRPScale escala 1:28

We have´been informed that these photos don´t show exactly how the new version of the latest GroupZ V3 chassis will be sold on the market. However what we can do is give you a sneak preview on some of the new features that the new chassis will incorporate. Based on the information that we have received so far, the chassis will be on sale in regular stores almost immediately, and as far as we know a few optional and racing parts will be added so that your GroupZ Slot cars could be even more versatile and competitive. 

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New Chassis for the PN Slot GrupoZ

 

 With the moderators´permission and with the license granted to me by TRP to publish this notice, we would like to inform you that PN Slot, starting this year, 2012, will be commercialized via the Spanish manufacturer and distributor TRP (Technical Racing Products). TRP will launch on the market a new version of the well know PNSlot chassis with notable improvements and developments. This is due to the fact that TRP has gone on to become the sole proprietor of the PN Slot company, previously based in California (USA).
The product was studied to determine the feasibility of it being produced entirely in Spain. This way the benefits of the production of this class of product can be shared among Spanish companies (something very much appreciated!).  
This chassis will be available for world wide distribution approximately 15 days. or at least, as soon as the patents on their design have been confirmed.  
 
At the moment  the bare version of the chassis (traction elements such as the motor, rims, axles etc will not be included) will be distributed. LAter on this year hower, a semi-complete complete version including the car body, will be launched.
 
We hope that this notice will be well received by all enthusiasts of this category and also that, in the near future, we will be able to continue holding races as competitive as those which we have held to date.
 
We will soon be posting some images of this new model, how it is taking form and also a few technical improvements that it incorporates.  
 
In any regard, I would like to let you know in advance that the philosophy of the chassis has not changed, and that it is still a chassis that strives toward the same Plug and Play concept in order to make this category a user friendly one; one without the need for excessive adjustments in order to function correctly, whether on wood or plastic tracks.
 
Kind regards.
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Suspension T-plates for the Mini-Z MR03 by QteQ

Suspension T-plates for the Mini-Z MR03 by QteQ                                                            

We recently received the latest novelty for the Mini-Z MR03. This time QteQ has suprised us with a their new rear suspension T-plate for the MiniZ MR03 ; not recommended for use by heart patients! At a quick glance you will see that there are an infinite number of  initial settings that can be adjusted. 
This T-plate by QteQ comes in two different versions; one for the 102mm MiniZ  and another for the 98mm Mini-Z . Aside from these two important differences, this manufacturer has provided 5 different colours that can be combined and applied to our Mini-Z (something that we have grown accustomed to). 

It is evident that this is no conventional T-plate ni that  the part requires much more precise settings plus it must be tested out on the track in order to achieve the desired «feel».  By modifying the multiple settings that the part offers we can produce very different responses from the T-plate that will affect the lateral torsion of the rear of your chassis as well as the lowering of the rear asembly.  

In order to better understand the different settings,  it is important that you download the  instruction manual  that we have cut-and-pasted together so that you can at least get somewhat orientated as to how to adjust this new suspension T-plate. 

Here you can download the manual of the 4BTB suspension T-platep by QTEQ.

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White BMW M3 GTR now available

This is the R246 version of the Mini-Z  body that replicates the BMW M3 E46. This version of the replica is that of the white GTR model that includes quite a large competition type wing. 

As far as the mold is concerned it is the same one that Kyosho used some years ago and the R246 is a real bombshell for carrying out new decorations.
Just as is indicated on the product package, this car body is valid for the Mini-Z MR02 MM and the Mini-Z MR03 Wide MM

This car body forms part of a total collection of 7 BMW M3 car bodies that will be described below:

* BMW M3 GTR ALMS 2001 No. 6
* BMW M3 GTR ALMS 2001 No.10
* BMW M3 GTR ALMS 2001 No.42
* BMW M3 GTR 24h Daytona 2004 No.21
* BMW M3 GTR Nurburgring 2003 No. 43
* BMW M3 GTR Nurburgring 2005 No. 1
* BMW M3 GTR White Body

Version that we have at hand don´t include the rims needed for our chassis; which means that we will have to buy a set of rims that come with the model. 

We recommend the use of wide 11mm rims with a +0mm offset and a narrow 8,5mm front assembly with an offset  of +0mm. 

The body is well made even though the decoration isn´t as impeccable as what we are used to seeing with Kyosho´s decorations. 
The detail of the side exhaust pipes using stickers and the non elimination of the rear exhaust pipes gives a certain lack of realism.

On a more subjective note the wing seems a bit over sized and over done. However, what does seem like a good idea is that of recovering the former Kyosho body that in its day worked out very well but didn´t have any competition decorations available for it.

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Gyroscope for the Mini-Z MR03 and TRPScale dNaNo

This version created by TRP scale is totally compatible with the version that Kyosho has on the market, along with the large difference of its final price that makes it difficult for this chassis accessory to get popular.
The function of the gyroscope in the dnano and MR03 is to offer maximum stability to the car by equiping it with automatic steering and throttle correction in case of skidding of the rear assembly. 
We find this very useful when the surface that we race on doesn´t have much grip (e.g. parquet, stone, or polished cement)

Nevertheless, it´s an option that is widely used in competitions given that it provides greater stability for the vehicle. We consider that with the dNaNo and MR03 it is ideal for use  at home.

Its operation and components are 100% equal to those of Kyosho. 

You can check out the new gyroscopo for Mini-z in our on-line store.

