Tamiya RS-540 Sport Tuned 23T Brushed Hop-Up Motor OP-68 53068

The Tamiya RS-540 Sport Tuned Motor is a classic performance upgrade for a wide range of Tamiya RC cars. Designed as a step up from the standard kit-supplied 540 motor, the Sport Tuned delivers increased speed while retaining the simplicity, reliability and smooth throttle characteristics of a brushed power system.

With a 23-turn armature, 6–8.4V operating range and maximum speed of 18,300rpm at 7.2V, the OP-68 Sport Tuned Motor is an excellent choice for hobbyists wanting noticeably stronger performance without immediately converting their vehicle to brushless power. Tamiya recommends using a fully ball-bearing-equipped drivetrain when installing this motor.

Features

• Genuine Tamiya Hop-Up Option performance motor
• RS-540 size brushed motor
• 23-turn Sport Tuned specification
• Designed to increase speed over standard kit motors
• Maximum 18,300rpm at 7.2V
• 350g-cm maximum torque at 7.2V
• Wide 6V–8.4V operating voltage range
• Smooth and predictable brushed motor power delivery
• Popular upgrade for numerous Tamiya touring cars, buggies and fun RC platforms
• Ideal for enthusiasts wanting more performance while retaining a traditional brushed setup

Specifications

• Brand: Tamiya
• Manufacturer Part Number: 53068
• Tamiya Hop-Up Number: OP-68
• Motor: RS-540 Sport Tuned
• Motor Type: Brushed
• Motor Size: 540
• Turns: 23T
• Operating Voltage: 6V–8.4V
• Maximum RPM: 18,300rpm at 7.2V
• Maximum Torque: 350g-cm at 7.2V
• Timing: Fixed
• Wire Diameter: 0.8mm
• Application: Tamiya RC Cars

Includes

• 1 × Tamiya RS-540 Sport Tuned 23T Brushed Motor

FAQ

Is the Sport Tuned motor faster than a standard Tamiya 540 motor? Yes. Tamiya specifically developed the RS-540 Sport Tuned as a performance upgrade intended to increase vehicle speed compared with a standard kit motor.

Is this a brushed or brushless motor? This is a traditional 540-size brushed motor. It requires an electronic speed controller that is compatible with brushed motors and capable of handling the motor's performance requirements.

What voltage can I use? Tamiya specifies an operating voltage range of 6V to 8.4V. At 7.2V, the published maximum speed is 18,300rpm with maximum torque of 350g-cm.

Do I need ball bearings? Yes. Tamiya specifically recommends that the vehicle be fully equipped with ball bearings when using the Sport Tuned motor. Replacing plastic or metal bushings with ball bearings reduces drivetrain friction and helps the upgraded motor operate efficiently.

Will it fit a Tamiya TT-02? Yes. Tamiya lists the TT-02 among the compatible chassis for the RS-540 Sport Tuned Motor. A full ball-bearing drivetrain is required when using this motor in the TT-02.

What other Tamiya chassis can use this motor? Tamiya lists compatibility with a wide range of platforms, including various TT-01, TT-02, DT-02, TT-02B, GF-01, G6-01, WR-02, XV-01, XV-02, TA, TB, FF and other chassis. Exact compatibility and installation requirements should always be checked against your specific model.

Do I need to change the gearing? Not necessarily. Start with gearing recommended by Tamiya for your particular chassis and motor combination. Taller gearing can increase speed but also increases motor and ESC temperature, so gearing changes should be made carefully.

Do I need a different ESC? Your ESC must support brushed motors and be suitable for a 23T motor. Do not assume that every kit ESC is compatible; check the ESC's published brushed motor turn limit before installation.

Is this a good upgrade for a first Tamiya build? Yes. For compatible models it provides a straightforward way to gain additional performance while keeping a simple brushed power system. Full ball bearings are strongly recommended as part of the installation.

Important Notes

• Use only with an ESC compatible with a 23T brushed motor.
• Tamiya specifies a 6V–8.4V operating voltage range.
• Full ball bearings should be installed in the vehicle when using this motor.
• Check your specific Tamiya chassis instructions for motor and gearing compatibility.
• Monitor motor and ESC temperatures after installation, particularly when changing gearing.
• Avoid excessively tall gearing, which can cause overheating and premature motor wear.
• Brushed motors require periodic inspection and maintenance as they wear.
• Some chassis may require additional parts or motor extension wiring for installation.
• Vehicle, ESC, pinion gear and battery are not included unless otherwise specified.