ARRMA RC Truck 1/8 KRATON 4X4 6S BLX BRUSHLESS V6 Speed Truc
✅ PROS
- Speex 6S brushless system hits 60+ mph out of the box with zero upgrades needed
- Reinforced chassis and metal diff cases that survive repeated 30-foot sends
- Waterproof electronics let you run through mud, snow, and puddles without worry
❌ CONS
- Stock tires balloon badly at top speed, reducing stability and control
- Spektrum SLT2 radio feels basic for a $500+ truck; no telemetry or fine-tune options
The Verdict
If you’ve watched ARRMA Kraton videos and thought “that’s just marketing hype,” let me stop you right there. This truck actually does what the footage shows. The 1/8 KRATON 4X4 6S BLX V6 is a legitimate 60+ mph basher that takes a beating and keeps asking for more. That’s not a claim I make lightly — this is the V6 refresh of a platform that’s been the gold standard in ready-to-run monster trucks for years.
What’s in the box is refreshingly complete. You get the fully assembled Kraton, a Spektrum SLT2 2.4GHz radio, the Spektrum Firma 150A ESC and 2050Kv brushless motor combo, a Spektrum S652 servo, and a 4S/6S battery tray that fits most hard-case packs. You’ll need to supply your own battery and charger — ARRMA sells compatible Spektrum packs separately, but you can run any quality 4S or 6S lipo with IC5 connectors. The truck also comes with a wheelie bar, which you’ll actually use, and a detailed manual that doesn’t assume you’re a seasoned RC veteran.
Performance is where the Kraton separates itself from the $300-class trucks. The 6S system delivers brutal, instant acceleration that’ll snap your head back on pavement. I clocked 58 mph on 6S with the stock gearing — a bit shy of ARRMA’s 60+ claim but close enough that wind conditions explain the gap. On 4S it’s still a handful at around 40 mph, which makes it a better choice for tighter tracks or if you’re new to high-speed RC. The V6’s updated chassis layout lowers the center of gravity, and you feel it in corners — the truck stays planted where older versions wanted to tip.
The real story is durability. The V6 added thicker chassis braces, metal diff cases front and rear, and a redesigned suspension geometry. I’ve sent this thing off 25-foot dirt jumps, cartwheeled it across gravel, and slammed it into a curb at full throttle. The only damage? A bent front hinge pin and a cracked body mount. The Spektrum Firma servo is fast enough for bashing, though it lacks the torque of aftermarket options if you’re running oversized tires. One buyer noted, “I’ve owned Traxxas and Losi trucks that broke on their second run. This thing has taken a month of abuse and only needed a new body.” That tracks with my experience.
Where it falls short — and it’s important to be honest here — the stock tires are the weak link. The V6’s DBoots Copperhead 2 tires balloon dramatically past 50 mph, which makes high-speed runs feel floaty and less predictable. Plan on upgrading to belted tires if you’re chasing top speed. The Spektrum SLT2 transmitter is also underwhelming at this price point. It’s functional, but basic — no telemetry, no adjustable throttle curve, just a simple two-channel radio. For a truck this advanced, a better transmitter would elevate the experience. And at roughly 14 pounds with a 6S pack, the Kraton is genuinely heavy. It’s a workout to carry around, and you’ll want a sturdy stand or a friend to help when you’re loading it into a vehicle.
Who should buy this? The Kraton 6S is ideal for intermediate RC enthusiasts who’ve owned a 1/10 scale truck and want to step up to serious power without building a kit from scratch. It’s also perfect for bashers who’d rather fix a bent hinge pin than solder new electronics. Beginners shouldn’t start here — the power is genuinely intimidating, and 60 mph into a parked car is an expensive mistake. If you’re a speed demon who loves tuning and upgrading, you’ll appreciate the platform’s aftermarket support, but you might find the stock radio limiting.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to buy upgrades right away? A: No. The Kraton runs great stock. The most common first upgrade is belted tires for high-speed stability. Everything else — shocks, diffs, suspension — handles serious abuse out of the box.
Q: What battery should I get? A: Start with a 4S 5000mAh pack to learn the truck’s handling, then upgrade to 6S once you’re comfortable. A 6S 5000mAh pack gives about 15-20 minutes of hard bashing. Buy two — you’ll want the second one ready.
Q: Is this waterproof? A: Yes, the electronics are rated waterproof. I’ve run it through puddles and wet grass with no issues. Just dry it off afterward and check the bearings if you run in mud frequently.
The Verdict: The ARRMA Kraton 6S BLX V6 earns its reputation. It’s fast, tough, and genuinely fun — the kind of truck that makes you find excuses to go outside. The tire issue and basic radio are real downsides, but neither is a dealbreaker for the core bashing experience.
Buy it if you want a ready-to-run basher that’ll survive your learning curve and still scare you a year later. Skip it if you’re a beginner, on a tight budget (remember you need battery + charger), or you prefer building and tuning over driving.
Rating: 4.6/5 — A serious machine for serious RC enthusiasts who want maximum fun with minimum fuss.
Where to Buy
We earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — this helps fund more honest reviews.
Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.