The Traxxas Maxx line is one of the most capable “do‑it‑all” RC monster truck families for backyard bashers, beginners, and hardcore enthusiasts, thanks to its power, durability, and family‑friendly drivability. Whether it is the greatest RC truck family depends on your priorities, but for a mix of fun, toughness, and ease of use, it belongs at the top of the list.
What Is the Traxxas Maxx Family?
The modern Maxx “family” centers around the 1/10‑scale Maxx 4S WideMaxx and its variants, which shrink much of the X‑Maxx and XRT strength into a more manageable size. These trucks are Ready‑to‑Run 4WD brushless monsters built for high‑speed bashing, skate parks, dirt lots, and general family fun. We can't forget the "OG TMaxx" with the 3.3 nitro burning monster truck that started it all!
Key traits across the Maxx line include:
- 4S‑capable brushless power systems (Velineon 540XL motor, VXL‑4S ESC).
- Waterproof electronics and sealed drivetrain for all‑weather use.
- Modular tub chassis and clipless body mounting for quick maintenance, with a modular chassis design that absorbs and distributes impact energy to prevent major breakages during hard landings. The design also provides excellent center ground clearance, allowing the Maxx to handle rough terrain and obstacles with ease.
The drivetrain features a shock-absorbing Cush Drive and sealed, steel-gear differentials for maximum torque handling.
The Maxx uses premium materials and engineering, including machined aluminum bodies, an aluminum motor cradle for enhanced durability and rigidity, and an aluminum transmission cover that improves heat dissipation and structural integrity.
Design, Materials, GT Maxx Aluminum Shocks, and Build Quality
The Maxx uses a composite modular tub chassis that keeps weight reasonable while still offering impressive rigidity for its size. The updated 2.0/WideMaxx versions stretch the chassis by almost an inch and widen the stance by around 40 mm, improving straight‑line stability and reducing traction rolls during aggressive driving.
Key design and material highlights:
- Chassis: Composite modular tub with integrated skid plates and high ground clearance around 1.9 in for off‑road obstacles. The chassis is now 7% longer than V1 and comes equipped with the WideMaxx suspension kit for improved stability.
- Suspension: Long‑travel, oil‑filled aluminum GT Maxx shocks and GT Maxx shocks with progressive-rate springs provide controlled handling during jumps. WideMaxx suspension arms deliver a wider track and more planted handling.
- Drivetrain: Sealed, hardened steel bevel differentials and shaft‑driven 4WD designed to cope with 4S (and even 6S in some testing) power levels. Features include a limited-slip gear ratio, single-speed differential type, upgraded steel spur gear, and 1.0 metric pitch for enhanced durability and performance.
- Body and hardware: Reinforced body shell, heavy‑duty turnbuckles, Maxx‑duty driveshafts, aluminum caster, and genuine Traxxas performance parts to survive repeated hard landings and ensure strength and authenticity.
For families, the combination of a robust chassis, an enclosed driveline, and a simple modular design makes the Maxx easier to live with and repair than more race‑oriented platforms that use more exposed components.
Wheels and Tires
The Traxxas Maxx Ultimate 4S RTR Brushless 4x4 RC Monster Truck stands out with its massive 5.6” Sledgehammer tires, engineered for maximum grip and durability. These tires feature an aggressive open-block tread pattern that effortlessly clears mud and debris, ensuring superior traction on everything from loose dirt to grass and gravel. Mounted on striking 2.8” black chrome wheels with robust splined 17 mm hex mounts, the Sledgehammer tires are securely connected to heavy-duty aluminum axles, providing a rock-solid foundation for high-speed bashing and off-road adventures.
The durable soft compound of the Sledgehammer tires is designed to absorb impacts and maintain a consistent contact patch, delivering a smooth, controlled ride even during intense sessions. Whether you’re tearing up the backyard or tackling rough terrain, the combination of these tires and aluminum axles on the Maxx Ultimate ensures you get the best in both performance and longevity, making them a top choice for RC enthusiasts who demand reliability and traction in every run.
