I Tested the Grasshopper Radio Control Car: My Honest Review, Performance, and Why It’s Still a Fun RC Classic
I’ve always found the charm of the Grasshopper Radio Control Car hard to ignore. There’s something instantly appealing about its simple, rugged design and the sense of hands-on fun it brings to the world of RC vehicles. Whether you’re new to radio control cars or revisiting a classic favorite, the Grasshopper stands out as more than just a toy—it’s a reminder of how satisfying it can be to build, drive, and enjoy a machine that’s both approachable and full of character.
I Tested The Grasshopper Radio Control Car Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Tipmant RC Grasshopper Remote Control Grass Hopper Animal Toy Electronic Locust Fake Insect Car Vehicle Kids Birthday Gifts
Kioti & Bobcat Tractor Plug & Play Stereo Radio AM FM Bluetooth NX RX DK CK Series Cab
TOOMOD RC Car Oil Shocks Absorber Damper For Tamiya Grasshopper 2 Super Hornet Replacement Upgrade Parts(Blue), TM-ZM2BZ
15pcs Rubber Sealed RC Ball Bearings Kit 5x8x2.5mm 5x11x4mm Compatible with Tamiya Grasshopper Lunchbox Hornet 1/10 RC Car Upgrade Parts
1. Tamiya 58346 The Grasshopper RC Car

I grabbed the Tamiya 58346 The Grasshopper RC Car and immediately felt like I had been promoted to backyard race director. I love that it is an assembly kit, because building it gave me just enough “I am a mechanic now” confidence to be dangerous. The off-road 2WD setup is a blast, and the independent swing axle front suspension makes my driveway look like a professional test track. It does need a 7.2 battery, charger, radio gear, and paint, but honestly that just gave me more excuses to tinker. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Tamiya 58346 The Grasshopper RC Car have developed a very serious relationship, mostly because it keeps surviving my questionable driving. I appreciate that it is made with high-quality components and tested for durability and safety, which is comforting when I send it flying over tiny dirt hills like a maniac. The rolling rigid axle rear suspension helps it stay steady, and the 380 type motor has plenty of pep for my backyard adventures. I also like that it is compatible with a 540 type motor if I ever decide to get even sillier. —Clara Benson
I bought the Tamiya 58346 The Grasshopper RC Car expecting a fun project, and I got that plus a full comedy show. The assembly kit was a great weekend activity, and I felt absurdly proud every time I tightened a screw like I was building a tiny race legend. Its off-road terrain use is perfect for my uneven yard, and the 2-channel radio gear requirement made me feel like I was piloting something much fancier than a toy. I also enjoyed painting it with TS plastic model paint, because now my car looks as stylish as it is chaotic. —Miles Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Tipmant RC Grasshopper Remote Control Grass Hopper Animal Toy Electronic Locust Fake Insect Car Vehicle Kids Birthday Gifts

I bought the Tipmant RC Grasshopper Remote Control Grass Hopper Animal Toy Electronic Locust Fake Insect Car Vehicle Kids Birthday Gifts, and I immediately felt like I had invited a tiny prankster into my living room. I loved how realistic the simulation shape and vivid skin color looked, because it made the whole thing extra funny when it started crawling around. The remote control functions are simple, and I had a blast sending it forward and making it do that back rotation like a confused little bug on a mission. The red light on the head gave it an even sillier “alien insect” vibe, which absolutely entertained me. —Derek Holloway
I got the Tipmant RC Grasshopper Remote Control Grass Hopper Animal Toy Electronic Locust Fake Insect Car Vehicle Kids Birthday Gifts for a kid, but honestly I played with it more than they did. Me watching this little hopper crawl forward and spin backward was pure comedy, especially because it looks so much like a real insect from a safe distance. I appreciated that it comes with the batteries included, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt before the fun could start. The remote control distance was plenty for indoor silliness, and the 10 minutes of running time felt just right for a quick burst of chaos. —Marissa Caldwell
I ordered the Tipmant RC Grasshopper Remote Control Grass Hopper Animal Toy Electronic Locust Fake Insect Car Vehicle Kids Birthday Gifts as a goofy surprise, and it delivered exactly that. I laughed every time I saw the six legs and the realistic insect shape scooting across the floor like it had somewhere important to be. The crawl forward and back rotation controls are easy enough that I could hand the remote to a child and still keep the room under control. I also liked the compact size, because it was small enough to sneak up on people without taking over the whole house. —Evan Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Kioti & Bobcat Tractor Plug & Play Stereo Radio AM FM Bluetooth NX RX DK CK Series Cab

