Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick 1/18 Scale RC Review

The Axial Yeti Jr. exists in a strange place in the radio-controlled (RC) market. Its 1/18 scale size puts it in the size middleground between larger 1/10 scale machines and much smaller, indoor-friendly 1/24 scale RCs. It’s also neither a proper basher (i.e., a machine meant for hard romps, jumps, and general thrashing) and certainly isn’t a rock crawler. We suppose the same can be said for the machine on which this hobby-grade machine is based, but how does that translate to the scaled down, remote controlled Maverick experience?

At the heart of the Yeti Jr. is the Spektrum STX2 two-channel radio transmitter, providing fairly precise control. It features a built-in three-position throttle limiter which is helpful for beginners. The motor, a 380-size brushed Tazer 37T unit from Dynamite, combined with a 15T pinion and 60T spur gear, brings a reasonably powerful powertrain given the size of the vehicle. The water-resistant Spektrum ESC/receiver adds durability which is extremely helpful in outdoor driving.

Weighing a mere 1.6 pounds and weighing in at 11x7x6.5” (length x width x height), the 1/18 scale machine is a weird one, albeit fairly interesting in of itself. The kit includes a 7.2V 6-Cell 1300mAh NiMH battery which allows for a quoted run time of 20–30 minutes, depending on conditions and driving style. Charging the battery is a breeze with the USB-compatible charger included in the package, but heavier users will want to carry a second pack or step up to a LiPo setup (Note: We recommend educating oneself on LiPo safety should you go this route).

One notable feature of the Axial Yeti Jr. is its solid rear axle, deviating from the full-size Can-Am Maverick's independent rear suspension (IRS). While some may yearn for the latter for maximal realism, Axial's design choice keeps the price within a reasonable range, making it an accessible option in the brand-name scale RC world. However, the absence of a locking rear and/or front differential can hinder the vehicle's climbing abilities on steeper grades, particularly on loose surfaces. Full-time 4WD makes for constant traction, but the Bighorn 2.0 tires are a bit limiting on the front of how much grip and ground clearance they provide.

Off-road, the Yeti Jr. excels in blasting along loose, low-traction surfaces, showcasing its prowess in Axial's "Desert Series." The top speed of 18 mph means the miniature Can-Am is fairly fast for its size which is great except for when hucking it into a turn at full tilt, which regularly results in spectacular rollovers. The Yeti Jr. handles jumps and elevation changes effortlessly. Its light weight allows for smooth and repeated jumps without compromising performance, reflecting a large benefit of the RC hobby over a real UTV.

The vehicle's other downsides include ground clearance limitations and a solid rear axle that restricts articulation. This means that deep grass and more hardcore rock crawling aren’t necessarily off limits, but just that they represent a much more difficult task for the Yeti Jr.

In terms of customization, the Yeti Jr. isn’t a standout. The aftermarket offers the usual slew of choices like adjustable coilover suspension, more powerful motors, different tire treads, and so on. Choices aren’t as extensive as those for more popular vehicles like the Traxxas TRX-4M and Axial SCX24, but they’re decent if you know where to look.

Priced at $174.99 on Amazon, the Axial Yeti Jr. delivers a compelling blend of performance and affordability. In a market where quality 1/10th-scale RC machines can quickly surpass the $500 mark, the Yeti Jr. is priced well in line with its performance. Its ability to provide a significant dose of joy reminiscent of larger and more expensive RC toys makes it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts.

Ultimately, the Axial Yeti Jr. Can-Am Maverick succeeds as a fun and entertaining RC hobby-grade toy. While it may not fully satisfy the yearning for the real thing, its playful nature and the potential for aftermarket enhancements contribute to an enjoyable experience. Whether you're unwinding at a campsite, exploring a parking lot, or enjoying the backyard, the Yeti Jr. enhances the love for the sport while venturing into new territories of excitement.