It's already been a month since my first report, so here is my second. Having read other people's reports, I am pleased that others share my opinion on the Mini-Inferno 09's fine workmanship. The SIRIO engine's ease of use (especially starting), probably due to the special starter box, was specially mentioned on numerous occasions.
Well, when it came to putting the model through its paces, the weather didn't line up with my holiday too often so I didn't get much track time. The needle setting was still a little rich so after each tank I screwed the needle in a bit further. When I reached top speed and ideal engine output, the needle was about 3 turns and 10 degrees from the fully closed position. Fuel used was 30% nitro. I could take the needle in a little further, but for this test this setting seemed right.
As when I was breaking in the engine, the surface tracing was superb and the machine felt like it was holding firm. For the purpose of this monitor report, I ran the machine at the same place as last time where the standard suspension setting was perfect for the surface. I added some shock spacers to see what would happen if I increased shock tension, but due to the small size of the model, it started bouncing around a bit too much. It may depend on the type of surface, but normal suspension settings on this particular surface proved the machine’s high performance potential. I thought about using the included setting parts to experiment with caster angle and toe-in, but the setup was just right so I didn’t want to spoil it (as a test monitor I should have tried, sorry). These should be tested on a surface that is more slippery than this one.
A general comment to finish with, I ran the 09 with my 1/8 truck. While I knew the running performance was great, I was really surprised at the exhaust sound - second to none. The combination of top running performance and that sweet exhaust sound provides the great experience you can have with an engine-powered car in this condensed form of the Mini-Inferno 09. I used the word "condensed" intentionally. But when you run together with 1/8 class machines, you can loose sight of it on a big track.
I am looking forward to option parts that will be released as well. While the exhaust sound is great, a gleaming silencer is something I really want.
Also, it may be a different category, but I would really like some on-road tires. I would love to see how this machine handles an on-road course. "Can a real race buggy run on-road?" I hear people say, but I am sure the feisty Mini-Inferno 09 will be accepted.
I have just mentioned the positives at this stage (not enough room to mention them all), but as this an evaluation report, there is one point I would like to mention. On the included starter box, I feel the spring tension in the plate is too high when you push the chassis down. I worry that this puts extra load on the chassis each time it is started. It might be OK, but I wonder if this could be improved.
Anyway, such a small problem is insignificant in light of the excellent finish and workmanship. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.
I'm no expert at writing reports, so I hope this is of help to anyone considering buying. Thank you.
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