Getting Started

For on-road tarmac racing we have the Tamiya TT02 and Mini classes, which are a lot of fun without breaking the bank. The rules require the cars to be built "from the box", with a limited number of Hop-Ups (upgrade parts). This keeps everyone the same speed and makes for close racing. It’s less about the budget and more about the driver. Plus you get the beauty of a "real" GT body in the TT02 class.

The HBRC 'TT02 Spec' class and 'M07 Mini' class rule sheets are available below, on race days, or along side kitsets, parts, and tyres at CoolToys in Napier.

Off-road dirt racing classes are generally split into "Stock" and "Modified" flavours of each car type, with Stock classes running a higher turn (slower) 17.5t brushless or older style brushed motor. This gives drivers more manageable handling on the loose dirt, and a much smoother driving style.

The 4WD Stock Buggy and Short Course Truck classes are ideal for beginners. While these classes can include the latest and greatest chassis', there are "Ready to Race" kits, that come with basic electronics and a transmitter, won't break the bank, and are still competitive! The Traxxas "Slash" Short Course Truck is a great example, and is also available locally.

Tools, batteries, a battery charger, and a transmitter (radio controller) are also required. Most decent transmitters have multi-model memories, meaning they can be used for several cars. There is no need to have separate radios for each car.

A small Personal Transponder is recorded by the lap counting system as the car crosses the start/finish line. Each "PT" has a unique number code. While you can race without one, you will require one for your laps to be counted and for qualifying rounds to matter.

You also need a table and chair, and potentially a marquee. It can be a long day at the track, and the Hawke's Bay sun is often too much to endure without shelter.

All of the fancy extras such as laptops, tyre warmers, and set-up stations are not required for getting started.

 We are extremely lucky here in Hawke's Bay, with two dedicated national event-level track locations. We have a dirt off-road track located at Showgrounds Hawke's Bay, and a tarmac on-road track located at the Sylvan Road Netball Court facility in Hastings. With club race meets alternating roughly every two weeks, and track access for members to practice, there's no shortage of track time available. 

We have a dirt off-road track located at Showgrounds Hawke's Bay.

Hawke's Bay RC Car Club runs all nationally recognised classes in accordance with the NZRCA rule books. TT02 spech class and the TT01 Euro truck classes are also a club favourite and information can be found on the Club Classes page.

Track Set-Up - Power leads & boxes, club/sponsor banners, and lap counting equipment all need to be set up before any track use.

Open Practice (uncontrolled) - Be courteous to other drivers!

Track and Race Preparation - Track swept, sprayed or hosed, and corner mats and markers laid out.

Drivers Briefing - All drivers must attend.

Race Day Programme - Heat order, qualifying results, and final positions will be posted on the trackside boards when available, and can also be accessed live during the day at Live RC (Link below) 

Pack-Up - Club equipment (power leads, track markers, tables, etc) to be packed away, and all rubbish to be removed at the end of the day.