Traxxas UDR RC Truck Review: The Ultimate Dirt Torpedo

Introducing the Traxxas UDR: The Dirt Torpedo

In the world of remote control off-road vehicles, few brands command as much excitement and loyalty as Traxxas. Known for their innovative designs, rugged durability and unmatched performance, Traxxas models like the Slash, Rustler, and X-Maxx have become icons within the RC community.

The latest offering from Traxxas builds on their tradition of boundary-pushing vehicles designed to tame the most rugged terrain. Dubbed the "Dirt Torpedo", the all-new Traxxas UDR lives up to the hype surrounding its release earlier this year.

The Beastly Design of the UDR

Like most Traxxas trucks, the UDR features an imposing silhouette thanks to its officially licensed FOX shocks and beefy tires. But unlike previous Trophy Truck-inspired designs, the focus of the UDR is delivering maximum versatility across a range of environments.

This versatility manifests through several key design elements. The wheelbase stretches to 21 inches while the ground clearance exceeds 4 inches even at a ride height of 3.4 inches. Combined with a robust suspension travel of nearly 7 inches, the UDR tackles uneven and rutted terrain with astonishing finesse.

Unmatched Performance & Durability

Powering the UDR is a sensorless Velineon 1600kV brushed motor that delivers explosive acceleration thanks to the included 4900kV motor cap and 175A ESC. Waterproof electronics and an ingenious modular design allow the rig to withstand heavy impacts and abuse that would cripple most hobby-grade RC vehicles.

Early adopters praised the UDR's combination of performance, durability, and driving excitement. Comments from experienced RC enthusiasts using the truck in a range of environments echo the same sentiment: This is the most durable, fastest, and highest jumping production Trophy Truck that Traxxas has ever released.

Conquering the Great Outdoors

While purpose-built short course trucks and stadium racers have their appeal, there's something magical about watching a remote controlled vehicle blast across open dirt, sand, mud and snow. The Traxxas UDR enables drivers to push the extremes of what's possible driving an RC vehicle in the great outdoors.

Desert Running

Transitioning between packed dirt and loose sand requires advanced suspension and thoughtful driving techniques. The UDR's long-travel suspension soaks up vibrations and keeps the tires planted even at high speeds. Beefy tires with aggressive tread patterns allow the Dirt Torpedo to find traction and maintain momentum across punishing desert terrain.

Mud Slinging

Many RC enthusiasts love seeking out muddy terrain to really test their driving skills. Deep ruts filled with muddy water can stop lesser vehicles dead in their tracks. But the UDR powers through thanks to its ample ground clearance and watertight electronics. Careful throttle modulation prevents buried tires, allowing the vehicle to sling mud as it conquers adverse conditions.

Hill Climbing

While stadium trucks and short course vehicles excel on flat ground, climbing steep embankments presents an entirely new challenge. The UDR's low-hanging FOX Racing Shox require thoughtful line choice and limit extreme uphill approaches. But the ample torque and traction afforded by the Velineon power system allows the vehicle to scramble up surprisingly steep pitches.

And the FOX shocks really shine when cresting a hill at speed. Their smooth action maintains composure allowing the Dirt Torpedo to launch skyward as it transitions over the peak.

Pushing Limits with the UDR

Massive Air

While videos of RC vehicles catching epic air make for great social media content, balancing maximum height with a safe landing takes expertise. Fortunately the UDR can handle sky-high jumps and hard landings thanks to its robust chassis, smooth suspension action, and ability to soak up heavy impacts.

Early user-generated videos already show the vehicle launching over 60 feet into the air off custom dirt jumps. Expect even bigger air as drivers get more familiar with the new rig's capability and grow accustomed to modulating the throttle mid-flight.

High Speed Runs

Blasting across open spaces allows 1/10 scale RC rigs to really strut their stuff. The UDR's sensorless 1600kV power system provides startling acceleration thanks to the Velineon motor's unique design. Early testing showed the rig exceeding 50 MPH on 6S LiPo power across flat ground.

Upgrading to 8S power unlocks the vehicle's full potential with top speeds approaching 60 MPH. Careful gearing adjustments allow the truck to fine tune straight line speed while maintaining usable low end power.

Wrapping Up

Even among a range of fast, durable and great performing Traxxas models, the innovative new UDR manages to stand out. This versatile desert racing rig provides an unmatched combination of speed, durability and realism that makes driving it a blast.

With the ability to tackle the roughest terrain and stick the biggest landings, calling the UDR a "Dirt Torpedo" is fitting. This purpose-built rig seems tailor made to conquer any environment it encounters while making its driver smile ear to ear.

FAQs

What is the Traxxas UDR?

The Traxxas UDR (Ultimate Desert Racer) is a 1/10 scale remote control trophy truck designed for high speed off road driving. It's known for its strength, huge air, versatility across different types of terrain, and ability to handle massive impacts.

Why is the Traxxas UDR called the "Dirt Torpedo"?

With its tremendous acceleration, giant air, and plowing ability through rough environments like dirt, mud and sand, the Traxxas UDR earned the nickname "Dirt Torpedo" for its ruthless velocities across all types of messy terrain.

What features allow the UDR to tackle such rough terrain?

Key features include long suspension travel to soak up big jumps, ample ground clearance to prevent bottoming out, waterproof electronics to survive splashes and mud, a strong composite chassis, and FOX Racing Shox for controlled landings off big air.

How fast can the Traxxas UDR go?

On 6S power, the UDR can reach over 50MPH. With optional 8S power and proper gearing, speeds of 60+ MPH are possible on flat ground for maximum high speed thrills. Careful adjustments are necessary to balance speeds and acceleration.