The Taiyo Micro Bandit is a small 1 channel radio control car released in 1998 on the Japanese market, with a regular stick controller, unlike of the pistol grip on the Tyco Micro Bandit.
It came in several packaging designs, including White Box, Black Box, and Rectangular with Window. If you’re aware of the order these were released, we’d love to know, leave a comment below!
Unusually, it shares the same model number as the Micro Eliminator (9101) which it shipped with at the same time.


Like all ‘Micro’ versions, this is a toy for young kids, with just 2xAA power, and not full function, with forward and “reverse-turn” (90 degree) mode only.
The core feature of the Micro Bandit is its association with the 9.6V Turbo Tyco Bandit which remains one of the most sought after of all Taiyo / Tyco models even 30 years later.
Interestingly, it may be the only Mini or Micro version of a car that Taiyo never produced under their brand. If you’re aware of a Taiyo Bandit (not the 4WD Racing Pickup), we’d love to hear it!
Unfortunately the paintwork is the only similarity it shares, and underneath is the usual 1 Channel Reverse-Turn Micro RC car that doesn’t allow regular turning.