If you’re considering purchasing the Arrma Kraton 8S, you’re looking at one of the most premium and expensive Arrma RC cars on the market. But is it truly worth the price?
Since you’re here, it’s clear you’re a fan of Arrma RC cars and eager to learn more about the Kraton 8S. And you’re in the right place!
Arrma is known for producing high-quality RC cars, but there’s something special about the Kraton 8S. It stands out, doesn’t it? It feels like a powerhouse—built for extreme performance, capable of handling rough terrains, and even taking on high-speed runs like the one in the video below.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Arrma Kraton 8S so you can make an informed decision before buying.
So, is it worth it? Or should you consider other Arrma models like the Felony or the new Infraction instead? Let’s dive in and find out.
Before You Get Started…
When looking for an Arrma Kraton, you’ll come across different versions. The two most well-known models are the Kraton 8S and Kraton 6S—and we’ll break down the key differences between them.
Additionally, there are two variations: the standard Kraton and the BLX version, which is the focus of this article.
How can you tell them apart?
It’s simple:
– The standard Kraton features an extra front bumper.
– The BLX version, on the other hand, does not include this bumper.
Now, let’s explore whether the Arrma Kraton 8S is the right choice for you!
Arrma Kraton 8S Design
Arrma Kraton 8S Body
Arrma RC cars are known for their eye-catching designs, and the Arrma Kraton 8S is no exception. The moment you lay eyes on it, you’ll be captivated by its presence and sheer performance-focused aesthetics.
If you’ve seen the Arrma Kraton 6S, you’ll know it’s already quite large at a 1/8 scale . However, the Arrma Kraton 8S takes things to a whole new level with its massive 1/5 scale size!
One of the standout features of this monster truck is its oversized wheels , which come up almost to the level of the body. This design not only enhances stability but also acts as a protective barrier for the body, making it harder for the RC car to flip over. Its handling capabilities are undeniably impressive.
Front Design
The front end of the Arrma Kraton 8S immediately grabs your attention, primarily because of its headlights . While they aren’t functional, they add an aggressive and stylish touch to the overall design.
Another striking feature is the grille , which proudly displays the Arrma logo along with the Kraton name , reinforcing its identity.
In terms of aesthetics, the graphics and color options are remarkable. The Arrma Kraton 8S is available in green and orange , whereas the 6S version comes in red and blue .
Moving up to the hood , you’ll notice two large body clips designed to keep the shell secure. Additionally, the top of the body features two long skids , strategically placed to protect the truck in case it flips over during high-speed runs or extreme stunts.
Rear Design
Now, let’s talk about one of the coolest rear ends in the world of RC cars.
If you’re a fan of Formula 1 cars , the rear of the Arrma Kraton 8S might remind you of their aerodynamic design. The most eye-catching feature is the massive dual-wing spoiler , engineered to increase downforce and enhance stability at high speeds.
Beneath this powerful wing lies an intricate suspension system , which is not only visually appealing but also a testament to the Kraton’s high-performance engineering.
Since the Arrma Kraton 8S has a pickup-style body , the rear body clips are positioned just above the wheels, blending seamlessly into the dark-colored body. This thoughtful placement ensures they don’t interfere with the truck’s sleek appearance.
A small yet awesome detail that’s easy to miss is the exhaust design on the sides. There’s a black rectangular hole , representing the exhaust pipes, with a subtle smoke effect drawn around it—an artistic touch that adds to the realism of this RC beast.
Kraton 6S vs. 8S – Key Differences
While the Arrma Kraton 6S and 8S share a nearly identical design, there are a few notable differences:
– The 6S version lacks the top skids found on the 8S, which help with body protection.
– The body clips on the 8S are of higher quality and more secure compared to those on the 6S.
– Both versions feature the iconic dual-wing spoiler , a signature element of the Kraton’s aggressive styling.
Overall, the Arrma Kraton 8S stands out as a larger, more refined, and performance-oriented version of its 6S counterpart, making it an impressive choice for RC enthusiasts looking for power, durability, and style.
Arrma Kraton 8S Chassis Overview
Gaining access to the powerhouse components of the Arrma Kraton 8S is as simple as removing four clips—just like that, you’re inside!
