10 Things You Need to Know Before Getting Into RC in Malta
Starting a new hobby is always exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Everyone has advice, recommendations, and strong opinions about what you should buy or do first. While most of it comes from good intentions, it can sometimes be confusing or even intimidating. We believe radio control (RC) is one of the most rewarding hobbies in the world. It brings together creativity, engineering, and pure fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned racer, RC has something for everyone.
To help new enthusiasts in Malta, we’ve put together this guide: 10 Things You Need to Know Before You Get Into RC.
1. There’s an RC for Everyone
From RC drift cars in parking lots to monster trucks on dirt, from scale trucks on trails to speed demons on the drag strip there’s something for every taste. Here in Malta, RC communities are active in circuit racing, drifting, crawling, drag racing, offroad and even bashing. Don’t be afraid to try different areas of the hobby until you find the one that excites you most.
2. Safety First – RCs Are Not Toys
While RCs may look like “toys,” they can be very powerful. A 5 scale car can weigh over 15kg and hit 60km/h easily. High-powered cars demand respect. Always follow safety guidelines, especially with LiPo batteries, which need careful charging and storage. If introducing kids to RC, always supervise—it’s fun, but safety comes first.
3. Costs Go Beyond the Box
Buying your first RC kit (RTR – Ready to Run) is just the beginning. You’ll quickly find that you need extra batteries, a better charger, tools, spare tires, and replacement parts. It’s worth investing in quality tools and equipment early—they save you frustration and money in the long run.
4. Things Break – Don’t Give Up!
RC vehicles are designed to be repaired. Unlike cheap toy-grade cars, hobby-grade RCs have spare parts for everything. Broke a suspension arm? No problem—you can replace it in minutes. Instead of returning your RC when something breaks, learn basic repairs—it’s part of the fun.
5. Do Your Research
There’s a lot of choice in the RC world. Before buying, read reviews, watch videos, and—most importantly—talk to other hobbyists in Malta. Better yet, visit local RC clubs or shops to see what others are running. You’ll get hands-on advice.
6. Stick With Reputable Brands
Tempted by a cheap RC online? Be careful. Unknown brands often have poor parts support and limited durability. Established names like Traxxas, Arrma, LOSI, Hobao, Tamiya, HPI, and Team Associated have strong communities and easy-to-find spares. A slightly higher initial cost usually means fewer headaches and much more enjoyment.
7. Electric or Nitro?
In Malta, the majority of enthusiasts run electric RCs—they’re fast, quiet, low-maintenance, and easy to run anywhere. Nitro (fuel-powered) RCs are noisy and produce smoke which is not always welcome in most places around Malta. There is also a tuning challenge to get it to run reliably. If it’s your first RC, electric is the best way to get started.
8. Make the Most of Your Surroundings
Malta may be small, but there are plenty of spots to enjoy RC. From open car parks for drifting, countryside paths for crawlers, to dirt tracks for off-road buggies, you’ll always find a place to run. The key is to be creative and make the most of what’s around you.
9. Maintenance Is Part of the Hobby
RCs need care—just like full-size cars. After a dusty off-road run, clean your car. Check the bearings, shocks, and drivetrain regularly. Keep an eye on tires, clutches, and gears. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your RC running smoothly and saving money on repairs.
10. Pure Fun
Don’t let the details scare you—RC is one of the most exciting hobbies out there. Whether it’s crawling on the Maltese coast line, drag racing at Ta Qali, or drifting in a car park with friends, the hobby will give you hours of fun and unforgettable memories. The RC community in Malta is welcoming, helpful, and always ready to share tips, tools, or even spare parts.
Conclusion
We hope this guide helps you get started with confidence. RC is full of possibilities. Whether you’re bashing, racing, crawling, drifting, or racing, remember: the only limit is your imagination.