BIG Upgrades & CARBON FIBER! - $399 Ascent Fusion

[@TheRCBuildersPost]

Let's be honest here. Out of all of the manufacturers, Redcat has been doing the best with new releases.

[@simonkubacki9823]

My vanquish stance rtr would beg to differ

[@TheRCBuildersPost]

@@simonkubacki9823 Most of us have a VRD. I'm guessing that's what you're referring to? The stance is the body. Is my VRD carbon kit great quality and kick ass? Absolutely, but it also cost $430 for just the kit. The RTR is $499 with your basic RTR electronics that you're going to replace anyways. I'm talking about features vs cost. The original Ascent is a great bargain. I mean, $289 for a RTR that performs really well!? Now, a RTR Ascent with 21 percent overdrive, a fusion, carbon fiber, beadlocks, comp style shocks and so on for $399!? Come on, man. That's just wild. That's hard to beat.

[@Ck91143]

“My vanquish stance” 😂😂😂

[@jps3903]

Agreed. The low rider, COE, vigilante, ascent…all good releases. I want a coe just for a shelf queen.

[@simonkubacki9823]

@@TheRCBuildersPost Correct, the VRD stance rtr. I ran it with stock electronics, save my own radio and receiver, for over a month and it was great. Truthfully I could have kept it like that and been completely satisfied. I maintain that it is the best performance crawler RTR out there. I'm not disparaging this Redcat, I think this is a solid product. But in my opinion vanquish is still the company to beat.

[@Scoutsixty]

Redcat is on a mission!

[@marcpoletti9511]

$400 Rc trucks are gettin quite interesting lately, this rig, FMS, Associated Ecto, are all great for the money that used to get you just a starting point, now you really get a true RTR.

[@AllBadAZ]

ECTO is straight junk

[@mikerainey3847]

What a great time to be in this hobby. What Redcat is doing, is truly fantastic for the consumer. A little competition is great! Order the matching bed, build a rear cage, cut for shock mount clearance and paint to match. Or build a mini comp bed... ? I think I need one.

[@thewatcher819]

Stop please… I’m trying hard to convince myself I don’t NEED it! Matching bed alone would have done it! 😔

[@mikerainey3847]

Hey Matt's the dealer, I'm just one of the junkies lookin' for a fix!!😅

[@scalebuildersguild]

😂

[@jonathanfletcher97]

Firstly, Redcat absolutely nailed it with this release. Craaaaazy value here at the price point. An average LCG build used to cost easily north of $800. This is fantastic. Secondly, and maybe more importantly, I think I can speak for us all when I say that we appreciate the running review of the video being filmed in the snow. A true testament to all the hard work you do for us. Always appreciated Matt!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks for watching!

[@twisterzman]

They have seriously stepped their game up.... very nice

[@Mattwiistand]

Wow, never thought I'd want a redcat! They are really making strides at seeing what people want in the crawler space

[@underarockandstuff]

Redcat went from something I laugh at to something im waiting for in the mail. They have come so far in recent years. Thanks Matt and friends!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed!

[@maxflippage9758]

It reminds me of an adorable little jumping spider. Part of that is due to your cat-like reflexes and crawl-fu

[@michaeldeering798]

I'm a kit builder exclusively, not only is building like therapy but kits usually come with unique upgrades

[@ares333x2]

I posted before reading through the comments and realized my comment is very similar to yours. The kit builders therapy guild.😅

[@Toodles77]

I feel the same way and I just started building recently. The whole hobby is therapeutic.

[@Jeeplee_rc]

Man redcat really stepped up their game recently. Looks like a great rtr platform to start with!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed!

