Quick answer
Match your Redcat monster truck tires to the vehicle's scale and power: the Volcano-16 uses smaller 1/16 tires, the Machete 6S needs large 1/6 brushless-rated tires, and the Rampage XT requires 1/5 gas-grade tires. Always confirm hex size and wheel diameter before buying.
Scale determines tire size and fitment
Redcat monster trucks come in three distinct scales: 1/16, 1/6, and 1/5. Tires are not interchangeable between these scales. The Volcano-16 uses small wheels and tires designed for its 1/16 chassis, while the Machete 6S and Rampage XT require much larger wheels. Installing an undersized tire on a larger truck reduces ground clearance and can damage the drivetrain; an oversized tire on a smaller truck may rub the body or overheat the motor.
Power system affects tire choice
Brushed and brushless motors place different demands on tires. The Volcano-16's brushed motor is gentle on tires, so standard compound tires work fine. The Machete 6S uses a brushless motor that generates higher torque and speed, requiring tires with a stiffer compound and reinforced sidewalls to prevent ballooning or tearing. The Rampage XT's gas engine delivers sustained high torque, so its tires must handle heat and abrasion from extended runs.
Terrain dictates tread pattern
For loose dirt, gravel, or grass, aggressive paddle or lug treads provide maximum traction. On hard-packed dirt or asphalt, a flatter tread with smaller lugs reduces wear and improves stability. Multi-terrain tires offer a compromise but excel in no single condition. If you run your Redcat on varied surfaces, consider a second set of wheels with dedicated tires for quick swaps.
Decision rules for choosing Redcat monster truck tires
- Check your truck's scale: Look up the scale in your manual or on the product page. 1/16 trucks use small tires (typically 2.2-inch wheels), 1/6 trucks use large tires (3.8-inch or larger wheels), and 1/5 trucks use very large tires (over 4 inches). Buying the wrong scale means the tire won't fit the wheel hex or the wheel well. Always confirm the wheel diameter and hex size (usually 12mm for 1/16, 17mm for 1/6 and 1/5).
- Match tire compound to motor type: For brushed trucks like the Volcano-16, medium-soft compound tires offer good grip and long life. For brushless trucks like the Machete 6S, choose a harder compound or belted tires to prevent ballooning. For gas trucks like the Rampage XT, use tires designed for gas power with reinforced sidewalls.
- Select tread for your primary terrain: If you mostly run on loose dirt or grass, pick a paddle or deep-lug tire. If you run on hard-pack or pavement, choose a flatter tread. For mixed use, get a multi-terrain tire and accept it won't be best in any one condition. Consider buying a second wheel/tire set for different terrains to avoid compromise.
Product facts
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Redcat Volcano-16 1/16 Scale Brushed Monster Truck: The Volcano-16 comes with two 7.4V 800mAh Li-ion battery packs and a USB charger. Its brushed motor and small scale mean you can use lightweight, low-cost 1/16 tires without worrying about heat or torque overload.
Redcat Volcano-16 1/16 Scale Brushed Monster Truck
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Redcat Machete 6S 1:6 Scale Brushless Electric Monster Truck: The Machete 6S is a 1:6 scale brushless monster truck; battery and charger are not included. Because you choose your own power setup, you should select tires rated for brushless speeds and the higher weight of a 1/6 truck.
Redcat Machete 6S 1:6 Scale Brushless Electric Monster Truck
Which Redcat tires are right for you?
Best for
- Volcano-16 owners who run on loose dirt or grass and want a low-cost, lightweight tire
- Machete 6S owners who need brushless-rated tires with reinforced sidewalls for high-speed bashing
- Rampage XT owners who require large, gas-grade tires for extended off-road runs
Not for
- Racers who need specialized track tires with precise compound and tread patterns
- Owners who want a single tire that performs equally well on all terrains