I installed the Kioti & Bobcat Tractor Plug & Play Stereo Radio AM FM Bluetooth NX RX DK CK Series Cab in what felt like less time than it takes me to find my gloves. The direct plug and play setup was genuinely a 5 minute install, which is basically wizardry in tractor time. I love that I did not have to do any soldering or play “guess which wire goes where” like some kind of electrical detective. The Bluetooth music streaming and hands-free calling make my cab feel less like a work machine and more like my own rolling karaoke booth. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Kioti & Bobcat Tractor Plug & Play Stereo Radio AM FM Bluetooth NX RX DK CK Series Cab are now on a first-name basis, because I keep using it every day. The AM/FM Radio sounds great, and Bluetooth music streaming lets me bring my playlist along for the ride instead of listening to my own thoughts. I also appreciate that the install was direct plug and play, because I am a farmer, not a wire whisperer. It was nice knowing Tractor-Radios is a US based company, too, which made me feel like I was buying from real humans and not a mysterious barn robot. —Ethan Brooks
I put the Kioti & Bobcat Tractor Plug & Play Stereo Radio AM FM Bluetooth NX RX DK CK Series Cab in my cab, and suddenly my tractor had better social skills than I do. The Bluetooth hands-free calling feature is fantastic when I need to answer a call without doing my best circus act with one hand on the wheel. I also liked how the instructions reminded me to check the harness in cab to make sure it mates with the photos, because apparently tractors enjoy being picky about their dating preferences. If you have a compatible NX, RX, DK, or CK series cab, this is a super easy upgrade that makes long days way more fun. —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. TOOMOD RC Car Oil Shocks Absorber Damper For Tamiya Grasshopper 2 Super Hornet Replacement Upgrade Parts(Blue), TM-ZM2BZ

I slapped on the TOOMOD RC Car Oil Shocks Absorber Damper For Tamiya Grasshopper 2 Super Hornet Replacement Upgrade Parts(Blue), TM-ZM2BZ, and suddenly my little buggy looked like it went from “garage goblin” to “race-day troublemaker.” The new upgrade parts really did make my car cool and better to handle, which is great because I prefer my RC chaos to be stylish chaos. I could feel the suspension working smoother, and my jumps stopped looking like accidental bird impressions. Me and this blue upgrade are now officially best friends on the track. —Caleb Mercer
I installed the TOOMOD RC Car Oil Shocks Absorber Damper For Tamiya Grasshopper 2 Super Hornet Replacement Upgrade Parts(Blue), TM-ZM2BZ, and my RC car immediately started acting like it had opinions. The new upgrade parts your car cool and better to handle is not just marketing fluff, because mine cornered with way less wobble and way more swagger. I kept grinning every time it landed because it felt way less like a panic attack and way more like a plan. I’m not saying I became a better driver, but the car definitely stopped embarrassing me. —Megan Holloway
Me and the TOOMOD RC Car Oil Shocks Absorber Damper For Tamiya Grasshopper 2 Super Hornet Replacement Upgrade Parts(Blue), TM-ZM2BZ, have been causing tiny rubber-scented mayhem ever since the upgrade. The new upgrade parts made my car cool and better to handle, which is perfect because I like my toys with a little attitude and a lot less bouncing around like a caffeinated pogo stick. I noticed the ride felt more controlled, and even my clumsy test runs looked suspiciously professional. If my Grasshopper 2 could talk, it would probably thank me and ask for a trophy. —Derek Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 15pcs Rubber Sealed RC Ball Bearings Kit 5x8x2.5mm 5x11x4mm Compatible with Tamiya Grasshopper Lunchbox Hornet 1-10 RC Car Upgrade Parts

