RCSLOT Radio Control Blog

Thanks to the exciting Pro Boat Mini-V, those who enjoy the performance side of boating will be able to do so without dropping a huge chunk of change. On top of that, the Mini-V brings the awesome performance Pro Boat Models are renowned for to those who don’t have a huge area to drive in. Come along as we give you the inside scoop on this hot new boat and what helps separate it from anything else on the water.

Key Features:

Hull

The Pro Boat Mini-V is without a doubt the smallest hobby-quality boat on the market. The Mini-V’s deep-V design helps the Mini-V skim over the surface of the water effortlessly. The Mini-V’s hull features several strakes to aid in handling while providing even further scale realism. At the back of the hull, the steerable drive system mimics what is more commonly found on larger and more expensive boats. The steerable drive system moves the propeller thrust in the appropriate direction, providing exceptional control and feel on the water too.

Access to the inside of the hull is a snap thanks to the magnetic hatch. Upon further inspection of the inside of the Mini-V, the simple brilliance of the design becomes apparent. The inside of the hull has a number of different molded areas inside to hold the electronics securely. The Receiver ESC Unit nestles right into a tray on the left side of the hull, while the servo is on the right. The 6-cell battery pack is mounted directly in front of the Receiver ESC Unit, just rear of the centerline of the hull. The motor is bolted right in front of the battery and is held into place with a heat-dissipating metal clamp. The Mini-V is available in three different hull colors— red, yellow, or white—and includes a molded display stand as well.

Electronics

The Pro Boat Mini-V utilizes a proven electronics package that is well suited for this application. A fully digitally proportional 27MHz radio system provides the precision, control, and reliability you demand. The circuit board of the Receiver ESC Unit has been conformally coated to aid in water resistance. Now, it’s important to note that the electronics are water resistant, not water proof. In the event that your boat is submerged or the electronics get wet, shut it off immediately, disconnect the battery pack, remove the Receiver ESC Unit and open the case. You should allow the electronics to dry off completely before you applying power again. You can use a hair dryer or compressed air to blow any lingering water off the board.

The included Pro Boat radio system has a number of advanced features. If you’ve never driven a high-performance boat such as the Mini-V before, you may be unaccustomed to the responsiveness of the steering, especially at high speed. By including steering dual-rate control, you have the ability to reduce the throw of the steering servo. By reducing the rudder throw, your boat will be easier to control and you will be less likely to spin out when turning sharply at high speed.

Need to Get

The Mini-V really is quite a complete package right out of the box. You will need to pick up a battery pack and charger before you can run your boat for the first time, however. If you need both, Pro Boat has a combo that includes a 6-cell battery pack and a 3-hour battery charger (PRB1200) in one convenient package. If you already own a charger or you’re looking to pick up a few extra battery packs, you have the option of simply purchasing a battery on its own (PRB1202).

In addition to the 3-hour charger, there is the option of using a fast charger as well. You’ll want to utilize a charger that features variable charge amperage. It is crucial that you do not charge your batteries at too high of a rate, as overcharging can damage the pack. The Dynamite Prophet Sport AC/DC Peak Charger (DYN4056) has all the features you will need to charge your Mini-V battery packs safely each and every time all with the convenience of AC/DC operation. If you were simply looking for something that charged your battery quicker from an AC outlet, you can also give the Team Losi Mini Peak (LOSB1206) charger a try.

Behind the Wheel

Quite often, boats of this size are expected to perform more or less like a toy-quality boat. This simply is not the case with the Mini-V, as the hobby quality of the boat comes through and through(?). With the Mini-V you will find that you get much better performance than you would expect from a toy-quality model. Simply put, the Mini-V is faster and handles better than any other mini boat in its class.

You don’t need to worry about time-consuming and often aggravating trimming and tuning, as the Mini-V doesn’t suffer from the type of cavitation issues that can plague lesser boats. On rougher waters, turning the rudder dual-rate down can make the Mini-V easier to control and more predictable. When you get into calmer waters, you can take advantage of the additional maneuverability provided by increasing the rudder’s dual-rate. Regardless of the water type, calm or wavy, the Pro Boat Mini-V is an absolute thrill to drive.

If you’re looking for a totally awesome way to rip up the water and have fun, the Pro Boat Mini-V is right up your alley. The Mini-V will get you up and running easily and effortlessly and looks as great on the water as it does while on the included display stand. The Mini-V has everything you need to have a great time—just add water.