Radio Controlled Boat Racing 101
Posted by admin on September 14th, 2009 filed in Steam Engine Kits
A primary reason for getting into radio controlled boats is be join in the RC boat racing circuit. After all, racing remote control boats is fast, exciting, and fun. If you are thinking how you can get into this hobby these tips should be helpful.
First, you may want to consider joining a radio control boat hobby club or other similar organization. Almost every large city has a group of some sort. Joining one will not only help you to find information on the races in your area, but you’ll also make some valuable contacts and get a bit of racing practice while you’re at it.
Once you hear about a race, the first thing you’ll want to do is call for details. Before racing you will need to get directions, start times and rules, especially if this is the first time rc boat racing at this venue. Generally racers are expected to contribute time doing some of the work at the race. They will be responsible for such things as timekeeping and the like . Before you head out on race day be sure you know what is expected of you.
As you begin to prepare both you and your boat for the race, you have to keep several things in mind. First, you must consider the general maintenance of your boat. Many times rc boat racers will show up at the start line and their boat will not start. The condition of your boat is obviously, one key to winning.
You can make yourself a check list so that you remember everything that you need to do to your rc boat every time you hit the water. Once you’re done racing, strip it and make sure that the drive line is oiled. You’ll want to check your radio to ensure it is in good working condition. Each linkage and servo need to be cleaned an lubed. You should also check the bearing in the motor and lube those as well. If it is possible to reach the brushes, make certain you take a look at them. Do they move freely? If they’re damaged, you must replace them.
The hull is the next thing to look at. When checking the hull also check the rudder. Once you’re done, store your boat carefully, but don’t forget about the battery if you are racing an electric RC boat. If you are running electric rc boats you may want to charge and discharge them before you store them for a long period of time. Make sure to follow the manufacturers directions. A lot of RC boat racers like NiCad batteries better than dry cells for their transmitters. They seem to have better range and less interference, but do your research carefully before you make the switch.
Always go through your entire checklist prior to race day. Many racers have not only a pre-race check list but a post-race check list as well and you will continually add to both as your experience grows.
Other than boat condition you will find that experience and practice are also important to becoming a winner You simply cannot win rc boat races if you’re not willing to practice. It’s best to buy some buoys for your practice area, and you can create your own little course thanks to the buoys. Get a feel for speeding around each buoy at a different angle. Carefully evaluate how your boat responds to your controls. Remember that you’ll have other boats near you when racing, so understanding how to maneuver around them is essential. Having friends assist your pre-race preparation can be very helpful.
In addition to practicing, you may want to attend other races to watch the individuals you’ll be competing against. Just as professional sports players watch hours of footage of their opponents, watching your opponents will give you a feel for how they work with their boats. By observing the competition before race day you can better plan your strategy.
Finally, don’t expect to win your first radio controlled boat race. Remember that all the things you learn from each race will make you a better racer in the future. It is important to treat these initial races as research expeditions for future races. Do these things and some day you’re sure to be crowned the champion.
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