[Jeff Higgins]

The RC10 T4 is an all-out competition type truck. It's only two wheel drive and is meant for groomed race tracks. For all-around bashing and kid fun you really can't beat a monster truck of some kind. The Traxxas E-Max is the standard by which all of them are judged. It comes in a ready-to-run package that will have most of the odds and ends you need to start. The Associated also comes in a RTR version, but it still borders on a serious race truck. The monster trucks are more play-friendly, and get around the back yard a lot better. There are a lot of them out there, and it is a very competetive and currently probably the largest segment of the hobby. There are some good deals to be had.

The Serpent is a great race car. One of the hardest kits to put together, though, and local hobby shop support is pretty minimal. The new HPI R4 is a great car (last year's Touring Car world champ). If you like your RS4 RTR, you'll love the R4. The Associated NTC3 is my preference obviously. It has some distinct advantages for parking lot racing and street driving. Shaft drive and sealed differentials are a huge advantage on anything other than a dedicated track. Parts support is second to none and the aftermarket is huge. Associated also provides a wealth of set-up information that most others don't.