Pit Post: Can Post Race Analysis Make Our RC Cars Faster?

  Do we get enough analysis data from our RC cars?

RC racing is often hailed as a state-of-the-art hobby. With cutting-edge motors, batteries, and materials, our cars have been at the forefront of technology. Sometimes even ahead of the motor industry itself. Many RC racers proudly compare the sport to professional motorsport championships like Formula 1, pointing to the advanced setup options, aerodynamic designs, and strategic elements involved. In fact, some argue that RC cars offer even more setup possibilities than an F1 car. Yet, while Formula 1 teams rely heavily on data analysis, RC racing has yet to fully embrace this approach. Even at the highest levels of competition, chassis development often depends on racer feedback and basic lap time comparisons rather than comprehensive data-driven insights.

Surprisingly, this isn't just a matter of RC racing not being as high-profile as motorsport. Many other hobbies, even those seemingly unrelated to technology, have embraced data analysis to improve performance. Fishermen use advanced tech to analyse water conditions and river statistics; cyclists rely on onboard computers to monitor fitness and bike performance; golfers use devices to refine their swing; and chess players study computer-analysed games to develop strategies. If these hobbies can harness data to enhance performance, is RC racing missing an opportunity? Are we truly as advanced as we claim, or could data analysis take our racing to the next level?

Could Data Collection Improve Our RC Racing?

So, why don't we collect more race data? Is it because there’s no benefit? I strongly disagree. In fact, I believe there are numerous ways that data collection could help us improve our racing performance. Here are just a few possibilities:

1. Monitoring Motor Temperatures: This could be a game-changer when it comes to fine-tuning gear ratios. By tracking motor temperature in real-time, you could pinpoint the exact moment your motor starts to overheat during a race. With this information, you could adjust the gearing to avoid overheating in future races, keeping your car running efficiently and preventing unnecessary damage.
2. Monitoring Battery Consumption: This is another valuable tool for optimising performance. By tracking battery usage during races, you could identify whether your gearing is too aggressive, or if you have issues with poor battery performance or faulty electronics. 
3. Throttle Smoothness: A score or rating of throttle smoothness could be incredibly useful for assessing track conditions or comparing your performance to other racers. Smooth throttle control can also be an indicator of tire wear, as sudden throttle bursts or irregular inputs can cause uneven wear. By analysing this data, you could refine your driving technique to improve consistency and performance.
4. Steering Smoothness: Similar to throttle smoothness, a score for steering smoothness would show how many corrections you are making during a race. A high number of corrections could mean you’re losing valuable time, as constant adjustments can slow you down. Monitoring this could help you adjust your setup or driving style to be more efficient on the track.
5. Impact Detection: Imagine if your ESC or receiver could detect and log impacts. This could provide valuable insights into whether your car is taking too many hits, which could lead to wear or damage. Knowing when and where these impacts occur would help you make more informed decisions about how to prepare your car or whether additional checks are needed before the next run.

These are just a few ideas for how data collection could enhance our racing experience. The potential benefits go far beyond just improving lap times; it could help us fine-tune our setups, optimise our driving, and ensure we’re always prepared for the next race.

Is Post-Race Data Available from RC Manufacturers?

To see if any of the top brands were offering post-race analysis tools, I did some research into what’s currently available to RC racers.

Hobbywing claims that post-race data is available through their products, but after searching thoroughly, I couldn’t find any clear details or guides on how to effectively use this data to improve future performances. While it’s good to know that data is being collected, it would be helpful if there were more resources available to show how racers can leverage it for better results on the track.

Next, I looked into FlySky and their flagship Noble transmitter. The transmitter has lots of potential and boasts many features, but once again, I couldn’t find any specific information in the manual or on their website about how collected data can be used. The website highlights the transmitter's ability to offer real-time analysis, such as fuel simulations for nitro racing cars, but doesn’t provide much more detail on post-race data. I even reached out to a racer who owns one, and he was unsure if data analysis was actually possible.

Finally, I researched the new Elceram RC ESC range. These ESCs offer post-race analysis through an LCD display on the unit itself. They showcase data such as temperatures and voltages, with graphs and histograms, which look promising at first glance. However, similar to the other brands, there is no detailed explanation on how these data sets can be interpreted or used for performance improvement. The images of the data look promising, but without further guidance, it’s difficult to see how this could be practically applied by racers.

It’s clear that while some manufacturers are starting to offer post-race data features, there is a lack of comprehensive guidance or resources to help racers fully utilise this information. More transparency and support from these brands could make a significant difference in improving how we approach data analysis in RC racing.

What do Racers Think about Post Race Data Analysis?

I finished my investigation into the subject by asking our followers for their feedback. Racers have mixed views on whether we get enough data from our RC cars. For elite competitors in highly competitive fields, detailed telemetry and analysis can make a difference. However, many local racers believe the focus should be on improving consistency and driving skills rather than relying heavily on advanced tools or data.

