The Taiyo Jet Hopper MK1 (Japan) is a radio controlled buggy, manufactured by Taiyo Toys in Japan, and released into the Japanese market in 1986. This was the original, the very first Jet Hopper or Turbo Hopper sold anywhere.
When it eventually found its way overseas as the Taiyo Jet Hopper MK1 (Global), and two years later as the Tyco Turbo Hopper MK1, it would set off a revolution in radio control toys globally that would last for 15-20 years, and is what we might today call the 'Golden Age of Toy RC'.
Identifying the MK1 (Japan) vs MK2, MK3
The MK1 is easy to distinguish due to its 'Jet Hopper' lettering cut into the front bumper, the lack of a speed sticker in front of the cockpit, and the fatter front wheels. The original Japanese version is obviously packaged with Japanese language box, manual, etc., and is Made in Japan.
Features and Performance... and why it was it so revolutionary?
In 1986 radio controlled cars were booming, both in hobby grade form which required the time and skills to build the car which was delivered in parts , and in toy grade form which was attempting to bring the same hobby grade speed and excitement to the local toy store.
Taiyo was one of the first to succeed at this, and arguably the most successful with its release of the Jet Hopper, a near-hobby grade performing car capable of 24km/h or 15mph which was unheard of in toy cars until that point, including a proper 'dynamic' suspension system comprising front and rear shock absorbers and independant front suspension.
Most important was the price, with hobby grade kits in the hundreds of dollars, the fact that Jet Hopper was available for around $59 once on sale with sufficient stocks meant that this became a mass market item able to be purchased by most middle class families for their children at Christmas and birthday time.
Availability and Collectability
Surprisingly, for the impact this little car had upon the world of R/C, and toys in general between 1986 - 1996, it is still possible to find an original Taiyo Jet Hopper that was released in Japan all the way back ~40 years ago.
There are some issues which these cars face, and I'll cover that some other day, but in general keep a look out for tires that appear melted or with an unusual blotchy surface, as they can degrade into a play-dough-like consistency.
As for whether they're collectable? Is a Tyco better than a Nikko? (Yes, the answer is yes! Maybe... definitely!)
Do you need new tires?
Check out MCI Racing (not sponsored)
While I've not tried these myself yet, they're pretty much the only option I know of for replacing old Turbo Hopper Jet Hopper tires.
Rear Tires for Jet Hopper and Turbo Hopper MK1/MK2
https://mciracing.ca/products/1-14th-tyc-turbo-hopper-rear-tires
Front Tires for Jet Hopper and Turbo Hopper MK1/MK2
https://mciracing.ca/products/1-14th-tyc-turbo-hopper-front-tires