[@kristofferdelrosario1105]

Do they even make money on these still wow what a value for $$. Used to spend triple that for a brushless lcg build a year or two ago. Now its all in an rtr package. Good job Redcat

[@tyshiz3381]

Quickrun 69$..frame 30$...shocks 30. Radio 40. Tires 30..... Etc etc etc. they're all cheap upgrades. Numbers are probably wrong but close. Very decent rtr and price

[@modernart86]

I just been getting back into the rc hobby. Been into rwd drifting and now decided to try and get back into rc with crawlers. Started with a cheap scx24 of course and have been loving it with the modifying it with upgrades and seeing the differences it makes on the rocks. Now I wanna get into the 1/10 and i think this fusion will be my first purchase for a 1/10 crawler. Seems super sweet looking and really capable. And of course it’ll be a great base point of performance for me to set my sights on for any future rigs I get after it. Plus it’s really affordable compared to others out there that aren’t as capable out of the box, so saves me money on having to mod them and buying better electronics for my first 1/10 rig 👍🏻 Thanks for the vids my dude. Love the content and have been watching your vids and Harley designs for a while. Keep up the great work 😁👍🏻

[@scalebuildersguild]

I think the Fusion is a great stepping stone into the 1/10th world, you made a great choice! Nothing to really upgrade right out of the box, and a terrific crawling experience! Have fun!

[@nuge74]

Looks to be a lot of value in that package, nicely done!

[@andyb9994]

My buddy got one Redcat nailed it on build quality, it does perform very good out of the box, he did have to do a couple things but to be expected....IMO it blows the VP Stance away by a mile and $100 less...and i am not even a redcat fan, but credit given where do!!!!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Glad to hear he likes it! I prefer the Stance, but that's just my opinion!

[@plasticspoonrc]

Glad to see this here first. This is sweet... We just put a Fusion SE 1800 and installed the overdrive gears in our Redcat Ascent. Also converting the bed tool box into a working one, adding a roll bar, and some headlights with a 3d printed grill. We would rather have a RTR upgraded like the Redcat Fusion. In the long run you are saving time and money on upgrades. It's a really nice looking rig too. We would like spending that time on the aesthetics, replace those bumpers, maybe some dual foams, lights, and add some kind of custom bed.

[@GoatneckRCC]

Haven’t seen you post in awhile good to know your still out there🫡your backyard is what dreams are made of!!

[@plasticspoonrc]

thanks so much@@GoatneckRCC

[@oldironsfury]

Redcat knocked it out of the park ! I love seeing the value while surely causing a little sweat on the necks of other manufacturers to keep decent prices, while offering awesome value 👍👍

[@laserbeam1620]

Man I'm so jealous of the terrain you have to use!

[@scalebuildersguild]

It's a bit of a drive, but it's totally worth it!

[@ChrisGorman87]

I made a rear cage system for my Fusion and it looks so good this way. I also used a phoenix body cab only and it’s attached to the rear cage and the trucks body and cage all tilt back for mounting with magnet up front

[@waynoo774]

Can’t wait to get mine on order. I am new to crawling and this for someone who has not got a money pit to upgrade its great I will use battery tray provided for the back and 3D print a box cover to protect it, see what it does for the weight distribution

[@scalebuildersguild]

Enjoy it and I think this is great for newbies, Welcome to the hobby!

[@waynoo774]

I got cheaper crawler and tank but only had for a phew months, And I have hyper go but to fast to film on my own quick buying so got bunch of content out

[@waynoo774]

Thanks for the warm welcome

[@Mad4saxBrewery]

I like kits over RTR. I upgrade so much on RTR (Ready To Replace) seems like a waste. But that truck looks so good. Only need to 3D print a rear cage for it.

[@scalebuildersguild]

I'm more of a builder too, but this is a great product for newbies or anyone that just wants to drive and doesn't like to build!

[@NEO-RC]

That’s about the same as I built up the first version. Fusion SE and all! It looks really good too. Man where was this 6 months ago lol. Now I want this one too. 🤦‍♂️ son of a …

[@PaulSchryer]

..."Now I want this one too"...!!! 🤣👍

[@PaulSchryer]

...I know !!!... Every RC company "does this" !!! "🙄"... Frustrating. 😭... 😆 Just "the look" makes me want to buy it," but I still have other crawler project(s) to start & finish...🥴✌️

[@scalebuildersguild]

😂

[@jrfishes]

This thing is really impressive!

