Overview

Get ready for some big RC off-road action with the FTX Tracer 1/16 Brushed 4WD Truggy with LED Lights – a pocket rocket that delivers genuine performance and fun for RC enthusiasts of all ages. The perfect entry into the world of RC cars, this ready to run RC model combines accessible pricing with impressive engineering, making it an ideal choice for beginners discovering RC for the first time, as well as experienced bashers looking for a nimble, durable platform. The Tracer Truggy represents excellent value as a UK ready-to-run RC car, featuring thoughtful design elements that make it manageable for new drivers whilst retaining the speed and agility that makes RC off-road vehicles so addictive.

This 1/16 scale brushed 4WD truggy is engineered for real-world performance across varied terrain, whether you're bashing in the garden, jumping over obstacles, or exploring rough ground. With its distinctive low-slung truggy stance, oversized block pattern tyres, and detailed truck bodyshell, the Tracer looks the part and performs impressively. The inclusion of working LED lights means you can continue your RC adventures into the evening as light fades, transforming dusk driving into an exciting new experience. Available in multiple colour schemes including this striking green finish, you and your friends can even bash together with different colourways of the same platform.

FTX has invested considerable thought into making this RC truggy accessible without compromising on build quality or performance. The splashproof electronics mean you need not worry about light rain or wet grass, whilst the detailed engineering underneath ensures smooth, predictable handling that helps newer drivers build confidence quickly. Whether you're purchasing your first ready to run RC car or adding to an existing collection, the Tracer 1/16 brushed truggy offers genuine value and reliable performance that will keep you entertained for months and years to come.

Key Features

• 99% Ready-To-Run Configuration — The Tracer arrives almost completely assembled and ready to bash straight from the box, requiring minimal setup before your first drive. This means you can spend more time enjoying your RC experience and less time on assembly and calibration, making it perfect for those new to the hobby.
• 2.4GHz Digital Radio System — The included 2.4GHz radio system provides reliable, interference-free control across a useful operating range, with fully proportional throttle and steering that gives you intuitive, responsive command of your RC car in all driving conditions.
• Shaft-Driven 4WD with Geared Differentials — This sophisticated drivetrain layout ensures power reaches all four wheels efficiently, with front and rear geared differentials providing genuine traction in varied terrain and conditions, helping you maintain control whether you're accelerating hard or navigating technical sections.
• Double Wishbone Suspension with Coil Springs — The advanced suspension geometry featuring double wishbones front and rear, combined with coil spring shock absorbers with multiple mounting points, delivers smooth articulation and consistent handling while steering through rough terrain, absorbing impacts cleanly and maintaining predictable behaviour.
• Front CVA Driveshafts — The constant-velocity axle driveshafts at the front allow smooth suspension movement without binding or loss of power transmission during cornering and bumps, a feature typically found in more expensive RC models that enhances both performance and longevity.
• Splashproof Electronics — Both the ESC/receiver unit and the 1kg-rated servo feature splashproof construction, allowing you to drive through wet grass, light rain, and damp conditions without fear of electrical failure, expanding where and when you can enjoy your RC truggy.
• RC390 Brushed Motor with Heatsink — This proven motor size delivers a perfect balance of speed and runtime, with integrated heatsink to manage thermal build-up during extended driving sessions, ensuring consistent performance throughout the day.
• Speed Switch for New Drivers — Included is a speed switch that allows you to dial down the power output, making the Tracer more manageable for drivers new to RC and helping build confidence before pushing towards maximum performance.
• Plug-In Front LED Bumper Lights — Working LED lights integrated into the front bumper are included and simply plug in for dusk and evening driving, transforming your RC experience and adding an extra dimension of fun as light fades.
• Oversized Block Pattern Tyres — The ø78mm diameter tyres with aggressive block pattern tread provide genuine grip across varied surfaces whilst offering excellent impact absorption for jumping and rough terrain, reducing flat-spot wear compared to smaller, harder compounds.
• Low Friction Ball Bearings — Throughout the chassis and drivetrain, low friction ball bearings minimise resistance and drag, contributing to responsive handling and maximising battery runtime on each charge.
• Micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion Battery — The included lithium-ion battery provides dependable power with good discharge characteristics, eliminating the memory effect issues of older battery types and offering reliable performance session after session.
• USB Charger Included — The simple USB charging solution means you can charge anywhere with a USB power source, making it convenient to top up your battery at home, in the car, or even at the RC track.
• Detailed 4x4 Off-Road Truck Bodyshell — The realistic truck-inspired bodyshell is not just cosmetic; it provides genuine aerodynamic benefit and durability whilst looking authentic and purposeful on the trail.
• Range of Upgrade Options Available — The Tracer platform supports numerous hop-up parts and upgrade options, meaning your RC car can evolve with your driving skills and preferences over time, from suspension upgrades to drivetrain enhancements.

