FTX TRACER 1/16 4WD MONSTER TRUCK RTR - RED FTX5576R

Overview

Get ready for some big RC off-road action with the FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Monster Truck RTR in striking red. This pocket rocket is the perfect entry point into the world of RC cars, delivering genuine off-road thrills in a compact, manageable package that's ideal for beginners and experienced bashers alike. Whether you're new to RC car UK hobbyists or looking for a nimble, fun ready to run RC truck for weekend bashing, the Tracer combines impressive engineering with user-friendly features that make it accessible and genuinely enjoyable from day one.

The FTX Tracer stands out as a ready to run RC model that doesn't compromise on capability. Powered by a 390 sized brushed motor and equipped with a micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion battery, this electric RC truck delivers fast, nimble acceleration perfect for jumping, bashing and exploring rough terrain. The included speed switch is a game-changer for new drivers, allowing you to dial back the performance until you've built confidence, making this one of the most beginner-friendly ready to run RC cars available today.

What sets the Tracer apart from other budget-conscious RC trucks is its serious engineering credentials. A shaft-driven 4WD system with front and rear geared differentials ensures dependable traction in all conditions. The double wishbone suspension with coil sprung shock absorbers and multiple mounting points keeps the truck composed over ruts, bumps and jump landings. Combined with oversized wheels featuring block pattern tyres, low friction ball bearings and front universal CVA driveshafts, the Tracer is engineered to handle whatever terrain you throw at it whilst maintaining smooth, predictable control.

Key Features

• Shaft-Driven 4WD with Geared Differentials — The Tracer uses a full-time four-wheel drive system with geared differentials at both front and rear, ensuring balanced torque distribution and reliable traction across loose, muddy and mixed terrain. This is a serious off-road layout that punches well above its weight class.
• Double Wishbone Suspension — Professional-quality suspension geometry delivers consistent handling characteristics, ensuring the truck stays planted during cornering and maintains stability when landing from jumps. This level of suspension engineering is rarely seen on entry-level ready to run RC vehicles.
• Coil Sprung Shock Absorbers with Multiple Mounting Points — The adjustable coil spring shocks allow you to fine-tune damping and ride response for different terrain types and driving styles. Multiple mounting points mean you're not locked into one setup, giving the Tracer genuine customisation potential as you develop your skills.
• RC390 Brushed Motor with Heatsink — A proven, dependable motor size that delivers responsive acceleration and manageable power delivery. The integrated heatsink ensures thermal management during extended bashing sessions, protecting the motor from overheating.
• Micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion Battery with USB Charger — Lightweight, compact battery pack that provides genuine runtime for recreational bashing. The included USB charger means you can recharge from any standard power source, and the 2S format is industry-standard for this class of RC truck.
• Speed Switch for New Drivers — One of the most thoughtful features on the Tracer, this switch allows beginners to reduce overall throttle response and top speed, making the truck more manageable whilst learning control inputs. As confidence builds, you simply flip the switch to unlock full performance.
• 2.4GHz Radio System with Fully Proportional Controls — Modern 2.4GHz frequency means interference-free operation, and fully proportional throttle and steering inputs give you smooth, predictable control across the full range of movement. This is genuine RC control, not binary on-off switching.
• Splashproof ESC and Receiver Unit — Weather-resistant electronics mean the Tracer can handle damp conditions, light rain and splashes from puddles without worry. This is crucial for genuine outdoor play and bashing.
• Splashproof 1kg Rated Servo — A robust servo that can handle the demands of steering a 4WD truck through rough terrain, with weather protection for outdoor reliability.
• Front and Rear Universal CVA Driveshafts — The front universal joints allow smooth suspension articulation without binding, essential for maintaining steering response even when the suspension is fully compressed or extended over obstacles.
• Low Friction Ball Bearings Throughout — Precision ball bearings reduce friction and ensure smooth power delivery, improving efficiency, responsiveness and overall performance across all drivetrain components.
• Oversized Wheels with Block Pattern Tyres — The 78mm diameter x 41mm width tyres provide genuine grip on loose surfaces whilst the block pattern tread offers bite on grass, gravel and dirt. Larger diameter wheels also help the truck clear small obstacles and maintain ground clearance over rough terrain.
• Plug-In Front LED Bumper Lights — Included LED lights simply plug into the truck's power system, allowing you to enjoy dusk and evening driving sessions with improved visibility. A practical and fun feature that extends your RC enjoyment beyond daylight hours.
• 99% Ready-To-Run Configuration — Unbox the Tracer and you're ready to go within minutes. Everything is assembled, configured and tested at the factory, eliminating assembly complexity and getting you bashing immediately.
• Detailed Red 4x4 Off-Road Truck Bodyshell — The realistic truck body is colour-matched in vibrant red, featuring detailed sculpting that captures the essence of a full-size monster truck. Replacement bodyshells are available, allowing you to refresh your truck's appearance or choose alternative colour schemes.
• Compact Design for Easy Control — At 270mm in length, 215mm in width and only 130mm tall, the Tracer is genuinely pocket-sized, making it easy to transport, store and control in smaller spaces. The 17.5cm wheelbase contributes to straight-line stability whilst enabling nimble cornering.

