RLAARLO UPDATE - PLEASE READ To (purposely mis-)quote a song from one of my favorite older musicals, "We have trouble. Right here in Sin City. And that starts with 'R', and that rhymes with...uh...nothing...and that stands for 'Rlaarlo'." It has come to the attention of several UA-camrs (myself, included) that things are NOT as they initially were...even for us. Several people have mentioned about contacting Rlaarlo, but not hearing back. And, as many have discovered, there have been some "quality control" issues (as I pointed out in the video), which, in all honesty, are very easy for the end-user to fix...but, these problems have (dispite what Rlaarlo initially claimed) NOT been corrected as much as we were led to believe they were doing. What follows is the latest info I have, from a combination of personal experience, as well as input from a few other UA-camrs, and comments they've received on their channels. I've heard from several people who received their AK-917s (mostly RTRs, but also several rollers) over the past week...and, from what we've been told, many of the same 'problems' that existed before the productions started shipping, and were *supposed* to have been corrected, STILL haven't been corrected. As mentioned in my first video after receiving my AK-917, the exhaust was broken (something many others have also discovered upon opening their packages), and the film barrier (ie. chasis protector) was missing. I contacted them about this the day after it was received, and they responded back 4 days later (in which they also explained the excess number of emails they had been receiving, thus the (supposed) 'cause' of the delay), stating that they would ship a replacement exhaust...but, to which they also didn't mention the film barrier. I replied back, reminding them of the missing film barrier, and figured they'd reply back in 4-6 days (maybe 8, given the 'delay'). However, it is now 10 days after that email, and they have not replied. I emailed them, again, this morning, and will update this in a week, or when they reply (if they reply within the next week). Many others have reported the same problem regarding emails. As for orders, I, and other UA-camrs, have heard from quite a few people about orders being "stuck" in China (to this, I am not refering to any orders having made it into the States, but "stuck" in a US-based warehouse, such as DHL)...and, the problem, albeit, minor at first, appears to have gotten worse. While some of this can, most definitely, be attributed to problems on the shipping company's side (ie. packages that were picked up from Rlaarlo, but haven't made it onto a boat/plane heading to the US and/or Europe), there are also a growing number of people who have received tracking numbers, but nothing further, as well as people who haven't even received tracking numbers. Rlaarlo *claims* to have anywhere from 500-1000 units (mostly 800-1000) of each vehicle "in stock", yet orders aren't shipping, which raises some SERIOUS questions...and, I won't even get into the claimed number of "in stock" spare & upgrade parts. Speaking of spare/upgrade parts, I even have reports of people having ordered RTRs/rollers, as well as parts, where they've received their cars, but no parts...and, even worse, while some of them have received seperate tracking numbers for the parts, others have no clue where their parts are. So, what does this all mean??? In regards to what I said about the quality of the vehicle, I stand by that initial assesment...the vehicle, itself, is extremely good. Have there been broken parts? Yes...not on mine (so far, fingers crossed), but on others. But, in this hobby, and for what this vehicle is being used for, broken parts ARE expected...so, in regards to that, stop complaining. However, that's only one third of the situation. There's also the 'customer service' side, as well as the 'order fulfillment' side...and, in BOTH of those, Rlaarlo is FAILING. To answer the question asked in the video's title, "Yes, there IS a problem." Some have accused me of "defending Rlaarlo", and "being paid for by Rlaarlo", NEITHER of which is true. Yes, I stand by certain things Rlaarlo has done, and is doing, but that does NOT mean I "stand by" Rlaarlo as a company. Will I purchase replacement & upgrade parts for the AK-917? Yes. But, will I order another vehicle from Rlaarlo, as I had originally indicated I'd be doing? That remains to be seen. I will still order a CF roller...but, instead of using it to build up an all-out speedrun car, as originally planned, it will be a "parts car" (as it's cheaper than buying the recommended replacement parts). Just as Traxxas has pissed off a lot of people (I have NO plans on purchasing any additional Traxxas vehicles, but I will purchase, as needed, replacement parts...and, maybe, some of their upgrade parts), Rlaarlo is already doing the same...and, in truth, it's a shame. The previous vehicles 'released' by Rlaarlo appear to be nothing more than rebranded OEM vehicles. Best I can tell, the AK-917 was their first in-house vehicle...and, for their first, it is, again, extremely good. But, if a company "fails" in customer service, then are they worth dealing with? I've worked in customer service-related positions almost my entire working life, from fast food & retail stores, to being a Professional Chauffeur..and, from my perspective, customer service is the MOST IMPORTANT aspect of any business' busniness. A business can NOT survive without customers, and bad customer service leads to a loss of customers...just ask Circuit City (oh, yeah, they don't exist anymore...horrible customer service). How long with Rlaarlo survive? Only time will tell. If they can "get their act together", and improve their customer service, they have a (strong?) chance of survival. Will they ever have the CS of Traxxas, Horizon Hobby, Tekno, Castle Creations, or several others I could name? Probably not. But, they *could* improve enough to survive. At the same time, if they dopn't start working on improving their CS, I give them until the end of 2025 before they are nothing but a memory.
Rlaarlo customer support is very poor/non existence and seems that they only have time for youtube creators. Very dissapoi ted and cannot recommend them. Dispite being a new company, if they can't fulfill orders or have a working customer support, then they should not have come to market until they were ready. This will be Rlaarlos downfall as people will have no faith in them.
@@e46s54 They don't even have 'time' for UA-camrs...only for the "big ones" they sent free AK-917s to...and, in some (but NOT all) cases, free upgrades (ie. not all who received free AK-917s receive free upgrades). Truth is, I know of a few UA-camrs who received free cars from Rlaarlo, and Rlaarlo isn't even responding to some of their emails.
I received my carbon rtr on tuesday and they had added some padding around the exhaust - it arrived fully intact. No issues at all so far (2 packs street bashing). It’s a great car.
Glad to hear they've already 'adjusted' the shipping...at least, in such to protect the exhaust. Those "lucky few" of us to receive the production version weren't so lucky...but, I'd classify it more as an 'inconvenience', than a true 'problem'. As for the rest, I still recommend checking everything mentioned in the video. When I did my initial inspection after opening the carrying case, I, too, thought (except for the exhaust) thought everything was "all right". Things like the lack of grease on the R&P gears, and the diffs not being properly filled, you won't be able to discover unless you disassemble those areas. Not saying yours is like mine...but, as I tend to say, "Better safe than sorry." 🤙🏼
So the Carbon Fiber Brushless AK 917 I just bought comes with 67mm tires (O.D.), which look better on car than the 65mm tires. The problem I have is I'm unable to find ANY 67mm dia. tires other than a set of foams. Since I'm not doing speed runs yet, where do I find a set of decent looking 67mm tires (mounted or not) ?
Two searching Amazon & eBay using the following keyword combo: wheel tire 67mm I guarantee, you will find options. Can't claim to know how good/bad they might be...but, at least there's 'options'. Alternately, try AMain, Horizon Hobby, and other online RC retailers...and each carries a wide variety, they're could be possibilities. Of course, you can also order mounted tires direct from Rlaarlo. While RTRs sometimes have a delay in shipping, parts orders usually ship fairly quickly. I've received parts orders direct from Rlaarlo in as little as 6 days after placing the order.
I'd say, most AK-917 owners have added a fan to the motor. For my first car...what I'm now referring to as the 3S car, I added a double fan w/ heatsink from Power Hobby. The second car, which will (once built) be referred to as the 4-6S car, will be running a 40mm motor, for which the on-motor cooling is still to be decided. As I'm not yet giving any details on what will be entailed in this build, the only thing I can say is that it will be radically different. Unfortunately, my work schedule has prevented me from getting any RC work done for the past two months, so entirely uncertain when I'll get to it. 🤙🏼
Thank you! Finally a sain person. I can't believe the way people are acting. They said around 4/20 it shipped within a week. People are freaking out over nothing. Be patient.
That was exactly my point. As I typed in the description, so many people today "want it yesterday". Those without patience, I am sure, will be happy with whatever branded products they get instead of this...and, for those with patients, they are going to greatly enjoy this. 🤙🏼
I admit, I don't always have the answer. If I have an answer, I'll give it...and, if I don't, I'll try my best to find it...and, if I can't find it, I'll admit I don't have it. Glad to have been able to help. As sort of an "update" to this video, Rlaarlo has been working hard since the release of the AK-917...working hard to correct the shipping problems, and working hard to improve customer service. While they are not to the level of Amain or Traxxas, they HAVE improved a considerable amount, and are continuing to work on improving. Honestly, I believe they learned from the mistake of "underestimating", so that, when the AK-787 was released, they were far-better prepared.
@@ninthislandrc For the money, I'm impressed with the quality and parts availability so far. It's a step up from the TT02 chassis I'm using for now, that's for sure!
I ordered 2 on March 24,, just received both colors a couple of weeks ago..my blue car is perfect, but the red car is making loud winding noise when throttle..not for sure if rear differential, or pinion gear
First, as explained in the video, you need to check everything - screws for threadlock, gears for grease, diffs & shocks for fluid. Then, and ONLY then, Will you know if everything was assembled "properly"...and, if not, you can fix those problems.
