large scale toss up

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Evo

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I am looking at getting a new rc and am going to take the step to 1/5 scale. I have been in R/C for awhile and running nothing but 1/8 scale right now. I am looking at the HPI 5b SS kit or the Losi Desert Buggy XL.

They both have strong points like the HPI has a 26cc motor where the Losi only have a 23.

the losi is 4WD and the HPI is 2WD.

I would run moslty at my house in our grass field (mowed) and in the local gravel pit.

Anyone have any more info on either vehicle that could help me out?

Thanks in advance,
 
Losi for the win. The HPI kit is tempting, but when you're done building, you are left with a 5B that will require aftermarket upgrades to remain bash-able. The Losi will require going over carefully at first (as all RTR's do) but then you have a roll cage protecting most of the vital components (engine, pipe etc...) and it is 4wd, so you won't crash as much anyway. It drives like an 8th. scale because it has the same layout, and a simple pipe swap or big bore kit really wakes that 23cc engine up for $100, maybe. Throw in the fact that it has a decent radio and servos makes it a no-brainer. My old 5b was a budget killer.......My Losi 5ive T has been a fine addition, and the 29 CC big bore kit ($75) made it drive right, (no other real mods). Tough as nails. The DBXL shares much of the same layout and parts count as the more expensive 5ive-T, so LHS can get and keep parts in stock easily enough.
 
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The only problem is the DBXL is not a true Losi Design, it was originally i am pretty sure a design from A different manufacturer and Losi bought the rights to it. I am not positive but i think that is what i read on hear, at least the resemblance to the other is remarkable to say the least. But that being said the reviews have been favorable for the most part and Losi did put their name on it, so it should be a favorable sign. Always research extensively before buying then go with what you decide because there are always a lot of opinions on everything. The Hpi is also a good machine but some upgrades are necessary some are not. Both will need certain upgrades to get the most out of them, thats just the way it is with everything. You can find the baja's used with a lot:lol::lol::w00t::w00t: of upgrades for a lot better price than if you buy a new one and do the upgrades yourself, just remember you never get back what you put into these things. Make sure if you go this route to buy of of a reputable person, look at feedback from people who purchased from them before. Just a suggestion and opinion.
 
I Spent all night online looking them both over and even searched aftermarket parts ( if needed) I am going with the Losi but it's back ordered till the 29th :( I can get one for 950 out the door brand new. I think thats a steal.
 
Yeah I have the Losi on order just waiting for it to come in. Is there any must have upgrades?
 
I'm in the same boat Evo. I saw the DBXL and fell in love but I'm still kind of neutral on it not being a true Losi design. 3000 weight for shock oil? I have a Savage and a Losi Mega Baja and both have strong points, but HPI engineering seems odd to me at times. I like the fact that the Losi is 4wd but it looks hella underpowered. The Baja is a 2wd but is more of a hot rod. Also the SS has a pipe. I don't have a 5th scale yet but the newer Bajas seem reasonably durable. At this moment I plan on starting with the Baja but tomorrow it will change again. Don't tell my boss but I will end up eventually buying a DBXL. I'm going to wait a while I think and see what kind of bugs they have. It is also my understanding nothing is shared with the 5ive because it is a "clean slate design".
 
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