Hobby Plus CR18P V3 Brushless 1/18 RTR Rock Crawler
Power, durability and precise control in a compact RC crawler platform
The CR18P V3 is a 1/18-scale brushless 4WD RTR crawler for trail drivers who want portal-axle clearance, durable metal gearing, and controlled low-speed power in a compact package, available at DirectRC. Its updated Hobbywing system supports 2S–3S LiPo power, while 27% rear underdrive helps the front axle pull through climbs and tight turns, making it a standout choice among small-scale RC cars.
The V3 keeps the CR18P platform's serviceable beadlock wheels, oil-filled shocks, servo-on-axle steering, and scale details. Buyers can choose the T-Hunter or Rushmore body style without giving up the core crawler hardware.
CR18P V3 Body and Color Options
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T-Hunter Hinged trail body with easy-access tilt magnetic lid for quick electronics service |
|
|---|---|
Yellow |
Matte Green |
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Rushmore Alternative scale body on the same V3 platform; same drivetrain and electronics |
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|---|---|
Metallic Cyan |
Red |
Select by body style and color. No powertrain or chassis difference exists between the T-Hunter and Rushmore variants.
What Is Included
| Included Item | Quantity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| CR18P V3 crawler | 1 | Assembled 1/18 4WD RTR |
| FlySky transmitter | 1 | 2.4 GHz four-channel radio system |
| Hobbywing ESC + Motor | 1 system | Mini24 FOC Brushless ESC with 3500kv 1621SL Outrunner motor (2S–3S capable) |
| LiPo battery | 1 | 7.4v 2S 600mAh Li-Po |
| USB charger | 1 | USB with LED status indicator |
| LED lighting | 1 system | Front and rear lighting |
CR18P V3 Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scale | 1/18 |
| Build type | RTR (Ready to Run) |
| Drivetrain | Full-time locked 4WD |
| Total length | 237 mm |
| Height | 120 mm |
| Wheelbase | 160 mm |
| Weight | 444 g / 15.7 oz (T-Hunter) · 430 g / 15.17 oz (Rushmore) |
| Axles | Portal axles (V2 Axle with HD revised driveshafts) |
| Rear gearing | 27% underdrive via ring and pinion |
| Transmission | Single-speed EVO transmission |
| Drivetrain gears | Full sintered metal gears — transmission, axles, and portal hubs |
| ESC | Hobbywing Mini24 FOC Brushless (2S–3S capable) |
| Motor | Hobbywing 3500kv 1621SL Outrunner brushless |
| Transmitter | FlySky 2.4 GHz 4-channel |
| Receiver | 4-channel PPX4, water-resistant |
| Battery (included) | 7.4v 2S LiPo 600mAh |
| Charger (included) | USB with LED status indicator |
| Shocks | Threaded, rebuildable, oil-filled big-bore (oil not included) |
| Steering | Servo on axle (SOA) |
| Skid | 5-degree rear-clearance design |
| Wheels | 1.2-inch beadlock |
| Tires | 60mm super-soft competition spec Mudder compound |
| Electronics | Waterproof |
Key CR18P V3 Features
Hobbywing 2S–3S Brushless System Mini24 FOC ESC paired with a 3500kv 1621SL Outrunner — flexible voltage for any driving style or terrain |
Portal Axle Clearance Supreme clearance over traditional straight axles; multiple aftermarket gear ratios available as upgrade support |
27% Rear Underdrive Ring and pinion gearing creates front-biased pull for a more planted, predictable line on steep ascents |
Oil-Filled Threaded Big Bore Shocks Rebuildable with threaded collar preload adjustment for linear, tunable suspension response |
Full Metal Sintered Gear Drivetrain Super-strong sintered metal gears throughout the EVO single-speed transmission, axle housings, and portal hubs |
5-Degree Clearance Skid Plate Rear kick-up creates added wheelbase clearance over large obstacles; aggressive link geometry and low CG for balanced stability |
SOA Steering + Counter-Rotating Driveshaft Servo on axle for precise steering geometry; counter-rotating rear driveshaft minimizes torque twist |
1.2" Beadlock Wheels & 60mm Mudder Tires Super-soft competition-spec compound tires on serviceable beadlock rims — tyre swaps without glue |
The Evolving CR18P Platform
The CR18P has moved through several iterations as the 1/18 crawler category has become more performance-focused. Version 3 combines familiar small-scale packaging with brushless voltage flexibility and a factory rear-underdrive setup.
That matters to buyers who would otherwise add underdrive gears, stronger transmission parts, or a brushless system after purchase. The V3 places those elements into one RTR platform while preserving parts and tuning support around the CR18P family.
Pros and Considerations
| Strength | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Portal clearance and 27% rear underdrive from the factory | Underdrive changes handling character compared to a conventional equal-ratio crawler |
| Hobbywing 2S–3S brushless compatibility | 3S increases heat and stress; tune ESC conservatively and monitor temperatures |
| Rebuildable threaded oil-filled shocks | Oil shocks require occasional inspection and fluid service |
| Battery and charger included in the RTR package | Included 2S 600mAh pack is a starter capacity; a higher-capacity 2S or 3S pack will extend run time |
| Beadlock wheels and broad parts availability | Modifications should be installed one at a time to preserve a clear tuning baseline |
What You May Need Separately
- A higher-capacity 2S or 3S LiPo battery for extended run time (connector and polarity must match).
- A dedicated LiPo balance charger and LiPo-safe charging bag for longer sessions.
- Transmitter AA batteries.
- Spare tires, wheels, links, or gearing from DirectRC's Hobby Plus parts collections.
Charge LiPo packs on a balance charger, never leave them charging unattended, and start on 2S with conservative throttle settings before moving up to 3S.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CR18P V3 ready to run?
Yes. It ships with its radio, electronics, a 7.4v 2S 600mAh LiPo battery, and a USB charger installed and included. Confirm the body/color SKU before ordering.
What is special about the CR18P V3 rear underdrive?
The rear axle uses a 27% slower ring-and-pinion ratio than the front. This creates more front-axle pull, helping the crawler hold a tighter, more predictable line up ledges and steep terrain.
Can the CR18P V3 use 3S?
The Hobbywing Mini24 system is rated 2S–3S. Use a physically compatible pack with correct polarity and begin with conservative ESC throttle settings. Monitor motor and ESC temperature on your first 3S runs.
What is the difference between T-Hunter and Rushmore?
They are body styles available in different colors on the same V3 platform. The T-Hunter features an easy-access tilt magnetic body lid; the Rushmore uses a standard body. No powertrain or chassis difference exists between the two.
Are the wheels glued?
No. The V3 uses 1.2-inch beadlock wheels, which allow tire service or replacement without permanently gluing the tire to the rim.
Is it suitable for a beginner?
Yes, provided the driver understands LiPo charging basics and starts on 2S with conservative throttle settings. The factory underdrive and tunable suspension also give experienced owners meaningful room to refine handling.
Can it run indoors?
Its 1/18 footprint suits indoor crawler courses well. Portal clearance also supports outdoor rocks and trail driving. Verify water resistance before driving in wet or submerged conditions.
