In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to Indiana team driver, Adam Rayls!
1. When you first got into RC racing, what pro driver did you look up to and why? Or maybe there was a local/regional driver that you followed?
I would have to say Kinwald and Pavidis. My dad subscribed to every RC magazine there ever was. So I would read up and stare at the pics trying to spot all the cool trucks I could. There are so many regional guys I used to look up to, Jesse Robbers, Scott Burns, Rob Schafer, Chad Buffalo and Brian Dunbar.
2. In your opinion, what classes have you noticed that seem to be in a decline? And how would you try to resolve this so there is more participation?
I think the truck classes (Short Course and Stadium Truck) have obviously slowed. I think trying to make them spec classes is a good idea like the JConcepts INS series. 13.5 is plenty of motor for both classes. Both are fun classes and easy to drive. I think both will continue to be popular only in certain areas of the country. Both classes seem to get more difficult to drive the higher the grip is, like running slicks… which leads me to question number 3.
3. On many indoor dirt off-road tracks it seems like the hot ticket is to run slicks. Do you prefer slightly treaded tires or slicks? And why do you think things have moved this way?
I will ALWAYS prefer any tread over slicks. The cars get easier to drive, less on edge with tread. I think things have moved this way from car and tire development but also tracks looking to give racers the highest most consistent grip, watering more or the constant blowing off of the tracks. Racers now want the track to provide all the grip instead trying to tune their cars/tires to it. We could put the blowers down and let the track “develop”. Not all dirt across the country is equal so everyone will have to do what’s best for their tracks/racers.
4. If you have been racing for a while now you have probably glued up 100s of tires. So what gluing tips do you have for beginning racers?
Best tire gluing tips: use a clean rag with simple green to clean the bead of the tire first. Always use fresh glue! I typically put the rubber bands on then glue, but sometimes it’s easier to get started gluing without the band. Take your time! I actually prefer medium glue, it’s just what I’m used to. Always give the tires plenty of time to dry before running them or breaking them in.
5. You are obviously highly skilled when it comes to RC cars, but what is one skill or hidden talent that folks might be surprised to find out about you?
My biggest talent has been figuring out how to attend so many races a year and personal events while only getting 5 vacation days per year. Shout out to my employer haha. I used to collect comic books and have a decent little collection I’ve been sitting on.