[@aegixxer1]

This was a far better release than the 1/5 scale. It's not for me but I can see this getting a lot of people into the comp scene. I'm more of a start with a base model and build it up myself kind of person.

[@christianrambissoon1141]

To answer your question, I don't have a proper hobby shop in my country and online import taxes on even a small $5 US part for an RC can be ridiculous and weeks to get. So yes, if I can get a fully sorted rig out the box then I'm VERY happy. This truck looks like great value!

[@scalebuildersguild]

I know, shipping and duty can be very expensive. Thanks for watching!

[@lthutchins9473]

I love building them, so wish they'd make these available as kits instead of RTR.

[@keitht7546]

At that price it’s hard to beat and with a heaver wheel and tire for a little more down low weight, it’s a win win for me. Great video ✌🏽

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@grumpy1469]

I am new to your channel, and I am a newbie to crawling, I just bought the Gen 8. I had the real one back in the 80's, so 2 weeks later they released the Ascent Fusion, GRRRRR!! LOL SO I love my purple monster and she will haul everything. and I have a Gen 7 and a Vaterra I won both cars and a 1/10th scale flatbed car hauling trailer in a waffle. 70.00 and they are beat to hell. lol I was going to build them. but I am going to buy this Ascent Fusion so I can learn to Climb too. and go home and know more about what and how I want to build my trucks. as a retired paint and bodyman I would rather take my time at a build and not waste money on products I probably wouldn't have needed to buy even thou that's fun. for 400.00 this truck will teach me on both spectrums of the build and handling. I think my wife is getting off cheap on this new venture of mine. LMAO! Your video was the deciding factor, Thank You for the great video

[@scalebuildersguild]

Awesome! Welcome to the channel and welcome to the hobby! I hope you like the Ascent!

[@CRAZYBUILD349]

i just ordered one from your link, hope it helps the channel, great infomation is y you got the credit, you do great introductions!!!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Awesome, thank you! Great choice and I hope you enjoy it!

[@RTmadnesstoo]

What a Beautiful place to Crawl! I really like the way the Fusion 'Bumps'. Almost like a Trailing Arm Rig. Thanks for the Tire Change! Nobody else has done that claiming, 'These are great factory tires!'

[@raymondrios9662]

Matt, will you be designing a comp style bed for the Ascent Fusion? If so I’m sure many more of us (that prefer beds on our rigs) would consider buying one.

[@Stoney429b]

Normally I like to mod as I go, but I don't think I build a regular Ascent into a Fusion for the same price RedCat is selling the Fusion, so this would be a hard one... Probably go straight to the Fusion and mod it some more 👍🏼

[@CRAZYBUILD349]

REDCAT did it right this time, RTR , comp truck, outstanding,,, They out did themselves, very nice!!!, liking the black and red!!!

[@sammygonzalez7627]

Like the way you kept that camara on a low angle, very well shot and them rocks with that greenie look all over them, made for a great trail run

[@brandaneakright6082]

Redcat has been knocking it out of the park, they’re my go to anymore because you can’t beat the prices and what you get versus other brands.

[@Lampshadekid]

Maaaaan I might have to get one of these

[@rcdabbler]

I've been building an actual rock crawler course and have come to the realization that all I have are trail trucks. 😂 I could convert one of them to a comp-style crawler with some aftermarket parts, but I'm also thinking it'd be fun to get one that's already designed for it. This Ascent Fusion caught my attention, but I'm not a big fan of carbon fiber and red aluminum parts. I prefer the look of the VRD Stance "Tennis Ball," because it would blend well against all the red/orange sandstone in my rock course, but that $500 sticker is a moan & groan. I think I'm going to stick with converting my Sendero HD with some improved shock towers and high-clearance links, and then paint up a crawler body in bright green. 🤨

[@scalebuildersguild]

Go for it and good luck with the course. Sounds pretty cool!

[@fredwaldrop3810]

Well done Redcat!