Technical Performance

The FTX Tracer 1/16 brushed 4WD truggy is engineered as a genuine 4WD system with sophisticated architecture that belies its compact 1/16 scale and accessible price point. At the heart lies an RC390 brushed motor with integrated heatsink, paired to a transmission delivering a 1:10.71 gear ratio that provides the perfect balance between top speed capability and acceleration response. The micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S lithium-ion battery ensures decent runtime for extended bashing sessions, whilst the included USB charger makes battery management straightforward. The splashproof ESC/receiver unit is rated for 1kg load on the servo, indicating robust engineering capable of handling the impacts and stresses of off-road driving. Suspension travel is smooth and controlled thanks to the coil spring shock absorbers with multiple mounting points allowing fine-tuning, whilst the double wishbone configuration front and rear ensures consistent articulation and minimal geometry changes as the chassis moves through its range. The ø78mm x 41mm block pattern tyres, combined with 38mm ground clearance and 175mm wheelbase, give this 740g machine genuine capability over bumpy, uneven terrain. Low friction ball bearings throughout the drivetrain minimise drag and maximise efficiency, whilst the front CVA driveshafts represent an engineering feature rarely seen at this price point, allowing truly smooth suspension action without power loss during cornering and suspension articulation. The splashproof design means light rain and damp grass present no challenge, opening up year-round driving possibilities across the UK. This is a vehicle built to be bashed hard, taking the inevitable impacts and mistakes that come with learning RC driving, whilst remaining reliable and durable season after season.

What's in the Box

• FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Truggy chassis and bodyshell (99% assembled)
• RC390 brushed motor with heatsink
• Splashproof ESC/receiver unit
• 2.4GHz radio control system with transmitter
• Splashproof 1kg-rated servo
• Coil spring shock absorbers (assembled)
• Front and rear geared differentials
• Micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion battery
• USB battery charger
• Plug-in front LED bumper lights
• Oversized block pattern tyres and wheels
• Detailed 4x4 truck bodyshell (green)

What You Need to Complete

• Two AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter controller (not included)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the FTX Tracer 1/16 brushed truggy suitable for beginners and children? — Yes, absolutely. This ready-to-run RC car is specifically designed as an entry-level model, arriving 99% assembled and requiring no building skills. The included speed switch allows you to dial down power output, making the Tracer more manageable for newer drivers building confidence. The 2.4GHz radio system provides intuitive, fully proportional throttle and steering control, and the comprehensive suspension ensures predictable, forgiving handling characteristics. Parents and new enthusiasts will find the Tracer responsive and fun to drive without being overwhelming or dangerous.
• What battery does the FTX Tracer 1/16 truggy need, and how long does it run? — The Tracer comes with a micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S lithium-ion battery included in the box, so you can drive immediately. The 800mAh capacity provides decent runtime for backyard bashing sessions, typically 15-20 minutes of mixed driving depending on throttle usage. The included USB charger makes it simple to recharge anywhere with USB power, and you can purchase additional 2S batteries to extend your driving time without waiting for recharges.
• Can I drive the FTX Tracer 1/16 in wet conditions and rain? — Yes, both the ESC/receiver unit and servo feature splashproof construction, meaning the Tracer can handle light rain, damp grass, and wet conditions without electrical failure. This splashproof rating significantly expands your driving opportunities across the UK climate, allowing you to enjoy RC bashing even during typical British weather. However, we recommend avoiding deep water or sustained immersion, as splashproof protection differs from fully waterproof design.
• How fast does the FTX Tracer 1/16 go? — The Tracer is designed for nimble, responsive off-road driving rather than pure speed. The RC390 brushed motor and 1:10.71 gear ratio provide fast, exciting performance suitable for jumping, tight cornering, and trail driving, with genuine acceleration that feels quick in person. The speed switch allows you to reduce power output for new drivers, or remove the limiter for maximum performance once you're confident.
• What makes this brushed motor 4WD truggy different from other ready-to-run RC cars at this price? — Several engineering features set the Tracer apart. The front CVA (constant-velocity axle) driveshafts are rarely found at this price point and allow truly smooth suspension movement without power loss. The double wishbone suspension geometry with coil spring shocks and multiple mounting points delivers suspension control more typical of more expensive models. The shaft-driven 4WD with geared differentials front and rear ensures genuine traction in varied terrain. Combined with splashproof electronics, low friction bearings throughout, and included LED lights, the Tracer offers genuine value and engineering depth that punches above its price bracket.
• Can I upgrade and modify the FTX Tracer 1/16? — Yes, FTX offers a range of hop-up parts and upgrade options specifically designed for the Tracer platform. These include aluminium shock options, machined metal spur gears, and drivetrain upgrades that allow you to customise performance and durability as your skills develop and your preferences evolve. The modular design means your RC car can grow and improve alongside your enthusiasm for the hobby.
• What controller batteries does the transmitter need? — The included 2.4GHz radio transmitter requires two AA alkaline batteries, which are not included in the box. Common AA batteries from any supermarket will work perfectly; we recommend having spare AA batteries on hand for extended driving sessions.
• Is the FTX Tracer available in other colours? — Yes, the Tracer platform is available in multiple colour schemes including orange and red options, allowing you and your friends to bash together in different colours. There is also a Tracer Truck variant on the same platform if you prefer a different body style.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the FTX Tracer 1/16 Brushed 4WD Truggy with LED Lights – FTX5577G today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.