Technical Performance

The FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Monster Truck is engineered with genuine off-road capability in a package designed for genuine everyday enjoyment. The RC390 brushed motor paired with the micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion battery creates a responsive, nimble power delivery that suits the truck's size and intended use perfectly. The brushed motor format is proven and reliable, delivering consistent performance across numerous charge cycles, whilst the integrated heatsink ensures thermal management during extended sessions. The splashproof ESC and receiver unit provide weather resistance, crucial for outdoor use, and the fully proportional control system means steering and throttle inputs are smooth and predictable rather than binary or twitchy. The 1:10.71 gear ratio balances speed with acceleration, ensuring the Tracer feels quick and responsive without sacrificing control or runtime. The double wishbone suspension geometry, combined with coil sprung shock absorbers featuring multiple mounting points, delivers the kind of handling consistency you'd expect from far more expensive platforms. Front universal CVA driveshafts ensure smooth suspension articulation without binding, whilst low friction ball bearings throughout the drivetrain minimise drag and maximise efficiency. The shaft-driven 4WD system with geared differentials at both front and rear provides genuine torque distribution and traction in all conditions — this isn't a simple 4WD gimmick but a properly engineered layout. At 740 grams, the Tracer is light enough for nimble response yet substantial enough to feel planted and predictable. The 38mm ground clearance clears small obstacles and ruts, whilst the 78mm diameter oversized tyres with block pattern tread provide genuine grip on loose surfaces. Everything about the Tracer's engineering reflects FTX's understanding that entry-level RC vehicles need to deliver genuine fun without overwhelming new drivers or compromising on capability.

What's in the Box

• FTX Tracer 1/16 4WD Monster Truck — fully assembled and ready to run in red
• Micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion Battery
• USB Charger for battery recharging
• 2.4GHz Radio Control System
• Receiver and ESC unit
• Servo
• Front LED Bumper Lights with plug connector
• Instruction manual
• All necessary tools for basic maintenance and adjustment

What You Need to Complete

• Two AA batteries for the radio controller (not included with this RTR kit)
• Optional: High-capacity FTX Tracer Li-Ion 7.4V 1500mAh battery for extended runtime
• Optional: FTX Tracer Aluminium Capped Oil Filled Shocks for upgraded suspension tuning

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the FTX Tracer 1/16 suitable for absolute beginners to RC cars? — Yes, absolutely. The Tracer is specifically designed as an entry-level ready to run RC truck. The included speed switch lets you reduce performance until you've built confidence with throttle and steering inputs, the 2.4GHz proportional control system is intuitive, and the 99% ready-to-run configuration means no assembly headaches. The truck's double wishbone suspension and 4WD system provide genuine stability even for inexperienced drivers.
• What battery does the FTX Tracer need and how long does it take to charge? — The Tracer comes with a micro 7.4V 800mAh 2S Li-Ion battery. Charge time depends on your USB charger specification, but typical USB charging takes approximately 1-2 hours for a full charge. The battery connector is standard XT30 format. If you want extended runtime, FTX offers a high-capacity 1500mAh upgrade battery.
• How fast is the FTX Tracer 1/16? — Whilst top speed figures aren't specified by FTX, the 1:10.71 gear ratio and 390 brushed motor combination delivers genuinely nimble acceleration. The included speed switch allows you to reduce maximum speed for learning, then unlock full performance once confident. For precise speed testing, performance will vary based on terrain, battery charge state and driving technique.
• What makes this better than other budget ready to run RC trucks? — The Tracer combines serious engineering with beginner accessibility. Shaft-driven 4WD with geared differentials, double wishbone suspension with adjustable coil sprung shocks, front universal driveshafts, and low friction ball bearings are specifications you'd expect on trucks costing significantly more. The speed switch, LED lights, splashproof electronics and comprehensive suspension tuning options set it apart from competitors offering little more than basic drive and steering.
• Can I upgrade the Tracer's drivetrain? — Yes. FTX supplies an upgrade kit including a centre driveshaft with cups, machined metal spur gear and machined metal differential gears. The platform genuinely scales and develops as you progress.
• Is the FTX Tracer waterproof? — The ESC/receiver unit and servo are rated splashproof, meaning they can handle damp conditions, light rain and splashes. Full waterproofing is not claimed, so avoid deliberately submerging the truck in water.
• What colour options are available for the FTX Tracer 1/16? — The truck is available in red, blue and orange bodyshell colours, allowing you to bash with friends and family with differently coloured trucks on the same platform.
• Does the Tracer come with a charger? — Yes, a USB charger is included in the box, allowing you to recharge the 7.4V 800mAh battery from any standard USB power source.
• What size wheels and tyres does the Tracer use? — The Tracer is fitted with oversized 78mm diameter x 41mm width tyres featuring block pattern tread. These sizes provide genuine grip on loose surfaces and help the truck maintain ground clearance over rough terrain.

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 4WD MONSTER TRUCK RTR - RED FTX5576R 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.