The Sears Super Lobo 2 / II, also known as the Nikko Super Lobo II, was a 1/10 scale radio controlled car produced by Nikko R/C Systems, and distributed by Sears, Robuck, and Co. stores across America, and by Nikko in other countries worldwide in 1988
Release Year
The release date of 1988 has been given based on a Sears Catalog from that year which seems to suggest it was new at the time, however I was unable to find more specific confirmation than that. If you can confirm this or a different release date based on any documented evidence, I would very much appreciate you bringing it to my attention.
Features and Performance
The Super Lobo II was essentially just an aesthetic update beyond the original 1987 Sears Super Lobo, with a more streamlined look that removed the 'frame' design style which was now looking quite dated.
- Simplified front end by removing the 'bars' covering the nose
- Removing the spot lights on each side
- Modifying design of where the wing attaches to the frame
- Simplified the wing design
Other than that, from what I've seen there are no other significant changes, except for perhaps some minor improvements or bug fixes which aren't immediately noticeable.
Features on paper
- Large 1/10 Scale
- Mabuchi RS-540 Motor
- 7.2V Hobby Grade Battery for motor and 4 x AA onboard for electronics
- 27Mhz with 6 Frequency Bands enabling competition racing
- Digital Proportional Steering
- Front and Rear Shock Absorbers / Dampers
- Air-filled off-road balloon tires
- Rear Differential
- Removable body shell / cowling
- Available in Red (27Mhz)
Note: I have only seen the Super Lobo II in Red. It's possible other colors were sold, with just little evidence. There's plenty of Super Lobo originals sold/labelled as Super Lobo II online (easily identified with the different front end), so if you see one of those in blue/yellow be sure to confirm its actually a Super Lobo II.
Availability and Collectability
Clearly one of the better Nikko R/C cars they made (with the only downside its lack of a BEC), the Super Lobo II is one of the more well equipped vintage R/C cars to own from this era, competitive (though not necessarily exceeding) the performance of basic hobby grade cars from the same time, and even today better than anything you'll find at your local department / toy / electronics store.
If you'd like one however, you'll need to be patient. Super Lobo II comes up relatively infrequently, perhaps once every month or two, and in varying condition. I'd recommend doing an eBay 'Saved Search' so that you're emailed when a listing is made.
