XRAY XB2 2023: The 1/10 2WD Competition Buggy, Carpet vs Dirt
The XRAY XB2 2023 is a high-end 1/10 two-wheel-drive competition buggy kit sold in two editions. The Carpet edition (XB2C’23) uses a longer gearbox with the motor forward for more front grip on high-traction tracks, a gear differential and a 3-pad slipper. The Dirt edition (XB2D’23) uses a shorter gearbox with the motor further back for rear traction on loose surfaces, a ball differential and a 2-pad slipper. Both share a 2 mm 7075 T6 aluminium chassis, adjustable 282–285 mm wheelbase and about 1,520 g ready-to-run weight. An XB2 ’24 followed.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Specifications
| Item | Carpet (XB2C’23) | Dirt (XB2D’23) |
|---|---|---|
| Motor position | Forward | Rearward |
| Differential | Gear diff | Ball diff |
| Slipper | 3-pad | 2-pad |
| Chassis | 2 mm 7075 T6 aluminium | |
| Wheelbase | 282–285 mm adjustable | |
| Width | 245–250 mm | |
| Weight (RTR) | about 1,520 g | |
From XRAY and dealer listings.
Carpet or dirt?
Choose by your track surface. High-grip carpet and astroturf tracks reward front weight for steering and corner speed, so the carpet edition fits. Loose dirt, clay and low-grip tracks need rear traction, so the dirt edition fits. Many racers buy conversion parts to switch layouts as track conditions change.
Building tips
- Follow XRAY’s detailed manual and check every step.
- Build diffs and shocks with care; they define the car’s feel.
- Use threadlock where indicated.
- Set ride height, camber and toe with proper tools.
- Start from XRAY’s recommended setup sheet.
Kit building basics are in buildable RC cars.
Electronics
- Sensored brushless motor to suit your class (e.g. 17.5T or 13.5T stock, or modified).
- Competition ESC.
- Fast low-profile servo.
- Shorty LiPo.
- Quality radio with telemetry if allowed.
Who it suits
The XB2 is a race car for club and competition racers. It rewards careful building and setup and has excellent parts support. Beginners wanting a 2WD buggy may prefer an RTR first; other 1/10 options are in best 1/10 scale RC cars.
Setup basics
Begin with the stock setup sheet, then tune one variable at a time: shock oil and springs, diff oil (carpet) or ball diff tension (dirt), and tyres. Record changes and lap times. Local racers’ setups for your track are the best starting point.
What comes in the box
Like other XRAY competition kits, the XB2 ’23 is sold as a kit without electronics, wheels or body paint in most markets, so the purchase price is only part of the cost. Plan for a motor, ESC, servo, receiver, battery, tyres and wheels to suit your track, and a clear body to paint. XRAY publishes a detailed step-by-step manual and setup sheets, and there is a large range of optional parts: alternative chassis plates, weights, gearbox layouts, anti-roll bars and shock parts. Many racers start with the kit as supplied, learn how it responds, then buy options one at a time to solve a specific handling problem rather than fitting everything at once.
Maintenance between race days
Competition buggies need regular attention. After each meeting, clean the car, check the diff (rebuild a ball diff when it starts to slip or feel gritty), inspect the slipper pads, change shock oil periodically and look for bent hinge pins or worn ball cups. Keeping a notebook of maintenance and setup changes makes it easier to repeat a good setup next time.
FAQ
What’s the difference between XB2C and XB2D?
Motor position, diff type and slipper; carpet vs dirt optimised.
Is the XB2 for beginners?
It’s a competition kit for racers.
What weight is it?
About 1,520 g ready to run.
Is there a newer version?
Yes, the XB2 ’24.
More on this topic: the complete RC Cars guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