[@ilayshay-cn5cq]

As usual, a beautiful video! As a die-hard Axial fan, I have to admit that Red Cat "picked up the gauntlet!" A high-quality car, with an engine, shock absorbers and a carbon chassis that goes without saying! Gives a crushing battle to both Axial and Traxxas and despite a price tag that is not low actually obviates the need to upgrade the vehicle which is done by almost every owner of an average crawler! Kudos to Red Cat! A very nice tool as well!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@pbruteforce1]

My wife and I just ordered two 😺😺

[@scalebuildersguild]

Enjoy!

[@mikerainey3847]

From what I have seen the tires do pretty well in warmer temps...

[@SaltPondRC]

I really do have a great time watching these and I hope you enjoy making these as much as I enjoy watching them. Cheers!

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks for watching, and yes, it's a lot of fun to film!

[@javyjav1977]

I like both honestly. I bought a used ascent from a local guy. He swapped wheels/tires and shocks. I’m happy as hell with the way it performs

[@scalebuildersguild]

That's awesome!

[@justins_toys]

I was thinking about building up an Axial Pro or Element builders kit 2 for the summer. The VRD Carbon is not a very easy opinion in the UK sadly. However I with 3 kids and spring in the air one of these with a set of Hyrax on I could be out on the rocks with my brother and son this weekend!

[@jameskauffman8405]

I like to build it up myself. A custom rear cage would be nice.

[@crowtubecrozier2857]

This truck is my next one!!! Absolutely love this truck my first 1/10 scale crawler. I've been looking at so many crawlers, soon as I discovered this truck, oh yeah, it's awesome

[@jeffshultz3462]

Nice looking comp/rig. Looks like might need weight low in back. Definitely more geared towards Comp Classes.

[@RickyD1968]

Very cool Crawler for only $400 WOW but I wish they would have a full body version ???

[@PaulSchryer]

- I "love" the colors/dark theme, awesome RedCat !!! 👌💯 [💪🇺🇸2A]

[@JT-np1op]

Sheesh, getting this and the new FCX10. I cant help myself! 😅

[@scalebuildersguild]

Enjoy!

[@axellness]

I haven't bought a RTR all year butI think this'll be my first one.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Go for it!

[@jonthomas8487]

I’m a build up kit fan over RTR’s but after building a comp rig it’s way too easy to spend north of $1000 on building up a comp/flat rail. Even starting with a VFD Carbon or SCX Pro you’d be close to $1000 so really with this $399 rig maybe I’d switch wheels and tires and maybe get a bit faster servo but really tough to beat. Some ShrinkRC body mount skids and an XTra Cab hard body cab might be nice. I’m sure there’s a cage or comp bed that would fit

[@scalebuildersguild]

$1000 easily!

[@joshuagregg7579]

Not sure if you mentioned it, but they did lower the motor position by 6mm in the front, which I think is a significant upgrade.

[@nathanstewart2018]

I was actually looking for an Axial CJ7 when i found this at my local hobby shop that usually carry redcat. They also had the new Vanquish VRD which was $100 more. I figured id better grab this while it was there in front of me though. There may be a couple things here and there ill do to it but honestly its pretty awesome as is. Maybe i should have grabbed the VRD instead but im a huge fan of Redcat.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Enjoy it! Thanks for watching!

[@caledoncrawlersrc2216]

Man oh man, i know each and everyone of these obstacles and i can say with all confidence that some of these are difficult to do with most of my trucks, only my highly tuned and heavily upgraded ones and do them and the Redcat Fusion just sailed through Devil's buttcrack like hot butter on a big ol'pile of flapjacks.. im here giving the nod to my screen as it conquers yet another of the Devil's peaks. Great job SBG on yet another enjoyable review

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks man!

[@user-ih7cu2zn2j]

I really wish there were more kit options than RTR

[@mangler.m4950]

So i got myself the regular ascent a few months back and i absolutely love it. Its great on the dessert terrain here in Arizona but I had to make some improvements to make it more capable. like everyone else out there, i removed the interior springs. I also installed a hobbywing fusion pro and aluminum beadlock rims with brass wheel weights because it desperately needed some low down weight. the wheels also have some wider offset so it side loads way better now.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Very cool! Thanks for sharing and I'm really looking forward to doing some driving in AZ this week!

