|
The Micro-Z XR1 is a very well made clone for the money. I just bought a few for xmas presents for several friends. However, after running it a little while, I may be returning it.
The steering is extremely precise and capable. It's even better than the Microsizers, and they seem to have the market cornered on steering.
The Micro-Z also seemed to trail very straight and steer perfectly straight and smooth. It was very quiet and solid, compared to my super fast Nakamichi nracers.
I just bought out the last of the Nakamichi racers at the local grocery chain that was handling them here in town. They're all spoken for.
I guess that it's not really fair to compare these cars to the Naks. The Naks are on their own planet from a value, speed and engineering standpoint.
But the Micro-Z has some cool engineering going for it, also. The PCB is tiny, and the steering is very solid. The shorter body is effective for the handling. Also, the telescoping antenna is nice, but I wish that it retracted all of the way into the body. Hey, under $8.
My biggest problem with the Micro-Z is the low speed torque. At times, the gearing and the lack of starting out power almost won't even get the car going. If you're racing tracks like mine, you need that kind of power to get you going if you end up along a guardrail, moving or sitting still. This little car just doesn't have it. Now, once it gets going, the speed comes along. But, with a running start, my Nak matches it from a dead stop instantly. And then the Nak goes to work, and passes the Micro-Z.
Under $8.
The Micro-Z also takes much longer to charge than the other brands, about 2 minutes.
Under $8.
If you're buying this car for running on a flat surface, without the walls or guardrails of a track, then it's a great choice.
But for the tracks, stick with the stock Nakamichi nracer or the upgraded Microsizers/Bits siblings. If you can find the Naks for the $12 that I've been finding them for, it's definitely worth the extra few bucks.
__________________
JF
|