Steering and Control
Steering precision and authority are at the heart of the Traxxas Maxx Ultimate’s design. The truck is equipped with the High Torque Maxx Servo, delivering an impressive 650 oz-in of torque for ultimate steering authority, even when running oversized Sledgehammer tires. This powerful servo is supported by a precision steering system that includes a 6061-T6 aluminum bellcrank assembly, heavy-duty servo saver bushing, and sealed ball bearings, all working together to provide smooth, responsive steering and absorb driveline shocks during aggressive maneuvers.
The steering blocks combine the strength of 6061-T6 aluminum with carefully engineered geometry, ensuring maximum steering authority and responsive handling in all conditions. The GT Maxx aluminum shocks, featuring TiN-coated shafts, color-matched aluminum caps, threaded adjustment rings, and double X-ring seals, further enhance control by maintaining consistent suspension performance over rough terrain. Together with the torque-biasing center drive, these components deliver a stable, predictable ride, allowing drivers to push the Maxx Ultimate to its limits with confidence. Every detail, from the heavy-duty construction to the carefully tuned suspension geometry, is designed to provide the ultimate in steering precision and durability.
Radio System
The Traxxas Maxx Ultimate is equipped with the advanced TQi 2.4 GHz radio system, delivering reliable, interference-free control for every driving session. The TQi radio features a Traxxas Link Wireless Module, enabling seamless connectivity with the free Traxxas Link app. Through this app, users can access real-time telemetry data—including speed, RPM, and battery voltage—directly on their mobile device, making it easy to monitor performance and battery status on the go.
The TQi radio system also allows for micro-adjustments to steering and throttle sensitivity, letting drivers fine-tune the Maxx Ultimate’s handling to match their preferences or driving conditions. With its intuitive interface and robust feature set, the TQi 2.4 GHz radio system ensures that every aspect of your Maxx Ultimate experience is customizable and user-friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned basher or a family looking for a reliable RC platform, the combination of the TQi radio and the free Traxxas Link app puts advanced control and real-time data right at your fingertips.
Power, Speed, TQi Radio, and Special Features
On stock gearing and a good 4S LiPo, the latest Traxxas Maxx WideMaxx can reach around 52–55 mph out of the box, with Traxxas rating it for 60+ mph with optional gearing and a strong 4S pack. The Velineon VXL-4s power system is compatible with both 3S and 4S LiPo batteries, offering flexibility for different performance needs. Enthusiasts have pushed modified Maxx setups to extreme speeds on 6S, with GPS‑verified runs well beyond 80 mph, though this is far beyond typical family use.
Notable performance and special features:
- Velineon 540XL brushless motor with 5 mm shaft, aluminum heat sink, cooling fan for sustained high‑load operation, and a Kv rating of 2400. The Traxxas Maxx Ultimate weighs 10.20 pounds (4.63 kg).
- VXL‑4S waterproof ESC, 3S/4S compatible, with built‑in protections, Traxxas Stability Management (TSM) to help keep the truck straight under throttle, and high-quality motor connectors including 6.5 mm bullet connectors for reliable power transfer.
- Wheelie‑happy torque that still feels controllable thanks to the longer wheelbase and wider track on the 2.0/WideMaxx variants.
- Equipped with a powerful steering servo for maximum steering authority and precise handling, especially under aggressive driving conditions.
With a 4s LiPo battery and optional gearing, the Traxxas Maxx Ultimate achieves a top speed of 60+ mph.
For a family truck, the ability to electronically tame power via transmitter settings and TSM means parents can dial the speed back for younger drivers, then open it up as skills improve.