[@verpine3534]

This appears to be a very good RTR for out-of-the-box comp or just solid fun. I appreciate RTR offerings, but personally I'd love to see this come as a kit. The thing I love about kits - aside from the joy I get building them - is getting to learn about all the parts of the vehicle I'm going to be RC driving. For me the hands-on aspect of handling each part helps me a lot when it comes time for maintenance or repair.

[@jonglover6851]

I have a Stance and i just bought my son this Fusion...who is gonna be happier?

[@scalebuildersguild]

I hope you enjoy both!

[@HeyKevo77]

im watching from Canada, the price i will pay is much higher than my American counterparts. i am on the market for a new RC. i love your channel andi have learned alot from you. im watching closely as to what you say about rigs i am interestred in

[@scalebuildersguild]

You know I'm in Canada too, right? 🇨🇦 Definitely, things are a lot more expensive here!

[@Casitascrawlers]

No such thing as a ready to run anything nowadays I’d rather update to my likening but I’d have to say Redcat did a hell of a job & I think this rig would satisfy a wide range of people interested form seasoned crawlers to people new to RC crawling. It reminds me of the Gen 8 v2 upgrade one they had with a Hobbywing in it.

[@modzilla74]

Redcat....im becoming a fan

[@kimlawson9531]

This is crazy I really thought the VRD was the one I don’t think so know

[@scalebuildersguild]

I’d still take the VRD over this, if you can afford it, I still feel it’s a vastly better base.

[@modelcarjedi]

Great review! I really like that RedCat is knocking it out of the park and doing it with affordable options. Stay warm !

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed! I'll be warm next week when we go to Arizona!

[@Kernsy71]

Big fan of red and black! Great release!

[@jonathanmcdonald5411]

Redcat is on top of their game! Awesome rig for a really good price. I agree with you though, it needs some type of bed. Maybe besides like the 1:1 short course trucks run.

[@fcukeround]

I love my fusion rigs. But I dont use FOC on any of them. I like to be able to control the slow crawl myself. Cool rig. Sounds a little growlie lol.

[@T34mech]

This looks great for the price. Need to put different tires on and mess around with the rear shock springs in a future video perhaps? That motor is crazy

[@GSG-lc5zm]

I think for a rock ready rtr , it's an awesome value. If you get it as your first rock crawler, you're starting off ahead

[@scalebuildersguild]

Totally agree!

[@mattgiles6332]

The Fusion SE is a solid motor for both trailing and rock crawling.

[@mattgiles6332]

Matt, Great job on your videos. You're a true professional.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks!

[@BlueDually4x4]

Redcat is definitely doing some solid drops here this year and last. I dare hope HPI can get the same good vibes and get themselves back in a good place. And solid review Matt with excellent cinematography.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@guest6423]

I see that you skipped Lucifer's Lactose Intolerance and Beezlebub's Bulge. Nice review. Somebody needs to test Redcat to see if they're on PEDs. Other makers are going to have to consider upping content or dropping prices, which is a great thing for consumers. If they don't, Redcat might become a big player in the hobby really soon.

[@Axial32]

Seems like it may need some more weight down low to get that extra grip

[@danrcman5769]

Im a build to my specs kinda guy and i think theres alot thst can be done from this platform

[@fjpadilla1920]

It definitely needs a little forward bias instant center with rear 4 link adjustment. I have a rig that weighs just under 4lbs and that thing is boaring to drive. It'll climb just about anything. On a side note this thing is awesome for being an RTR. Keep up the great videos.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks for watching!

[@archerash6695]

Now this I would buy.. and do my own tweaks.. Lower it. New shocks, rims and tires for sure.. Good job Red Cat 🏆

[@chertrocktunnelgarage2171]

An Awesome RTR especially for someone new to the Hobby. Great value for the dollar out of the box. Great episode sir. Looking forward to seeing the next.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks for watching and I agree, it's great value!