If you’re familiar with Arrma RC cars, you’ll immediately notice a unique design feature: three aluminum support bars reinforcing the chassis. Unlike the Infraction, Felony, or even the 6S version, this model incorporates two bars forming an “X” shape, linked at the center, while a third, more substantial bar runs from the front to the rear.
The chassis itself is constructed from 7075 aluminum, boasting a thickness of over 4mm, emphasizing its strength and durability. Additionally, the underside is equipped with multiple metal skids, offering extra protection and rigidity when tackling rough terrain.
Durability and Reinforcement
While the Arrma Kraton 8S chassis is incredibly tough, extreme bashing sessions may still cause it to bend. If you’re pushing this RC beast to its limits, investing in a radical RC bash bar can provide added reinforcement from below.
That said, don’t assume this chassis will bend easily—it’s crafted from high-grade 7075 aluminum, offering exceptional durability. However, for peace of mind, adding extra support is a smart precaution. On a rigidity scale from 1 to 10, I’d confidently rate it a solid 10. What about you?
Internal Components & Suspension
Beyond its chassis, the Arrma Kraton 8S shares many components with other Arrma RC models. It features:
- A powerful motor
- A high-performance ESC
- Dual battery trays, each designed to hold a 4S battery, delivering the legendary 8S power
These battery compartments are also adjustable, allowing you to fit various battery sizes based on your needs. We’ll dive deeper into these internal components in the performance section.
As for the suspension, while it performs well, some parts are made of plastic, which may break under intense bashing. If you’re planning on pushing this RC car to its limits, upgrading to aluminum suspension components is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts on the Chassis
The Arrma Kraton 8S excels at handling high jumps, but its landings can be rough, often leading to damage. However, this issue can be mitigated with aluminum aftermarket parts, making the chassis even more robust.
If you’re seeking an even more durable RC truck, the Traxxas X-Maxx is a strong alternative.
Overall, the Arrma Kraton 8S chassis is reliable and strong, but it does have its limits. To extend its lifespan and maximize performance, upgrading with aftermarket parts is the way to go.
Now, let’s explore how it performs in action!
Arrma Kraton 8S Performance
At first, you might feel a bit let down by the reliability of such a high-end RC car. However, that’s just one aspect of the Arrma Kraton 8S—its performance more than makes up for it.
When it comes to speed, control, and handling, the Arrma Kraton 8S stands among the best Arrma RC cars you can own.
Equipped with a Spektrum™ Firma™ 1250Kv Brushless Motor and a Spektrum™ Firma™ 160A Smart ESC, powered by two 4S LiPo batteries and a pinion gear, this beast can reach speeds of up to 55 mph.
Want even more speed? No problem! You can upgrade it further with aftermarket parts to push its limits.
One of its biggest advantages is its customizability. You can tweak and modify almost every aspect of this RC car to suit your preferences.
For beginners, mastering the Arrma Kraton 8S might be a bit challenging, especially when it comes to handling or making modifications. However, if you’re a seasoned RC enthusiast, this powerhouse is a perfect fit for you!
Arrma Kraton 8S Systems
For an RC car in this price range, you’d expect top-tier systems to enhance control and driving precision—and Arrma doesn’t disappoint.
Active Vehicle Control (AVC)
The Active Vehicle Control (AVC) system by Arrma is designed to help you maintain control, especially in challenging conditions.
How does it work?
Simple! Imagine your Arrma Kraton 8S starts sliding on a wet surface. The AVC system automatically adjusts the wheels in the opposite direction to regain stability—just like a real car drifting technique.
A great feature of AVC is that you can adjust its level of interference based on your driving style.
- If you prefer full control, you can reduce its impact.
- If you want extra stability and support, you can increase AVC assistance for better handling on the track.
Ultimately, the choice is yours!
Arrma Kraton 8S Remote Control
Another standout feature of the Arrma Kraton 8S is its remote control system, which surpasses those found in models like the Felony and Infraction.
This RC car comes with a Spektrum™ DX3 3-channel 2.4GHz Radio with an SR6100AT AVC® Receiver.
What makes this remote special?
