Author: Tony Phalen

As an avid RC enthusiast, Tony has been building, bashing and racing RC Cars for over 30 years. He has participated in every kind of surface racing events - 1/18 scale trucks, 1/10 scale TC, Rock Racers, Rally - if it had wheels, he's raced it! He's also worked on both sides of the industry fence; collaborating with many major manufacturers (as well as being a sponsored driver) to working for a high-profile industry magazine. During this time he has learned many tricks, tips and techniques and is sharing that knowledge on CompetitionX - the most informative RC website on the internet!

Review: Losi XXX-SCT Brushless RTR with AVC

Review: Losi XXX-SCT Brushless RTR with AVC

You might look at the Losi XXX-SCT on these pages and think “great, another 2WD Short Course truck”. In some respects, you’re right on target. ... Read More

What Does C Rating Mean on a LiPo Battery?

What Does C Rating Mean on a LiPo Battery?

If you’ve ever looked at a LiPo battery, you’ve probably seen something like “5000mAh 50C” printed on the label. Most people understand the mAh part ... Read More

How to Clean RC Car Bearings

How to Clean RC Car Bearings

RC car bearings are small parts that make a big difference. When they’re clean, your car runs smooth, fast and efficient. When they’re dirty, everything ... Read More

Team C TM4 Online Build

Team C TM4 Online Build

When you think of 1:10 scale 4WD buggies, your mind probably heads right for big dogs like Team Associated, TLR, Kyosho and maybe even XRay. ... Read More

How to Set Your RC Slipper Clutch

How to Set Your RC Slipper Clutch

What Is a Slipper Clutch? A slipper clutch is a small but critical part of your RC car’s drivetrain. It is connected to the spur ... Read More

Review: Serpent F110 Formula 1

Review: Serpent F110 Formula 1

I was really excited when I got my hands on my first Formula 1 car. That all changed, however, the moment I put it on ... Read More

Review: Tamiya ENEOS Lexus RC F TB-04 Touring Car

Review: Tamiya ENEOS Lexus RC F TB-04 Touring Car

As the resident on-roader in the office, I see quite a few flagship TC’s make their way onto my desk. Because I’m so good at ... Read More

Tamiya RX7 Topping My HPI Sprint 2 – Will It Fit?

Tamiya RX7 Topping My HPI Sprint 2 – Will It Fit?

Question: Hey Doc, Would a Tamiya 51270 Mazda RX-7 Body fit on my HPI Sprint 2? I read somewhere that it will fit no problem, ... Read More

Review: Vaterra 1986 K5 Blazer Ascender Trail Truck

Review: Vaterra 1986 K5 Blazer Ascender Trail Truck

If you haven’t noticed the continued growth of RC “Scale” Rock Crawlers (AKA RC Trail Trucks), you’ve probably been hiding under a rock. Vaterra is ... Read More

Team Associated B44.3 Online Build

Team Associated B44.3 Online Build

The Factory Team B44.3 is the third generation 4WD buggy from Team Associated. This platform has already generated a whopping 3 IFMAR World Championships and ... Read More

Vaterra Ascender K5 Blazer Online Build

Vaterra Ascender K5 Blazer Online Build

Trail trucks are quickly becoming one of those must-have vehicles in everyone’s RC stable. With massive aftermarket support and uber-scale realism, there’s definitely a growing ... Read More

Motor Turn Question

Motor Turn Question

Question: Hiya Doc- I just got back into R/C's again and recently purchased the Duratrax Evader EXT2.4. I know its not the greatest truck in ... Read More

Reversed Controls

Reversed Controls

Question: Hi Doc- I have a XTM X-Cellerator and the controls seem to work in the opposite direction than they should. Would you have any ... Read More

Review: Speed Passion LM-1 LeMans

Review: Speed Passion LM-1 LeMans

If you’re new to the hobby, the vehicle on these pages might seem a bit obscure to you. Heck, even if you’re an old-timer like ... Read More

Review: Team Associated Factory Team TC6.2

Review: Team Associated Factory Team TC6.2

Contrary to popular belief, on-road is quite different than off-road racing in regards to the driven line. Touring cars are all about speed and precision. ... Read More