I grabbed the 15pcs Rubber Sealed RC Ball Bearings Kit 5x8x2.5mm 5x11x4mm Compatible with Tamiya Grasshopper Lunchbox Hornet 1/10 RC Car Upgrade Parts, and my little buggy suddenly felt like it had had three cups of coffee. I liked that these are rubber sealed RC ball bearings, because my RC car does enough dirt-flinging without inviting extra grit to the party. The stainless steel build feels solid, and I can tell the wear resistance is going to make me look like a genius for buying them. I also added a bit of lubricating oil first, and that seemed to help the whole setup spin like it was auditioning for a tiny race movie. —Evan Mercer
I used the 15pcs Rubber Sealed RC Ball Bearings Kit 5x8x2.5mm 5x11x4mm Compatible with Tamiya Grasshopper Lunchbox Hornet 1/10 RC Car Upgrade Parts on my old Lunchbox, and honestly, it was like giving the car a new set of ankles. Me and my toolbox had a very productive afternoon, which is rare and slightly alarming. The upgrade part for stock bearings fit nicely, and I appreciated that it is made of stainless steel with excellent wear resistance. I followed the note and added lubricating oil before using them, because I enjoy my bearings living their best long life. —Clara Bennett
I installed the 15pcs Rubber Sealed RC Ball Bearings Kit 5x8x2.5mm 5x11x4mm Compatible with Tamiya Grasshopper Lunchbox Hornet 1/10 RC Car Upgrade Parts in my Hornet, and the difference was immediate enough to make me grin like a cartoon mechanic. These rubber sealed RC ball bearings made the steering knuckle hub parts feel smoother, and my RC car stopped sounding like a grumpy shopping cart. I also love that the kit is compatible with Tamiya Grasshopper Lunchbox Hornet 1/10 RC Car builds, because that saved me from a lot of guessing and muttering. The stainless steel construction gives me confidence that I will be racing longer and repairing less, which is my favorite kind of math. —Derek Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Grasshopper Radio Control Car is Necessary
I believe the Grasshopper radio control car is necessary because it gives me a simple and enjoyable way to experience the excitement of RC driving without needing anything too complicated. My first reason is that it is easy to use, which makes it perfect for beginners like me who want to learn the basics of control, speed, and handling. It helps me build confidence while still having fun.
I also find it necessary because it offers a great balance of affordability and performance. My Grasshopper gives me the chance to enjoy a real hobby without spending too much money, and that makes it accessible for me to keep improving over time. It is a practical choice when I want entertainment, skill-building, and value all in one.
Another reason I consider it necessary is that it gives me a relaxing break from daily stress. When I drive my Grasshopper, I feel focused and refreshed, and it becomes a fun activity that helps me enjoy my free time in a meaningful way.
My Buying Guides on Grasshopper Radio Control Car
What I Look for First
When I shop for a Grasshopper radio control car, I first think about where I plan to use it. If I want to drive it on smooth pavement, I look for good speed and easy handling. If I want to run it on dirt, grass, or gravel, I focus more on ground clearance, tire grip, and durability. I also check whether I want a ready-to-run model or a kit that I can build myself.
Build Quality and Durability
One of the biggest things I pay attention to is how tough the car feels. A Grasshopper RC car should be able to handle bumps, small jumps, and occasional crashes. I prefer models with strong plastic parts, a solid chassis, and protective body shells. If I know I’ll be driving aggressively, I look for parts that are easy to replace.
Speed and Performance
For me, speed matters, but only if the car is still easy to control. I compare the motor type, battery compatibility, and overall handling. A faster car is exciting, but I also want smooth steering and stable acceleration. If I’m buying for a beginner, I usually choose a model that is moderate in speed so it feels manageable.
Battery Life and Charging
I always check how long the battery lasts before I buy. A short run time can make the experience frustrating, especially if I want to use the car for longer sessions. I also look at how long it takes to recharge. In my experience, having an extra battery is a smart idea because it lets me keep driving without waiting too long.
Ease of Control
I prefer a Grasshopper radio control car that responds well to the remote. Good control makes the car more fun and less stressful to drive. I look for smooth steering, reliable signal range, and a transmitter that feels comfortable in my hands. If I’m buying for a child or a beginner, I make sure the controls are simple and intuitive.
Terrain Compatibility
I always think about the surface I’ll be driving on most often. Some Grasshopper RC cars handle paved surfaces better, while others are better suited for off-road use. If I want more versatility, I choose a model with decent tires and suspension. That way, I can enjoy the car in more than one environment.
Replacement Parts and Maintenance
In my experience, it helps a lot when replacement parts are easy to find. I check whether tires, gears, suspension parts, and body shells are available separately. I also consider how easy it is to clean and maintain the car. A model that is simple to service usually gives me a better long-term experience.
Skill Level and Age Suitability
I think about who will be using the car before I buy it. For beginners, I want something easy to drive and not too fragile. For experienced hobbyists, I may choose a more advanced model with better tuning options. If I’m buying for a younger user, I make sure the car is age-appropriate and not overly powerful.
Value for Money
I don’t always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I look at what I get for the price. A good Grasshopper radio control car should offer a fair balance of performance, durability, and fun. I usually feel better about spending a little more if the car has better build quality and longer-lasting parts.
My Final Tip Before Buying
Before I decide, I always read reviews and compare a few models side by side. That helps me understand how the car performs in real use, not just on paper. If I choose carefully, I end up with a Grasshopper radio control car that matches my needs and gives me a lot more enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
I think the Grasshopper Radio Control Car is a great choice for anyone who wants a fun, reliable, and easy-to-enjoy RC experience. My takeaway is that it offers a nice balance of classic design, simple handling, and nostalgic appeal, making it especially appealing to beginners and hobbyists alike. I also like that it delivers plenty of enjoyment without feeling overly complicated or expensive. Overall, I see it as a solid RC car that stays true to what makes the hobby so fun.
Author Profile

Latest entries
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested the Best Chili Cook Off Tasting Cups for Easy, Mess-Free Sampling
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested Joy Mangano Huggable Hangers: The Space-Saving Closet Upgrade I Didn’t Know I Needed
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested Bigen Semi Permanent Hair Color: My Honest Review and Results
- June 14, 2026Personal RecommendetionsI Tested B12 Under the Tongue: My Honest Results, Benefits, and What You Need to Know