@@ninthislandrc ok..Thanks ! Im new to the RC World, but I do change my pinion gears on my Felonys, but this car not as easy as Arrma, but thanks for the advice
@@andrataylor6070 No. As I said, changing opinion is simple. You just need to remove the two screws holding the gear cover, and remove the gear cover. Then, remove the three screws holding the motor mounts, giving you access to the pinion. The spur, on the other hands, is far more complicated, but can still be done.
Got my car 10 days ago, but the extra parts (5mm pinion gear and adjustable motor mount) were missing or incorrect. Sent Rlaarlo 4 emails so far with photos and being reasonably polite.. no reply to any of them.
Same here. Among the things in my spare & upgrade parts order was R10018 (steering servo links). Evidently, Rlaarlo is packaging these with the WRONG rod ends. The rod ends installed on the original servo links are 24.35mm long...the rod ends I received inside the R10018 package are only 16.65mm long. Being approx 7.5mm too short, that would cause servo links to be 15mm too short. I've emailed them, as well as notified them via FB Messenger, and have not received any reply.
Great video, I agree with what you said, I ordered 2 of these and still waiting, I would rather have the car right than have it shipped out wrong, some people are just jerks.
I'm not going to use the "J" word (tho, I'm also not going to disagree)...but, "impatience" IS a word I'll use. 🤙🏼 You'll, definitely, enjoy yours once received. I'm actually prepping to order a second CF, although this one will be a roller. I've also thought about ordering an aluminum roller, to build into a 'basher', but undecided as of yet. 🤙🏼
That diff fluid is very high for a 1:10 road car, petsonally i will be going for 15k fron 10k rear, especially running on tarmac, low grip surface, to high diff fluid it will just spin imo, nice video and agree on delivery issuez, here in uk i had to wait six months for my arrma outcast 4s v2 due to delays, so not just small companies 👍
If this were intended as a TC chassis, I'd agree...but, it's intended as a speedrun chassis, so diff fluid is supposed to be super high. You find most speedrunners start around 100K for the front, and 75-85K for the rear. You'll find many using 1-2.5M in the front, and 100K-500K in the rear. Not saying "all", but "many". 🤙🏼
I ordered a back order car from horizon and they did not take any of my money until the product actually shipped. Maybe that’s what rlaarlo should do so they can curb some of the complaints. I ordered spares with my cars from them on march 15th, they took my momey and still no spares. 😢
Order from almost any Asian-based company, and they take the funds when you order. Unless you're talking company-to-company purchases, that's just the Asian way of doing business. Order from Banggood, Asia Tees, or any of the others, and it'll be the same thing. With most European businesses, again, three same thing. While many American companies will run the amount when you place three order, but don't actually charge until three item ships, there are plenty of American companies that also charge when the order is placed.
@@ninthislandrc well you can’t expect everyone to know the Asian way of doing business…when something is hyped the way this car was we all had high expectations. It’s not to much to ask for spare parts to be shipped with your order. I ordered it all 2 months ago. Have the cars one now is a running car while the other has turned into a parts car because they didn’t make parts to sell at the same time they built the cars…. Or better yet before. A bad business practice has no nationality attached to it…. It’s just plain BAD business.
@@BNVRC Have you ever thought that, what you consider "bad business practices", other business not only consider "standard business practices", and have been construction business in that manner since long before there were any American businesses? There is no 'right' or 'wrong' in this. How they choose to do business is how they choose to do business. For any individual that doesn't like how any particular company does business, they have the choice of purchasing, we're not purchasing, from that business...that is your 'choice'. Just understand that The great majority of other asian-based companies do business the exact same way. So, maybe, you're just better off purchasing only from American companies. My comments, in your direction, is neither meant to be 'positive', or 'negative'...it is not meant to be 'for', or 'against', Rlaarlo (or any other company)...it is just a comment, completely 'general' in nature.
@@ninthislandrc exactly my point. We have a choice. So if they are marketing around the world, maybe they should invest some funds into what makes people tick in those parts of the world they are marketing to. I’m not a Rlaarlo hater but you can’t defend everything they are doing. They will loose customers over this because they did not have the forethought to market and sell in a manner consistent with the buying practices in said markets. Bad, good I get is a matter of perspective relative to your upbringing or culture concerning these business practices, but some understanding of the customer where they are marketing would help them with return or repeat customers. I’m patient and willing to wait but some folks are not. So those will be the ones who will go back to Arrma or traxis or the other big brands. Because honestly these cars are not worth the full asking price.
And brother I take no offense to what you are saying. Just a debate in the other direction is all. We are all different. That makes the world go round. Also not trying to be negative toward you in any way.
Shipping from China doesn't help Rlaarlo either. Brands mentioned are within USA..Arrma had the diff issue with early release Kraton exb... Arrma's just fine. I received my Ak917 & broke parts within few weeks 😆 part of the hobby, now awaiting parts & spares. AK917 is nice speed basher/parking lot thrashing RC at $199 alloy BL rtr pre-sale it was great value..glad I bought it
Since the posting of this video, several changes...GOOD changes...have been made within Rlaarlo. They've hired more people for the shipping department, increasing their ability of getting orders shipped faster (and, as of yesterday, a message went out that all AK-917 orders had shipped)...and, they've hired more people (but, they do still need more) into their customer service department, allowing for faster replies. As for the parts, themselves, all, so far (with the exception of the original run of turnbuckles), are of extremely good quality. Regarding those turnbuckles, the original batch turned out to have a serious problem (as several have discovered) - they 'rushed' the hardening process of the steel, by using a higher temp (and less time), which did make the steel harder...but, also made it more brittle. Personally, I really LUV this car...and, I WILL be building up a second (from a CF roller). Unfortunately, I haven't been able to run mine since I started the mods. I received, and installed, the upgrade parts...and, since then, I've been quite busy with my job, and the weather isn't cooperating (by 'cooperating', I mean over 100 degree temps).
I already got my car. I did only order the roller because I was not familiar with this company. I did just recently order some parts but have not yet received them or even heard anything about my parts order yet. Thoughts?
Give them a little time. I'm sure they're working hard to get ensuring ordered shipped...but, I'm also willing to bet, getting the rollers & RTRs shipped is their top priority. That doesn't mean they're "ignoring" parts orders...just that they are probably prioritizing to the best of their ability. Not sure if that helps and, but I tried. 🤙🏼
Dude. The letter they sent out said that they "...did not complete a small part of the delivery as expected"..." and "...we expect to complete all orders and begin spot sales by May 15th..." They're not telling us that they held back production due to quality concerns! Why try to smooth this over for them? Oh, and it has been May 15th in China for 22 hours (as of the time of my comment) and my PRE Order has not shipped. It's just bad business and people have every right to feel however they feel
You are referring to the letter posted May 6. For the first 500, there was an email received on/around April 20 (which I have long-since deleted) that explained the delay, thanking those who had received the pre-production units for providing the feedback that led to the changes that were made. If you check the videos by some of those other UA-camrs, they clearly explain in their videos what I have attempted to explain in my typed comments. If you don't want to believe, fine...but, instead of accusing me of trying to "smooth this over for them", everything I've attempted to explain is available elsewhere...you just have to search it out, yourself. As for 'feelings', yes, you do have a right to 'feel' however you want...but, when said 'feelings' are tied to things that are not part of reality, that is a different matter. As I've said, all the information...the proof of what I have said...is out there to be found, if you actually look for it. Search, as you will find. And, when yours does ship, you will find it was worth the wait. Speaking of "wait", is it REALLY such a big deal if it doesn't ship until 1-2 days later? I mean, is it SO important for you to have it "yesterday". People these days (falsely) feel so "entitled". 🤙
@@ninthislandrc I'm not sensing a lot of insight on your part and I'm not going to argue with you. You can say whatever you want on your own UA-cam channel. Sticking up for a for-profit corporation who isn't paying you is super cringey... but if anyone cares, none of what you said has anything to do with my observations. First, if the "quality check delay" impacted those of us who were after the initial 500 (I ordered on 4/6 so I guess that's me), there is absolutely no reason why they couldn't have said that to the rest of us. Instead, they left their "likely 4/20" shipping date in the text on the web page! That's crap. Second, in their apology email from 5/6, they made another promise that they couldn't keep stating that they would ship by today (yesterday in Hong Kong time)...but if you look at the web site now, the cars are showing as in stock and preorders still haven't shipped. You don't believe anyone should express disappointment? I was only mildly annoyed by all of this until I happened to see your video. It made me take a step back and wonder why people are super pissed...and you know what? I think they're right.
