The Factory Team 12R5.1 is the latest evolutionary step in Associated’s
twenty-five years of 1:12 scale racing history. New for the RC12R5.1 is
the wide three-point rear pod that has been optimized for fitting brushless
motors as well as heat dissipation. The 12R5.1 is built on a 2.5mm woven
carbon fiber chassis that utilizes a pivot-ball link rear suspension that
allows for independent adjustments for chassis roll, bump, and alignment.
Having the ability to make these chassis adjustments independently gives
the 12R5.1 greater potential for the best possible handling on any track
surface. While testing, the pivot-ball link chassis has proven to be more
durable in high-speed impacts and excels in bumpy track conditions.
The 12R5.1 features shocks with a through-shaft design providing
equalized damping throughout the full stroke of the shock in both
directions without any unwanted rebound. The center shock tower has
four mounting positions that split the spring rates for even finer adjustments.
The center shock also controls the chassis droop and can be
adjusted on the car with a turnbuckle wrench, making it easier and
quicker to get dialed in.
The 12R5.1’s “Active Strut” front end has been optimized, featuring
symmetric components with adjustable caster and track width, as well as
a front axle with wheel nut. Factory Team blue aluminum servo mounts
position the servo flat on the chassis for a lower center of gravity and
include Ackermann adjustment spacers. The foam front bumper helps
protect body and chassis during impacts.
The 12R5.1 comes ready for brushless with a new optimized wide rear
pod. The rear pod features a woven carbon fiber top plate and Factory
Team blue aluminum machined motor mount, left side bulkhead and
motor mount standoff. The woven carbon fiber top plate attaches to the
motor mount and left side bulkhead at three points, and uses an
integrated standoff, making the rear pod more rigid. Front-to-rear chassis
balance is optimized at the center of the battery, allowing an easy
transition to 3.7V LiPo batteries.