Tamiya RC 1/10 The Grasshopper 2005 Kit with ESC 2WD Off-Road Buggy 58346-600

Build and drive one of the most recognisable entry-level RC buggies with the Tamiya The Grasshopper 2005. Based on Tamiya's original 1984 design, this modern re-release retains the simple construction, lightweight chassis and entertaining rear-wheel-drive handling that made the Grasshopper a favourite with first-time builders and experienced collectors alike.

The Grasshopper combines a durable ABS resin monocoque chassis with a sealed rear gearbox, independent swing-axle front suspension and a rolling rigid rear axle. A 380-size brushed motor provides manageable performance for new drivers, while the chassis can accept a compatible 540-size motor for owners who want to explore future upgrades.

This is an assembly kit and includes an electronic speed controller. A suitable radio system, steering servo, battery, charger, paint, tools and assembly are required before operation.

Features

• Modern re-release of Tamiya's classic 1984 Grasshopper buggy
• Beginner-friendly assembly with a relatively simple chassis layout
• Classic single-seat off-road buggy styling
• Durable ABS resin hard body
• Lightweight ABS monocoque tub chassis
• Rear-wheel-drive transmission
• Included 380-size brushed motor provides manageable performance
• Chassis supports a compatible optional 540-size brushed motor
• Electronic speed controller included
• Independent swing-axle front suspension
• Rolling rigid-axle rear suspension
• Simple friction-type dampers
• Sealed rear gearbox helps protect the differential from dirt and debris
• Gear differential provides smoother cornering than a locked axle
• Straight-ribbed front tyres aid directional control
• Paddle-style rear tyres provide traction on loose dirt
• Three-piece assembly wheels
• Detailed driver figure adds classic scale character
• Front and rear axles can be upgraded with optional ball bearings
• Large range of replacement and optional Tamiya parts available

Specifications

• Brand: Tamiya
• Model: The Grasshopper 2005
• Manufacturer Part Number: 58346-600
• Base Tamiya Kit Number: 58346
• Scale: 1/10
• Vehicle Type: Off-road buggy
• Construction Type: Assembly kit
• Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive / 2WD
• Length: 389mm
• Width: 223mm
• Height: 135mm
• Approximate Weight: 830g
• Chassis Type: ABS resin monocoque tub
• Body Material: ABS resin hard body
• Motor: 380-size brushed motor
• Optional Motor Compatibility: Compatible 540-size brushed motor
• Electronic Speed Controller: Included
• Transmission: Rear 2WD
• Gear Ratio: Fixed
• Differential: Sealed rear gear differential
• Front Suspension: Independent swing axle
• Rear Suspension: Rolling rigid axle
• Dampers: Friction type
• Standard Bearings: Plastic bushings
• Optional Bearings: Front and rear ball bearings available separately
• Front Tyres: Straight-ribbed
• Rear Tyres: Paddle-style
• Wheels: Three-piece assembly type
• Radio Channels Required: 2

Compatibility

• Suitable for compatible 2-channel surface radio systems
• Requires a standard-size steering servo suitable for a 1/10-scale buggy
• Designed around a compatible 7.2V stick-style battery pack
• Compatible with optional 540-size brushed motors when installed with the required motor hardware and suitable gearing
• Front and rear axles accept optional ball-bearing upgrades

Includes

• 1 × Tamiya The Grasshopper 2005 1/10-scale RC assembly kit
• 1 × 380-size brushed motor
• 1 × Electronic speed controller
• 1 × ABS resin body
• 1 × Driver figure
• 1 × Decal sheet
• 1 × Set of wheels and tyres
• 1 × Assembly hardware set
• 1 × Instruction manual

Required to Complete

• 2-channel surface transmitter and compatible receiver
• Compatible steering servo
• Compatible 7.2V RC battery pack
• Compatible battery charger
• Tamiya TS spray paint or other paint suitable for the ABS hard body
• AA batteries for the transmitter, as required by the selected radio system
• Basic RC assembly tools

FAQ

Is the Tamiya Grasshopper ready to run? No. This is an assembly kit. The chassis, gearbox, suspension, body and electronics must be assembled and installed before the buggy can be driven.

