I AM BACK!!!
Among the many R/C models Tamiya has produced, the epoch-making dune buggy R/C model “Avante 4WD” is still an extremely popular machine. After 20 years since it first excited R/C drivers all around the world with its dynamic form, the Avante is back!
Specifications
★Length: 420mm ★Width: 240mm ★Height: 115mm ★Wheelbase: 260mm
★Tread (L/R): 200mm ★Minimum Ground Clearance: 40mm ★Weight: 1300g
★Double-Deck Frame ★Tires (F/R): 38/88mm ★Polycarbonate Body ★F/R Multi-Link Suspension ★F/R Metal Oil Dampers ★Gear Ratio: 1:8.33
★Limited Edition Avante T-Shirt Included (w/First Production Run)
In March 1988, Tamiya released an electric R/C 4WD racing buggy called the “Avante” and it has since become a special machine in Tamiya’s R/C history. The machine featured a unique shaft-driven 4WD system which was taken from Tamiya’s first 4WD R/C buggy, the Hotshot. It also featured a highly sophisticated design including a FRP double-deck chassis layout, longitudinal motor & battery positions, and a formula-type body with chassis fairing. It was equipped with innovative components such as a compact gearbox with 3 small planetary gears, a center diff to increase stability, a fully adjustable suspension, and cam-lock wheel caps.
The Avante was a distinctive R/C machine which featured an innovative design. After 20 years, some of the Avante’s mechanisms have become standard features on modern R/C cars. The ultimate pure racing buggy returns in 2011.
Tamiya has given the Avante (2011) the special re-release treatment just like other re-released buggies such as the Buggy Champ and Hotshot. Here is a brief introduction of the improved points.
1. Main frame material has been changed from FRP to carbon fiber.
Original FRP upper/lower decks have been replaced with 2.0mm thick carbon fiber decks to further increase chassis strength and rigidity. Chassis layout is optimized for installing modern R/C equipment.
2. Carbon Fiber Rear Damper Stay
Rear damper stay is thicker than the original and its material has also been changed to carbon fiber. Left and right stays are connected to further increase rigidity.
3. Assembly Universal Shafts
WO universal shafts are used for both front and rear to reduce friction loss.
4. Easier Damper Maintenance
The gold-colored oil damper cylinders feature bottom caps for easier maintenance such as replacing o-rings.
5. Durable Polycarbonate Body Shell
The body, wing, and chassis fairing have been made with polycarbonate for superb off-road durability.
6. Wheel Axle/Clamp Type Wheel Hubs
Wheel axles have been changed to standard pin-secured type. In conjunction with aluminum wheel hubs, secure wheel attachment is possible. The hex wheel hubs enable attachment of off-road wheels such as Item 53880 Large Dish Wheels (4WD/Front, 62/25) and Item 53881 Large Dish Wheels (Rear, 62/35) in addition to the original cam-lock type wheels.
7. Duralumin front knuckles
The original die-cast front knuckles have been replaced with duralumin knuckles to further increase strength and durability. New knuckles feature the same shape as the original.
8. Compatible with a wide range of battery packs.
The Avante (2011) is compatible with a wide range of Tamiya battery products such as Ni-Cd, high-capacity Ni-MH, and lightweight LF battery packs.
9. Latest R/C Systems
The Avante is compatible with all Tamiya R/C systems including the 2.4GHz systems. Click here for more information on the latest Tamiya Expec GT-I 2.4GHz R/C System.
10. The Original Packaging is also Revived!
The package for this re-release model comes with the same design and dimensions as the original Avante. In addition, just like the original Avante, all the parts are stored in blister packs. The “Avante” logo and rear wing sticker will remain the same as the original. Other stickers will be of a new Tamiya design.
The 2011 Avante is beginning to grow on me…
Many improvements over the original Avante, so Tamiya has done is homework 😉
Best Regards
GreatDane c”,)
As always 😉
Best regards,
Admin
This is going to be great!
