The Traxxas Stampede is a favorite electric monster truck choice among many, including myself. (See my review of the previous Electric Stampede model.) The new features and rugged durability of the completely redesigned Stampede XL-5 allows for many hours of enjoyable RC driving, as well as being almost completely maintanence-free -- a big plus for first-time hobby-grade owners and the less mechanically inclined. Discover the major changes to the chassis, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, and engine of the Stampede XL-5 over its predecessor.
Chassis:
The chassis of the Traxxas Stampede XL-5 measures 16.25 inches long with a wheelbase of 10.63 inches. The front and rear track are the same at 12.75 inches. The total weight of this RC is 65.3 ounces which is a little over 4 lbs, and is 9.5 inches tall. The chassis type a modified tub made of composite nylon.
Transmission:
The Stampede XL-5 has a new Magnum 272 transmission with three gears and sealed ball bearings to guarantee its able to handle the output of the 12T Titan motor. It also has an optional 23-tooth pinion gear that is capable of taking this RC to speeds topping 30 mph.
Drivetrain:
The XL-5 drivetrain has a planetary differential type. The internal gear ratio is now 2.72 with a final drive of 12.34. The new gear pitch is now 48, which allows for smoother and quieter transfer of power output to extend the life of the drivetrain. Traxxas has now started to implement Revo technology into some of their other RC products including the Stampeed, due to the stability, durability, and proven reliability of the Revo.
Suspension:
The front shock length is classified as long and the rear shock length is classified as XXlong. The front and rear tires are now equipped with the Talon 2.8 inch tire design. The front and rear rims are now 2.8 inch Mirror-Chrome All-Stars. The steering design is still single point. The shock bodies have also been upgraded with the new nylon composite materials creating better durability and longer life span for the suspension.
Engine:
The 12-turn 550 modified brushed motor is equipped with the all new XL-5 electronic speed control system, which comes with three different settings. The Training mode setting allows the RC driver to only have a max output of power of up to 50% for forward and reverse. The Race mode allows you to only drive in a forward motion -- there is no use of reverse in this mode -- but still allows full power as well as braking.
The Sports setting allows full use of all controls as well as gives the RC driver all the power that the battery is capable of. This helps make the Stampede XL-5 a good choice for novice drivers. It allows them to ease into RC racing. This system is held down by numerous screws to the chassis. There is no more servo tape to worry about coming undone with heat, dirt, or collisions.
Traxxas Stampede Monster Trucks:
- Traxxas Stampede Electric: Stinger motor
- Traxxas Stampede Electric: Titan 12-Turn 550 Motor
- Traxxas Stampede Electric VXL: Brushless
- Traxxas Stampede Nitro: TRX Pro .15 Engine
