where to start?

[kmosley]

My son in 13 and very interested in purchasing a gas powered rc "something". I know he looked online but I would prefer to shop locally and see the product before making such an extreme investment. Any suggestions for northside shops - or any shops for that matter for us to start our rc shopping? Most of the info I've read has been too advanced and we are definitely in the beginning stages and want him to truly understand the time and investment as well as the knowledge of repairs,etc. that will be necessary to fully appreciate this as a hobby.

Oh yeah - I saw something about a race coming up? Any info would be helpful - I'd love to attend and get a firsthand look at some cars in action.

Thanks in advance -

[DAVEC-NITRO-RS4]

Al's Hobby Shop in Elmhurst has it all. But there are others, as well.

People here can suggest and offer advice based on your input and budget.

Leisure Hours Raceway (http://www.leisurehoursraceway.com) is the current indoor racing location that MANY of the members here run at. There are races or practices there 6 days/nights a week. Stopping out there will expose you and him to lots of different vehicles and you can get input from some of the best in the business. Everyone will be nice as can be, trust me!

Serious Rc (not the Radio Shack variety) are real machines and not toys. They do come at a price and do require repair and maintenance to keep them running well. It will really help a new owner to have a good set of tools and someone with basic understandings of mechanical things to help keep an RC from becoming "too much hassle" to use. When they work right there is nothing better! It really is the best toy I have ever owned and I'm 46 !!

You have posted at the right place to get as much info as you can stand! Everyone here will be glad to educate. Just ask your questions and watch the answers flow in !

DaveC