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Aerodynamics

What is Aerodynamics?

Aerodynamics is the mechanics that deals with the motion of air (normally) over or through an object, in our case a RC body and wing.

Aerodynamics play a huge part in the handling and speed of the vehicle.  You have to find a body and wing combination that provides sufficient steering and good rear traction, but not so much that it causes alot of drag on the straights.

Bodies do most of their work at high speeds.  At speed, the body will generate a tremendous amount of downforce on the cars suspension and tires which will drastically affect handling.  That is why the body and wing combination is so important.

Some body examples:

1. Dodge Stratus - The Stratus body has been the favorite for some time now because of its neutral handling characteristics.  It has good steering and good rear traction, yet does not create a lot of drag. This is by far the best handling body available today!

2. Honda Accord - The Accord is another body that has become a favorite for those that love the Stratus, but desire a little more steering out of the body.

3. Alfa Romeo - The Alfa body has a lot more steering than the Status! It is used more on high traction tighter tracks where steering is needed.

Wings also play a huge part role in the cars handling.  First off, the angle of the wing, the location of it on the 'wing standoffs', and the way you cut it will all affect rear traction and stability.

How do you change Aerodynamics?

Mounting the wing farther back on the 'wing standoffs' will provide more rear traction. Mounting it farther forward will provide more steering. Cutting the wing down will provide more straight-away speed, but will reduce rear traction on high-speed turns.

There are a few tricks to body handling. First, a few hints about body style. For steering, look for a body that has a large front window and blunt nose. This will provide alot of front downforce which equates to alot of steering. For rear traction, a body with a low roofline will allow cleaner air to flow over the body and hit the wing. Also, a body with the front windshield closer to the center/rear of the car will provide more rear downforce. This, though, might cause a car to understeer, or push, more than if the windshield was located farther forward.

For the wing, here are a couple tips to try. First, mount the wing farther back on the standoffs so that it is level with the rear bumper. This is usually a good starting position. And, don't cut it down too far to start. Run the car and try cutting it down after every run to gain more steering if you need it. Also, try experimenting with the side dams on the side of the wing. You'll be surprised how much this can add to the stability of your car (at higher speeds). Although not a normal adjustment, you can purchase wings separately and try different wings with different bodies.