I have the re-re´s of the Frog, Hotshot and LB, but this really crowns the group. Seriously considering making this a shelf queen. If we now only could get a Monster Beetle re-re, my life would be complete 🙂
This site is also pretty awesome, I´ve been following it for a while now and it really is the number one channel for RC Tamiya related news. Many thanks for your effort and enthusiasm, please keep up the good work!
Thank you for your kind words, as Tamiya fans we also try giving our best 🙂
Best regards,
Admin
Marvellous!
Back in 1988, this item was sold at about HKD 2000 in Hong Kong.
I guess the price in 2010 will be nearly HKD 4000.
But it is worth it. A must-get item.
So will it have a technigold?
Personally doubt so, my guess is a modern motor with similar gold colour, maybe a gold Super Stock version?
I remember that in the old Avante the manual advised using a CPR unit (receiver + ESC combined) behind the driver cockpit. If ordinary-sized (at that time) receiver and ESC were used, the cockpit could not be installed.
As receivers and ESCs get smaller through these years, can the new Avante still keep the cockpit when using ordinary receiver & ESC?
Yes, as Tamiya writes:
The Avante is compatible with all Tamiya R/C systems including the 2.4GHz systems.
Regards,
Admin
Hi all
Here is a reply to an often asked question: Is the GT Tuned better than Technigold?
Years ago I had my Technigold tested by RIKO on
1)7.2 volt ni cad =19,000rpm
2)8.4 volt goldpower ni cad =21000rpm
This propelled my BIGWIG to some crazy speeds!
My Avante achieved only 1mile an hour advantage despite its hi tech tri-differential design.
GT Tuned (doesnt do 8.4 volt)
7.2 volt ni cad/nimh pack =19,000 rpm
Both motors similar torque.
The new Avante is NOT faster than the 1988 version
(I have both!) it is pretty much like for like.
I have read so many forums claiming the technigold was a bz equivalent that I almost fell off my chair !!
BZ /RZ/ TZ would kill a technigold or a Dynatech O1R.
The new 3 super stocks are FAR superior motors in RPM and evenly matched in torque. 20 Years of technological advance has gone into them-they are much better. Saying that Technigolds are super motors and I still race my cars with them.
The bottom line is this: The GT Tuned is the New Technigold equivalent. Your Avante will not go faster, or perform really any better or worse than the 1988 version-quite why I read so many GT motor rave reviews or negative reviews is beyond me.
The Avante frame and diff set up is not really designed for A BZ/TZ set up its basically too powerful for that car. Tamiyas design team have stuck to a like for like motor in keeping with the times. A BZ would be simply too powerful the car, even with all its improvements is still not THAT rugged to go from 19000 rpm to 26,500 rpm+ and survive a crash/tumble.
My Avante from 1988 and 2011 do the North side of Eaton Square SW1W in the same time – as well as Amershams Tesco car parking area from Foxes outdoor sports to the end wall in a straight line – the speed is no higher or lower the performance not diminshed or enhanced. The only real comfort of the new one is that its more rugged than the older one so you can drive way more confidently-just keep it stock!!
There it is.
Au revoir
Hello,
thank you for your post which is generally all in line with Tamiyablog’s opinions, we also try to take our “pink glasses” about the “better past” off when we judge new things.
Best regards,
Admin
Hi Tamiya admin team
Thank you! I had to comment as the forums generally seemed to hold views one way or the other, and as a 1988 and 2011 Avante owner I thought I had to comment!
I really hope they release the 2001 version too, again improved.
Thank you once again –
Hello, does anyone know how to use or install the wheel hub adapter on the Tamiya Avante (E parts number 19005281)?
If I understood you correctly, that part/hub isn’t used on the Avante but part PB1, see manual on page 14 http://www.tamiya.com/english/rc/rcmanual/58489avante.pdf
Regards
Admin