@@mikeyfourbarrel8473 Being "mildly annoyed", that I understand...and, if all you are is "mildly annoyed", then that I can accept. It's just that there have been so many who were far more than just "mildly annoyed" (some to the point that they just cancelled, or wanted to cancel, their orders). Those are the people that portion of the video was directed at. My apologies if my initial reply to you felt as if it was a 'stronger' reply...but, in all honesty, I'm just tired of seeing all these complaints, especially from people who haven't even given Rlaarlo an honest/fair chance. In someone else's video, there was one person (part of the first 500) who was "pissed off" that, as of April 21, his order hadn't shipped, so he cancelled the order (I can only assume he never bothered to read the email that was sent). In another video's comments, there was a person claiming to have been among the first 500, even though he clearly stated he ordered almost a week after orders went live, thus there was no way he could have been part of the first 500...yet, even knowing about the change of the initial ship date (4/20 to 4/27), he was pissed that his order didn't ship on 4/27, so he also wanted to cancel. These are the types of complaints I was attempting to reference. If we were talking about delays of a month, then, yes, I believe everyone would have a valid reason for their complaints...but, a delay of 1-2 weeks is fairly minimal, and people are "blowing it out of proportions". Tamiya delayed the release of the TD4 & TD2 by at least a couple months, and never issued any statements about the delay, yet I read not a single complaint. Traxxas has dome similar...and, again, no complaints. That is why I can't understand those who were complaining about something that only had a minor delay...and, at least Rlaarlo publicly posted some info about the delay, even if said info didn't contain 100% of the details.
I took my 917 out for it's first speed run, & someone in a car tried to run it over, even though I had it right up into the gutter. Because of this nasty falla trying to run my RC-car over I couldn't see past his car & drove it too far into the curb & popped my wheel axle out. Now what's happening is it seems to pop out heaps when I take it for a blast. It's a bit annoying, because I get a couple of minutes of fun, & then I have to pop the wheel axle back in the socket thingy. Do you know how to remedy this issue? Cheers...
First, what that driver did ROYALLY sucks. Hope you got the license plate. I am NOT advocating doing anything illegal...but, if you have the license plate (even better if you also have it on video), you can use that info in a legal way. Without seeing photos, it's difficult (actually, impossible) to know where, specifically, you're referring to. So, I am going to assume you're referring to the vehicle's rear (ie. the dogbone, as opposed to the front CVD). Is it coming out from the outdrive cup (ie. the differential end), or the stub axle (ie. the wheel end). Best suggestion I can give (until/unless you reply back) is to check the movement of that suspension arm, from fully compressed, to fully extended, and see where, exactly, the dogbone is falling out. WHat I did was replace the rear dogbones & axle stubs with front CVDs. The Traxxas Sledge had this same problem..and, my "solution" was the same (ie. replaced the rear dogbones & axle stubs with front CVDs).
@@ninthislandrc yeah mate, it did suck. NZ has some ar#!%ohes. I got it on video, but I had to edit all my swearing out for it to go up on my UA-cam channel. It'll be up on my channel at some stage soon, because I set it to a specific date to go up. I'm planning to do a speed run with a 3s & 4s LiPo once I've sorted out this issue. My finally speed run will be when I have a tinker round with the gears to get the max out of it. I also plan to look at things like installing small cameras for a 3D headset experience. I feel that perspective could generate a lot of interest. ATM my videos aren't that great, but I plan to improve them a lot. The issue is with one of the front wheels. It's that funny socket thing that joins the wheel. Sorry, I'm a bit new to the RC car hobby. Replacing the socket arm thingy on the front might be the haps, that's if something is broken. I might've lost a screw or something when it first popped out.
@@thediscoverworkshop_asmr1096 Don't know what you mean by " socket thing that joins the wheel". Look at the 'exploded views' in the manual, pages 15 through 17, and tell me what part number you're referencing. The lower suspension arm is R10031, the upper is R10035, the front CVD driveshaft is R10067, and the front upright/steering hub is R100300. I'm just trying to help narrow down the possibilities, but I'm guessing it might be one of, or related to one of, these.
And they tried to give me $50 for a 5 ⭐ review on Amazon. Havent they been listening to customers? Honesty, honesty, honesty!!! And my dignity cost way more than $50. More like $100😬
So, you're admitting you can be "bought". Such a shame. My dignity, as well as my honesty, can NOT be bought. I have over 40 years experience in customer service related fields, so I definitely understand what the words "customer service" means...and, the fact that Rlaarlo is making an effort to improve everything proves that there is no deception, and they are trying to provide better customer service. Let me tell you a couple of quick stories about 3 different companies that are no longer around. On one hand, there was Circuit City & Fry's Electronics. Both were notorious for having incredibly bad customer service. In my over 50 years, they are the only two stores I can think of where, when customers walked in, sales people walked in the opposite direction. Honestly, is amazing that they were in business for as long as they were. Thankfully, both are now gone. On the other hand, there was Soup Plantation/Sweet Tomatoes. Originally, both started out as separate businesses, but they eventually merged. When each started, they had problems but, they worked to improve those problems, and customers gave them the opportunity to do so. After they merged, new problems came. Again, they worked hard to overcome them...and, again, customers gave them the opportunity to do so. Move forward to early 2020, and the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of lies propagated during the pandemic, combined with the false belief that such business types would no longer prosper, That is why they chose to permanently shut down. The point is, "public perception" can play a huge part in something like this...when people propagate lies, and others continue to propel them forward, creating a downhill snowball effect, it is, in the end, those people who caused the demise, and not anything that the company had done wrong. In other words, give Rlaarlo the opportunity...AND the time...to work on correcting the problems. Of course, it all honesty, I also believe that a big part of this...the lies being propagated...has to do with the fact that this is a Chinese company. If this were an American company, I am 99.9% certain that almost all people would be saying to "give them a chance". I am equally certain that very few, IF any, would actually admit that such is pay off why they are bashing Rlaarlo...they will claim that had nothing to do with it (which, in my opinion, only makes me think of those individuals as cowards). Now, I am NOT saying that everyone bashing Rlaarlo is doing so because it's a Chinese company...but, I am certain that a good percentage are.
@@ninthislandrc you lost me about the 3rd paragraph. For someone who knows people with 40 years experience you sure never learned sarcasm. There is no price on my dignity, just to be clear.
@@xXB.FunkXx Did someone who claims to have read to the third paragraph, it looks to me like you didn't make it past the third sentence. I didn't say I 'knew' people with 40 years experience...I said I HAVE 40 years experience. As for sarcasm, I get it extremely well. My comment was equally sarcastic...which you, obviously, didn't get. As I often tell people, "There are only two things I am seriously serious about in life - food, and my sense of humor." 🤙🏼
I have 2 coming and wrote rlaarlo and they said they have been ready for over a week. It is not them but dhl that is delaying shipping so if your gonna be mad, be mad at the shipper.
Huzzah!!! That is something I hadn't considered. Wish there was a way to redirect that to the individual who's been constantly complaining. Unfortunately, he seems to have deleted his comment. But, I do believe I can pin this comment too the top of all comments.
Cool beans...now, THAT'S what I'm talking about. The 'framework' that Rlaarlo provided is excellent...but, definitely not a true "speedrun" car. Essentially, I'd consider it very similar to the Arrma Vendetta, work a speedrun carbon fiber chassis...and, a MUCH better body...but, one in-need of true speedrun electronics. Seems to me, you're headed in the right direction. If it were food, I'd say, "Ono". 🤙🏼
Incorrect. First, they didn't 'lie' about the ship dates. They estimated what they thought the "ship by" date would be...but, during the time top-tier UA-camrs who had received pre-production units were testing them, problems were discovered, and Rlaarlo was working on fixing those problems before shipping production units. What would you rather have - a product worth known problems that weren't fixed, or a product that gets slightly delayed (by only 1 week, I might add) because the known problems are being fixed before products ship? If you answer the second option, you're being honest...and, of your answer the first, well, we all know. Second, they DID post a letter (if I recall correctly, it was on April 21, the day after the originally estimated "ship by" date)...and, more importantly, they started in that letter exactly the reasons for the delay. Before continuing to spew forth your 'untruths', I would recommend first researching the truth (which you, obviously, didn't do). It's lies like these that not only propagate further lies, but also causes others to not consider the AK-917, never getting the chance to find out what a truly incredible vehicle it is. Those who continue saying it's 'bad' are no different than the children who say they don't like something, even though they NEVER tried what they're claiming to not like...they're just basing their decision on the false words of others (others who also have not tried). As I've said before, yes, Rlaarlo made mistakes...MANY mistakes...in the beginning. Their shipping department was WAY understaffed, as they didn't expect the amount of interest this vehicle actually attracted. Likewise, their customer service department was also way understaffed (which would be the ACTUAL reason for emails now getting replied to). But, they ARE working hard to increase staffing in these areas. The PROOF of that can be seen in the increase of shipping orders, as well as the increase of replying to emails & messages. Are the problems 100% solved? No...and, in my opinion, they've still got quite a ways to go before they are truly "up to speed". But, they ARE getting there...and, THAT is what's most important. So what if they started shipping a week later than 'promised'. So what if orders are taking longer to shop then expected. So what if there's a few minor mistakes in orders that are shipped. There is not a single company that has ever existed that was 100% perfect. We are human, companies are run by humans, humans make mistakes, humans learn from the mistakes they've made, and we move forward. To believe otherwise is to live in one's own "personal fantasyland".
You may think people are being unreasonable but I see you have yours? Let me tell you my story. I have bought many RC's and parts from many companies over the years and being in Australia we are used to waiting so I don't think I am being impatient when I placed 2 orders in early March and have yet to receive anything. After their 3rd announcement saying they would be sending all other deliveries in May I messaged them twice asking for an update as they had not sent or updated my order and after over a week I have yet to see a response? Is it unreasonable to ask for an update? Is it unreasonable that after paying for something in full 2 months ago to expect some sort of communication?