Tools like setup stations, ride height gauges, and droop gauges are seen as essential for on-road racing, but advanced tools like motor dynos and scales may not be necessary for club-level racers. Some feel these tools can even be distracting if not used correctly, while others argue they are valuable learning aids for understanding setups and improving performance.

Reviewing race videos is widely regarded as one of the most effective ways to improve, helping racers identify mistakes and refine their technique. Simple metrics like lap times and sector data are also highly useful, while advanced telemetry, such as gyro or accelerometer logs, is better suited for tech-savvy racers or elite competitors.

Ultimately, the key takeaway is that consistency, practice, and having fun are more important than fixating on tools or data. For most racers, mastering the basics will bring the greatest improvement on the track.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, while RC racing has the potential to benefit greatly from post-race data analysis, the tools currently available from manufacturers are still lacking in detailed guidance and practical use. Many top brands offer data collection features, but without clear instructions on how to interpret and apply this information, racers are missing out on a key opportunity to improve their performance.

The potential for data analysis in RC racing is huge. From monitoring motor temperatures to analysing throttle and steering smoothness, there are plenty of ways that data could help us fine-tune our setups and become more consistent on the track. However, for this to truly take off, manufacturers need to provide more accessible and useful resources to help racers understand and make the most of the data they collect.

Until then, it’s up to us as racers to keep experimenting, sharing knowledge, and finding new ways to improve our skills. But with more development and support from manufacturers, we could see a future where data analysis becomes an integral part of every RC racer’s toolkit.

Next weeks Hot Topic will be: 

How Does Your RC Club Celebrate the Festive Season? 

The best RC clubs know how to bring festive cheer to the track! From simple chocolate prizes to fun-filled events, there’s always something special this time of year.

We’d love to hear about your experiences:

• What’s the best festive RC event you’ve attended?
• What made it so memorable?
• Have you ever won a festive prize or trophy?

Drop your stories in the comments, share your pictures, and let’s give a shoutout to the RC clubs spreading holiday joy on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/rcclubhub 

  RC Pit Talk: 

Is this this the next generation for Buggy Designs? - Agama N110

Excitement is building as Agama RC prepares to release the highly anticipated N110 1:10th 2WD Competition Buggy. With testing footage now live on the Nemo Racing Facebook page, this buggy is already making waves in the RC racing world.

The N110’s design is nothing short of striking, featuring laydown shocks both front and rear, a bold move that harkens back to the futuristic Tenth Tech Predator buggies from over three decades ago. Its sharp lines and forged carbon fibre construction not only add to its durability but also give it a premium, high-performance aesthetic.

The buggy’s geometry and layout build on the foundation of other popular 2WD designs but with a lower centre of gravity. This design tweak could give the N110 a competitive edge, particularly on high-grip tracks, provided the setup is dialled in correctly.

Scheduled for release in early 2025, the Agama N110 is shaping up to be a game-changer in the world of competition buggies. If you’re eager to secure one, pre-orders are now open on Nemo Racing.

For more information visit: Nemo Racing

Martin Hudy Shares Team XRAY’s Journey to the 2024 TC Worlds Victory

Martin Hudy, renowned designer, engineer, and racer for RC racing powerhouse XRAY, has shared a detailed look at Team XRAY’s incredible journey to victory at the 2024 1:10th Electric On-Road Touring Car World Championship. XRAY is one of the most successful manufacturers in RC racing, boasting multiple world titles across various disciplines, and this latest triumph adds to their legacy.

In November, Bruno Coelho and the rest of the XRAY team, achieved an extraordinary milestone by securing triple back-to-back titles. To celebrate, Martin took to Facebook to provide an in-depth account of how they prepared for and excelled at this prestigious event.

The posts, currently published in two parts, take readers behind the scenes, starting months before the championship. Martin describes the team’s rigorous testing, strategic planning, and adjustments that paved the way to their success. From the shift in chassis setup to adapting to high-grip track conditions, the insights shared are invaluable for RC racers alike.

If you’re interested in the technical side of RC racing or simply love hearing about what it takes to win at the highest level, Martin’s posts are a must-read. Follow him on Facebook for more fantastic updates and insider knowledge.

Martin Hudy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Martin.HudyRC 

Find out what happened in the 2024 Worlds here: https://www.rcclubhub.co.uk/index.php/rc-pit-post/pit-post-body-changes-for-12th-scale-rc-racing#world 

If you have a Pit Talk News you would like announcing, please email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 RC World News:

EWS International 2024 – Jefferies & Orlowski Battle Hard for the Title!

   Cool Wall Submissions

Neal Twitchen - Lime & Atom

Verdict: Great design, great picture, we also like a black spoiler. Welcome to the cool wall.      

Rob Ambrose - Green Bandit

Verdict: The car looks fun, we're just not sure about the colour and the picture angle could be better. Better luck next time. 

Jonathon Holden - Gulf Schumacher

Verdict: The iconic livery looks great on the Twister. Nice trackside picture and new addition to the cool wall.   

Check out our Cool Wall here: https://www.rcclubhub.co.uk/index.php/rc-pit-post/the-cool-wall 

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