[@88davidw]

Wow this truck looks pretty good, great value too. Wish it was available in the UK. Excellent review as always.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Thanks for watching!

[@silverbullet126]

I ordered this one already so... I think you either go kit and upgrade as you go .. or you wait for a model like this with basically on the "easy" upgrades done for you. I'm thinking a better servo and a basic cage on the back and it'll be good to go :)

[@JDMJDK]

Holy shit! I can get a radio with flashlight for $399 and a truck comes with it?! Sign me up. 🤘🏼 And take that Josh! Real utility in a radio no 3D printer required. lol

[@Glen-jm61]

I think you should continue to use the trail and the Devil names! It was entertaining for sure.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Will do! Thanks for watching!

[@scoutman777]

I like the rtr that I can use when I get it and can upgrade as I want as I go

[@killa-cotton]

Ok so I'm going to buy my first Redcat. Also Matt rocking the "dad" look is great.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Enjoy it!

[@Maverna1993]

Pretty cool. I’ve been looking for a RTR 1/10 crawler, mostly looking at the RTR vanquish. For RC drifting I don’t prefer RTR however I will say the new MST 2.5 are miles better than the 2.0 was.

[@roberttoro3589]

Love the RtR...love to add to an already built ...Don't have too much time to invest in wenching...

[@scalebuildersguild]

Winching or wrenching?

[@davidhiscock1969]

Nice looking rig . Definitely cool to see a fusion se come fitted as standard 👌. Unfortunately I don't think Redcat has a UK supplier as I could be tempted 😅

[@scalebuildersguild]

I've heard it's pretty expensive to ship there!

[@davidhiscock1969]

@@scalebuildersguild it certainly is Matt. Had a quick look after your vid , estimated duties and taxes are £130 on top of the cost of the truck

[@Mike_and_Life]

If only there was a guy who customizes RC vehicles reading this! A guy like THAT could give this thing the bed it so rightfully deserves. I'll inform my congressman. Senator McDrinkie is always hanging around The Devil's lacerated liver.

[@scalebuildersguild]

😂

[@just.jose.youtube]

Go Redcat!! 🎉 What a great offer!

[@ares333x2]

If I have a choice, I will always buy a kit! I will buy a kit even if I'm not really Into the vehicle.... Because, building from scratch is my form of Zen yoga therapy. 😂

[@toolbaggers]

Maybe try mounting a smaller battery up front beside the steering servo.

[@RIdeWerksInc]

What a super cool place to crawl. I really like the look of this truck. Looks like RedCat has stepped up there game..wonder how it will do through some gates. luv you bye

[@Tuidkskiwjdhdbd]

I thought maybe the tires would be something special bc they changed the compound but proline tires would be a big improvement

[@booncha1971]

What a bargain ! Mine is on its way...i bet with a good wheel and tire package with some good inserts...some more shock tuning and this will be as good as my vrd....

[@christophermears7738]

Man redcat is releasing some cool 😎 RC,s as of late

[@scalebuildersguild]

Agreed!

[@MegaTraxxas]

Those axles are so cool looking

[@forrestcrabbe]

The truck looks really nice. The red racing stripe is just right. I fixed and promptly rebroke my smt10 🤷‍♂️ 🤘y'all have a badass day🤘☕️🤘

[@scalebuildersguild]

🤘 Sorry it broke!

[@forrestcrabbe]

@scalebuildersguild no worries, I'll fix it again. Maybe. I'm ready for a large scale crawler. If it's slow enough, i can't break it 🤔😁🤣🤘

[@vlozity]

just watching because of how good the running videos are... but redcat, no way I'll touch that rig hahaha

[@scalebuildersguild]

Fair enough, thanks for watching!

[@BulldogB101]

Of course, we want to see reviews you do the best reviews there is on the Internet beside the fact of the videos you do

[@hotboyracing]

I like the idea of doing a rtr and a upgraded kit version because I like building my rigs

[@Bucky5068]

I want a bed on it too. At least a utility bed. This is alot like the terrain we have here in Western North Carolina.