Getting
Started.
Everything you need to know before your first session — choosing your discipline, what to buy, and what to expect on the day.
Drift or crawl?
Both are welcoming to beginners. The choice comes down to what kind of driving appeals to you more.
Choose Drift
If you are drawn to the idea of a car sliding sideways through corners in a controlled, graceful arc — drift is for you. Sessions are on Friday evenings, the learning curve is real but rewarding, and the community is tight-knit.
- Fast-paced, skill-intensive driving
- RWD rear-wheel drive challenge
- Spec tyre for a level playing field
- Weekly Friday sessions — great for routine
Choose Crawl
If the idea of reading a terrain, picking your line, and coaxing a miniature 4x4 over an impossible rock face sounds satisfying — crawling is for you. Technical, thoughtful, and endlessly variable.
- Technical and methodical by nature
- New course every session — never the same twice
- All levels welcome — no gates required on your first visit
- Monthly Sunday sessions — relaxed, social atmosphere
What you need for drift.
You do not need to spend a fortune to get started. A budget of around £150–250 covers everything for a great first session.
- The car — Tamiya TT-02D kit (~£80–100) is the most popular entry-level choice. RTR options are available if you prefer ready-to-run.
- Electronics — if building a kit, you will need a motor, ESC, servo, and receiver. Budget around £60–80 for entry-level components.
- Radio — any 2-channel pistol grip or wheel controller works. The FlySky GT5 is a popular budget choice.
- Batteries — two 7.4v 2S LiPo packs gives you plenty of track time. Budget around £15–20 each.
- Charger — a basic balance charger covers you to start. Upgrade later.
- Tyres — Yokomo DRA is the spec tyre. Bring at least two spare sets.
What you need for crawling.
Crawling has the lowest barrier to entry of the two disciplines. The Axial SCX24 is everything you need to turn up and get straight on the course.
- The car — Axial SCX24 RTR (~£100–120) is the gateway vehicle. It is 1/24 scale, ready-to-run, and fully capable of tackling the complete Orbital RC crawler course.
- Batteries — the SCX24 runs on a 1S 3.7v LiPo. Grab a few spares and a basic 1S charger — they are cheap and small.
- No tools needed for your first session — if you are running an RTR vehicle, just charge the battery and come along.
- Water feature preparation — check that your receiver box and ESC are sealed. Most RTR crawlers handle light water exposure well; see your manual for guidance.
What to expect on the day.
Arrive & Pay
Turn up at the venue at any point during the session. Pay on the door — £8 for Drift Night, £6 for Crawler Morning. No booking, no membership required.
Get Set Up
Find a space at the side of the track, get your car out, and charge your next battery. Say hello — the community is friendly and regulars are always happy to help newcomers get settled.
Get on Track
There are no heats, no time pressure, and no obligation to race anyone. Drive at your own pace, explore the layout, and focus on learning the course. Everyone is there to enjoy themselves.
Find your line.
Check the events calendar for upcoming sessions, order your first car, or get in touch if you have questions. We have all been the new person at the track — and we are glad you found us.