Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore Review Is It Worth Buying?

Jul 26, 2025 by Admin 54 views

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of RC cars? Today, we're going to take a close look at the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore, a popular mini crawler that you can snag for around $105 if you sign up for the newsletter coupon. That sounds like a sweet deal, but is this little beast worth your hard-earned cash? Let's break it down and see what makes the CR-18P Rushmore tick, its pros and cons, and whether it’s the right RC crawler for you. So buckle up, and let's get rolling!

What is the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore?

The Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore is a 1/18 scale ready-to-run (RTR) mini crawler designed for both beginners and seasoned RC enthusiasts. This means that right out of the box, you get everything you need to start crawling – the fully assembled vehicle, a 2.4GHz radio transmitter, a battery, and a charger. The Rushmore is built to mimic the look and feel of a full-scale rock crawler, with realistic styling and a focus on navigating challenging terrain. Its compact size makes it perfect for indoor crawling courses or taking on outdoor adventures in your backyard, local park, or even more rugged environments. This little crawler has gained a lot of attention in the RC community for its impressive performance and affordability, making it a popular choice for those looking to get into the hobby without breaking the bank. The Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore distinguishes itself with its meticulous design, which prioritizes both scale realism and functional performance. The body often features detailed styling, mimicking the aesthetics of full-size rock crawlers, complete with intricate decals, molded plastic components, and sometimes even miniature accessories. The chassis is engineered for optimal articulation and ground clearance, allowing the Rushmore to navigate obstacles with ease. The suspension system is designed to provide maximum wheel travel, ensuring that the tires maintain contact with the ground even on uneven surfaces. The combination of these features makes the CR-18P Rushmore not only visually appealing but also highly capable in a variety of terrains. The Rushmore's appeal extends beyond its aesthetics and mechanical design, with its ready-to-run (RTR) nature being a significant draw for many RC enthusiasts. The RTR designation means that the vehicle comes fully assembled and equipped with all the necessary components, including the radio transmitter, battery, and charger. This ease of setup makes it particularly attractive to beginners who may be intimidated by the complexity of assembling a kit from scratch. However, experienced hobbyists also appreciate the convenience of an RTR model, as it allows them to quickly get their vehicle up and running without the time investment required for a full build. The inclusion of all essential components in the package eliminates the need for additional purchases, making it a cost-effective entry point into the world of RC crawling. Whether you're a novice looking for a hassle-free start or an experienced enthusiast seeking a grab-and-go option, the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore provides a compelling solution that balances performance and convenience. Beyond the basics, the Rushmore offers a level of customization that appeals to hobbyists who enjoy tinkering and upgrading their vehicles. While the stock components provide a solid foundation for crawling, there is a thriving aftermarket for the CR-18P, offering a wide array of upgrade parts and accessories. These upgrades can range from simple modifications like heavier springs or stickier tires to more substantial changes such as metal gears, high-performance motors, and even complete chassis replacements. This upgradeability allows owners to tailor the Rushmore's performance to their specific needs and preferences, extending the lifespan and enjoyment of the vehicle. The ability to customize and upgrade the Rushmore also fosters a sense of community among owners, as they share tips, modifications, and experiences online. This active community provides a valuable resource for new and experienced users alike, offering support, inspiration, and a sense of camaraderie. Whether you're looking to enhance performance, improve durability, or simply personalize the appearance of your crawler, the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore provides a versatile platform for exploration and creativity.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of what the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore has to offer. Knowing the key features and specifications will give you a better understanding of its capabilities and how it stacks up against the competition. First off, the CR-18P Rushmore is a 1/18 scale RC crawler, which makes it perfectly sized for both indoor and outdoor environments. Its compact dimensions allow you to navigate tight spaces and challenging obstacles with ease. The chassis is designed for optimal ground clearance and articulation, crucial for conquering rough terrain. The suspension system provides impressive wheel travel, ensuring the tires stay in contact with the ground even on uneven surfaces. This is essential for maintaining traction and control when crawling over rocks, logs, and other obstacles. Another key feature is the 2.4GHz radio system. This technology provides a reliable and interference-free connection between the transmitter and the vehicle. It also allows you to operate multiple RC vehicles in the same area without worrying about frequency conflicts. The Rushmore is powered by a brushed motor, which delivers a good balance of torque and speed for crawling applications. While brushed motors are not as powerful as brushless motors, they are more affordable and easier to maintain, making them a great choice for beginners. The included battery is typically a NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) pack, which offers decent run times and can be recharged relatively quickly. The RTR (Ready-to-Run) nature of the CR-18P Rushmore is a significant advantage for those new to the hobby. It means that the vehicle comes fully assembled and equipped with everything you need to start crawling right away. This eliminates the need to purchase additional components or spend hours building the vehicle. The Rushmore also boasts a durable plastic body that can withstand the bumps and scrapes that are inevitable when crawling. The body is designed to mimic the look of a real rock crawler, adding to the overall realism and appeal of the vehicle. The tires are made of a soft, grippy rubber compound that provides excellent traction on a variety of surfaces. This is crucial for climbing steep inclines and navigating slippery terrain. The axles and gears are made of durable materials that can handle the stresses of crawling. However, like any RC vehicle, certain components may wear out over time and require replacement. Fortunately, there is a wide range of aftermarket parts available for the CR-18P Rushmore, allowing you to upgrade and customize the vehicle to your liking. Some popular upgrades include metal gears, stronger axles, and more powerful motors. These upgrades can improve the performance and durability of the Rushmore, making it even more capable on the trail. Overall, the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore offers a solid set of features and specifications for its price point. Its compact size, durable construction, and RTR nature make it an excellent choice for beginners, while its upgradeability appeals to more experienced hobbyists. Whether you're crawling indoors or outdoors, the Rushmore is sure to provide hours of fun and excitement.