First, I don't see how you could have ordered in "early March", when pre-sales didn't begin until March 15. But, second...and, more importantly...I'm guessing you didn't read my "UPDATE - PLEASE READ" comment, pinned to the top of the comments. It would be recommended if you read that. 🤙🏼
@@ninthislandrc Apologies what I should have said was early in the March pre-sales, in fact 17th March to be exact for the first order and then 1st of April for the follow up parts order, my fault I just thought most people interested in this car would know about the dates and understand what I meant. I did read your update although I was just sharing my experience. It's pretty hard to watch people getting deliveries of the cars, parts etc. that they ordered after you and not be a little upset. I have seen other UA-camrs getting replacement parts that they ordered late April while I still wait for a response let alone a delivery and then see them say that the end user is the one that is being unreasonable?
@@rcmonstermash Initially, I was very supportive of Rlaarlo...but, as more problems surfaced (as reported by others, and as experiences myself), I am in agreement. There are, definitely, "problems" with Rlaarlo. 🤙🏼
People paid good money for these products Rlaarlo isn't saying anything about the delay in the shipping. My cars are still in Hong Kong according to the tracking which hasn't updated since the 5th of May! That's just horrible customer service, no one will even respond to me. Idc how big the Company is, if there's a delay in my already paid for product the they have some explaining to do...😤
I'll be completely honest...I, too, am starting to see problems. Instead of double-posting, I am going to type a separate comment, and pin it to the top of all comments. Check again in approx 30 minutes, as I should have the comment posted by then.
If you truly believe that, then you really don't pay much attention to the "major players". With the exception of Traxxas, almost every company out there sends top UA-camrs free units to do videos on. That drives interest...which IS part of 'overhyping'. A perfect example i would be the just-released Moto-MX from Losi. As a matter of fact, Horizon Hobby does as much as possible to get as much 'hype' as they can for almost every HH-branded vehicle. As for Traxxas, they do it...they just do it differently. They do as much self-promoting as possible, to drive up the hype. When they have something new, they start blasting out countless emails to everyone who's subscribed to their list. They'll film several different videos, and they'll send out a different email for each video, purposely running them to be sent anywhere from a couple days, to a couple weeks, apart. The point is, there's almost NO companies...RC, or otherwise...that's "immune" from hyping their products as much as they can, in whatever ways they can. 'Products' rarely sell themselves. It's marketing that drives sales, and hyping products in whatever way possible is just one form of marketing. Even business that sell services (lawyers, insurance companies, etc) do it. With the exception of companies that cater to the rich (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolex, etc), I'd be willing to bet you'd be hard-pressed to name 10 major companies that don't hype their products/services in some way.
@@ninthislandrc My, that's quite a dissertation. I agree on some points and disagree on others. I've been involved in RC for more than half a century and certain products are produced for certain mindsets. Rlaaro's claim of 100 mph out of the box is patently false as are many, many other manufacturers claims. So, as always, caveat emptor.
@@OmarGreeneotraPedroVerde I get what you're saying k in this reply)...but, I want referring specifically to the speed claim. I was referring to every aspect of overhyping a product. Now, in regards to the speed claim matter, we are agreed that most RC manufacturers are guilty of such. However...in going over Rlaarlo's info on the AK-917 (I was just double-checking the website, to make certain I didn't accidently miss, or misread, something), nowhere did it state these claims speeds are "out of the box", or "when used with the included speed gear" (both of which Traxxas has been guilty of in the past). It just states certain speeds for which each configuration is supposedly capable of...and, based on the speeds that people are actually obtaining, not only did Rlaarlo NOT lie, but the speeds claimed by Rlaarlo have proven EXTREMELY conservative. The 'fastest' speed Rlaarlo claims/states is 200kph (or 124mph). If you've been paying attention to the actual speeds people are reaching, you know they have gone far past that (I believe the current record is 162mph). Again, Rlaarlo's speed claims do not specify "out of the box"...only what should be obtainable. In other words, there's a definite difference between claiming an "out of the box" speed, and just claiming a "top speed". 🤙🏼
@@ninthislandrc Well, sir, the last time I checked, RTR is synonymous with "Out of the Box". (Usually, minus batteries and a decent charger.) It is advertised as an RTR vehicle. It's even on the box. (Not the blow mold they sent all the "influnencers".) In addition, to acheive these speeds that some folks are getting, are only after extensive modifications. Bottom Line: You roll the dice with Chinese products. WlToys is probably the worst offender. IMO.
@@OmarGreeneotraPedroVerde "Out of the box" and "RTR" are not even close to the same meaning. "Out of the box" is applicable to ALL RCs...RTR, ARTR, roller, or kit...if said vehicle includes spur & pinion gears. And, one final time (hoping you understand this time), Rlaarlo is not stating "out of the box", or any other wording that would mean the same. When you look at the Traxxas Sledge, which is an RTR, you will see the words "70+mph with two 3S Lipo batteries and optional gearing". When you look at the Arrma Limitless, which is a roller (ie. NOT an RTR), you will see the words "Capable of 110+ mph speeds in optimum conditions with the recommended electronics". If you look at the HPI Baja 5B SBK, which is a kit (ie. also NOT an RTR), you will see the words "The Baja 5B FLUX is ready for up to 8S of raw Lipo power, so you can see speeds of over 50 miles per hour". Obviously, your 'understanding' of what "Out of the box" means isn't correct, especially considering 2 of the 3 vehicles I referenced are not RTRs. Time to think your understanding of what "out of the box" means.
You bet buddy that was me. If you can’t ship when you say you shouldn’t take peoples money. If it was a big manufacture. I would have done the same thing. They wouldn’t tell me what’s with the electronics. That’s a bad company. If I cancel d my order the would have charged me 20 percent. That’s fnIllegal in the United States I bought arma Try to get parts for this junk.
Actually, charging a fee for cancelling an order is not illegal. Granted, very few companies will charge a person for cancelling an order...but, again, not illegal. As for "delays", that happens quite frequently...from the automotive industry, to the computer industry. The great majority understands such happens. Now, if the delay were months, instead of just days, that could be considered a different matter...but, for a delay of only 7 days (and, a delay with incredibly valid reasons), honestly, I think those who would care would number less than 1 in every 1,000. Rlaarlo didn't "take anyone's money". A product was promised, and said product is being delivered. No corners were cut, no compromises were made (at least, on the company's part...as for the factory (which, I'm guessing, they used an OEM factory to actually), there does appear to be a very minor quality control problem, but Rlaarlo appears to have already corrected some of those problems), and those who ordered the cars (RTRs & rollers) have been receiving them. Having heard from some who ordered theirs in early April, several is them have received theirs. A big part of it will be the selected shipping method For those who ordered in March, and chose "expedited", most should have received theirs...but, for those who chose "standard", most are still in-transit. But, no worries. Those who ordered quickly, and waited patiently, are enjoying theirs...and, those who ordered later, and are also waiting patiently, should soon be enjoying theirs. Honestly, it's too bad you weren't willing to wait, as you, too, would have found out how great a vehicle this truly is. But...again...no worries, as Arrma is also good. Enjoy it. I have a Limitless V2 that I'll be starting a build on (once I have the funds), with an eventual 'goal' of breaking 150...and, if I can ever reach it, 180.
it's 10% and quite common to do for restocking.Tt's also mentioned in the T&C ,same goes for the shipping charges extras some been asked for..Read the Small Print.Mine arrivecd yesterday ,Had a driveshaft not in the cup,but easy fix and the quality is way higher than a Tamiya at double the price,
@@grrfy Now, THAT'S an idea...a kit version...or, even better, aluminum & CF roller kit versions. I don't have any contact with their R&D, but I know who I could pass along that idea to who does. 🤙🏼
Corporate shill maaannnn!! Lol... I missed out on the presale but Ill be picking one up eventually.... when they get here. Hopefully all the hate will keep the $ down.
The current price might not be as good as the presale price...but, is still better than the regular price. As for "keep the price down", is possible, but unlikely. My guess is, once the competition is over, the price will go back up again...although, at the same time, I'm guessing the final "street price" will be somewhere between the current price & 'retail' price. 🤙🏼
RLAARLO UPDATE - PLEASE READ
To (purposely mis-)quote a song from one of my favorite older musicals, "We have trouble. Right here in Sin City. And that starts with 'R', and that rhymes with...uh...nothing...and that stands for 'Rlaarlo'."
It has come to the attention of several UA-camrs (myself, included) that things are NOT as they initially were...even for us. Several people have mentioned about contacting Rlaarlo, but not hearing back. And, as many have discovered, there have been some "quality control" issues (as I pointed out in the video), which, in all honesty, are very easy for the end-user to fix...but, these problems have (dispite what Rlaarlo initially claimed) NOT been corrected as much as we were led to believe they were doing. What follows is the latest info I have, from a combination of personal experience, as well as input from a few other UA-camrs, and comments they've received on their channels.
