In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to Wisconsin team driver, Matt Wilbert!
1. When and how did you get started in RC? And what class do you compete in or did you primarily bash your vehicles?
I first got involved in RC by going to my local hobby shop and bashing around a Traxxas Rustler in my backyard making sick ramps and breaking a lot of stuff. But once I found Trackside Hobbies and Raceway on YouTube that’s I bought my first race vehicle, a 22SCT RTC.
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 personally have seen a large decline in Mod 2wd Buggy especially at a local club race level. I just started really running Mod as I should but like me and many other fast Stock racers we need to move up to Mod and race with the big boys. Many of us get caught up with spending money and worrying about having the best this, and best that in Stock, while running Mod it’s all driver and setup. That’s where I really have fun is in the fine details of car’s setup.
3. Stock or 17.5 2wd Buggy is the biggest class in off-road electric racing currently. Why do you think this is and do you see these as a problem moving forward with the racing industry?
I’d say Stock 2wd Buggy is the largest because its easy. And to a point you can buy speed. I enjoy it because the competition is very tight. But I don’t think it’s good for the industry. It’s too fast and discourages new people if there is no Sportsman class due to the speed of the drivers who never move up to Mod.
4. What is one tip you have for new drivers getting into RC racing that you would like to share? (It could be adjusting setup, tire prep, or even mental focusing techniques.)
HAVE FUN! Traveling to races people forget this. I’ve had so much fun with traveling just to and from races with local guys. If you’re having fun you’ll drive better and enjoy it. But racing wise, find the fast guy and don’t be afraid to talk to them. They’re fast for a reason. Learning about what you have is very important and not just doing stuff because you were told to.
5. Name one thing people might be surprised to know about you.
I’d say the biggest thing that people don’t know about me is the time and thought that goes into my vehicles. I come from an asphalt short track racing background and we spend days on our race cars every week. I’ll spend 2-3 hours every night per car. Not even rebuilding. Just bench tuning and trying out of the box setups. I’ll show up 4 weeks in a row with 4 different setups. Races are won “in the garage” more than in the race.