Maxx Ultimate Features
The Traxxas Maxx Ultimate 4S RTR Brushless 4x4 RC Monster Truck with WideMAXX is engineered for those who demand the absolute best in RC performance, durability, and control. At its core, the Maxx Ultimate harnesses the power of a 4S brushless Velineon system, delivering explosive acceleration and high top speeds when paired with a single 4S LiPo battery (sold separately). This advanced powertrain is anchored by a full-length motor cradle, which eliminates unwanted chassis flex and ensures that every ounce of power is transferred smoothly to the wheels—no gear-crunching, just pure performance.
Precision steering is a hallmark of the Maxx Ultimate, thanks to the TQi 2.4 GHz radio system and the high-torque Maxx servo. With 650 oz-in of torque, this servo provides ultimate steering authority and responsive handling, even under the most demanding conditions. The carefully engineered steering geometry, supported by aluminum caster blocks and robust steering blocks, delivers maximum steering precision and control, letting you carve corners or blast through rough terrain with confidence.
Suspension duties are handled by premium GT Maxx aluminum shocks, featuring machined aluminum bodies, threaded adjustment rings for easy tuning, and silicone fluid-filled diffs for ultra-smooth damping. These shocks, combined with critical suspension points reinforced with 6061-T6 aluminum, absorb big jumps and rough landings while maintaining a plush, controlled ride. The durable, soft-compound tires and aluminum axles further enhance grip and impact resistance, making the Maxx Ultimate ready for any challenge.
The driveline is built for heavy-duty action, with steel CV driveshafts, sealed ball bearings, and a limited-slip gear ratio for efficient power delivery and torque management. Hardened steel bevel gears and a 1.0 metric pitch ensure long-lasting durability, while the aluminum transmission cover keeps everything running cool and aligned. The rear latch mechanism and rear bumpers provide extra protection during hard hits, and the rear skid plates and servo saver bushing add another layer of defense against the toughest terrain.
For those who love to push the limits, the Maxx Ultimate includes an impact-resistant wheelie bar with aluminum wheels, helping to prevent backflips and absorb the shock of wild launches. Matching aluminum wheel nuts and clips, along with molded body reinforcements, keep everything secure, while the innovative body mount system makes battery swaps and maintenance a breeze.
Tech-savvy drivers will appreciate the integration of the free Traxxas Link app, which pairs with the TQi radio to provide real-time telemetry—monitoring speed, RPM, and battery voltage right from your mobile device. Optional gearing lets you tailor the truck’s performance to your style, and the waterproof electronic speed control ensures all-weather reliability.
Every detail of the Maxx Ultimate, from the motor retention system to the carefully tuned suspension geometry, is designed for maximum performance and reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned RC veteran or stepping up to your first high-end monster truck, the Maxx Ultimate delivers the ultimate blend of 4S brushless power, precision steering, and bombproof durability—making it the flagship choice for anyone who wants to experience the pinnacle of RC bashing.
Durability and Real‑World Bashing
The Maxx family has a strong reputation as one of the toughest 1/10‑scale to mid‑scale bashers available, especially in the WideMaxx configuration. Multiple durability tests and user reports highlight that the truck can withstand high jumps, hard hits, and repeated crashes with minimal breakage when driven on 4S within reason. The Maxx comes equipped with durable soft-compound tires that provide excellent traction and grip for off-road performance, though their softness can also contribute to rollovers during aggressive driving.
Durability notes:
- WideMaxx arms and the longer chassis reduce tumbles and awkward landings, which directly helps parts live longer.
- Maxx‑duty driveshafts are notably tough; many owners run plastic shafts as intentional “fuses” to protect more expensive gears.
- The truck is not indestructible, but breakages tend to be from extreme bashing, bad landings, or over‑gearing for speed runs.
- The wheelie bar, especially when upgraded with aluminum wheelie bar wheels, adds stability and protects the truck during hard acceleration, helping to prevent backflips and absorb impacts.
The stock servo is often criticized as inadequate, and the stock tires, while soft for traction, can make the truck prone to rolling over.