Performance and Handling

So, how does the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore perform in the real world? This is where the rubber meets the road, or rather, the tires meet the rocks! Let's delve into the performance and handling characteristics of this mini crawler to see what it's truly capable of. One of the first things you'll notice about the Rushmore is its impressive climbing ability. The combination of its torquey brushed motor, grippy tires, and well-designed suspension system allows it to tackle steep inclines and challenging obstacles with relative ease. It can crawl over rocks, logs, and other terrain that would stop many other RC vehicles in their tracks. The Rushmore's articulation is also a key factor in its performance. The suspension system provides a good amount of wheel travel, allowing the tires to maintain contact with the ground even on uneven surfaces. This ensures that the vehicle has maximum traction and control, which is essential for crawling. The compact size of the CR-18P Rushmore is another advantage when it comes to handling. Its small footprint allows it to navigate tight spaces and maneuver through narrow gaps that larger crawlers simply can't access. This makes it perfect for indoor crawling courses or exploring challenging outdoor environments. The 2.4GHz radio system provides a solid and reliable connection between the transmitter and the vehicle. This means you can enjoy precise control and responsiveness without worrying about interference. The transmitter is comfortable to hold and features intuitive controls, making it easy to drive even for beginners. While the Rushmore performs well in most crawling situations, it's not without its limitations. The brushed motor, while torquey, doesn't offer the same level of power and speed as a brushless motor. This means that the Rushmore may struggle in very loose or slippery conditions, such as sand or mud. However, for typical crawling terrain, the brushed motor provides more than enough performance. The stock battery also has a limited run time, typically around 15-20 minutes. This may not be enough for extended crawling sessions, so you may want to consider purchasing additional batteries if you plan on spending a lot of time on the trail. Despite these limitations, the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore offers excellent performance and handling for its price point. It's a capable crawler that can tackle a wide range of terrain, and it's easy to control even for beginners. The combination of its climbing ability, articulation, and compact size make it a fun and rewarding RC vehicle to drive. If you're looking for a mini crawler that can handle challenging obstacles and provide hours of entertainment, the Rushmore is definitely worth considering. And remember, with the newsletter coupon, you can snag it for a great price. So, get out there and start crawling!

Pros and Cons

Okay, let’s break down the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore into a simple pros and cons list. This will give you a quick overview of what's great about it and where it might fall short, helping you make a more informed decision. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of any product is crucial, especially when you're investing your money. So, let's dive into the good and the not-so-good aspects of the CR-18P Rushmore. Knowing these points will help you determine if this mini crawler is the right fit for your needs and expectations.

