Best RC Short Course Trucks [Features & Capabilities]

Last Updated on February 26, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Short course trucks, commonly abbreviated as SCT, are a category of radio controlled (RC) off-road racing trucks modeled after full-size trophy trucks and desert racers. They feature realistic styling and proportions akin to scaled-down real-world short course off-road trucks.

Here is an in-depth comparison table for the short course truck reviews:

Truck Model	Drive Type	Skill Level	Speed	Key Features
Traxxas Slash 4X4 Ultimate	4WD	Intermediate to Advanced	30+ mph	– Velineon 1200XL brushless power- Beefed up drivetrain- High torque steering
Arrma Felony 6S BLX	4WD	Advanced	60+ mph	– 6S capable system<br>- Carbon fiber chassis<br>- Race-inspired suspension
Losi Tenacity-SCT	2WD	Beginner	20 mph	– Realistic short course looks<br>- Quality differentials<br>- Durable and affordable
Team Associated SC10 4×4	4WD	Intermediate to Advanced	30+ mph	– Refined 7075-T6 chassis<br>- Modular gear diff<br>- Surgical handling
Team Losi Racing 22X-4	4WD	Expert	30+ mph	– Machined aluminum chassis<br>- 3-gear center diff<br>- Choice for pros
Arrma Typhon 6S BLX	4WD	Intermediate to Advanced	60+ mph	– 6S power system<br>- ARF chassis<br>- Race-bred suspension

History and Origins

The short course truck format was pioneered in 2008 by Traxxas with the release of their tremendously popular Slash. Inspired by the prerunner-style trucks competing in short course races across the American Midwest, Traxxas designed the Slash to bring the exciting world of short course off-road racing to RC.

With its rugged truck bodyshell and optimized chassis for blasting over jumps and slides, the Slash became an instant hit. This kicked off a booming interest in short course RC trucks from hobbyists and other major RC brands. Today, short course continues to be one of the most popular RC racing categories.

Features and Capabilities

While mimicking the look of real trophy trucks, short course RC trucks are designed especially for RC use. Key features include:

• Truck bodyshells with short course styling – aggressive front ends, side vents, bed caps, etc.
• Long travel suspension for absorbing big jumps and hard landings
• Durable chassis, drivetrains, and components to handle rough riding conditions
• Optional 4WD and 2WD configurations
• Better stability from wider track width and wheelbase compared to stadium trucks

The defined track and open layout of short course tracks let these nimble trucks hit 30+ MPH speeds while pulling massive air and going all out. This combines scale realism with intense RC action – exactly why short course trucks have become so popular for bashing and racing.

Top Short Course Trucks

So far we’ve covered some of the major short course truck players based on their overall brands. Now let’s dive deeper into specific standout models that prospective buyers should consider from each brand.

Traxxas Slash 4X4 Ultimate

Without a doubt, the Traxxas Slash 4X4 Ultimate lives up to its billing as the ultimate short course truck. It builds upon the already proven Slash 4X4 with a slew of performance upgrades.

Highlights include a powerful Velineon 1200XL brushless motor, beefed up differentials, a high torque steering servo, and Traxxas Stability Management to maximize traction. Combined with long travel suspension and all wheel drive traction, the Slash Ultimate devours jumps and rough terrain with ease.

While not the cheapest short course offering, there’s no denying the refinement Traxxas has achieved making this a top choice ready for bashing or racing right out of the box.

Pros:

• Velineon 1200XL provides incredible brushless power
• Beefed up drivetrain components handle power with ease
• High torque steering and Stability Management for excellent control
• Proven and refined 4X4 Slash platform
• Ready for intense bashing or racing out of the box

Cons:

• Higher cost than entry-level short course options
• Requires experience to handle immense power output
• Heavy 4S+ battery packs required to unleash full potential

Arrma Felony 6S BLX

Representing Arrma’s high-performance tier, the Felony really brings the heat for experienced short course drivers wanting extreme brute speed.

Built on a race-inspired carbon fiber and aluminum chassis, it packs a sensational brushless combo of Castle 2028 800KV motor and 160 amp ESC to put down outrageous mph figures exceeding 60+ mph on 6S LiPo power! Matching this tempo is a beefy suspension designed for hard lapping and big air stunts to thrill even seasoned enthusiasts.

While admittedly overkill for casual use, the Felony delivers a concentrated dose of Arrma’s racing DNA for those seeking unlimited short course performance.

Pros:

• Extreme 60+ mph top speed potential on 6S
• Race-bred carbon fiber chassis offers stability
• Smooth and reliable Castle brushless combo
• Beefy suspension gobbles up rough terrain and huge air
• Aggressive performance for experienced enthusiasts

Cons:

• Very expensive for casual bashing use
• Intimidating power level for novice drivers
• Can be challenging to control at top speed

Losi Tenacity-SCT

On the more affordable side of short course offerings sits the Losi Tenacity. As a 1/10 2WD stadium truck, the modest Tenacity still captures short course spirit with authentic scale looks and handling.

While lower in speed compared to pricier 4WD short course models, it provides a surprisingly capable driving experience thanks to conventional front and rear gear differentials, oil filled coilover shocks, and Losi’s attention to quality construction.

For those wanting realistic short course styling without breaking the bank, the Tenacity hits a nice balance even for first-time hobbyists.