For family use—backyard jumps, park grass, gravel lots—the Maxx offers a very forgiving blend of strength and simplicity that puts it ahead of many lighter, race‑style 1/10 trucks. Once stock components like the servo or tires fail, upgrading to aftermarket parts is highly recommended for improved performance and durability.
Is the Traxxas Maxx the Greatest RC Family of Trucks?
“Greatest” is subjective, but the Maxx series checks more family‑friendly boxes than most high‑performance bashers. It is fast enough to thrill experienced hobbyists, yet stable and tunable enough that teens and careful younger drivers can enjoy it under supervision.
Where the Maxx shines for families:
- All‑weather, all‑terrain versatility with waterproof electronics and sealed drivetrain.
- High parts availability and huge aftermarket support, making repairs and upgrades straightforward.
- Strong durability per dollar compared to many similar‑class trucks, with fewer chronic weak points.
It does face competition from platforms like the Traxxas Sledge and larger X‑Maxx/XRT, which some bashers prefer for ultimate durability and scale presence. However, those trucks are larger, heavier, and more expensive, making the Maxx a sweeter spot for many family garages.
Quick Comparison: Maxx vs Sledge vs X‑Maxx
Truck | Scale/Class | Typical Power | Top speed (stock gearing, rated) | Durability focus | Family‑friendly size? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Traxxas Maxx WideMaxx | 1/10 monster | 4S brushless Velineon 540XL | ~52–55 mph out of box, 60+ mph with optional gearing | Very high, designed for heavy bashing | Yes – portable, easy to store and transport |
Traxxas Sledge | 1/8 truggy‑style | 4S/6S brushless | Very high, tuned for big‑air bashing | Often considered even tougher for extreme impacts | Larger and heavier; better for bigger spaces |
Traxxas X‑Maxx | Oversize monster | 6S–8S brushless | 50+ mph class with high‑voltage setups | Extremely tough, but more mass = bigger crashes | Huge; spectacular but less convenient for casual family use |
Traxxas T-Maxx 3.3 Nitro Powered 4WD Maxx Monster Truck
- TRX 3.3 racing engine delivers massive power and torque to all 4 wheels to conquer any terrain at speeds up to 45mph
- TQi 2.4GHz Transmitter with Traxxas Link wireless module, factory-installed telemetry sensors, and TSM stability control
- Tunable, sealed front and rear differentials and an auto-shifting two-speed transmission
- Ready-To-Drive with included NiMH receiver pack and EZ-Start battery, chargers, fuel-filler bottle, spare glow plug, and more!
- Extended chassis, heavy-duty chassis braces, transmission skid plate, and 6.3" Maxx all-terrain tires on mirror-chrome 3.8" Hurricane wheels
Traxxas Maxx Wide Green 1:10 RC Model Car Monster Truck 4WD RTR 2.4GHz
- Does not include Battery and Charger / Traxxas recommends a 4-cell 14.8 V Power Cell LiPo battery for maximum performance. A 3-cell 11.1 V LiPo battery will operate the vehicle with reduced performance. NiMH batteries are not supported.
Traxxas Maxx Ultimate
- Maxx Ultimate receives substantial upgrades across key performance areas: suspension, chassis, and driveline. Tough 6061-T6 aluminum chassis and suspension parts deliver bombproof strength with show-stopping looks. Steel CV driveshafts and Mod-1 steel gears offer maximum torque handling and durability.
- A Traxxas Link Wireless Module comes pre-installed in Maxx Ultimate’s TQi transmitter to take full advantage of the on-board telemetry. The free Traxxas Link app lets you make micro-adjustments to the transmitter and view real-time telemetry data, such as speed, RPM, and battery voltage, on your mobile device.
- Huge 5.6” Sledgehammer tires feature an aggressive open-block tread design that clears away mud and debris for unrivaled traction. New black chrome wheels give Maxx a menacing look to match its unrivaled performance. The 2.8” wheels utilize a splined 17 mm hex mount for a stronger connection to the aluminum axles.
