40MPH From the Box! Losi Mini-T 2.0 Brushless RC Truck Review

In this episode, we unboxed and go for a test drive with the Losi Mini-T 2.0 Brushless Edition.

As long as I can remember, I have been heavily involved in the world of radio controlled cars and trucks. In the early 2000s, Team Losi changed the game with the original Mini-T. Designed to drive on all surfaces, including off-road and dirt, the original Mini-T was truly a groundbreaking product. Fast forward 20 years and that legacy continues with the Losi Mini-T 2.0 Brushless

The Mini-T 2.0 is a scaled-down version of Team Losi Racing 22T 4.0, the latest generation 1/10 scale stadium truck. One of the great things about the Mini-T platform, be it old or new, is that it is what is called an RTR or Ready-to-Run. This means everything you need to enjoy the truck is in the box. Everything is pre-assembled for you, you don't have to build anything. The electronics are also included and pre-installed for you, the body comes pre-painted, wheels and tires come glued. There's even a basic battery charger and AAA batteries for the controller included in the box. This makes it much easier for those without any previous RC experience to get up and get running a whole lot quicker and reduces the skill level needed.

I keep using the term Brushless when referring to this truck, and it's an important feature distinction. One of the crucial improvements on this version of the truck versus the standard Mini-T 2.0 is the inclusion of a Dynamite Fuze 2-in-1 Brushless motor system. The unique aspect of this setup is the fact that the electronic speed controller, ESC, which is normally a separate device is integrated directly into the motor itself taking up less space on your chassis. Rounding out the electronics package is a Spektrum steering servo and a 2.4 GHz transmitter and receiver. I was disappointed to not see Spektrum technology in the receiver as it means I will have to replace the receiver when I upgrade to my Spektrum DX6R transmitter.

I charged up the included battery and headed out to Eli Field and M3 Raceway. The track was super hard-packed and dry when I got there, featuring very little grip overall. The Brushless motor system delivered all the torque and then some, and even in these low bite conditions I was able to pull the front wheels off the ground at will. Even though the jumps were designed for much larger 1/8 and 1/5 scale cars and trucks, I was actually able to clear many of the jumps on the layout. The biggest challenge was honestly reducing wheel spin so the truck would track more straight to line up the jumps.

Next, I decided to do more real-world testing, running around some of the areas that were a combination of dirt and grass, similar to an open lot or a backyard. It excelled in these conditions, as I was able to get on the power more easily without sliding the rear end around. There was also an area set up that was more of an obstacle course, but the surface was more similar to the track than just the bashing area. Once again, wheel spin was an issue, but if I could feather the throttle I was able to have a lot of fun in this area.

The last test was to take it to my own yard and see how it would do. I did some speed runs in front of my house, and I have to say if I wasn't hitting 40 miles an hour it was 39 1/2! For a truck this small it is an absolute rocket ship. In my backyard, it laid waste to the mulched area around our fire pit, with rooster tails of mulch going everywhere. Hearing Ellie squeal with delight as I pitched the truck from side to side, doing donuts, and pulling wheelies, was an absolute blast. I tried to drive on my lawn which I just mowed 2 days earlier and was fairly dry, and while it could do it, there was definitely not enough ground clearance between the bottom of the chassis and the grass to do this confidently.

Why it RoX:
- Super fast
- Completely RTR, nothing extra needed to buy
- 2 color scheme options
- Excellent suspension package
- Tires provide good wear and good traction
- Wheelies on command
- LiPo battery included
- So many upgrade part options

What could be improved:
- Included radio does not use Spektrum technology
- Perhaps too powerful for the average beginner
- Front and could use some weight

Should you buy one?
The original Team Losi Mini-T got so many people into the RC hobby, and the Mini-T 2.0 Brushless continues that legacy. It's easy to work on, it handles well, it's fast, and it's a great product. I wish there was a way to reduce the motor speed with a throttle limit on the transmitter to make it easier for beginners, as it is simply too fast for many. Often, when you are just starting out the throttle is more of an on-off switch versus a range. If you are just starting out, I would recommend going with the brushed version, & upgrading to the Brushless system down the road. But if you have some RC driving experience and are looking for killer performance, the Mini-T 2.0 Brushless doesn't disappoint.

#Losi #MiniT #RCCar #HorizonHobby #RCDRiver