The Tyco Fast Traxx Pickup is a radio control caterpillar/track-based vehicle manufactured by Taiyo (Japan) and sold in the US, UK, and other countries worldwide in 1992.
Just when we thought nothing could be cooler than a Twin Turbo Lamborghini Countach, came the original 1991 Tyco Fast Traxx. But what's cooler than a Fast Traxx? A Fast Traxx Pickup!
Features and Performance
Available in Black (49Mhz) with Blue/Pink Flames, and Neon Green (27Mhz) with a pink lightning bolt, these things just oozed cool to a kid in the 90s, and even today you've gotta admit... they're pretty awesome looking!
Equipped with Twin Mabuchi 280 motors with a 9.6V power pack, they run the same chassis as the regular Fast Traxx, and have a top speed on 21km/h.
Of course, the Fast Traxx was never about Top Speed, but more about pure acceleration and being able to fly over anything that got in its way.
Of course, driving like a tank meant it was'nt going to win any races on a track as cornering was'nt it's strong point, but off-road driving through dirt, grass, mud, gravel, and bashing around indoors over a pillow fort, and twisting up a storm with its ridiculously fast 360 spins is what it was all about.
No doubt it was the Fast Traxx which inspired the later Taiyo / Tyco Rebound 4x4 a couple years later, also known for its out of control spins.
Design
The Fast Trax Pick-Up took its body hardshell from the 4WD Racing Pick-up (below right). It was a popular body, also used for the earlier 1990 Tyco Baja Bandit, and the 1992 Tyco Bandit.
The Fast Traxx also came in the Fast Traxx Eliminator body style (below left), which took its body shell from the Tyco Eliminator (below right)
Recommendation
Pricing on the Fast Traxx Pickup remains fairly reasonable as of writing, and there are enough available that if you really want one you shouldn't have a problem buying. I suspect that within a few years as the Bandits and Eliminators run dry, the focus will turn to the Traxx series, and prices for clean cars will become eye watering.
Keep in mind that the tracks can be replaced (3D printed, and occasionally original) however I'd recommend going for one where the tracks are still in good condition, ideally still tight with no visible "droop", especially if you're wanting a shelf queen. If you're going to run it a lot, then don't worry much about any droop and just get one with the tracks in good condition - no serious wear, no signs of rot, or any bits missing. Dogs loved to chew on the rubber, so even if one side looks good, check the other.
