Redcat Gen8 V2 Scout II Review 2026: The Best Budget RC Rock Crawler?
Posted by LockTech & Gear on
The RC rock crawler market has never been more competitive — and the Redcat Gen8 V2 Scout II is one of the standout values in 2026. It packs a portal axle drivetrain, a solid-axle platform with coil-over shocks, and a realistic scale body into a package priced well under what comparable crawlers cost just a few years ago. Here’s everything you need to know.
Redcat Gen8 V2 Scout II: At a Glance
- Scale: 1/10
- Platform: Solid front and rear axles with portal gears
- Drivetrain: 4WD with locked axles
- Transmission: 2-speed (high/low range)
- Motor: 35T brushed
- Electronics: Waterproof ESC, 2.4GHz radio system
- Shocks: Coil-over oil-filled shocks, all four corners
- Tires: 1.9-inch scale tires on beadlock-style wheels
- Body: Detailed scale body with painted details
- Battery: 7.2v NiMH included; LiPo compatible with upgrade
What Sets the Gen8 V2 Apart: Portal Axles
Portal axles are the defining feature of the Gen8 platform — and they’re rare at this price point. Standard axles run the axle shaft straight through to the wheel hub. Portal axles drop the hub lower than the axle housing, effectively raising the vehicle’s ground clearance by the portal gear height without increasing overall suspension travel.
The real-world result: the Gen8 V2 has significantly more belly clearance than a solid-axle crawler without portals. It can step over obstacles that would high-center a similarly priced competitor. For outdoor rock crawling on real terrain, this is a meaningful advantage.
Performance on the Trail
Out of the box, the Gen8 V2 Scout II impresses. The 2-speed transmission — a feature typically found on more expensive crawlers — lets you choose between a torquier low-range for technical climbing and a faster high-range for trail driving between obstacles. Low range is genuinely useful; the crawler inches over ledges with precise control.
The 35T brushed motor is adequate for scale-speed crawling but shows its limits on steep, long climbs where motor heat builds. Upgrading to a 21T or 27T brushed motor, or a sensored brushless system, is the most common first modification and makes a noticeable difference on challenging terrain.
Coil-over shocks with foam bump stops allow impressive articulation — the truck keeps all four tires on the ground in situations where a less compliant suspension would lose traction. The factory oil fill is adequate, but upgrading to thicker shock oil adds damping control for more predictable crawling.
Where It Could Improve
The Gen8 V2’s included NiMH battery limits performance compared to LiPo alternatives. A 2S LiPo upgrade is highly recommended — it improves motor response, increases trigger feel, and typically extends run time. The stock steering servo is functional but a stiffer upgrade servo improves steering precision in technical situations.
The plastic axle housings are durably built for the price but can crack under severe impact. Aluminum axle housing upgrades are available and worth considering for aggressive trail drivers.
Gen8 V2 vs Redcat Ascent-18: Which Should You Choose?
The Redcat Ascent-18 is a 1/18 scale crawler — smaller, lighter, and more manageable for indoor use and smaller yards. The Gen8 V2 is a full 1/10 scale truck built for outdoor rock crawling on real terrain. If you want serious outdoor performance, the Gen8 is the choice. If portability and indoor play are priorities, the Ascent-18 is more practical.
Final Verdict: Is the Gen8 V2 Worth Buying?
At its price point, the Redcat Gen8 V2 Scout II is exceptional value. Portal axles, 2-speed transmission, coil-over shocks, and a waterproof ESC are features that typically cost significantly more in a comparable crawler. It’s an ideal truck for someone stepping up from a budget solid-axle crawler, and it holds its own on real outdoor terrain right out of the box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Gen8 V2 good for beginners?
Yes, with one caveat: the 2-speed transmission and portal axles give it more capability than a typical beginner crawler, which means there’s more to learn. That said, it’s a rewarding truck that grows with your skill level.
Is the Gen8 V2 waterproof?
The ESC and receiver are rated waterproof. The motor and servo are not fully waterproof. For creek crossing and wet-condition crawling, consider upgrading to a waterproof servo.
What upgrades should I do first?
In order of impact: (1) 2S LiPo battery and compatible charger, (2) stronger steering servo, (3) thicker shock oil. These three upgrades transform the stock crawler into a significantly more capable machine.
Shop the Redcat Gen8 V2 at LockTech & Gear
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