The ARRMA Big Rock and ARRMA Granite are two popular ready-to-run off-road RC cars from ARRMA. Both are 1/10 scale 4WD monster trucks designed for high-speed bashing and all-terrain driving. They share many similarities but also have some key differences. In this guide we’ll compare their appearance, performance, driving experience, pricing and other factors to help you decide which model is the better choice.
1. ARRMA Big Rock vs ARRMA Granite: Appearance Comparison
In terms of size, the Big Rock measures 18.74” long x 13.46” wide while the Granite is slightly smaller at 18.11” x 12.99”. Both sit around 8” tall. The Big Rock has a more realistic pickup truck style body with a crew cab and short bed. The Granite has a classic monster truck appearance with a centered body atop the chassis.
The Big Rock rolls on larger 2.8” wheels compared to 2.2” on the Granite. It also comes with dBoots Ragnarok MT tires optimized for multiple surfaces while the Granite has dBoots Fortress MT tires better suited to looser dirt and mud.
Both trucks have similar durable composite chassis and bodies. The Big Rock features more scale details like a grill, headlights and matte black accents. Overall the Big Rock has a more stylish and realistic look.
2. ARRMA Big Rock vs ARRMA Granite: Performance Comparison
Under the hood, the Big Rock and Granite pack the same electronics – a Spektrum Firma 3200Kv brushless motor, Spektrum BLX100 ESC, and SLT3 2.4GHz radio system. This combo provides insane brushless power with 50+ mph potential on 3S LiPo batteries.
The drivetrain and suspension are also very similar. Both feature rugged 4WD with telescopic driveshafts, oil-filled coilover shocks, and 3-channel control. The Big Rock has a slightly wider 12.6” stance compared to 12.2” on the Granite for more stability. It also comes with a wheelie bar for stunts.
In terms of durability, ARRMA upgraded both trucks’ chassis, hinge pins, slipper clutch and steering. This makes them extremely tough and able to withstand hardcore bashing. Overall the performance is on par between the two.
3. ARRMA Big Rock vs ARRMA Granite: Driving Experience
These trucks are very quick and responsive thanks to the brushless power system. The Big Rock feels more planted and stable due to its wider stance and larger footprint. The Granite is a bit lighter and nimbler by comparison.
Both handle rough terrain very well but the Big Rock’s tires give it better grip in loose dirt. The Granite tends to get bounced around more on big jumps. The Granite makes up for this with tighter turning and a more playful feel.
The Granite runs a bit quieter since its motor and electronics are fully enclosed. The Big Rock’s open wheel wells allow some gear noise. Overall they are equal in terms of driving enjoyment.
4. ARRMA Big Rock vs ARRMA Granite: Pricing and Value
The ARRMA Granite has an MSRP of $329.99. The Big Rock costs $349.99. So you’re looking at a $20 premium for the larger Big Rock model. Considering the upgrades in appearance, wider stance, and tires, the Big Rock delivers very good value for money.
Conclusion
For those seeking a scale looking, high performance monster truck, the ARRMA Big Rock is the clear choice. It has a more realistic style, wider footprint for stability, and tires that work better on loose surfaces.
The Granite is ideal if you prioritize a lighter and more agile feel along with a lower price point. It excels at high speed runs and trick driving. In the end you can’t go wrong with either of these awesome ARRMA 4WD trucks!
Frequently Asked Questions Comparing the ARRMA Big Rock and ARRMA Granite RC Cars
1. What are the main differences between the Big Rock and Granite?
The Big Rock has a larger, more realistic pickup truck style body and wider 12.6″ stance. It comes with 2.8″ tires suited for looser dirt. The Granite has a classic monster truck look and is slightly smaller and lighter. It uses 2.2″ tires best for hard packed dirt.
2. Which one is faster?
Both the Big Rock and Granite can reach 50+ mph on 3S LiPo batteries thanks to their similar Spektrum Firma brushless systems. Top speed is comparable, but the wider Big Rock feels more stable at full throttle.
3. Which is more durable?
Durability is nearly equal with both featuring rugged composite chassis, metal drivetrains, and modular designs. ARRMA upgraded both models in 2021 for extreme bashing. The Granite may be slightly tougher due to its enclosed electronics.
4. Which handles better?
The lighter Granite has a more nimble and responsive feel making it better for tricks and technical tracks. The wider Big Rock offers more stability and control for high speed runs and big jumps. So handling depends on your bashing style.
5. Which one is better for big air and stunts?
The Big Rock’s wider stance, wheelie bar, and 2.8″ tires make it excel for getting huge air and performing stunts like backflips off jumps or tall objects. The Granite is also capable but more suited to small hops and technical maneuvers.
6. Which is better for racing?
The Granite’s lighter weight and responsive steering give it an edge for racing, especially on tighter technical tracks. It accelerates out of turns quicker. The Big Rock could fare better on wide open dirt oval style courses.
7. Which is better for new drivers?
For first time drivers, the Granite may be better since it is slightly less powerful out of the box and more agile. The Big Rock’s wider stance also makes it more likely to get caught on obstacles if driving skills are not refined yet.
8. Which one offers better value for money?
Considering its larger size, wider stance, realistic styling and 2.8″ tires, the Big Rock gives you a little more for the money. But the Granite still provides excellent performance per dollar spent thanks to common electronics.
In summary, if seeking maximum stunt abilities, the Big Rock is likely the better choice. For a nimble truck great at racing or tricks, the Granite is ideal. Either way, both deliver incredible brushless 4WD bashing fun!