I've heard from several people who received their AK-917s (mostly RTRs, but also several rollers) over the past week...and, from what we've been told, many of the same 'problems' that existed before the productions started shipping, and were *supposed* to have been corrected, STILL haven't been corrected. As mentioned in my first video after receiving my AK-917, the exhaust was broken (something many others have also discovered upon opening their packages), and the film barrier (ie. chasis protector) was missing. I contacted them about this the day after it was received, and they responded back 4 days later (in which they also explained the excess number of emails they had been receiving, thus the (supposed) 'cause' of the delay), stating that they would ship a replacement exhaust...but, to which they also didn't mention the film barrier. I replied back, reminding them of the missing film barrier, and figured they'd reply back in 4-6 days (maybe 8, given the 'delay'). However, it is now 10 days after that email, and they have not replied. I emailed them, again, this morning, and will update this in a week, or when they reply (if they reply within the next week). Many others have reported the same problem regarding emails.
As for orders, I, and other UA-camrs, have heard from quite a few people about orders being "stuck" in China (to this, I am not refering to any orders having made it into the States, but "stuck" in a US-based warehouse, such as DHL)...and, the problem, albeit, minor at first, appears to have gotten worse. While some of this can, most definitely, be attributed to problems on the shipping company's side (ie. packages that were picked up from Rlaarlo, but haven't made it onto a boat/plane heading to the US and/or Europe), there are also a growing number of people who have received tracking numbers, but nothing further, as well as people who haven't even received tracking numbers. Rlaarlo *claims* to have anywhere from 500-1000 units (mostly 800-1000) of each vehicle "in stock", yet orders aren't shipping, which raises some SERIOUS questions...and, I won't even get into the claimed number of "in stock" spare & upgrade parts. Speaking of spare/upgrade parts, I even have reports of people having ordered RTRs/rollers, as well as parts, where they've received their cars, but no parts...and, even worse, while some of them have received seperate tracking numbers for the parts, others have no clue where their parts are.
So, what does this all mean??? In regards to what I said about the quality of the vehicle, I stand by that initial assesment...the vehicle, itself, is extremely good. Have there been broken parts? Yes...not on mine (so far, fingers crossed), but on others. But, in this hobby, and for what this vehicle is being used for, broken parts ARE expected...so, in regards to that, stop complaining. However, that's only one third of the situation. There's also the 'customer service' side, as well as the 'order fulfillment' side...and, in BOTH of those, Rlaarlo is FAILING. To answer the question asked in the video's title, "Yes, there IS a problem." Some have accused me of "defending Rlaarlo", and "being paid for by Rlaarlo", NEITHER of which is true. Yes, I stand by certain things Rlaarlo has done, and is doing, but that does NOT mean I "stand by" Rlaarlo as a company. Will I purchase replacement & upgrade parts for the AK-917? Yes. But, will I order another vehicle from Rlaarlo, as I had originally indicated I'd be doing? That remains to be seen. I will still order a CF roller...but, instead of using it to build up an all-out speedrun car, as originally planned, it will be a "parts car" (as it's cheaper than buying the recommended replacement parts).
Just as Traxxas has pissed off a lot of people (I have NO plans on purchasing any additional Traxxas vehicles, but I will purchase, as needed, replacement parts...and, maybe, some of their upgrade parts), Rlaarlo is already doing the same...and, in truth, it's a shame. The previous vehicles 'released' by Rlaarlo appear to be nothing more than rebranded OEM vehicles. Best I can tell, the AK-917 was their first in-house vehicle...and, for their first, it is, again, extremely good. But, if a company "fails" in customer service, then are they worth dealing with? I've worked in customer service-related positions almost my entire working life, from fast food & retail stores, to being a Professional Chauffeur..and, from my perspective, customer service is the MOST IMPORTANT aspect of any business' busniness. A business can NOT survive without customers, and bad customer service leads to a loss of customers...just ask Circuit City (oh, yeah, they don't exist anymore...horrible customer service).
How long with Rlaarlo survive? Only time will tell. If they can "get their act together", and improve their customer service, they have a (strong?) chance of survival. Will they ever have the CS of Traxxas, Horizon Hobby, Tekno, Castle Creations, or several others I could name? Probably not. But, they *could* improve enough to survive. At the same time, if they dopn't start working on improving their CS, I give them until the end of 2025 before they are nothing but a memory.
Rlaarlo customer support is very poor/non existence and seems that they only have time for youtube creators. Very dissapoi ted and cannot recommend them. Dispite being a new company, if they can't fulfill orders or have a working customer support, then they should not have come to market until they were ready.
This will be Rlaarlos downfall as people will have no faith in them.
@@e46s54 They don't even have 'time' for UA-camrs...only for the "big ones" they sent free AK-917s to...and, in some (but NOT all) cases, free upgrades (ie. not all who received free AK-917s receive free upgrades). Truth is, I know of a few UA-camrs who received free cars from Rlaarlo, and Rlaarlo isn't even responding to some of their emails.
I received my carbon rtr on tuesday and they had added some padding around the exhaust - it arrived fully intact. No issues at all so far (2 packs street bashing). It’s a great car.
Glad to hear they've already 'adjusted' the shipping...at least, in such to protect the exhaust. Those "lucky few" of us to receive the production version weren't so lucky...but, I'd classify it more as an 'inconvenience', than a true 'problem'.
As for the rest, I still recommend checking everything mentioned in the video. When I did my initial inspection after opening the carrying case, I, too, thought (except for the exhaust) thought everything was "all right". Things like the lack of grease on the R&P gears, and the diffs not being properly filled, you won't be able to discover unless you disassemble those areas. Not saying yours is like mine...but, as I tend to say, "Better safe than sorry." 🤙🏼
When did u order
So the Carbon Fiber Brushless AK 917 I just bought comes with 67mm tires (O.D.), which look better on car than the 65mm tires. The problem I have is I'm unable to find ANY 67mm dia. tires other than a set of foams. Since I'm not doing speed runs yet, where do I find a set of decent looking 67mm tires (mounted or not) ?
Two searching Amazon & eBay using the following keyword combo:
wheel tire 67mm
I guarantee, you will find options. Can't claim to know how good/bad they might be...but, at least there's 'options'. Alternately, try AMain, Horizon Hobby, and other online RC retailers...and each carries a wide variety, they're could be possibilities. Of course, you can also order mounted tires direct from Rlaarlo. While RTRs sometimes have a delay in shipping, parts orders usually ship fairly quickly. I've received parts orders direct from Rlaarlo in as little as 6 days after placing the order.
big problem getting spare parts as well and no response from emails
I didn't get this model with the fan in the body, I simply added a fan directly to the motor it cools the motor more efficiently
I'd say, most AK-917 owners have added a fan to the motor. For my first car...what I'm now referring to as the 3S car, I added a double fan w/ heatsink from Power Hobby.
The second car, which will (once built) be referred to as the 4-6S car, will be running a 40mm motor, for which the on-motor cooling is still to be decided. As I'm not yet giving any details on what will be entailed in this build, the only thing I can say is that it will be radically different. Unfortunately, my work schedule has prevented me from getting any RC work done for the past two months, so entirely uncertain when I'll get to it. 🤙🏼
Mine arrived 2 days ago, just opened it up today and it is definitely worth the wait. Nice video!
Thank you...and, yes, it, most definitely, is "worth the wait". 🤙🏼
@@khrisyeet8022 Right...about as much as I have a chance of simultaneously being President & Pope.
Thank you! Finally a sain person. I can't believe the way people are acting. They said around 4/20 it shipped within a week. People are freaking out over nothing. Be patient.
That was exactly my point. As I typed in the description, so many people today "want it yesterday". Those without patience, I am sure, will be happy with whatever branded products they get instead of this...and, for those with patients, they are going to greatly enjoy this. 🤙🏼
I waited until the craze died down and just picked up a roller on sale for Christmas. Appreciate the tips!
I admit, I don't always have the answer. If I have an answer, I'll give it...and, if I don't, I'll try my best to find it...and, if I can't find it, I'll admit I don't have it. Glad to have been able to help.
As sort of an "update" to this video, Rlaarlo has been working hard since the release of the AK-917...working hard to correct the shipping problems, and working hard to improve customer service. While they are not to the level of Amain or Traxxas, they HAVE improved a considerable amount, and are continuing to work on improving. Honestly, I believe they learned from the mistake of "underestimating", so that, when the AK-787 was released, they were far-better prepared.
@@ninthislandrc For the money, I'm impressed with the quality and parts availability so far. It's a step up from the TT02 chassis I'm using for now, that's for sure!
I ordered 2 on March 24,, just received both colors a couple of weeks ago..my blue car is perfect, but the red car is making loud winding noise when throttle..not for sure if rear differential, or pinion gear
First, as explained in the video, you need to check everything - screws for threadlock, gears for grease, diffs & shocks for fluid. Then, and ONLY then, Will you know if everything was assembled "properly"...and, if not, you can fix those problems.
@@ninthislandrc ok..Thanks ! Im new to the RC World, but I do change my pinion gears on my Felonys, but this car not as easy as Arrma, but thanks for the advice
@@andrataylor6070 Changing pinions is easy. However, changing the spur is somewhat more difficult.
@@ninthislandrc Do i half to take off alot to get to pinion?
