What Is Boost Force?

Boost Force is an ESC setting that controls how aggressively the ESC applies programmed Boost Timing once the boost activation conditions have been met.

Think of Boost Timing as the amount of additional motor timing being added, while Boost Force controls how quickly or strongly that timing is introduced.

A low Boost Force setting gradually ramps in the timing. A high Boost Force setting applies the timing more aggressively, creating a stronger increase in power.

Not every ESC manufacturer uses the exact same terminology. Some may refer to similar functions as:
• Boost Ramp Rate
• Boost Speed
• Timing Response
• Timing Aggression
• Dynamic Timing Rate

Regardless of the name, the purpose remains similar – controlling how aggressively Boost Timing is delivered.

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How Does Boost Force Affect Your Car?

Higher Boost Force
Increasing Boost Force causes timing to be applied more aggressively.

Effects may include:
• Stronger acceleration
• More aggressive mid-range power
• Faster transition into boosted power
• Increased punch exiting corners
• Improved straightaway acceleration
• Higher motor temperatures
• Greater risk of wheel spin on low-grip surfaces

Many racers use higher Boost Force on high-grip tracks where additional acceleration can be used effectively.

Lower Boost Force
Reducing Boost Force causes timing to build more gradually.

Effects may include:
• Smoother throttle feel
• Better control on slippery tracks
• Reduced wheel spin
• Easier driving characteristics
• Lower motor temperatures
• Less aggressive acceleration

A lower setting often helps when track conditions are loose, dusty, bumpy or low traction.

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How Do You Change Boost Force?

The exact procedure depends on your ESC manufacturer.

Typically, you can adjust Boost Force through:
• ESC programming box
• ESC setup card
• Bluetooth programming module
• Smartphone application
• PC programming software

Common adjustment ranges vary by brand but may include:
• Level 1 to Level 10
• Percentage values
• Numerical force settings
• Low, Medium, High options

When making changes:
1. Start with the manufacturer’s default value.
2. Make one adjustment at a time.
3. Test several laps under consistent conditions.
4. Monitor motor and ESC temperatures.
5. Compare lap times and drivability.

Small adjustments often produce noticeable differences.

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When To Change Boost Force

Increase Boost Force When:
• The car feels lazy exiting corners.
• Acceleration lacks urgency.
• The track has high traction.
• You need more straightaway speed.
• Motor temperatures remain comfortably within limits.

Decrease Boost Force When:
• The rear tires lose traction easily.
• The car feels difficult to drive.
• Acceleration feels too aggressive.
• Track conditions are slippery.
• Motor temperatures are becoming excessive.

Many racers reduce Boost Force before reducing total Boost Timing because it preserves top-end power while improving drivability.

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What To Check After Boost Force

Any time you adjust Boost Force, inspect the following:

Motor Temperature
Higher settings can increase motor heat. Check temperatures after a full race run rather than just a few laps.

ESC Temperature
More aggressive timing application increases ESC workload. Verify the ESC remains within the manufacturer’s recommended operating range.

Battery Temperature
Aggressive timing delivery can increase battery load. Monitor battery temperatures after longer runs.

Corner Exit Traction
Pay close attention to acceleration zones. If the car becomes difficult to control when applying throttle, the setting may be too high.

Lap Times
Driver feel is important, but lap times tell the real story. A smoother setup that is easier to drive often produces faster and more consistent laps.

Runtime
Higher performance settings can reduce battery runtime. Monitor run times after making significant changes.

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Basic Boost Force vs Advanced Settings

Basic Boost Force Settings
Most hobbyists should focus on finding a setting that provides:
• Smooth acceleration
• Good traction
• Manageable temperatures
• Consistent lap times

A moderate setting typically works best for beginners and club racers.

Characteristics:
Low – Smooth power delivery
Medium – Balanced performance
High – Aggressive acceleration

Advanced Boost Force Settings
Advanced racers often tune Boost Force together with:
• Boost Timing
• Turbo Timing
• Boost RPM Activation
• Turbo Delay
• Punch Control
• Throttle Frequency

These settings work together to shape the entire power curve.

For example:
• High Boost Timing + High Boost Force = Maximum acceleration and aggressive power.
• High Boost Timing + Low Boost Force = Strong power with smoother delivery.
• Low Boost Timing + High Boost Force = Quick response but less overall timing gain.

Advanced tuning allows racers to optimize acceleration for specific track layouts and grip levels.

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FAQ

Q: Is Boost Force the same as Boost Timing?
A: No. Boost Timing determines how much timing is added to the motor. Boost Force determines how aggressively that timing is applied.

Q: Will increasing Boost Force increase top speed?
A: Usually not significantly. Boost Force primarily affects how quickly the timing is introduced and how strong the acceleration feels.

Q: Does higher Boost Force make the motor hotter?
A: Yes. Higher settings generally increase motor temperatures because timing is applied more aggressively.

Q: Should beginners use high Boost Force?
A: Usually no. Most beginners benefit from smoother and more predictable power delivery.

Q: Can Boost Force improve lap times?
A: Yes. Properly tuned Boost Force can improve acceleration and overall drivability, leading to faster and more consistent lap times.

Q: What is a good starting point?
A: Start with the ESC’s default value or a medium setting and adjust gradually based on traction, temperature and lap times.

Q: Can Boost Force cause wheel spin?
A: Yes. Excessive Boost Force can overwhelm available traction, especially on low-grip tracks.

Back to the RC ESC Settings Guide.