Pros:

• Authentic short course style at affordable pricing
• Quality differentials and oil-filled shocks
• Durable for new hobbyists learning the ropes
• Lightweight and easy handling characteristics

Cons:

• Lacks brushless power of 4WD short course trucks
• Basic 2WD drivetrain limits traction
• Primarily for recreation rather than racing

Team Associated SC10 4×4

Having pioneered the 4WD short course format early on, Team Associated boasts incredible refinement in their current SC10 platform. Thanks to decades of iterative design guided by a team of champion drivers, the SC10 4×4 represents the pinnacle of short course racing performance.

Notable features include a 7075-T6 aluminum chassis, VTS slipper clutch system, modular gear differential, and Pro-Line Pro-Spec shocks with 3mm shafts. Combined with a sensibly powerful Reedy 3500kV brushless system, the overall package delivers surgical handling and acceleration sure to compete at the highest levels.

While admittedly intimidating for novice racers, the SC10 4×4 finds its home in the hands of veterans constantly pursuing that next incremental edge. Its neutral balance and nimbleness allow it to carve lines other rival trucks simply can’t match.

For those obsessed with shaving lap times, this iconic short course platform warrants consideration.

Pros:

• Race-winning heritage and design
• 7075-T6 aluminum chassis offers stability
• Modular gear differential enables fine tuning
• Pro-Line Pro-Spec shocks with 3mm shafts
• Neutral balance and precision handling

Cons:

• High cost as a competitive race platform
• Very complex for first time hobbyists
• Requires advanced skill to exploit full potential

Team Losi Racing 22X-4

As the premium offering within the Losi family, the Team Losi Racing (TLR) 22X-4 presents an uncompromising purebred race truck for the professional circuit.

It shares much of the genetic makeup of their 22 platform that has achieved multi-time world championship success. Highlights include a fully machined aluminum chassis, center diff with three fluid filled gears, and shocks sporting mini-coils over oil. Drivetrain duties are handled by an efficient Velineon 3500 motor supervised by a DX3R Pro ESC.

Piloting the 22X-4 comes with high expectations only the elite can fulfill. Make no mistake – this truck performs best under an experienced racer capable of exploiting its full potential. The sky-high costs also limit its adoption to only the most committed.

Yet for those chasing trophies, the 22X-4 represents one of the sharpest short course weapons money can buy.

Pros:

• Machined aluminum chassis provides stiffness
• 3-gear center differential enables tuning
• Mini-coils over oil shocks for smooth damping
• Efficient Velineon 3500 and DX3R Pro ESC combo
• Elite choice for professional racers

Cons:

• Extremely expensive short course model
• Challenging truck reserved only for experts
• High maintenance compared to recreational trucks

Arrma Typhon 6S BLX

Though classified under Arrma’s “race” series, the Typhon 6S BLX monster truck demonstrates equally capable prowess tackling short course tracks. Sharing the same drivetrain DNA powering the Felony mentioned earlier, it propels itself with frightening speed bursts thanks to the 6S brushless combo lighting quick acceleration.

To handle the radical power, the Typhon features a unique “ARF” aluminum chassis acting like a rock-solid foundation. And despite its towering monster truck form factor, it handles jumps with compose through a well-sorted suspension system keeping all four tires glued.

Pros:

• Familiar 6S power plant pushes 60+ mph
• Unique ARF chassis offers stability
• Race-inspired suspension gobbles terrain
• Fast acceleration and brushless efficiency
• Proven Arrma pedigree

Cons:

• Monster truck form limits handling agility
• Very fast pace demands experience
• Less durable than dedicated short course builds

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between stadium truck and short course?

While both are off-road trucks, stadium trucks have a more compact wheelbase and narrower track width optimized for technical handling rather than high speeds like short course models.

Is short course racing becoming more popular than stadium truck?

As an exciting category emphasizing big air jumps and slides, short course racing has exploded in popularity overtaking stadium truck at most events.

What scale are typical short course RC trucks?

The most popular short course trucks are 1/10 scale, providing a nice balance of size and capability. 1/8 scale short course models also exist for extreme power and durability.

What motor type is best – brushed vs brushless?

Brushless motors offer more power, efficiency, and speed. But brushed motors remain adequate for recreation and easier to maintain.

Should I start with RTR or a kit?

Ready to run (RTR) short course trucks require no assembly out of the box. But kits allow learning how components fit and function at the expense of extra effort.

Conclusion

Short course trucks encompass the best aspects of scale realism, durability, and racing performance that make RC off-road such an exciting hobby. As we’ve covered, leading RC brands offer short course models catering to different experience levels, purposes, and budgets.

Newcomers can start out with affordable 2WD trucks from Losi, while intermediate hobbyists will grow into 4WD bashers from Traxxas. More advanced drivers can move to purpose-built race trucks from the likes of Team Associated. And for experts seeking the last word in performance, premium nameplates like TLR showcase the pinnacle.

While categories will come down to brand preference and driving intent, almost all major manufacturers have strong short course lineups that provide a thrill regardless. And thanks to the scale looks emulating real trophy trucks, short course models double as attractive shelf queens when not tearing up tracks.

As RC interest continues gaining momentum, the classic short course formula ensures first-time buyers and seasoned veterans alike have plenty of options to enjoy.