@@andrataylor6070 No. As I said, changing opinion is simple. You just need to remove the two screws holding the gear cover, and remove the gear cover. Then, remove the three screws holding the motor mounts, giving you access to the pinion. The spur, on the other hands, is far more complicated, but can still be done.
Got my car 10 days ago, but the extra parts (5mm pinion gear and adjustable motor mount) were missing or incorrect. Sent Rlaarlo 4 emails so far with photos and being reasonably polite.. no reply to any of them.
Same here. Among the things in my spare & upgrade parts order was R10018 (steering servo links). Evidently, Rlaarlo is packaging these with the WRONG rod ends. The rod ends installed on the original servo links are 24.35mm long...the rod ends I received inside the R10018 package are only 16.65mm long. Being approx 7.5mm too short, that would cause servo links to be 15mm too short. I've emailed them, as well as notified them via FB Messenger, and have not received any reply.
Great video, I agree with what you said, I ordered 2 of these and still waiting, I would rather have the car right than have it shipped out wrong, some people are just jerks.
I'm not going to use the "J" word (tho, I'm also not going to disagree)...but, "impatience" IS a word I'll use. 🤙🏼
You'll, definitely, enjoy yours once received. I'm actually prepping to order a second CF, although this one will be a roller. I've also thought about ordering an aluminum roller, to build into a 'basher', but undecided as of yet. 🤙🏼
That diff fluid is very high for a 1:10 road car, petsonally i will be going for 15k fron 10k rear, especially running on tarmac, low grip surface, to high diff fluid it will just spin imo, nice video and agree on delivery issuez, here in uk i had to wait six months for my arrma outcast 4s v2 due to delays, so not just small companies 👍
If this were intended as a TC chassis, I'd agree...but, it's intended as a speedrun chassis, so diff fluid is supposed to be super high. You find most speedrunners start around 100K for the front, and 75-85K for the rear. You'll find many using 1-2.5M in the front, and 100K-500K in the rear. Not saying "all", but "many". 🤙🏼
How can i tell if my diff fluid is low by the sound?
@@andrataylor6070 You really can't. You need to open the diffs, and actually check.
I ordered a back order car from horizon and they did not take any of my money until the product actually shipped. Maybe that’s what rlaarlo should do so they can curb some of the complaints. I ordered spares with my cars from them on march 15th, they took my momey and still no spares. 😢
Order from almost any Asian-based company, and they take the funds when you order. Unless you're talking company-to-company purchases, that's just the Asian way of doing business. Order from Banggood, Asia Tees, or any of the others, and it'll be the same thing. With most European businesses, again, three same thing. While many American companies will run the amount when you place three order, but don't actually charge until three item ships, there are plenty of American companies that also charge when the order is placed.
@@ninthislandrc well you can’t expect everyone to know the Asian way of doing business…when something is hyped the way this car was we all had high expectations. It’s not to much to ask for spare parts to be shipped with your order. I ordered it all 2 months ago. Have the cars one now is a running car while the other has turned into a parts car because they didn’t make parts to sell at the same time they built the cars…. Or better yet before. A bad business practice has no nationality attached to it…. It’s just plain BAD business.
@@BNVRC Have you ever thought that, what you consider "bad business practices", other business not only consider "standard business practices", and have been construction business in that manner since long before there were any American businesses? There is no 'right' or 'wrong' in this. How they choose to do business is how they choose to do business. For any individual that doesn't like how any particular company does business, they have the choice of purchasing, we're not purchasing, from that business...that is your 'choice'. Just understand that The great majority of other asian-based companies do business the exact same way. So, maybe, you're just better off purchasing only from American companies. My comments, in your direction, is neither meant to be 'positive', or 'negative'...it is not meant to be 'for', or 'against', Rlaarlo (or any other company)...it is just a comment, completely 'general' in nature.
@@ninthislandrc exactly my point. We have a choice. So if they are marketing around the world, maybe they should invest some funds into what makes people tick in those parts of the world they are marketing to. I’m not a Rlaarlo hater but you can’t defend everything they are doing. They will loose customers over this because they did not have the forethought to market and sell in a manner consistent with the buying practices in said markets. Bad, good I get is a matter of perspective relative to your upbringing or culture concerning these business practices, but some understanding of the customer where they are marketing would help them with return or repeat customers. I’m patient and willing to wait but some folks are not. So those will be the ones who will go back to Arrma or traxis or the other big brands. Because honestly these cars are not worth the full asking price.
And brother I take no offense to what you are saying. Just a debate in the other direction is all. We are all different. That makes the world go round. Also not trying to be negative toward you in any way.
The difs in mine are great, different oils front and rear, same with the dampers.
I suspect most will be 'correct'. Just an "advisory" for checking everything. 🤙🏼
Shipping from China doesn't help Rlaarlo either. Brands mentioned are within USA..Arrma had the diff issue with early release Kraton exb... Arrma's just fine. I received my Ak917 & broke parts within few weeks 😆 part of the hobby, now awaiting parts & spares. AK917 is nice speed basher/parking lot thrashing RC at $199 alloy BL rtr pre-sale it was great value..glad I bought it
Since the posting of this video, several changes...GOOD changes...have been made within Rlaarlo. They've hired more people for the shipping department, increasing their ability of getting orders shipped faster (and, as of yesterday, a message went out that all AK-917 orders had shipped)...and, they've hired more people (but, they do still need more) into their customer service department, allowing for faster replies.
As for the parts, themselves, all, so far (with the exception of the original run of turnbuckles), are of extremely good quality. Regarding those turnbuckles, the original batch turned out to have a serious problem (as several have discovered) - they 'rushed' the hardening process of the steel, by using a higher temp (and less time), which did make the steel harder...but, also made it more brittle.
Personally, I really LUV this car...and, I WILL be building up a second (from a CF roller). Unfortunately, I haven't been able to run mine since I started the mods. I received, and installed, the upgrade parts...and, since then, I've been quite busy with my job, and the weather isn't cooperating (by 'cooperating', I mean over 100 degree temps).
I already got my car. I did only order the roller because I was not familiar with this company. I did just recently order some parts but have not yet received them or even heard anything about my parts order yet. Thoughts?
Give them a little time. I'm sure they're working hard to get ensuring ordered shipped...but, I'm also willing to bet, getting the rollers & RTRs shipped is their top priority. That doesn't mean they're "ignoring" parts orders...just that they are probably prioritizing to the best of their ability. Not sure if that helps and, but I tried. 🤙🏼
Dude. The letter they sent out said that they "...did not complete a small part of the delivery as expected"..." and "...we expect to complete all orders and begin spot sales by May 15th..." They're not telling us that they held back production due to quality concerns! Why try to smooth this over for them? Oh, and it has been May 15th in China for 22 hours (as of the time of my comment) and my PRE Order has not shipped. It's just bad business and people have every right to feel however they feel
You are referring to the letter posted May 6. For the first 500, there was an email received on/around April 20 (which I have long-since deleted) that explained the delay, thanking those who had received the pre-production units for providing the feedback that led to the changes that were made. If you check the videos by some of those other UA-camrs, they clearly explain in their videos what I have attempted to explain in my typed comments. If you don't want to believe, fine...but, instead of accusing me of trying to "smooth this over for them", everything I've attempted to explain is available elsewhere...you just have to search it out, yourself. As for 'feelings', yes, you do have a right to 'feel' however you want...but, when said 'feelings' are tied to things that are not part of reality, that is a different matter. As I've said, all the information...the proof of what I have said...is out there to be found, if you actually look for it. Search, as you will find. And, when yours does ship, you will find it was worth the wait. Speaking of "wait", is it REALLY such a big deal if it doesn't ship until 1-2 days later? I mean, is it SO important for you to have it "yesterday". People these days (falsely) feel so "entitled". 🤙
@@ninthislandrc I'm not sensing a lot of insight on your part and I'm not going to argue with you. You can say whatever you want on your own UA-cam channel. Sticking up for a for-profit corporation who isn't paying you is super cringey... but if anyone cares, none of what you said has anything to do with my observations. First, if the "quality check delay" impacted those of us who were after the initial 500 (I ordered on 4/6 so I guess that's me), there is absolutely no reason why they couldn't have said that to the rest of us. Instead, they left their "likely 4/20" shipping date in the text on the web page! That's crap. Second, in their apology email from 5/6, they made another promise that they couldn't keep stating that they would ship by today (yesterday in Hong Kong time)...but if you look at the web site now, the cars are showing as in stock and preorders still haven't shipped. You don't believe anyone should express disappointment? I was only mildly annoyed by all of this until I happened to see your video. It made me take a step back and wonder why people are super pissed...and you know what? I think they're right.
@@mikeyfourbarrel8473 Being "mildly annoyed", that I understand...and, if all you are is "mildly annoyed", then that I can accept. It's just that there have been so many who were far more than just "mildly annoyed" (some to the point that they just cancelled, or wanted to cancel, their orders). Those are the people that portion of the video was directed at. My apologies if my initial reply to you felt as if it was a 'stronger' reply...but, in all honesty, I'm just tired of seeing all these complaints, especially from people who haven't even given Rlaarlo an honest/fair chance.