Pros:

Affordable Price: At around $105 with the newsletter coupon, the Rushmore is a budget-friendly option for those looking to get into RC crawling without spending a fortune. This makes it an excellent entry-level choice for beginners or those who want a fun and capable crawler without breaking the bank. The price point also makes it a great gift option for RC enthusiasts of all ages. Compared to other crawlers on the market, the Rushmore offers a lot of value for the money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The affordability doesn't mean compromising on quality, as the Rushmore still delivers impressive performance and durability. The price-to-performance ratio is one of the key factors that make the CR-18P Rushmore stand out in the competitive RC market.
Ready to Run (RTR): The RTR nature of the Rushmore means that it comes fully assembled and equipped with everything you need to start crawling right out of the box. This is a huge advantage for beginners who may not have the time or experience to build an RC vehicle from scratch. It also saves you the hassle of purchasing individual components, ensuring that you have everything you need to get started immediately. The RTR setup makes the Rushmore a convenient and user-friendly option for anyone who wants to start crawling without any fuss. You can simply charge the battery, turn on the vehicle and transmitter, and you're ready to go. This ease of use is a major selling point for the CR-18P Rushmore, especially for those new to the hobby.
Good Climbing Ability: The Rushmore's torquey motor, grippy tires, and well-designed suspension system give it impressive climbing capabilities. It can tackle steep inclines and challenging obstacles with ease, making it a fun and capable crawler for various terrains. The crawling performance is one of the standout features of the Rushmore, allowing it to navigate over rocks, logs, and other obstacles that would stop many other RC vehicles. The combination of its mechanical design and electronic components results in a crawler that can handle tough challenges. The Rushmore's climbing ability makes it a versatile vehicle that can be used both indoors and outdoors, providing hours of entertainment.
Compact Size: The 1/18 scale size of the Rushmore makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor environments. Its small footprint allows it to navigate tight spaces and maneuver through narrow gaps, making it a versatile crawler for various settings. The compact size also makes it easy to transport and store, allowing you to take it with you on the go. Whether you're crawling around your living room or exploring outdoor trails, the Rushmore's size is a major advantage. It's small enough to be nimble and agile, yet capable enough to handle challenging terrain. The compact dimensions make the CR-18P Rushmore a great option for those with limited space or those who want a crawler that's easy to handle.
Upgradeable: The Rushmore has a wide range of aftermarket parts available, allowing you to upgrade and customize it to your liking. This extends the lifespan and enjoyment of the vehicle, as you can continually improve its performance and durability. The upgradeability is a significant benefit for hobbyists who enjoy tinkering and modifying their RC vehicles. You can start with the stock setup and gradually upgrade components as your skills and preferences evolve. The availability of aftermarket parts also ensures that you can easily repair or replace damaged components, keeping your Rushmore running smoothly for years to come. The upgrade options range from simple modifications like stickier tires to more substantial upgrades like metal gears and brushless motors, allowing you to tailor the performance of the Rushmore to your specific needs.

Cons:

Brushed Motor: While the brushed motor provides good torque for crawling, it doesn't offer the same level of power and speed as a brushless motor. This may limit the Rushmore's performance in very loose or slippery conditions. The brushed motor is a cost-effective choice, but it does have some limitations compared to brushless options. Brushed motors require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan, which may be a concern for some users. However, the brushed motor is still a good choice for beginners and casual crawlers, providing sufficient power for most crawling situations. If you're looking for more performance, you can always upgrade to a brushless motor later on.
Limited Battery Life: The stock battery typically provides around 15-20 minutes of run time, which may not be enough for extended crawling sessions. This means you may need to purchase additional batteries if you plan on spending a lot of time on the trail. The limited battery life is a common issue with many RC vehicles, especially those in this price range. The included NiMH battery is a decent option, but it doesn't offer the same run time as LiPo batteries. However, LiPo batteries require more care and maintenance, so NiMH is a safer and more convenient choice for beginners. If you find the battery life to be insufficient, you can easily purchase additional batteries or upgrade to a higher-capacity pack.
Plastic Components: Some of the Rushmore's components are made of plastic, which may not be as durable as metal alternatives. This means that certain parts may be more susceptible to damage from impacts or rough terrain. The use of plastic components is a common cost-saving measure in budget-friendly RC vehicles. While plastic is not as strong as metal, it is lighter and more flexible, which can help absorb impacts and prevent damage to other components. The plastic parts on the Rushmore are generally durable enough for casual crawling, but you may want to consider upgrading to metal parts if you plan on doing a lot of serious crawling or if you tend to be hard on your vehicles. The availability of aftermarket metal parts makes it easy to reinforce the Rushmore's weak points and improve its overall durability.

Who is the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore For?

So, who is the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore really for? Let’s break down the ideal audience for this mini crawler. Understanding who this RC vehicle is designed for will help you determine if it aligns with your interests, skill level, and budget. Ultimately, you want to ensure that your investment brings you the most enjoyment and satisfaction. The Rushmore is a versatile crawler, but it shines brightest for certain types of users.

