Would be 5 stars, but I was not aware the brushless system did not have the ability to free wheel for running trails. I picked up the flux because all reviews were showing it would trail excellent. I have to replace the esc so I have that ability available. If you do not mind having a very strong drag brake at all times, then this is just fine. I should have done my homework as I do have the same system (furitek Venom pro and venom motor) installed in a few crawlers. That system is great for crawling. On the trails, if you let off the throttle a little, it has immediate slow down, and if you let off to neutral, it comes to an immediate stop. Even adjusting the esc programming and using dip switches 3 and 4, you can not turn off the brake.
The front bumper sticks out a ways, and is not adjustable. Approach angle is limited. Overall crawling ability is about what you would see with a bone stock ascent 18 scout, but take away 3/4 of the approach angle and add straight axle design.
I would recommend the truck, it is pretty sweet Overall. But for the use I have intended for this truck, I will be spending an additional $120 for an esc. This brings the final cost very close to alot of 1/10 rtr trail trucks, so...not a good deal now for me. Live and learn.
I've been driving with the HPI Venture18 Flux for a while now, and I have to say, it's been a blast. I got my unit from the 2nd batch with the upgraded 3500KV motor and a 3S capable ESC, so right out of the box, it's a powerhouse.
One of the standout features for me is the full metal gear axles and transmission. They're not only super sturdy, but the lack of torque twist is a real game changer—something I always hated about my TRX4M. It makes the driving experience smoother and more predictable, which is huge when you're pushing the limits on rough terrain.
Comparing it to other models, the Venture18 Flux easily outperforms my old TRX4M Defender. Even when I put it up against the FMS FCX18 LC80, the Venture18 holds its own, offering that extra chassis flex and longer shocks for a smoother ride over bumps and obstacles.
Another big plus is the 6-channel transmitter. It delivers precise control and feels far more capable than what you typically get with RTR crawlers. Whether I'm tackling tight corners or cruising through open spaces, the responsiveness really amps up the fun factor.
If there's one area that could use a bit of improvement, it would be the availability of optional parts and additional body styles. A few more customization options from HPI would take this already impressive truck to the next level.
All in all, the HPI Venture18 Flux has really impressed me with its performance, build quality, and thoughtful design tweaks like the metal gear axles and the elimination of torque twist. It's a fantastic ride, and I'm excited to see what HPI rolls out next.
Pre ordered this truck as my first crawler and re entry to rc. Used to play with nitro stuff 15 years ago. Wow has it come a long way since then. This truck is perfect all around. Good low gear and super slow crawl with brushless motor. High gear is fast as heck. So much fun. Need to figure out how to tune drag brake with program card. Handles my grass fine even though it’s very long. Carpet crawls like a beast.
Awesome truck, just some upgrades that i believe should have been offered om the truck. The bearings would have been nice.
Best bang for your buck by far! If you're on the fence, buy one and thank me later. I don't think you'll be able to spend this much money on any RC that is rtr and even come close to this performance!
Awesome truck! Build is top notch! Almost too pretty to drive!!
Okay so first impression was great before I set her up. Watched some videos and read all i could to get going. Once up and running the truck does not free wheel and has immediate strong drag brake and no braking with radio. Motor is reversed and dipswitches do not change settings as described in manual. However after further calibrations, relearns, resets and speaking with online tech and them also being stumped, I wasn't excited anymore, I thought I received a dud. I didn't, I did some further digging and did not even notice that the manual shows you the culprit of all my anguish. The main clue is that the newer system can use a hobbywing program card for the FLX18 esc, that is sold separately to adjust settings (the system is a hobbywing QUICRUN WP Mini24 Combo) . And they put it plain as day in the manual what the default settings are. 100% drag brakes, forward/reverse (no brake), motor ccw, lol 5 drag brake rate. So essentially a program card needs to be purchased to open up more potential for this beast. Knowing this helped me and it changed my outlook to being excited again! I would definitely recommend it and also do as myself will be doing and purchase the cheap program card. Although HPI needs to step up and include one as they did with the first run esc combos from furitek. Overall it's great and I hope this review helps someone out.
All the hype and rave on YouTube reviews are absolutely right! Love this thing! I think it’s the right size to enjoy crawling anywhere and any dry environment. I think it beats my 1/10 scale fully customized axial scx iii with Toyota hard body that cost me over $1K in fun factor and excitement. It’s so good right out of the box and there’s many customization possibilities. It does have about 1” slop in transmission but high speed is awesome. Low speed crawl is amazing too. This crawler deserves SIX stars for sure. Don’t use cheap AA batteries for the transmitter like I did, it detects low voltage even with new ones. Suspension is a little soft for me, but that is tuning and there’s lots you can do to make it even better. Simply amazing!
I like the truck I preorderd. But,less Than a week of owning the company came out with a new version that is waterproof and a better motor. Leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I hope they make it right with a ship back and retrofit at no cost to consumer
Back drive shaft is garbage. The transmission gearing failed on the rear drive shaft. Didnt even get to run this. Gutted it and now using to build something nicer. First hpi product I ever bought, and I have bought and tried tons of rc in my lifetime. I will not purchase another hpi product again. This is a flawed rig- transmission internals driveshaft-
Just got this today. Bf was playing with it in the living room on hardwood floors and the drive shaft broke off and went flying out. The little pins holding it together are absolutely worthless. Don’t last 2 minutes out of the box. Bought the brushless edition. What a waste of money. Very bad design.
