Driver updates: Clint
It’s been some busy weeks testing and tuning. Here’s what I’ve been noodling on and happy to answer any questions you might have. Links in the comments.
Project #1: XB1-083 or Xbility Axle Tray for –1 mm Knuckles (XB1-083) testing.
Mounted it on two kits for testing over the last 2 weeks of track testing and racing. A standard steel chassis / Nova lexan body and a similar build with a pan body. I can see the difference almost immediately in terms of how the cars rotates in and out of the corner. I went BACK to the original knuckles/pod on the sedan and I’ll be honest I prefer how the car rotates with the original knuckles and I’m keeping them on the Pan car build.
I’ve confirmed that drivers should consider this a tuning option that needs to be harmonious with other factors of your build (including tires). It will calm the front so if you already have a very calm front, it might be a bit much.
TIP: I’d order some additional cups for the install. Some of my cups were a little loose and having a few fresh plastic cups might serve you well.
Project #2: XB1-092 Xbility Nova GT Bumper Kit (3 pcs)
I’ve been testing a 3d print of the -1 bumper for a few months so I already had a good sense of what that would give me. For those that are skeptical, YES it does affect the feel of the car.
My curiosity was with the -2. After testing, I felt the -2 didn’t feel great for me and I flipped BACK to the -1. Like above, consider it a tuning option and test them all to see what it does for you. I might try the -2 again now that I’m back to the original knuckles.
The weights…. I tried both the 2 and 1 gram options in a forward and rear position. I think I preferred the 1g, full front option the best. I don’t think I was faster, but the car was more predictable in and out of the corners and my consistency increased. This might be a great option to toss on as the track grips up on race night and you don’t need hot-lap speeds.
Project #3: Radbody Piranha
I don’t do much hard body racing these days but having ANYTHING different Han the Jom body was worth some testing. Overall the body seems fine. Much lower in profile and it feels as close to a lexan body as any hardbody I’ve tested. It’s was hoping for slightly lighter but it’s fine.
The side clip design seems good but I skipped it all and went for body posts. The rear markers fit perfect for the rear posts on the XB1! My front bumper solution is a bit of a mix of some old Atomic bumper mount and some posts from reflex. Finding the mount position was pretty easy and everything fits pretty well. Looking forward to see if we get a bumper set released for the Piranha like the newly released Jon numbers. I’ve asked for it!
Project #4: XB-F1
I continue to put the time in on this kit. I’ve got a slightly old testing kit but I’m discovering a great deal as I get more and more time on the track. My first observations has been how well my 98mm setups are translating to the F1 kit. Things I’m doing to help drivability on one car has been very translatable to the other. This might sound silly but you have to understand my history with the F1 for the last few years. Having a solution that I can build on is extremely rewarding. It helps a great deal that the kits share so much DNA including front and rear ends, springs, etc.
I really can’t wait to try the updated kit that was shown at Worlds. Hoping to get one soon.
UP next…
I get the setup station today and looking forward to learning how it can help further my tuning ability. It’s going to be such fun to put all my cars on the station to see all my errors!
I’m also putting some decent time on a project for the team. I can’t tell you how great these dudes are. The team chats and calls with José are a highlight of my weeks. They are all so positive and excited to be working on these projects. Very refreshing. Stay tuned but I think everything will really like what’s coming.
Links:
https://xbilityrc.com/product/xb1-092-xbility-nova-gt-bumper-kit-3-pcs/
https://xbilityrc.com/product/xb1-083-xbility-axle-tray-for-1-mm-knuckles/
https://xbilityrc.com/product/xb1-015-xbility-plastic-knuckle-ball-cap-nut-for-xbone-10pcs/