In someone else's video, there was one person (part of the first 500) who was "pissed off" that, as of April 21, his order hadn't shipped, so he cancelled the order (I can only assume he never bothered to read the email that was sent). In another video's comments, there was a person claiming to have been among the first 500, even though he clearly stated he ordered almost a week after orders went live, thus there was no way he could have been part of the first 500...yet, even knowing about the change of the initial ship date (4/20 to 4/27), he was pissed that his order didn't ship on 4/27, so he also wanted to cancel. These are the types of complaints I was attempting to reference. If we were talking about delays of a month, then, yes, I believe everyone would have a valid reason for their complaints...but, a delay of 1-2 weeks is fairly minimal, and people are "blowing it out of proportions".
Tamiya delayed the release of the TD4 & TD2 by at least a couple months, and never issued any statements about the delay, yet I read not a single complaint. Traxxas has dome similar...and, again, no complaints. That is why I can't understand those who were complaining about something that only had a minor delay...and, at least Rlaarlo publicly posted some info about the delay, even if said info didn't contain 100% of the details.
I took my 917 out for it's first speed run, & someone in a car tried to run it over, even though I had it right up into the gutter. Because of this nasty falla trying to run my RC-car over I couldn't see past his car & drove it too far into the curb & popped my wheel axle out. Now what's happening is it seems to pop out heaps when I take it for a blast. It's a bit annoying, because I get a couple of minutes of fun, & then I have to pop the wheel axle back in the socket thingy. Do you know how to remedy this issue? Cheers...
First, what that driver did ROYALLY sucks. Hope you got the license plate. I am NOT advocating doing anything illegal...but, if you have the license plate (even better if you also have it on video), you can use that info in a legal way.
Without seeing photos, it's difficult (actually, impossible) to know where, specifically, you're referring to. So, I am going to assume you're referring to the vehicle's rear (ie. the dogbone, as opposed to the front CVD). Is it coming out from the outdrive cup (ie. the differential end), or the stub axle (ie. the wheel end). Best suggestion I can give (until/unless you reply back) is to check the movement of that suspension arm, from fully compressed, to fully extended, and see where, exactly, the dogbone is falling out. WHat I did was replace the rear dogbones & axle stubs with front CVDs. The Traxxas Sledge had this same problem..and, my "solution" was the same (ie. replaced the rear dogbones & axle stubs with front CVDs).
@@ninthislandrc yeah mate, it did suck. NZ has some ar#!%ohes. I got it on video, but I had to edit all my swearing out for it to go up on my UA-cam channel. It'll be up on my channel at some stage soon, because I set it to a specific date to go up. I'm planning to do a speed run with a 3s & 4s LiPo once I've sorted out this issue. My finally speed run will be when I have a tinker round with the gears to get the max out of it. I also plan to look at things like installing small cameras for a 3D headset experience. I feel that perspective could generate a lot of interest. ATM my videos aren't that great, but I plan to improve them a lot.
The issue is with one of the front wheels. It's that funny socket thing that joins the wheel. Sorry, I'm a bit new to the RC car hobby. Replacing the socket arm thingy on the front might be the haps, that's if something is broken. I might've lost a screw or something when it first popped out.
@@thediscoverworkshop_asmr1096 Don't know what you mean by " socket thing that joins the wheel". Look at the 'exploded views' in the manual, pages 15 through 17, and tell me what part number you're referencing. The lower suspension arm is R10031, the upper is R10035, the front CVD driveshaft is R10067, and the front upright/steering hub is R100300. I'm just trying to help narrow down the possibilities, but I'm guessing it might be one of, or related to one of, these.
And they tried to give me $50 for a 5 ⭐ review on Amazon. Havent they been listening to customers? Honesty, honesty, honesty!!! And my dignity cost way more than $50. More like $100😬
So, you're admitting you can be "bought". Such a shame. My dignity, as well as my honesty, can NOT be bought. I have over 40 years experience in customer service related fields, so I definitely understand what the words "customer service" means...and, the fact that Rlaarlo is making an effort to improve everything proves that there is no deception, and they are trying to provide better customer service. Let me tell you a couple of quick stories about 3 different companies that are no longer around.
On one hand, there was Circuit City & Fry's Electronics. Both were notorious for having incredibly bad customer service. In my over 50 years, they are the only two stores I can think of where, when customers walked in, sales people walked in the opposite direction. Honestly, is amazing that they were in business for as long as they were. Thankfully, both are now gone.
On the other hand, there was Soup Plantation/Sweet Tomatoes. Originally, both started out as separate businesses, but they eventually merged. When each started, they had problems but, they worked to improve those problems, and customers gave them the opportunity to do so. After they merged, new problems came. Again, they worked hard to overcome them...and, again, customers gave them the opportunity to do so. Move forward to early 2020, and the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of lies propagated during the pandemic, combined with the false belief that such business types would no longer prosper, That is why they chose to permanently shut down.
The point is, "public perception" can play a huge part in something like this...when people propagate lies, and others continue to propel them forward, creating a downhill snowball effect, it is, in the end, those people who caused the demise, and not anything that the company had done wrong. In other words, give Rlaarlo the opportunity...AND the time...to work on correcting the problems. Of course, it all honesty, I also believe that a big part of this...the lies being propagated...has to do with the fact that this is a Chinese company. If this were an American company, I am 99.9% certain that almost all people would be saying to "give them a chance". I am equally certain that very few, IF any, would actually admit that such is pay off why they are bashing Rlaarlo...they will claim that had nothing to do with it (which, in my opinion, only makes me think of those individuals as cowards). Now, I am NOT saying that everyone bashing Rlaarlo is doing so because it's a Chinese company...but, I am certain that a good percentage are.
@@ninthislandrc you lost me about the 3rd paragraph. For someone who knows people with 40 years experience you sure never learned sarcasm. There is no price on my dignity, just to be clear.
@@xXB.FunkXx Did someone who claims to have read to the third paragraph, it looks to me like you didn't make it past the third sentence. I didn't say I 'knew' people with 40 years experience...I said I HAVE 40 years experience. As for sarcasm, I get it extremely well. My comment was equally sarcastic...which you, obviously, didn't get. As I often tell people, "There are only two things I am seriously serious about in life - food, and my sense of humor." 🤙🏼
Ya third sentence, that's what I meant.
I have 2 coming and wrote rlaarlo and they said they have been ready for over a week. It is not them but dhl that is delaying shipping so if your gonna be mad, be mad at the shipper.
Huzzah!!!
That is something I hadn't considered. Wish there was a way to redirect that to the individual who's been constantly complaining. Unfortunately, he seems to have deleted his comment. But, I do believe I can pin this comment too the top of all comments.
They should put out an official statement then, rather than simply ignoring messages and emails from paying customers.
just built mine out using legit stuff. sanwa servo, maclan motor and 200 amp esc. going for 8s runs tomorrow
Cool beans...now, THAT'S what I'm talking about. The 'framework' that Rlaarlo provided is excellent...but, definitely not a true "speedrun" car. Essentially, I'd consider it very similar to the Arrma Vendetta, work a speedrun carbon fiber chassis...and, a MUCH better body...but, one in-need of true speedrun electronics. Seems to me, you're headed in the right direction. If it were food, I'd say, "Ono". 🤙🏼
Its because they didn't tell us the truth. Lied about the ship dates and didn't respond to anyone asking about it.
Incorrect.
First, they didn't 'lie' about the ship dates. They estimated what they thought the "ship by" date would be...but, during the time top-tier UA-camrs who had received pre-production units were testing them, problems were discovered, and Rlaarlo was working on fixing those problems before shipping production units. What would you rather have - a product worth known problems that weren't fixed, or a product that gets slightly delayed (by only 1 week, I might add) because the known problems are being fixed before products ship? If you answer the second option, you're being honest...and, of your answer the first, well, we all know. Second, they DID post a letter (if I recall correctly, it was on April 21, the day after the originally estimated "ship by" date)...and, more importantly, they started in that letter exactly the reasons for the delay.
Before continuing to spew forth your 'untruths', I would recommend first researching the truth (which you, obviously, didn't do). It's lies like these that not only propagate further lies, but also causes others to not consider the AK-917, never getting the chance to find out what a truly incredible vehicle it is. Those who continue saying it's 'bad' are no different than the children who say they don't like something, even though they NEVER tried what they're claiming to not like...they're just basing their decision on the false words of others (others who also have not tried).
As I've said before, yes, Rlaarlo made mistakes...MANY mistakes...in the beginning. Their shipping department was WAY understaffed, as they didn't expect the amount of interest this vehicle actually attracted. Likewise, their customer service department was also way understaffed (which would be the ACTUAL reason for emails now getting replied to). But, they ARE working hard to increase staffing in these areas. The PROOF of that can be seen in the increase of shipping orders, as well as the increase of replying to emails & messages. Are the problems 100% solved? No...and, in my opinion, they've still got quite a ways to go before they are truly "up to speed". But, they ARE getting there...and, THAT is what's most important. So what if they started shipping a week later than 'promised'. So what if orders are taking longer to shop then expected. So what if there's a few minor mistakes in orders that are shipped.
