The competition in the 1:8 TR-class is getting harder. New brands enter the market every year, and regrettably all too many of them are either a 100% copy of Serpents car - or at least a close relative. The SMP Slide is in this regard a breath of fresh air. After years of testing and development the car is finally ready for sale in 1999. The cars competitiveness is already proven from race wins at several of Europes most demanding events.

During the construction Osvaldo Bettineschi has had only one goal in mind: How to make the best 1:8 TR car. With no compromises when it comes to material selection and costs. The result is a car that not only looks beautiful, but truly is a full-blooded racing machine. It is also a dream to work on the car's setup. All parts are meticously produced and fitted. The main components are already assembled upon delivery.


Early prototype of the SMP Slide - Jan Kaechs car (95/96)


SMPs test drivers have together with the designer, Osvaldo Bettineschi, spent 3 1/2 years to develop the race car. The full production was not running until autumn 1998.


SMP Slide V1999


Just one look will tell you the SMP Slide is one special car. The chassis is made of 7075 T6 alloy. Most cars use a 5 mm chassis, whilst this one is 6 mm. Be aware that this car is CNC machined, not forged like aluminium cars in the past. The parts are also hard anodized. The parts are therefore very strong and durable.


Basic Components


The unique chassis shows just how different this car is. Notice especially the flat Nickle-Hydride battery pack which is fixed to the chassis under the fuel tank. This contributes to giving the cars it's low center of gravity. Major drive gears are hard-coated alloy for long wearing durability and reliability.


Front Suspension


Machined alloy upper and lower A-arms and bulkheads also contribute to making this a very rigid chassis. A carbon fiber radio tray completes the top shelf. Out drives are compatable with Serpent Vector rims allowing the use of off the shelf rims and tyres. This close up shows the extensive use of alloy, steel or carbon fiber. The only things made of plastic are the up-rights, bumpers and rear body posts.


Monoblock Brake System and Rear Axle


Revolutionary cam action brake system. The fiber pads on the side of a special rear sprocket make this brake system work on a one-one ratio allowing smoother brake proformance.


Front and Rear Shocks


No short cuts on the shocks. Hard coated alloy and delrin bodies to control the suspension. Innovative construction with two O-rings and spring inside the body. Bodies are placed up-side down for lower centre of gravity and less risk of bleeding.


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