Kyosho Javelin Project

I am by no means a Kyosho historian, but I've been led to believe that when the Javelin was introduced in 1986 it was a pretty big deal.  Now, 30+ years later, it still looks pretty cool.  I didn't have any Kyosho in my stable which seemed like an egregious oversight and when I saw this re-release and further saw that it included the original chain drive system, I had to have it.

This model is not built like anything else I have.  Instead of a chassis plate or bathtub, the drive system itself forms a backbone that makes this car exceptionally rigid.  It also means that the chassis can be very narrow which contributes to the excellent appearance.  This is a four wheel drive, independent suspension buggy built from a lot of aluminum plates and bars.  The cage is plastic but is actually mostly cosmetic.  The red aluminum oil filled dampers are quite visible.

I installed a 20-turn brushed motor as an homage to the times, and I find the performance to be marvelous.  I love the sound of the chain drive system, and the model has all the speed and stability I could want.  It is not a 6S brushless crazy speed demon, but that wouldn't be right.  I have one of those and it breaks a lot.  I hope to never break this gem.  It sits next to the Avante on my shelf, but is not a shelf queen.  I do keep it out of bad weather and mud, but I drive it as often as I can.

Update:  This model was destroyed in the 2022 fire.  It has not been replaced.