Kyosho Ultima Review
If you were lucky enough in 1986 to have a Kyosho Ultima, then you had one of the top RC cars of that era. Luckily for all of us Kyosho started the vintage series. In 2019 Kyosho re-released the Ultima. Keeping the vintage look. They did make some performance upgrades from the 1986 version. In this review we will take a look at the 1/10 scale 2019 Ultima. A One of Kyosho’s most iconic 2wd buggies, and some of those changes.
The 2019 Ultima appearance is very true to the original of 1986. Still with a polycarbonate body, and driver cockpit. Although the wing is now made of resin and comes with 2 preset adjustable height settings, 3 and 6 degrees. The monocoque frame is now made from an aircraft grade aluminum alloy. Providing strength while still being lightweight. Keeping the Ultima upright through the jumps, and turns, is the double wishbone suspension, front and rear. With large capacity 12mm oil filled shocks, and resin molded shock towers. I may upgrade in the future to the carbon fiber shock towers. Nylon molded lower arms with threaded metal upper arms enable camber adjustments very easily. The 57T spur gear is also nylon molded plastic. All the other gears of the Ultima have been upgraded to metal. The gearbox is equipped with a slipper clutch to protect the gears from wear and tear due to load changes from poor traction or jumps. Other upgrades from the original 1986 design are the aluminum alloy motor guard. The old 3-piece wheel design was also replaced with a more durable, and rigid 1 piece wheel.
Unlike the Ultima of 1986, the 2019 version needs a few more things to get you on the road and running. 1st you will need a motor. Kyosho recommends a brushed 540. There are so many options on the market today. Most hobbyists have their preferred brands. You will have to get an ESC (electronic speed control) that is compatible with the motor you choose. Next you will need a transmitter and receiver, at least a 2-channel setup. Lastly, the batteries to power the car, and the transmitter. Make sure to use the recommended batteries from the ESC and transmitter manufacturers. They will be listed in the manuals.
Overall the Kyosho Ultima was at one point in time an RC car champion. It is still an amazing buggy, and very fun to drive. I have the 2019 re-release version. I highly recommend it. If you are thinking of getting one check out my links below. Ask any questions you may have about electronics or parts in the comments. If you have one, tell me some of your experiences, and what parts you have used in your Ultima.