- Bluetooth Smart Connectivity – Connect to your phone or smart device via the Spektrum Dashboard App for real-time data about your RC car.
- Expandable Design – You can attach your phone to the remote, allowing you to monitor and control the car while driving.
- Speedometer Compatibility – Add a Spektrum speedometer to track your car’s actual speed in real-time.
This remote is truly next-level, providing both functionality and convenience for the ultimate RC driving experience!
Arrma Kraton 8S Upgrades
If you’re an RC enthusiast who loves tuning, modifying, and pushing limits, the Arrma Kraton 8S is the perfect platform for you.
One of the best things about this RC beast is its high level of customization—you can upgrade almost every part to enhance performance, durability, or aesthetics. Owning this truck isn’t just about driving; it’s about exploring, experimenting, and fine-tuning for the ultimate RC experience.
Worried about finding parts and accessories? No need! The Arrma Kraton 8S has a massive aftermarket support, making it easy to find aluminum suspension arms, wheelie bars, upgraded shocks, shock mounts, and more.
At the core of the RC hobby is the joy of tinkering—breaking, fixing, modifying, and upgrading. That’s what makes this world so exciting. The Arrma Kraton 8S is not just a truck; it’s a gateway to endless possibilities.
Frustrating Aspects of the Arrma Kraton 8S
Despite all its impressive features, the Arrma Kraton 8S isn’t without its drawbacks.
One of the main challenges is repair difficulty, especially for beginners. If you’re new to RC cars, troubleshooting and fixing issues might feel overwhelming. But if you’re an experienced hobbyist, you’ll probably enjoy the challenge!
Another concern is reliability. Some users find it tough and durable, while others report frequent issues. However, how well your Kraton 8S holds up mostly depends on how you treat it.
- Rough driving and poor maintenance lead to breakdowns, no matter how strong the truck is.
- Proper care and controlled driving can significantly extend its lifespan.
Of course, for many RC enthusiasts, bashing and pushing limits is half the fun! After all, what’s the point of having an 8S monster truck if you’re not going to send it flying? 😆
What Makes the Arrma Kraton 8S Amazing?
Do we even need to list the great things about the Arrma Kraton 8S? It’s packed with power, durability, and an incredible upgrade potential.
However, here are some standout features you might not have noticed:
- Adjustable Battery Tray – You can extend or shorten the tray to accommodate different battery sizes.
- Minimum 4S Battery Requirement – According to Arrma’s official site, the Kraton 8S won’t run on anything below 4S power.
- Adjustable Shock Towers – Both the front and rear shock towers can be modified to suit your driving style.
- Multi-Purpose Remote Control Mount – The transmitter isn’t just for mounting your phone; you can also attach a camera to capture epic driving footage.
These are just a few cool features I discovered while testing the Arrma Kraton 8S—but there’s always more to explore! Let me know in the comments if you’ve found any other interesting tricks or hidden gems.
Arrma Kraton 8S Price
As mentioned earlier, the Arrma Kraton 8S is not just one of the most expensive RC cars in Arrma’s lineup—it’s also among the priciest stock RC cars on the market.
However, the price reflects its power, durability, and performance. Whether you’re tearing up off-road trails or upgrading its components, the Kraton 8S delivers an experience that’s well worth the investment.
If the 8S is beyond your budget, you can always opt for the Arrma Kraton 6S. It’s about half the size and half the price, but still packs an impressive punch, ensuring plenty of fun on the track or in the backyard.
Here are some of the best deals available for the Arrma Kraton 8S and 6S—check them out below!
Should You Buy It?
If you’re looking for a quick answer, then yes—absolutely! The Arrma Kraton 8S is a fantastic RC car that offers great performance for its price.
When compared to competitors like the Traxxas X-Maxx, the Kraton 8S holds its own with a competitive price tag and powerful capabilities. However, if you prioritize larger size and increased reliability, the X-Maxx might be the better choice. Both are excellent options, so it ultimately depends on your preferences.
So, what’s your pick? Would you go for the Arrma Kraton 8S or the 6S? Or would you take the leap and grab the Traxxas X-Maxx instead?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear your opinions!