- With a staggering 650 ounce-inches of torque and full steel gears, the High Torque Maxx Servo gives Maxx Ultimate complete steering authority, even with its huge Sledgehammer tires. The case features an anodized aluminum center section with cooling fins and ball bearings for increased precision.
- Battery and Charger not included, Recommended Traxxas Part 2999
Traxxas X-Maxx Ultimate
- High-Performance Aluminum Upgrades: 6061-T6 aluminum C-hubs, 6061-T6 aluminum steering blocks, 6061-T6 aluminum rear hub carriers, 6061-T6 aluminum differential housings, 6061-T6 aluminum motor mounts
- VXL-8s Waterproof Electronic Speed Control and Velineon 1200XL Brushless Motor, Integrated cooling fan, Machined heat sink, Integrated protection circuits, New aggressive tune for more power at any RPM
- WideMaxx Suspension with Ultra-Low-CG Chassis Design: Made from our strongest cold-weather material, Double-shear connections, High-strength steel suspension pins with retainers, 4 mm machined pivot balls, TUBES 7075-T6 Aluminum front toe links, Oversized wheel bearings
- ProGraphix Clipless Body: Snaps in place in just seconds, Rigid internal frame, Molded body reinforcements for tear-through protection, Rugged high-downforce rear wing, Protective top skids
- X-Maxx Spec 8s Drivetrain: Machined, hardened steel pinion and spur gear, Full-time shaft-driven 4-wheel drive, Heavy-duty steel CV driveshafts with laser etching, Splined aluminum center driveshaft, Machined aluminum stub axles, Beefed-up steel differential output cups
Traxxas Maxx Slash 6S 1/8 RTR Short Course Truck
- Traxxas 102076-4-BLUE - Maxx Slash 6S 4X4 Short Course Truck RTR, Blue
- Features: 6S POWER: Maxx Slash punches harder and faster with brutal 6s power and 70+mph speed. Low center of gravity and new belted tires keep it all in control. MAXX-SIZED SLASH: Being big is good. Being the perfect size for maximum performance is best. Maxx Slash is the perfect size to power aggressively over the roughest terrain imaginable, yet it still feels light, responsive, and agile. MAXX STRENGTH: The Maxx platform has already proven its synonymous with durability.
- Includes: Maxx Slash, Ready-To-Race short course truck with Traxxas 2000 kV brushless motor VXL-6s waterproof electronic speed control with integrated telemetry Quick Start Guide TQi 2.4 GHz radio system High quality maintenance tools Jumper plug (for 4s battery use)
- Specs: Length: 26.52 inches (674 mm) Front Track: 14.30 inches (363 mm) Rear Track: 14.30 inches (363 mm) Ground Clearance: 1.54 inches (39 mm) Weight (no battery): 11.78 pounds (5.34 kg) Height (overall): 9.64 inches (245 mm) Wheelbase: 15.49 inches (394 mm) Shock Length (front): 4.90 inches (124 mm) Shock Length (rear): 4.90 inches (124 mm) Tire Diameter: 5.27 inches (134 mm) Wheel Diameter: 2.2 x 3.2 inches (56 x 81 mm) Speed Control: Velineon VXL-6s Mo
- Part number(s) included (in factory packaging): 102076-4-BLUE
Traxxas MAXX Slash 4WD 6S
- Maxx Slash punches harder and faster with brutal 6s power and 70+mph speed. Low center of gravity and new belted tires keep it all in control.
- Being big is good. Being the perfect size for maximum performance is best. Maxx Slash is the perfect size to power aggressively over the roughest terrain imaginable, yet it still feels light, responsive, and agile.
- The Maxx platform has already proven its synonymous with durability. The engineering on Maxx Slash continues to innovate, adding even more strength for critical 6s power handling and faster, harder-hitting action.
- Maxx SC belted tires limit high-speed tire expansion for a larger, flatter contact patch and game-changing precision and control. Tire uniformity is critical for stability, especially at the top of its 70+mph speed range.