Is an electronic speed controller included? Yes. This 58346-600 package includes an ESC. The exact ESC model may vary according to the distributor, region or production batch.

Is the ESC pre-installed? No. The Grasshopper is supplied as a kit, so the ESC and other electronics need to be installed during assembly.

Does the kit include a motor? Yes. A 380-size brushed motor is included.

Does it include a transmitter and receiver? No. A compatible 2-channel surface radio system is required separately.

Does it include a steering servo? No. A suitable steering servo must be purchased separately.

What battery does it use? The chassis is designed around a compatible 7.2V stick-style RC battery pack. Confirm the battery dimensions, connector and ESC requirements before ordering.

Can I use a LiPo battery? Only use a LiPo pack when the included ESC supports LiPo operation and has suitable low-voltage protection. Check the ESC supplied with your kit before connecting a LiPo battery.

Is the Grasshopper suitable for beginners? Yes. Its simple construction, lightweight design and modest 380 motor make it one of Tamiya's most approachable first assembly kits. Adult assistance is recommended for younger builders.

How difficult is the kit to build? The Grasshopper is simpler than many modern competition buggies, but careful assembly is still required. Builders should follow the manual closely and organise screws and parts before each step.

Does the body need painting? Yes. The Grasshopper uses an ABS resin hard body that requires paint. Tamiya lists TS-series spray paint among the required completion items.

Should I use Tamiya PS paint on the body? No. PS paint is formulated for flexible clear polycarbonate bodies. The Grasshopper has an ABS hard body, so use Tamiya TS paint or another paint specifically suitable for rigid styrene or ABS model parts.

Can the 380 motor be upgraded to a 540 motor? Yes. Tamiya states that the chassis is compatible with an optional 540-size motor. Additional mounting hardware or the correct pinion may be required, and the ESC must also be suitable for the selected motor.

Will a 540 motor make it much faster? A 540 motor can provide substantially more performance, but it also places more load on the gearbox, tyres and handling. Beginners may find the standard 380 motor easier to control.

Does it have oil-filled shocks? No. The standard kit uses simple friction dampers.

Does it include ball bearings? No. Plastic bushings are standard. Optional ball bearings can reduce friction and improve drivetrain efficiency.

What are the best first upgrades? Ball bearings are a popular first upgrade because they reduce drivetrain resistance without dramatically changing the vehicle's character. Better dampers, tyres and a carefully selected motor can be considered later.

Where is the Grasshopper best driven? It performs best on short grass, compact dirt and relatively smooth off-road surfaces. Its simple suspension and modest ground clearance are not intended for large jumps or very rough terrain.

Is the Grasshopper waterproof? No. Unless every installed electronic component is specifically rated as waterproof, keep the vehicle away from deep water and thoroughly dry it after damp use.

Important Notes

• This is an assembly kit and is not ready to run.
• The electronic speed controller is included but requires installation.
• The precise ESC model may vary by distributor, region or production batch.
• A transmitter, receiver, steering servo, battery, charger, paint and tools are required separately.
• Use paint intended for an ABS hard body; do not use polycarbonate-only paint unless the paint manufacturer specifically approves it for ABS.
• Check the supplied ESC instructions before selecting a battery or upgraded motor.
• Do not install a 540 motor unless the ESC, motor mount, pinion and drivetrain setup are suitable.
• Apply grease only where directed in the Tamiya assembly manual.
• Do not overtighten screws installed into plastic components.
• Check steering movement, gear operation and wheel rotation before the first run.
• Set the transmitter failsafe and confirm correct throttle direction before driving.
• Adult supervision is recommended for younger builders and drivers.