Scalectric news swiped from the guys next door

[ccobra]

[BRS Hobbies]

I think Scalextric may have made too many changes at once. It also seems a case of two steps forward and one step back.

The no brainer positive changes -
1) Changing the body and chassis for better body float.

2) Compatibility with Slot It tires.

3) Lighter weight body for better handling.

4) One body screw in the back.

On the fence with these changes -

1) The deeper guide flag which normally would be a good thing, but in this case, compatibilty with Scalextric Classic track and concerns if the bottom of the guide flag will hit the wires on the Scalextric Arc and Digital power base tracks. I understand that the guide flag can be trimmed but would much prefer two guide flag options included with each car.

2) The change to an inline motor configuration on all new cars. I think the motor configuration should be dependent on what is suitable for a specific class of car. The upcoming Javelin would be better served as a sidewinder to better match the previous classic Scalextric T/A cars.

In my opinion a step backward -

1) Looking at the example in the article, I do feel you lose a lot of detail going to a half tray interior. I would have preferred a 2/3 tray interior which would be a good compromise for both racers and collectors.

Best regards,
Brian

[chappy]

I think everyone on everything I have read about these changes makes valid points.
I think Brian you are closest to my line of thinking on this.
As for the Javelin which forms part of an existing series , it would have been preferable to stay sw.
Inline in the New BTCC dosent bother me at all, and the fact that the whole chassis will be dropped , and not just the motor are to match the magnet depth is good. It means a flat pan chassis if my reading is correct.
If Scalextric offer the 2 guides with their cars then it should look after the conflict of classic vs sport.
I will say I would be amazed if Scalextric designers gave us a guide that will hit parts on the digital track, but who knows.
One thing is certain, they did need to make some changes and I think overall they are positive and wish them nothing but the best.
As for inline or sidewinder in general, I dont thinkmthe difference will be that great, afterall Carrera has been very successful with inline.
Finally I would bet that with the depth of interior tray, it will make for an easier transition for tuners looking to go to Olifer and CG chassis changes.
Anyway time will tell.
But I am really looking forward to the new BTCC (British Touring Car Championship)releases.
Bob

[Austin]

The Javelin not coming with a inline is it ? That would be crap. I wouldn't even buy one then.

[Wobble]

[Austin]

Not condemning scalextric, sad the Javelin will not fit in the same class as the other Trans-am cars

[Wobble]

[chappy]

Well said Harry.
There are a lot of good cars out there by many good companies .
Carrera make great cars too, I only own about 20 or 30 of them well maybe 40, so it is just my opinion.
Oh and I own a load of other makes too which can all be made to, run better than they come out of the box with some very simple tweeks. But if I like a car I will search it out regardless of manufacture.
It is the variety that keeps this hobby interesting , and I hope that Scalextric keeps going as the competiton keeps the hobby improving .
I can't agree that Scalextric are better than Carrera or SCX , I have still got my old SCX Nascars, Carrera Nascars and GTs and Scalextric Legends etc and my Artin Stockers all which give me great satisfaction. Every car I have is for a reason, my latest being a Carrera BMW DTM which is a great car.
I am looking forward to Scalextrics release of the BTCC cars as I like that style too.
That is what make this hobby great , the availability of differnet cars and series by different manufacturers. It gives us choices and options .. :angry-soapbox: Okay Im off the soap box now.
Bob

[arroldn]

Inlines can't be all bad. In the 2014 DaVols Cup COT class 4 of the 5 top finishers were inline. When Carrera first brought out the NASCAR series a few people tried them but they just seems slow (heavy). Recently the series was won by an inline Carrera. When the series hit Nashville in 2015 5 of the top 5 finishers in the COY class were inlines. 4 SCXs and 1 inline Scaley Ford. Can you say throw-back. This series which was once Scaley sidewinder Chevy dominated has proven that any make can be made to win. However the COY class is was dominated by sidewinders in 2014.

As for the interior can only be a plus. I use SCX interiors in most builds. Now sometimes I cut the dash and rear section and put the driver on a piece of card stock as Harry recommends. But if it is light enough that might mean no interior changes. But weight is weight so they may get the surgery as well.

I'll buy the Javelin anyway.


Arrold

[chris]

With Adrian Norman leaving the company and their share prices plunging I'm just wondering if Scalextric are trying to consolidate their products and save money / time by not using so much plastic and fiddly assembly bits. If their 2016 releases come about I'll probably get eight or nine and the inline chassis and half interior doesn't worry me at all. Clubs I race in have had Tran-Am for years and the 'Aces' still veer towards a well dialled in SCX 'cuda which are inline.
As Harry said, the plate interior makes tuning heaps easier, won't have to grind out all that interior plastic on my Toranas, Escort MK1's and MGB's.

Chris.

[Abarth Mike]

[Abarth Mike]

[noddaz]

all new cars will have an inline motor fitted as standard. This configuration not only gives better weight distribution for the car but also means that both back wheels receive the power from the motor, with the gear on the rear axle.

I just don't know know what to say.

Hey! I really like that Mini!


I will have to get one of those.
Along with the Javelin! And I STILL want the anime Z4.


It will be a good year for slots...

Scott

[SpeedyNH]

I know. I commented on this inline rear axle thing on another forum- "now I know why all my Scaley sidewinders all want to turn right!" go figure.
speedy

[bobbyraz49]