Frequently Asked Questions about the ARRMA Big Rock RC Car
1. What are the main features of the ARRMA Big Rock?
The Big Rock is a 1/10 scale 4WD monster truck designed for high speed bashing and stunt driving. Key features include a tough composite chassis, aluminum/steel drivetrain, Spektrum Firma 3200Kv brushless power system, long travel suspension, and realistic pickup truck body with lights. It has a wider 12.6″ stance and 2.8″ wheels for stability. The Ready-To-Run version comes fully assembled with a radio system.
2. How fast can the Big Rock go?
With a 3S LiPo battery, the Big Rock can reach top speeds over 50 mph. This insane brushless power lets you pull massive wheelies, backflips, and huge air off jumps. Even on 2S it can reach over 30 mph. Just be sure to use good LiPo batteries from reputable brands to get the best performance.
3. What types of terrain is the Big Rock suited for?
This truck is designed to bash through almost anything – dirt, gravel, grass, mud, snow, etc. The tough chassis, sealed drivetrain, and big tires allow it to run in all environments. The wider stance improves stability over rough terrain. Optional RPM parts like bumpers and skid plates make it even more durable.
4. What maintenance does the Big Rock require?
Very little! It uses a modular design that makes repairs and upgrades easy. Routinely check screw tightness, clean/re-grease the drivetrain, and inspect shock oil levels. Change the differential oil after extensive use. Avoid water damage to electronics. Beyond that just bash and have fun!
5. What support does ARRMA offer for the Big Rock?
ARRMA backs the Big Rock with a 2 year limited warranty on parts. Their website has extensive model info, exploded views, parts lists, and manuals. You can get replacement parts easily through local hobby shops or online. ARRMA’s parent company Horizon Hobby also has great customer service.
6. What upgrades are popular for the Big Rock?
Brushless system upgrades, metal transmission gears, aluminum shock caps, RPM arms and chassis braces, 2.8″ trencher tires, heavy duty axles, aluminum shock towers, and LiPo batteries are some common upgrades to make it even tougher. Upgrading to a 4S capable system takes speed to the next level.
7. How does the Big Rock compare to the Granite?
The Granite is also a fast, tough 4WD ARRMA basher. But the Big Rock has a more realistic truck body style, wider stance, bigger 2.8″ tires, and other upgrades making it better for bigger jumps, stunts, and rough terrain compared to the classic monster truck style Granite.
8. Is the Big Rock suitable for kids and beginners?
While very fast, it can be adapted for new RC drivers. Use training mode on the transmitter to limit throttle until they get comfortable. Adjust the throttle channel EPA down to 50% for less power. Use softer suspension settings and smaller batteries to limit speed. Turn off the multi-function knob for basic steering. It’s also wise to remove the wheelie bar for learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about the ARRMA Granite RC Car
1. What are the main features of the ARRMA Granite?
The Granite is a 1/10 scale 4WD monster truck designed for high speed runs and extreme bashing. Key features include a durable composite chassis, tough drivetrain, Spektrum Firma 3200Kv brushless power system, long travel suspension, and stylish monster truck body. The RTR version comes fully assembled with a 2.4GHz radio.
2. How fast can the Granite go?
With a 3S LiPo battery, it can reach over 50 mph thanks to the brushless motor and ESC. This allows for massive airs off jumps and incredible acceleration. On 2S it still reaches speeds over 30 mph for thrilling bashing. Use quality LiPo packs from reputable brands for best performance.
3. What types of terrain is it suited for?
The Granite is built to handle all kinds of off-road conditions – dirt, gravel, grass, mud, snow, etc. The sealed drivetrain, oil-filled shocks, and flexible composite chassis allow it to absorb impacts when driving in rugged environments. The tread pattern on the tires also grips well on loose surfaces.
4. What maintenance does the Granite require?
It uses a modular design that makes repairs and upgrades simple. Periodically check screw tightness, inspect the drivetrain for dirt, clean shocks, and grease drive shafts. Change the oil in the differentials after extensive running. Avoid water damage to electronics. Beyond that just bash and have fun!
5. What support does ARRMA offer for the Granite?
There is a 2 year limited warranty on parts from ARRMA. Their website provides detailed model information, exploded views, parts listings, and PDF manuals. Replacement parts are readily available through local hobby shops or online retailers. ARRMA’s parent company Horizon Hobby also provides customer service support.
6. What are popular upgrade options?
Common upgrades include brushless systems, metal transmission gears, RPM arms and chassis braces, aluminum shock caps, 2.8″ trencher tires, heavy duty axles, aluminum shock towers, and high output LiPo batteries for more power. A 4S capable system takes it to the next level for maximum speed.
7. How does the Granite compare to the Big Rock?
The Big Rock is also a fast, durable 4WD basher from ARRMA. But the classic monster truck style Granite has a more nimble feel and excels at tricks, wheelies, and tight technical courses compared to the larger Big Rock, which is better suited for higher speed runs and jumps.
8. Is the Granite suitable for kids and beginners?
While very fast, it can be adapted for new RC drivers by limiting throttle through the training mode on the transmitter and turning the EPA down to 50% on the throttle channel. Use softer suspension settings and smaller batteries to limit power. Remove the wheelie bar and turn off multi-function knob for basic steering. Supervision is still recommended for new drivers.
Enjoyed this guide of ARRMA Big Rock vs ARRMA Granite? Then be sure to check out our other RC Rating guides.