SURF BUG – A Custom RC Dune & Surf Off-Roader

SURF BUG – A Custom RC Dune & Surf Off-Roader

Surf and sand don’t stand a chance when it comes to this totally custom off-road RC vehicle. This off-road dune buggy style vehicle has been meticulously crafted to deliver both performance and style, making it a true standout in any RC collection.

Thanks to its MR Painting custom-painted Pro-Line body, custom Headhunters RC driver and a 3D-printed surfboard by Mike Wiene, this Surf Bug looks incredible.

Thanks to its MR Painting custom-painted Pro-Line body, custom Headhunters RC driver and a 3D-printed surfboard by Mike Wiene, this Surf Bug looks incredible.

At the core of the Surf Bug is the custom-designed tube cage, a masterpiece created by Dan Reese from Monster Fab RC and produced by RC Speedy. This cage not only provides unparalleled protection but also adds a rugged off-road aesthetic to the vehicle. As you can see, it really steals the show.

Traction comes courtesy of Reefs RC wheels and Pro-Line tires.

Traction comes courtesy of Reefs RC wheels and Pro-Line tires.

BUILT FOR PERFORMANCE
The tube cage is attached to a 3/16-inch aluminum plate to form the Surf Bug’s chassis. This rigid and lightweight chassis features holes that accept most Traxxas and Tamiya style parts, so the vehicle’s custom-ability is off the charts.

Bolted to the rear of Surf Bug is a non-wheeled wheelie bar made by Monster Fab RC. The C-channel shaped bar keeps the car stable when it’s drag racing on soft surfaces such as sand or snow. It’s a must-have when doing speed passes at the sand drags on the beach.

The Surf Bug is equipped with a range of top-of-the-line components, including Pro-Line shocks, transmission, arms, accessory bag and tow strap. Powering this beast is a Hobbywing XR8 ESC paired with a 3300 kV brushless motor delivering impressive speed and performance on any terrain.

This custom chassis combines Pro-Line shocks and Traxxas suspension parts to create a unique setup that really performs.

This custom chassis combines Pro-Line shocks and Traxxas suspension parts to create a unique setup that really performs.

“Powering this beast is a Hobbywing XR8 ESC paired with a 3300 kV brushless motor, delivering impressive speed and performance on any terrain.”

“Powering this beast is a Hobbywing XR8 ESC paired with a 3300 kV brushless motor, delivering impressive speed and performance on any terrain.”

One of the standout features of the Surf Bug is its attention to detail. The 3D-printed replica engine from JE Designs adds a realistic touch, while the custom-trimmed plastic inner fender wells, wheels from Reefs RC, servo also from Reefs RC, and sand paddle style tires from Pro-Line ensure optimal performance and durability on loose, sandy terrain.

The body of the Surf Bug is equally impressive, featuring a Pro-Line Beetle body custom-painted by Matt Brase from MR Painting. The addition of magnetic body mounts and a 3D-printed surfboard by Mike Wiene add to the overall aesthetic appeal of this custom RC ride.
Completing the look of the Surf Bug is the driver figure, expertly crafted by Marc from Headhunter Studios. This figure adds a personal touch to the vehicle, further enhancing its visual appeal.

The long C-channel arm at the rear of the buggy, made by Monster Fab RC, is a wheelie bar that’s used on soft terrain such as sand and snow. It keeps the front end down and provides stability where it’s needed.

The long C-channel arm at the rear of the buggy, made by Monster Fab RC, is a wheelie bar that’s used on soft terrain such as sand and snow. It keeps the front end down and provides stability where it’s needed.

The chassis’ 3/16-inch aluminum plate protects the front of the Surf Bug from damage.

The chassis’ 3/16-inch aluminum plate protects the front of the Surf Bug from damage.

Surf Bug and its driver stand ready to drag race at the next beach they come across.

Surf Bug and its driver stand ready to drag race at the next beach they come across.

With rear axles from Traxxas, shocks from Power Hobby and batteries from Pit Bull RC, the Surf Bug is a true example of customization and attention to detail in the world of RC vehicles.

FINAL WORD

The Surf Bug is more than just an RC vehicle; it’s a work of art. With its custom design, top-of-the-line components and extreme attention to detail, it’s a vehicle that stands out from the crowd and delivers an unparalleled RC experience on the dunes and near the surf.


Text by Leigh Guarnieri
Images by Jerry Tsai

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Updated: May 16, 2024 — 5:12 PM
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