- Battery and Charger not included. Recommended Traxxas part #2990
Traxxas Mini Maxx BL-2s 30+ MPH RTR Monster Truck, Battery and Charger included
Traxxas
Mini Maxx BL-2s 30+ MPH RTR Monster Truck, Battery and Charger included
- Traxxas 107154-1-ORNG - Mini Maxx BL-2S 4X4 Monster Truck, Orange
- Features: 30+ mph Top Speed BL-2s Waterproof Electronic Speed Control BL-2s Brushless Motor Battery and Charger Included TQ 2.4 GHz Transmitter Clipless Body Mount System 1/10 Scale 4X4 Drivetrain Large 32-pitch gears Modular Composite Chassis Easy Battery Access 1/10 scale 2056 waterproof high-torque servo Heavy duty, double-shear suspension arms Oil-Filled Ultra Shocks 2.4″ black multi-spoke wheels 4″ Sledgehammer tires with foam inserts He
- Includes: Mini Maxx Ready-To-Race monster truck BL-2s Brushless Power System 3500 mAh 2-cell LiPo battery 2-amp USB-C charger Quick Start Guide TQ 2.4 GHz radio system High-quality maintenance tools
- Specs: Model Name: Mini Maxx Model Type: Monster Truck Top Speed: 30+ Skill Level: 1 Scale: Maxx Length: 13.58 inches (345 mm) Width: 9.94 inches (253 mm) Height: 5.39 inches (137 mm) Weight: 3.62 pounds (1.64 kg) Front Track: 9.94 inches (253 mm) Rear Track: 9.94 inches (253 mm) Motor Name: BL-2s 3300 kV Motor Type: Sensorless brushless Motor Weight: 7.51 ounces (213 g) Motor Length: 3.15 inches (80 mm) Motor Diameter: 1.42 inches (36 mm) Motor
FAQs
Is the Traxxas Maxx good for beginners?
The Maxx is powerful for an absolute first RC, but its stability, TSM assistance, and programmable throttle settings make it manageable for careful beginners, especially older kids and teens. New drivers should start on reduced throttle and lower‑speed gearing.
How fast is the Traxxas Maxx?
With stock gearing and a 4S LiPo, the Maxx can run in the low‑50 mph range, while Traxxas rates it for 55+ mph and 60+ mph with optional high‑speed gearing. For family bashing, many owners keep stock gearing to balance speed, temps, and durability.
Is the Traxxas Maxx waterproof?
The electronics package (VXL‑4S ESC, servo, and receiver box) is waterproof, and the sealed differentials help keep out dirt and moisture. That said, it is still wise to dry and clean the truck after wet or muddy runs to prolong bearing and hardware life.
How durable is the Maxx compared to other RC trucks?
The Maxx is widely regarded as one of the most durable trucks in its size class, especially in the WideMaxx configuration with longer chassis and wider arms. While no RC is unbreakable, many users report only occasional part failures even after hard-bashing sessions.
What maintenance does the Traxxas Maxx need?
Routine care includes checking screws, inspecting driveshafts, cleaning bearings, and occasionally rebuilding shocks and differentials after heavy use. Thanks to the modular design and common Traxxas parts, most maintenance is straightforward and well‑documented.
Is the Maxx worth the price for a family?
The Maxx sits in the upper mid‑range of hobby‑grade pricing, but its performance, durability, and long‑term parts support can make it a better value than cheaper trucks that break more often. For families serious about the hobby, it is often a “buy once, cry once” choice.
Final Thoughts
If your goal is a single RC truck platform that can entertain an entire family—from careful first‑time drivers to experienced bashers—the Traxxas Maxx family is one of the strongest contenders on the market. Its blend of thoughtful design, robust materials, intense speed, and proven durability makes it easy to recommend as a top‑tier family basher, even if “greatest of all time” will always come down to personal taste and budget. Order today!
