How Fast Does the Traxxas Slash Go?

Last Updated on January 2, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

The Traxxas Slash is one of the most popular short-course truck RC cars on the market. This rugged and fast remote-controlled car is loved by backyard bashers and track racers alike.

But exactly how fast does the Slash go? Let’s take a look at the top speed and acceleration of this speedy RC car.

Overview of the Traxxas Slash

First, let’s provide a quick overview of the Traxxas Slash itself. This 1/10 scale short course truck was first released in 2008 and quickly became one of Traxxas’ top-selling models.

Here are some key specs and features of the Slash:

• Vehicle Type: Short Course Truck
• Scale: 1/10
• Length: 22.2 in (564mm)
• Width: 11.6 in (295mm)
• Ground Clearance: 3.0 in (76mm)
• Weight: 5.4 lbs
• Chassis: 4mm anodized aluminum
• Tires: Traxxas Talon EXT
• Motor: Titan 12-turn 550 modified motor
• ESC: XL-5 waterproof
• Radio: TQi 2.4GHz with Traxxas Link

The Slash combines performance, durability, and simplicity all in one fun package. It’s a great RC truck for first-time hobbyists but also excels at the track in the hands of experts.

What Motor Does the Slash Have?

The motor is one of the biggest factors that determines the speed and acceleration of an RC car. The Traxxas Slash comes equipped with a Titan 12-turn 550 modified motor right out of the box.

Some key details on this motor:

• 12 turns mean it has low internal resistance and therefore high rpm potential
• 550 size refers to the diameter of the motor (55mm)
• Modified means it has adjustable timing for tunability
• Requires a 7-cell NiMH or 2S LiPo battery pack

This Titan 12T motor gives the Slash plenty of grunt off the line and solid top end speed for a short course truck. The motor is designed for control and acceleration rather than just pure mph.

ESC Controls the Power

The electronic speed control (ESC) is tasked with delivering smooth, responsive power to the motor. It controls the speed and direction of the Slash.

Traxxas outfits the Slash with their XL-5 ESC. This waterproof ESC can handle up to a 7-cell NiMH or 2S LiPo battery. It has built-in low voltage detection to prevent over-draining the battery. The XL-5 uses Velineon circuitry for efficient operation.

Combined with the Titan 12T motor, the XL-5 ESC gives the Slash the right combo of acceleration and top speed while also allowing for adjustability and tunability.

How Does Gearing Affect Speed?

The pinion and spur gear mesh together to transfer power from the motor to the wheels. The size ratio between the pinion and spur gears directly impact the truck’s acceleration and top speed.

For example, installing a larger pinion gear increases torque and acceleration at the cost of reduced top speed. Likewise, a smaller pinion gear reduces torque but increases overall top speed.

The stock 

Slash comes with 14T pinion and 86T spur gears for balanced performance. This gearing combo hits 30+ mph out of the box with the stock battery and motor. Upgrading to a higher output motor and/or higher voltage battery may require re-gearing to optimize the power band.

Typical Speed Capability

Now let’s get into the actual speed numbers. How fast can you expect the Traxxas Slash to go?

With the stock NiMH battery, you can expect to hit 25-30+ mph on flat ground with ample run-up room. It has brisk acceleration and good mid-range punch. Top speed taps out quickly due to the battery and gearing limit.

Switching to a 2S LiPo battery unleashes more speed from the Titan motor. Expect to reach 35-45 mph with a quality 2S LiPo and necessary gear adjustments. This added voltage headroom gives longer legs on the top end before hitting the rev limiter.

Optional brushless upgrades like the Velineon 3500 system can rocket the Slash up to 50+ mph when using 3S LiPo batteries and different gearing. But at this point, you need upgraded drivetrain components to handle the power.

In stock form, the Traxxas Slash can slot right into most backyard or track racing classes. It hits a nice balance of speed, acceleration, and control when using the included battery and motor combo.

Speed Runs Require a Large Open Area

When testing the top speed of any RC car, it’s critical to do so safely in a large open area free of obstacles. Traxxas states the Slash can hit over 30 mph with the stock setup, but you’ll need 100+ feet of clear, flat pavement to reach full speed.

Gradually work up to top speed on each run. Sudden full throttle from a standstill can torque twist the driveline. Let the truck gradually gain momentum before hitting full speed.

Use telemetry data on your transmitter to monitor motor and battery temperatures. Extended operation at top speed may require cooling down periods to avoid overheating damage.

Gearing Adjustments to Fit Your Needs

While the stock gearing provides a good balance of acceleration and top speed for most applications, you can fine-tune the gearing to better fit your particular needs.

Here are some tips on gearing adjustments for the Slash:

• Increase top speed – install smaller pinion gear
• Increase acceleration – install the larger pinion gear
• Maintain temps – go up in spur gear size with pinion changes
• Reduce temps – go down in pinion size
• Match battery/motor – optimize gearing for battery voltage and motor combo

Take small steps (1-2 teeth at a time) when changing gears to dial in the performance. Drastic gearing changes can overheat and damage components.

Tips for Increasing Speed

Here are some potential upgrades to boost the top speed and acceleration of your Traxxas Slash:

• LiPo battery – Upgrade to a high-quality 2S LiPo battery
• Brushless motor – Install 3500+ KV brushless motor system
• Low temp motor – Optional Slash motors tuned for speed runs
• Geared transmission – Aftermarket transmissions allow extreme gearing
• Tires – Larger rear tires add more rollout for higher top speed

Of course, increasing speed also requires upgrading other parts like the driveline, shocks, and chassis to handle the extra stress. Find the right balance of speed versus durability for your needs.

Use Speed Safely

The Traxxas Slash offers incredible speed capability for a ready-to-run short-course truck. Make sure to use properly charged batteries and monitor vehicle temperatures when running at max speed.

Speed runs should be done safely away from traffic at approved locations. Inspect the truck for wear and address any issues before hitting top speed.

Responsible operation will keep you enjoying the speed of the Slash for many runs to come. Traxxas offers a large line of replacement parts to keep your truck maintained as you put the miles on it.

FAQ

What is the fastest Traxxas Slash motor?

The Velineon 3500 brushless motor can propel the Slash over 50 mph when using a 3S LiPo battery pack. Traxxas also offers lower KV brushless motors that optimize acceleration over outright top speed.

What gearing should I use for maximum speed?

For maximum top speed, use a smaller pinion gear (eg. 10T-12T) and larger spur gear (eg. 100T+). This increases roll-out and reduces torque. Make sure to monitor motor and battery temperatures.

How can I make my Slash faster on a budget?

Switching to a high-C rated 2S LiPo battery is the easiest way to gain speed without buying new parts. Make sure your ESC can handle the voltage first. Optionally gear down to reduce temps.

Will bigger tires make my Slash faster?

Larger diameter rear tires add more rollout which effectively gears your Slash taller. This can increase top speed at the cost of some low-end torque. Larger tires also raise ground clearance.

Is there a brushless motor upgrade for the Slash?

Yes, Traxxas sells the Velineon 3500 as a drop-in brushless upgrade for the Slash. It requires a 3S LiPo battery and different gearing but can reach 50+ mph in the right conditions.

Conclusion

With a capable Titan 12T motor and responsive XL-5 ESC, the Traxxas Slash can reach 25-45+ mph depending on battery choice and gearing setup. This speed range makes it versatile for backyard bashing or track racing fun.

Pay attention to gearing, temps, and terrain when pushing the Slash to its limits. With prudent upgrades and adjustments, you can unlock even greater speed potential while maintaining durability and control. The Traxxas Slash delivers an unbeatable mix of speed, acceleration, and handling.