In this edition of the JConcepts Friday5 we talk to California team driver, Jeremy Bunting!
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 got started in RC as a kid with one of those RadioShack Wild Pony monster trucks that I bashed in the yard. I later had a Clod Buster but didn’t get into racing monster trucks until 2018, but now I’m hooked as a racer and also a series promoter for the Nor Cal R/C Monster Truck Showdown points series.
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?
In monster trucks, it seems like the 2.2 class is in a decline. Some clubs/series don’t even offer the class at all and most people that get a truck that comes with the smaller wheels/tires want to immediately upgrade to the more standard monster truck size. I think having more options for tires will help and I think it could be a great budget friendly spec class or beginner class.
3. From your experience what is the easiest AND hardest maintenance task on your RC cars?
Easiest maintenance is cleaning the trucks. It’s almost a therapeutic routine that when I get home from the races, I’ll clean them up and nut and bolt them. Hardest maintenance for me is rebuilding and tuning shocks. I won’t lie, I go to experts for that who can do it in less time and do a better job than me so my trucks are dialed in.
4. In your opinion, when heading to the track what is the JConcepts product that is a must have on race day and why?
For monster trucks, the must have JConcepts product is easily the Renegade tires. They’re so versatile and give you predictable traction on any surface. The Renegade Jr. 2.2’s are a night and day difference over all the other tire options out there.
5. Besides RC cars, what other hobbies are you into?
Besides racing RC monster trucks I love attending or working the real monster truck events. I enjoy taking my truck off-road on trails in the mountains and off-road parks. I volunteer for a German Shepherd rescue, go to rock/metal concerts, go to the gym 4-5 times a week, ski in winter, grill in the summer, and am an avid sports fan.