Why Are RC Bodies So Expensive?

Compared to the quality of materials that they are manufactured with, RC bodies are typically quite expensive. However, while a lot of users might be quite disappointed or even upset at the prices of RC bodies, especially considering the quality of manufacturing materials used, the reason RC bodies are expensive still boils down to the manufacturing.

So, why are RC bodies expensive? 

The molds or plugs that the bodies are made from cost quite a lot to produce. Also, you need to consider the fact that someone makes the mold, and that costs money as well. Plus, there’s mark-up for retail as well as licensing fees for name brands or if the body is designed after a specific real car. . In the face of this, manufacturers might have to sell quite a large number of bodies to actually break even and make a profit, and this easily explains why RC bodies are expensive.

In the rest of this article we will go into more depth about what the RC car bodies are made of as well as the different types available and some important things to consider when buying a new RC body. 

If you want to save money there are some ways that you can make your own RC car body. Check out the video below to see a little bit more of how you can do that. 

What are RC Bodies Made of? 

The majority of RC car bodies are created from polycarbonate plastic, which is also called Lexan. Lexan is incredibly tough stuff, and this is just perfect for RC cars seeing as they have to go through a lot of abuse in the course of racing or even just normal driving around. The bodies are made by vac-forming a sheet of clear Lexan over a mold. After that, it is painted on the inner surface, effectively making the plastic a thick and shiny clear coat. If painted properly, an RC body can be kept looking good for a long period of time.Sometimes RC car bodies are also made of metal but this is very rare as it adds significantly to the weight of the car and will slow it down a lot. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RC Body

If you are in the market for an RC car body then there are some important things that you should consider before buying a new body. Some of these most important factors are: 

Cost

We’ve already established that RC bodies are generally expensive because of the whole process of manufacturing. However, they do not all cost the same. The prices of these RC bodies differ just as the bodies differ. RC car bodies are manufactured by different RC companies that offer them at different prices, so depending on how much you can afford, you might want to check out the different ones available and how much they cost before you go on to make a purchase.

Keep in mind that you do not have to blow your budget to buy an RC body. More expensive does not necessarily mean better and just because an RC body is more expensive that is not proof that it will serve you better or last any longer. 

As a matter of fact, most people say that more expensive RC bodies don’t do any better at all. Just do good research and buy the best body for your budget.

Brand

Checking out the brands can also be a very important process to consider before buying an RC body. The very name of the brand can often tell you a lot. There are many different RC brands available, and each brand has a reputation. These different brands also, of course, produce RC bodies just as they produce RC cars but not every brand may be perfect for you. Some of the most famous RC brands are Traxxas, Tamiya, and Losi, among others. You might want to do an internet search and maybe even check out some forums to help you make a wise decision. 

Manufacturing material

As we have mentioned before, there are two major types of RC car bodies: metallic and plastic. Metal RC bodies are generally more expensive, just like metal RC cars. This is because the manufacturing material (metal) is typically more expensive. But, it is important to remember that metal bodies move slower because of their weight and size. Plastic bodies, on the other hand, are light and flexible, and as such, they make it easier for the RC cars to go much faster. 

If you want something more durable, you might want to go for the metal body. On the other hand, if you want to use the vehicle mainly for racing, you should consider getting the lighter plastic. Keep in mind that just because the metal is more durable does not mean that the plastic body is not durable too.

Most RC car bodies (including those for expensive models) are all made of plastic so it is far from a bad choice. 

The realistic nature of it 

While this is not an essential factor, many people might like an RC body that is modeled after real cars. A realistic RC body is actually designed specifically for use during on-road races as it reduces the risk of damage. If you’re looking for a durable body that you can use for on-road races, then this is certainly a factor to consider. 

Types of RC Car Bodies 

When you are replacing your RC car body it is important to know what type of body you want to buy. The factors above are important but just as important is the type of body that you prefer. 

There are three basic types of RC car bodies that you can choose from. Those types of bodies are:

Realistic body

This type of RC body is the kind that is modeled after real cars. Oftentimes, this RC car body is based on the winner of a competition like the World Rally Championships or on really nice cars or trucks. 

Most of the time, this type of RC car body is judged by how much it looks like the original model and has a very high regard for craftsmanship. Typically, owners of this kind of RC car body use it for on-road races in order to lower the risk of damage but you can find some that are designed for off road racing as well such as the Ford Raptor design by Traxxas. 

Monster Truck 

The major purpose of this type of RC body is bashing. If you’re that racer who wants to test the waters and see how RC racing works, the monster truck body is probably a good choice for you. Owners of this type of RC body typically use it for off-road races, ramp jumping, and mostly just for fun. The way the monster truck body is designed, it is strong enough to withstand beatings from very tough terrains, and it is very durable. Hence, if you want that body that can take a tough beating and still be there for you, the monster truck is an excellent option. 

Racing buggy 

This body is made specifically for the purpose of racing. Whether you’re racing off-road or on-road, this RC car is designed to provide you with high speeds. It is also made to survive every kind of terrain, even the toughest ones, so this is another car body you can trust to stay with you for a very long time. Its unique triangular shape ensures that this RC body is more aerodynamic as it helps you to conquer every race.

Conclusion

RC car bodies are generally expensive especially when you think about the fact that they are just normally made from plastic. The manufacturing process isn’t simple so that explains partially why they are more expensive but ultimately companies will charge what they can sell the bodies for. 

There are a variety of different RC car body styles and factors that you should consider before buying one so be sure and do your research to make sure that you are happy with the one you have chosen before you ever put down your hard earned money.