Yokomo YD-2 RTR: Ready-to-Run RWD Drift Car Explained
The Yokomo YD-2 RTR is a ready-to-run version of Yokomo’s popular YD-2 rear-wheel-drive drift chassis. It comes assembled with a 2.4 GHz radio, a 27-turn drift motor, a pre-installed steering gyro, a 1600 mAh NiMH battery and charger, drift tyres and wheels, and a painted body (such as the Pandem GR Supra). The chassis is 425 mm long and 198 mm wide on a 256 mm wheelbase, with a 4-gear rear transmission and double-wishbone suspension. Over 90% of its parts are shared with the YD-2Z, so upgrades are plentiful.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Specifications
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Length / width | 425 / 198 mm |
| Wheelbase | 256 mm |
| Drive | RWD, 4-gear rear transmission |
| Secondary ratio | 1:2.6 |
| Motor | 27T drift motor |
| Gyro | Pre-installed steering gyro |
| Battery | 1600 mAh NiMH (included in RTR) |
From Yokomo and dealer listings, checked October 2026.
Why it’s popular
The YD-2 brought modern RWD drift performance to an accessible price, and the RTR version removes the build and electronics choices that put some newcomers off. Out of the box, it drifts with real counter-steer thanks to the gyro. As skills grow, the huge range of YD-2/YD-2Z upgrades lets the car evolve into a competition chassis.
Getting started
- Charge the battery and practise on a smooth floor or drift track.
- Adjust gyro gain until the car holds drifts without wobbling.
- Practise circles and figure eights.
- Learn transitions between left and right drifts.
- Join a drift track or club for layouts and advice.
Drifting basics and other cars are covered in best RC drift cars.
Common upgrades
- Sensored brushless motor and ESC for smoother throttle.
- Shorty LiPo battery for weight balance and runtime.
- Faster steering servo.
- Higher-performance gyro (such as Yokomo’s YG-302).
- Aluminium steering parts and adjustable shocks.
YD-2 RTR vs kit chassis
Kits like the 3Racing Sakura D5 cost less as a rolling chassis but need all electronics. The YD-2 RTR costs more up front but is ready to drive and has strong parts support. For beginners who want to drift right away, the RTR is the easier start.
Care
Keep the chassis clean, check screws and ball links regularly, and replace worn drift tyres. Store batteries correctly and let the motor cool between runs.
Setting the gyro
The RTR’s gyro is pre-installed, but gain often needs adjusting for your surface and driving style. Too much gain makes the front wheels shake back and forth on straights; too little lets the rear swing out and spin. Start in the middle of the range, drive circles and transitions, and change in small steps. Some gyros have a separate setting for response speed; leave it at default until you’re comfortable.
Surfaces and tyres
The included drift tyres suit common indoor and smooth outdoor surfaces. On P-tile, carpet or polished concrete, different compounds may work better; drift tracks often recommend specific tyres. Clean tyres and floors give the most consistent drifting.
Bodies
The YD-2 accepts a huge range of 1/10 drift bodies with a matching wheelbase. Many owners keep the RTR body for practice and build a detailed show body for events.
Spare front arms and knuckles are good to have on hand, since wall taps at drift tracks are common while learning.
FAQ
Is the Yokomo YD-2 RTR good for beginners?
Yes, it’s ready to drift with a gyro installed.
What battery does it use?
A 1600 mAh NiMH is included; many upgrade to a shorty LiPo.
Is it RWD?
Yes.
Can I upgrade it?
Yes, most YD-2Z parts fit.
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
