In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to Arizona team driver, Josh Keith!
1. Ok first question is one we have to ask everyone in our interviews. How and when did your involvement with RC cars begin?
I was introduced to RC while on a hike with a friend during the COVID pandemic. He brought his SCX10 and allowed me to drive it, which was the first time experiencing a hobby-grade RC car and I was immediately hooked. Only a few months later I would amass a collection of crawlers and bashers, spending all my free time at a local park or on the trail. One day while at my favorite bash spot, I met a fellow RC enthusiast who introduced me to 1/8 off-road racing and informed me of a local track which had just opened up, Adobe Mountain RC Speedway. After toying with the idea and coming to grips with the cost of an 1/8 race vehicle, I bit the bullet and picked up a used Tekno ET48 2.0 and hit the track. Upon arriving and turning my first laps, it became immediately clear that this is what I wanted to do.
2. This year you joined JConcepts as a new team driver. What are some of your goals for this year and what do you think you can bring or add to the existing team?
While I strive to be on the podium, my goal is to grow 1/8 off-road racing in Arizona by supporting our local racers on and off the track. I find more satisfaction mentoring new drivers and seeing them succeed than bringing home another piece of hardware. I’ve gotten involved with operations at Adobe Mountain RC Speedway, which has been the perfect venue to foster new talent and hone my own abilities. I’m hoping to bring awareness on how to be a successful team member without reaching the podium. Being engaged with the community, welcoming new drivers, and lending a hand at the track is the best way to promote your sponsors, the hobby, and yourself.
3. What classes do you enjoy to compete in today? Is there another class you would like to see comeback or increase in popularity so you could compete in it as well?
My favorite classes (in order) are 4WD Short Course, 1/8 eBuggy, and 1/8 Nitro Buggy. Nitro is the glory but the power delivery of an electric vehicle suits my driving style. This question feels personal as I’ve been working to promote this class here in Arizona for the past few years: 4WD Short Course! As a newcomer to the hobby I’m bummed I missed the glory days of SCT and would love to see more participation. Last year I was involved in a project to convert a 1/8 Tekno ET48 2.0 into a 1/8 4WD Short Course Truck. In collaboration with a few key members of the Arizona 1/8 community, we came up with a blueprint for many of the 1/8 Short Course conversions seen today. I believe this class could bring SCT back in a big way, as they’re fully capable of handling the gnarliest of 1/8 tracks. I would love to see a JConcepts 1/8 Illuzion or F2 body someday!
4. Which JConcepts product, in your opinion, is a must-have on race day when going to the track and why?
If I had to pick one JConcepts product for race day, it would have to be the Reflex tire. Reflex is the most versatile tire in my bag, offering a predictable driving experience in most conditions. The tire provides excellent forward and side bite, without grabbing every rut. The tight pattern offers excellent longevity for those 30+ minute mains.
5. Besides RC racing, what other activities do you enjoy?
This is the most difficult question yet because RC is a lifestyle. When I’m not at the track or wrenching on my cars, I enjoy playing video games, golfing (poorly), bowling, and watching motorsports. I just purchased my first truck, so I’m hoping to begin doing some light off-road and overlanding soon!