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MR03 Chassis Preparation for Competitions – Level 3

LEVEL 3

 
The options that we will describe in detail in Level 3 are only worth considering once you have prepared your racing machine as described in the two previous levels. 
There´s no point in applying Level 3 options if you haven´t first upgraded our car with basic but indispensable parts, nor if you haven´t simultaneously improved your of race track driving skills. 
For those drivers who have already had a taste of the world of  Mini-Z  competitions you would have experienced an important qualitative change in the conception of what the Mini-Z really is.
Competing demands good preparation, both of our machines as well as all of those aspects which concern our skills (i.e. those abilities that, after one has already begun competing, can be aquired without even realising it). 
In Level 1 we addressed the issue of the essential parts for every Mini-Z whether for competing or not. In Level 2 we described options that improved considerably the performance of our car in addition to the robustness upon collisions, impact, take off. Now in the third Level, we suggest those parts that will help you put the finishing touch on your tune-ups while giving you the possibility of having cars that are more competitive. 
 
1 – Central Shocks (Ref. MR2161)
 
 
The friction disk suspension, as with those that we recommended in Level 2, allow us to regulate both the side tipping force of the rear assembly as well as the flexion of the carbon (i.e. the actual suspension). On the one hand we are able to control the lateral movements of the rear assembly when taking curves and on the other, such characteristics help to smoothen out the bumps caused either by irregularities on the track or action of acceleration or braking.
Depending on the type of surface we have applied to the disc suspension, we may find that it returns very slowly to its original position, thus leaving our car with the rear assembly rather forced in place and indented. To avoid this effect and also adjust the longitudinal movement force of the rear assembly to our liking, we can assemble central shocks just like those described; which in addition,  will function in conjuction with the friction dics. 
You can find  various models of central shocks on the market; even oil-filled shocks. We have chosen this type because it allows us to adjust the feel of both the compression and the extension separately. 
The greater the preload that the shock damper is adjusted to, the greater the grip thatwill be attained in the front assembly, whilst losing stability in the rear assembly. 
Furthermore, for maximum precision in the adjustment of these shocks, we have a kit of optional springs with various hardnesses. (Ref. MR2162).
 
 
Generally speaking, the parts that we have been assembling on our chassis help us to increase the control that we have over it. Therefore, together with substituting the motor that we had changed previously (Level 2) for a much more powerful one, we can now also modify the electronics of our car by , incorporating more powerful FET´s. 
We could in fact assemble very powerful motors without substituting the original FETs (which are desinged to «withstand» a certain amount of force inferior to that of which is required for large motors) before hand.
By simply changing the FET and assemblying at least a 2+2 , we will immediately be able to notice an important increase in the power of our motor. Following this, after getting used to this new output of power, we can assemble a motor of maximum performance.
To proceed to the changing of the FET one needs skill, instruments (solding iron with very fine point, tin (solder), tweezers, magnifying glass etc. ) and lots of patience.
The 2+2 structure refers to the mounting of two columns of two FET in each. In the case of the new Kyosho electronics, la 2,4Ghz, the FET come readily assembled with 2 in 2 on both faces of the electronics board, thus meaning that its not necessary to set them up vertically.
There are motors such as the Atomic Chili that have such a high intake that they requiere a greater number of FETs. In such a case we would have to set up a 3+3 FET at the least. 
 
 
In the last Level of preparation of our race car; after having modified our electronics with the optional FETs, we can now consider equipping our MR03 chassis with a high performance motor.
By this we mean a motor that can turn at around 40,000rpm plus  has an acceleration and motor brake far more superior than conventional motors.
 
These are basically used for competing and one must also bear in mind the fact that  these types of motors can´t be used on any type of race circuit. Very often, carrying an over the edge motor can make things more awkward for us; causing us to taking curves too late, use up more battery power, wearing down rubbers more quickly etc.
 At this stage of our recommendations, it is indispensable that the driver try out different things and carry out various adjustments on their car in order to achieve the desired setting. One of the tests  that should be carried out prior to any competition is the selection of the motor. Power, energy intake,  top speed, motor brake etc. all of these things must be on par with our tune-up as with the conditions of the track (length, grip, etc.).
One last recommendation when it comes to mouting an optional high performance motor, is to trim back the motor cable endings that are screwed onto the electronics board. In this manner we will prevent the endings from coming into contact with and getting crossed with the components of the board itself. 
 
 
To achieve a greater rigidity and also avoid undesired movements of the rear  fiber suspension plates, we assemble this support in aluminium. The  support comes already fastened onto the chassis with two screws, on which (and not onto the chassis) the fiber plates are also screwed via two additional  orofices. 
 The length of this part together with its fastenings cause the T plate to be more firmly secured. Furthermore, the fact that metric threads  are used, the T screws can be fastened even tighter without worrying about going passing through the plastic. 
 
5 – Gyroscope (4548565144426).
 
 
At the moment, only the MR03 chassis (and the small Dnano) comes with the option of assembling this device. It is connected directly to the electronics board and acts as a type of grip control device; controling the power output and steering of our vehicle.
When the gyroscope detects that the position of the car (e.g. when exiting a curve) isn´t correct, it automatically corrects the position of the front wheels while reducing the velocity, regardless of how much we the car full throttle.
As you are well aware, the  ASF type electronics that operate at 2.4Ghz, have a software designed for setting some of its parameters. Once the Gyroscope has been connected, we can regulate the sensitivity of the device via two parameters:
ST Gain – Amount of spin intercepted by the giroscope.
TH Gain – Amount of speed that the gyroscope will control once in action.
It is evident that on circuits with lots of grip this component is negligible, however,on circuits with limited grip it will help us to be much more consistent from lap to lap.