I am not going to get into a Magnet/No Magnet controversy. Among the knowledgeable hobbyists I know, most will say they have a preference for non-magnet racing, but in the end, they will also say that it is simply up to personal preference and that you should do whatever you like best, or what fits your particular situation.
For people like myself, whose track is also used by many inexperienced or even first-time racers, I find it better to keep the magnets on and turn down the voltage a little to ensure that any "kids" who insist on going full throttle don't wreck constantly and turn our track time into one big marshaling session. Racing with no magnets takes time to master, and that time is not always available.
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| Racing with no magnet may be something you'd like to try. |
This video from Slot Cars NZ is one of the better introductions to magnet vs. non-magnet racing I've seen. Avoiding unnecessary zealotry, the presenter simply describes some of the added fun non-magnet racing has to offer--and then proceeds to compare both types of racing by first removing the magnets, then preparing the tires for better traction, cleaning the track and finally--adjusting his technique. As he moves through each step of the process, he uses a track timer to show you the effect each one has on the speed and handling. By the time he's through, his lap times are pretty close to what he was able to get with a magnet. It's an excellent presentation.
While I primarily use magnet cars on my home track, I have a few that do not use them, and they do offer an interesting challenge. Likewise, I like to have a few non-magnet cars on hand for wooden tracks, or for situations when they are not allowed for racing. In the end, we each should do whatever makes us happy and lets us enjoy the hobby. Cheers!
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