In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to Finland team driver, Karri Salmela!
1. How did you get started in RC? Was it racing right away, or did you bash vehicles before you found out about the RC race scene?
I started RC back in 2007 as my dad introduced me into this sport. He had raced back in 90s and started all over again in 2006 I think. We went bashing a few times, but mostly ran on track back then. I also learned quickly that there was a race scene and some chosen ones were living within it as I met Teemu Leino at the track we used to go to. My first race was also in 2007 and I been racing since then.
2. From your experience what is the easiest AND hardest maintenance task on your RC cars?
In my opinion the easiest maintenance is simply a light cleaning after runs. Almost every track has an air compressor available what makes the cleaning super easy yet many people still seems to forget how important it is. These days all cars are quite well designed for maintenance so there is not too many hard tasks. But one task are shocks in touring car….I find it quite an annoying and slow task.
3. What is your favorite class to race in today and why?
The class I’m looking forward mostly is electric 8th scale buggy as Team Associated released the new car the RC8B4e. But, my all time favorite must be 2wd 10th scale.
4. Name one JConcepts product that you feel is overlooked by many but you find it very useful. It could be a tool, tread pattern, wing, etc.
This must be the Tire Balancer. I find it very useful and important to balance the 8th scale and 10th scale off-road tires specially indoors on high traction. It reduces the drivetrain wear and smoothens the car control so much. I even find it useful with touring tires as I have spent a lot of time testing different brands and batches lately.
5. Besides RC cars, what other hobbies are you into?
Lately I have fallen into disc golf. Here in Finland it’s a huge sport and it does not demand much time as a hobby.