In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to Wisconsin team driver, Ryan Derenne!
1. How did you discover RC car racing? Was it early in life, later on as an adult, etc?
In 1991 at 13 years old I was really into skateboarding, but for my birthday I received a Tamiya Grasshopper. I wanted a better battery pack so we went to my local race track, JJ’s Dirt Heaven, and I saw off-road indoor racing for the first time and I was hooked. Soon after I bought a Team Losi JRX Pro SE and have been racing ever since.
2. As an experienced racer you have probably glued up hundreds of tires for your race program. What tips can you give to make this process easier for a new racer?
First, I always use a fresh bottle of JConcepts Medium Advanced Formulated Tire Glue. Second, I use Dirt Racing Products Cleaner, to clean the bead, and use a Scotch-Brite pad to lightly scuff the bead since this helps make the glue bond very good.
3. In your area you do a lot of outdoor 1:10 electric off-road racing which isn’t as common anymore. Why do you think this is and do you see it coming back more down the road? Do you prefer to race this way vs. an indoor, highly groomed and grippy track surface?
I think the main reason 1/10 outdoor off-road has dropped off is most racers like to have clean cars, and not have to clean mud and dirt off there cars after every run. The more the cars evolve with high grip in mind, the older rear motor cars are not preferred. In my area we have a lot of racers that love this type of racing because it reminds them of how they started out with roost. We have several tracks like Dirt Heaven Hobby & Raceway and Antigo Area RC in Wisconsin, and Back Country RC Raceway in Michigan that share a large group of drivers that race outdoors. I like to race the premier class Stadium Truck outdoors, but I like racing 2wd Buggy indoors.
4. What is your favorite JConcepts product released over the years, and why do you still consider it the best today?
Honestly I can’t pick a favorite since they all work well, and are very nice eye candy, but I guess the blue Aluminum | Carbon Setting Board.
5. Obviously you are into RC racing but what other activities do you find enjoyment with?
I love swimming, running, and doing anything outside with my family, and recently started skateboarding with my daughter. I enjoy watching the Packers, Bucks and Brewers also.