Beginners: The Rushmore is an excellent choice for beginners who are new to the world of RC crawling. Its ready-to-run nature means you can start crawling right out of the box, without having to worry about assembly or complex setups. The straightforward controls and durable construction make it easy to learn the basics of RC crawling. The Rushmore provides a gentle introduction to the hobby, allowing beginners to develop their skills and confidence before moving on to more advanced vehicles. The affordable price also makes it a low-risk investment for those who are unsure if RC crawling is for them. The Rushmore is a great way to dip your toes into the hobby and experience the thrill of conquering challenging terrain.
Budget-Conscious Hobbyists: If you're looking for an affordable RC crawler that offers a lot of value for the money, the Rushmore is a great option. At around $105 with the newsletter coupon, it's one of the most budget-friendly crawlers on the market. The Rushmore proves that you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy the excitement of RC crawling. It offers a compelling combination of performance, durability, and features at a price that's accessible to a wide range of hobbyists. The Rushmore is a smart choice for those who want to get the most bang for their buck without compromising on quality.
Indoor Crawling Enthusiasts: The Rushmore's compact size makes it perfect for indoor crawling courses. You can set up challenging obstacles in your living room, basement, or any other indoor space and enjoy crawling even when the weather outside is less than ideal. The Rushmore allows you to pursue your RC crawling passion year-round, regardless of the weather conditions. Its small footprint makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and its climbing ability allows it to conquer indoor obstacles with ease. The Rushmore is a great way to stay active and engaged with your hobby during the colder months or on rainy days.
Those Seeking a Fun and Relaxing Hobby: RC crawling is a fun and relaxing hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The Rushmore is a perfect choice for those who are looking for a way to unwind and de-stress after a long day. The act of navigating challenging terrain and overcoming obstacles can be incredibly satisfying and rewarding. RC crawling allows you to focus on the present moment and forget about the stresses of everyday life. The Rushmore provides a simple and enjoyable way to escape the digital world and reconnect with the physical world. It's a hobby that can be enjoyed solo or with friends and family, making it a versatile and engaging pastime.
Experienced Hobbyists Looking for a Mini Crawler: Even if you're an experienced RC hobbyist, the Rushmore can be a fun addition to your collection. Its compact size and capable performance make it a great option for those times when you want a quick and easy crawling fix. The Rushmore can serve as a convenient alternative to larger, more complex crawlers, allowing you to enjoy the hobby without the hassle of transporting and maintaining a bigger vehicle. The Rushmore is also a great platform for experimentation and customization. Its upgradeability allows you to push its performance to the limits and explore new crawling techniques.

Final Verdict: Is the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore Worth It?

So, after taking a close look at all the features, performance, pros, and cons, what’s the final verdict? Is the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore worth the $105 price tag with the newsletter coupon? In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes! This little crawler packs a serious punch for its size and price. It's an excellent entry-level option for beginners, a fun and affordable choice for budget-conscious hobbyists, and a capable mini crawler for experienced enthusiasts. The Rushmore's combination of climbing ability, compact size, and upgradeability make it a versatile and enjoyable RC vehicle. It's easy to control, durable enough to withstand some abuse, and offers a wide range of aftermarket parts for those who want to take its performance to the next level. The ready-to-run nature of the Rushmore is a huge plus, especially for beginners who may be intimidated by the complexity of building an RC vehicle from scratch. You can simply charge the battery, turn it on, and start crawling. The 2.4GHz radio system provides a reliable and interference-free connection, ensuring precise control and responsiveness. While the brushed motor and limited battery life are drawbacks, they are not deal-breakers, especially considering the Rushmore's affordable price. You can always upgrade to a brushless motor and higher-capacity batteries later on if you feel the need for more power and run time. The plastic components are also a potential weak point, but they are generally durable enough for casual crawling. If you're planning on doing a lot of serious crawling on rough terrain, you may want to consider upgrading to metal parts in the future. Overall, the Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore offers an exceptional value for the money. It's a fun and capable mini crawler that's perfect for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. The $105 price tag with the newsletter coupon makes it an absolute steal. If you're looking to get into RC crawling or add a fun mini crawler to your collection, the Rushmore is definitely worth considering. So, go ahead and grab one – you won't be disappointed! Just imagine the hours of fun you'll have crawling over rocks, logs, and other obstacles, both indoors and outdoors. The Rushmore is a gateway to a rewarding and engaging hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're crawling solo or with friends and family, the Rushmore is sure to provide countless hours of entertainment. So, what are you waiting for? Get your Hobby Plus CR-18P Rushmore today and start your crawling adventure!