There is not a single company that has ever existed that was 100% perfect. We are human, companies are run by humans, humans make mistakes, humans learn from the mistakes they've made, and we move forward. To believe otherwise is to live in one's own "personal fantasyland".
I am so glad I passed on this.
The vehicle is fantastic. It's just their customer service that (at least right now) seems to suck, and the shipping problems.
@@ninthislandrc The service is what I am talking about. I ran into something similar with Banggood. I refuse to order anything from them now.
nice bruh
You may think people are being unreasonable but I see you have yours? Let me tell you my story. I have bought many RC's and parts from many companies over the years and being in Australia we are used to waiting so I don't think I am being impatient when I placed 2 orders in early March and have yet to receive anything. After their 3rd announcement saying they would be sending all other deliveries in May I messaged them twice asking for an update as they had not sent or updated my order and after over a week I have yet to see a response? Is it unreasonable to ask for an update? Is it unreasonable that after paying for something in full 2 months ago to expect some sort of communication?
First, I don't see how you could have ordered in "early March", when pre-sales didn't begin until March 15. But, second...and, more importantly...I'm guessing you didn't read my "UPDATE - PLEASE READ" comment, pinned to the top of the comments. It would be recommended if you read that. 🤙🏼
@@ninthislandrc Apologies what I should have said was early in the March pre-sales, in fact 17th March to be exact for the first order and then 1st of April for the follow up parts order, my fault I just thought most people interested in this car would know about the dates and understand what I meant. I did read your update although I was just sharing my experience. It's pretty hard to watch people getting deliveries of the cars, parts etc. that they ordered after you and not be a little upset. I have seen other UA-camrs getting replacement parts that they ordered late April while I still wait for a response let alone a delivery and then see them say that the end user is the one that is being unreasonable?
@@rcmonstermash Initially, I was very supportive of Rlaarlo...but, as more problems surfaced (as reported by others, and as experiences myself), I am in agreement. There are, definitely, "problems" with Rlaarlo. 🤙🏼
People paid good money for these products Rlaarlo isn't saying anything about the delay in the shipping. My cars are still in Hong Kong according to the tracking which hasn't updated since the 5th of May! That's just horrible customer service, no one will even respond to me. Idc how big the Company is, if there's a delay in my already paid for product the they have some explaining to do...😤
I'll be completely honest...I, too, am starting to see problems. Instead of double-posting, I am going to type a separate comment, and pin it to the top of all comments. Check again in approx 30 minutes, as I should have the comment posted by then.
The major players don't over-hype their products.
If you truly believe that, then you really don't pay much attention to the "major players".
With the exception of Traxxas, almost every company out there sends top UA-camrs free units to do videos on. That drives interest...which IS part of 'overhyping'. A perfect example i would be the just-released Moto-MX from Losi. As a matter of fact, Horizon Hobby does as much as possible to get as much 'hype' as they can for almost every HH-branded vehicle.
As for Traxxas, they do it...they just do it differently. They do as much self-promoting as possible, to drive up the hype. When they have something new, they start blasting out countless emails to everyone who's subscribed to their list. They'll film several different videos, and they'll send out a different email for each video, purposely running them to be sent anywhere from a couple days, to a couple weeks, apart.
The point is, there's almost NO companies...RC, or otherwise...that's "immune" from hyping their products as much as they can, in whatever ways they can. 'Products' rarely sell themselves. It's marketing that drives sales, and hyping products in whatever way possible is just one form of marketing. Even business that sell services (lawyers, insurance companies, etc) do it.
With the exception of companies that cater to the rich (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolex, etc), I'd be willing to bet you'd be hard-pressed to name 10 major companies that don't hype their products/services in some way.
@@ninthislandrc My, that's quite a dissertation. I agree on some points and disagree on others. I've been involved in RC for more than half a century and certain products are produced for certain mindsets. Rlaaro's claim of 100 mph out of the box is patently false as are many, many other manufacturers claims. So, as always, caveat emptor.
@@OmarGreeneotraPedroVerde I get what you're saying k in this reply)...but, I want referring specifically to the speed claim. I was referring to every aspect of overhyping a product.
Now, in regards to the speed claim matter, we are agreed that most RC manufacturers are guilty of such. However...in going over Rlaarlo's info on the AK-917 (I was just double-checking the website, to make certain I didn't accidently miss, or misread, something), nowhere did it state these claims speeds are "out of the box", or "when used with the included speed gear" (both of which Traxxas has been guilty of in the past). It just states certain speeds for which each configuration is supposedly capable of...and, based on the speeds that people are actually obtaining, not only did Rlaarlo NOT lie, but the speeds claimed by Rlaarlo have proven EXTREMELY conservative. The 'fastest' speed Rlaarlo claims/states is 200kph (or 124mph). If you've been paying attention to the actual speeds people are reaching, you know they have gone far past that (I believe the current record is 162mph). Again, Rlaarlo's speed claims do not specify "out of the box"...only what should be obtainable. In other words, there's a definite difference between claiming an "out of the box" speed, and just claiming a "top speed". 🤙🏼
@@ninthislandrc Well, sir, the last time I checked, RTR is synonymous with "Out of the Box". (Usually, minus batteries and a decent charger.) It is advertised as an RTR vehicle. It's even on the box. (Not the blow mold they sent all the "influnencers".) In addition, to acheive these speeds that some folks are getting, are only after extensive modifications. Bottom Line: You roll the dice with Chinese products. WlToys is probably the worst offender. IMO.
@@OmarGreeneotraPedroVerde "Out of the box" and "RTR" are not even close to the same meaning. "Out of the box" is applicable to ALL RCs...RTR, ARTR, roller, or kit...if said vehicle includes spur & pinion gears. And, one final time (hoping you understand this time), Rlaarlo is not stating "out of the box", or any other wording that would mean the same. When you look at the Traxxas Sledge, which is an RTR, you will see the words "70+mph with two 3S Lipo batteries and optional gearing". When you look at the Arrma Limitless, which is a roller (ie. NOT an RTR), you will see the words "Capable of 110+ mph speeds in optimum conditions with the recommended electronics". If you look at the HPI Baja 5B SBK, which is a kit (ie. also NOT an RTR), you will see the words "The Baja 5B FLUX is ready for up to 8S of raw Lipo power, so you can see speeds of over 50 miles per hour". Obviously, your 'understanding' of what "Out of the box" means isn't correct, especially considering 2 of the 3 vehicles I referenced are not RTRs. Time to think your understanding of what "out of the box" means.
You bet buddy that was me. If you can’t ship when you say you shouldn’t take peoples money. If it was a big manufacture. I would have done the same thing. They wouldn’t tell me what’s with the electronics. That’s a bad company. If I cancel d my order the would have charged me 20 percent. That’s fnIllegal in the United States I bought arma Try to get parts for this junk.
Actually, charging a fee for cancelling an order is not illegal. Granted, very few companies will charge a person for cancelling an order...but, again, not illegal. As for "delays", that happens quite frequently...from the automotive industry, to the computer industry. The great majority understands such happens. Now, if the delay were months, instead of just days, that could be considered a different matter...but, for a delay of only 7 days (and, a delay with incredibly valid reasons), honestly, I think those who would care would number less than 1 in every 1,000.
Rlaarlo didn't "take anyone's money". A product was promised, and said product is being delivered. No corners were cut, no compromises were made (at least, on the company's part...as for the factory (which, I'm guessing, they used an OEM factory to actually), there does appear to be a very minor quality control problem, but Rlaarlo appears to have already corrected some of those problems), and those who ordered the cars (RTRs & rollers) have been receiving them. Having heard from some who ordered theirs in early April, several is them have received theirs. A big part of it will be the selected shipping method For those who ordered in March, and chose "expedited", most should have received theirs...but, for those who chose "standard", most are still in-transit.
But, no worries. Those who ordered quickly, and waited patiently, are enjoying theirs...and, those who ordered later, and are also waiting patiently, should soon be enjoying theirs. Honestly, it's too bad you weren't willing to wait, as you, too, would have found out how great a vehicle this truly is. But...again...no worries, as Arrma is also good. Enjoy it. I have a Limitless V2 that I'll be starting a build on (once I have the funds), with an eventual 'goal' of breaking 150...and, if I can ever reach it, 180.
it's 10% and quite common to do for restocking.Tt's also mentioned in the T&C ,same goes for the shipping charges extras some been asked for..Read the Small Print.Mine arrivecd yesterday ,Had a driveshaft not in the cup,but easy fix and the quality is way higher than a Tamiya at double the price,
@@grrfy Now, THAT'S an idea...a kit version...or, even better, aluminum & CF roller kit versions. I don't have any contact with their R&D, but I know who I could pass along that idea to who does. 🤙🏼
@@ninthislandrc my alloy roller is here, just waiting on the cf roller and spare parts orders(which I ordered later tbf)
Corporate shill maaannnn!! Lol...
I missed out on the presale but Ill be picking one up eventually.... when they get here. Hopefully all the hate will keep the $ down.
The current price might not be as good as the presale price...but, is still better than the regular price. As for "keep the price down", is possible, but unlikely. My guess is, once the competition is over, the price will go back up again...although, at the same time, I'm guessing the final "street price" will be somewhere between the current price & 'retail' price. 🤙🏼