[TommieG]

Hi,
I'm quite new here, as I have just rediscovered the passion of my youth.
Being away from the "scene" for 20 years, I'm quite aware of the changes that have taken place in that time. Brushless motors (with special ESC's), Lithium batteries, 2.4 GHz radios, new brands of cars etc. etc.

Different from 20 years ago, I now have the economy in place to literally buy whatever I want, so I'm seeking advice from you guys as to what's the "hot stuff" of 2008.

I bought a Lazer ZX-5 Readyset as I stumbled in to a Kyosho store in Sweden this summer, and I had lots of fun with it. But I want to take it further, probably buying a Tamiya 501X or the new Schumacher Cat.

What brushless motor should I buy if I want to race the 501x or the Cat?
What ESC is the hottest today?
Are there any Lipo packs preferred by racers? ....and what charger should I buy? It must be able to charge NiCd and NiMh as well as Lipo's, and it should run from mains (220-240v).
Are Futaba still top of the line, or are other makes preferred nowadays?
What servos are the smallest, lightest, fastest, and best suited for a 1/10 Off-Roader?

Hope to get some constructive answers, and thanks for making this great site!

Tom
Norway