TLDR
This guide helps RC hobbyists choose or build the perfect RC car ramp by covering materials, design tips, jump physics, durability considerations, and creative DIY setups. It also includes buying recommendations, safety tips, and ideas for modular or portable ramp systems.
Key takeaways
- The best ramp depends on your car scale, top speed, and surface conditions.
- Portable ramps are ideal for beginners while custom-built ramps offer the best performance for advanced drivers.
- Material choice impacts durability, weight, and jump stability.
- Ramp angle, curvature, and height directly influence airtime and landing smoothness.
- Building your own ramp can be inexpensive and highly customizable.
Why The Right RC Car Ramp Changes Everything
A good RC car ramp does more than launch a model into the air. It shapes the entire driving experience by improving control, boosting confidence, and unlocking bigger stunts without unnecessary damage.
Many hobbyists discover that the right ramp transforms a basic session into something smoother, safer, and a lot more fun.
The right shape, angle, and surface can help an RC car carry speed properly, land cleanly, and handle repeated jumps without stress on the chassis.
With the right ramp in place, every run feels more consistent and every upgrade pays off.
How To Choose The Best RC Car Ramp For Your Track
Choosing the right RC car ramp starts with matching the ramp’s size, angle, and surface to the type of driving you enjoy.
For instance, a small, gentle ramp suits beginners and backyard tracks, while steeper, longer ramps work better for big-air trucks and higher speeds.
A quick look at your track layout, the space you have, and the scale of your RC car makes it much easier to pick a ramp that feels smooth, predictable, and fun to hit every time.
The most reliable ramp options for backyard jumps and stunts
When you’re building a backyard jump setup or want a ramp that can take regular use (and maybe a few crashes), it pays off to pick a reliable style.
These ramp types tend to hold up well and give good, consistent jumps, even with heavier or faster RC cars.
Here are some of the most dependable options:
- Metal portable ramps: Made from aluminum or steel, these ramps are usually lightweight, foldable, and easy to move.
Their strength makes them a great fit for heavier 1/10 or 1/8 scale RC cars, and they often stand up well to repeated landings. If you want something you can set up in minutes and pack away when you’re done, metal portable ramps are a solid choice.
- Reinforced polymer ramps: These use tough plastics (sometimes fiber-reinforced) that resist cracking and weathering. They’re often lighter than metal but still sturdy enough to handle jumps from mid-sized RC cars.
Because polymer ramps resist rust and rot, they’re especially good for outdoor use, no matter rain or shine.
- Composite boards: Think plywood with protective coatings, or layers of plastic and resin bonded together.
Composite-board ramps give a smoother surface and some flexibility, which can help reduce stress on your RC car’s suspension during landings. With a properly built composite ramp, backyard stunts feel more controlled and repeatable.
- Pro-grade bashing ramps for 1/10 & 1/8 scale vehicles: These are heavy-duty ramps designed for serious RC racing and bashing. They often combine metal framing, reinforced surfaces, and sometimes shock-absorbing design features.
For powerful trucks and buggies, this category offers the durability and stability needed to handle high-speed approaches and hard landings. They are ideal for adrenaline-packed jumps or regular stunt sessions.
Each of these ramp types has its sweet spot. Which one you pick depends on how big your RC car is, how rough you expect to land, and how portable you want the ramp to be.
Recommended RC car ramps for racing and practice tracks
A ramp built for racing / practice tracks should ideally have:
- A smooth curvature on the launch surface. This ensures the car transitions smoothly from ground to flight (less risk of the chassis bottoming out or catching) and maintains speed through takeoff.
- An anti-slip surface to give tyres traction at takeoff (especially on high-speed runs) and reduce wheel spin or slide. Common options include rubber matting, textured coating, or sandpaper-like surfaces on wood or HDF / composite ramps.
- Adjustable incline (or multiple ramp options). Being able to change angle or have multiple takeoff ramps (gentle <-> steep) helps if you use different types of RC cars (light, heavy, slower, faster) or want to practise different jump types: long-distance jumps, big-air jumps, or subtle landings.
- A stable, durable build, especially for larger/ faster RC cars (1/10 or 1/8 scale). Good support structure, strong surface material, and secure assembly make repeated landings safe and prolong ramp lifespan.
If a ramp ticks these boxes, it becomes part of a “real track setup” rather than a simple stunt toy.
Ramps built for durability and heavy bashing
A ramp built for heavy bashing needs a thick, solid structure that can absorb and spread out the force of repeated landings without bending or breaking.
It also relies on a strong ramp face made from something tough like polycarbonate, metal, or well-finished plywood so the surface stays smooth and crack-free over time.
A stable base with firm reinforcements is just as important because legs or frames that shift during takeoff can ruin both the jump and the ramp.
If the ramp lives outdoors, it needs weather-resistant materials or coatings to protect it from UV light, moisture, and long-term wear so it holds up season after season.
Thick plywood builds
A ramp made from thick plywood sheets (¾″ or more), ideally exterior-grade or sealed, can give solid rigidity. Plywood offers a natural “give,” absorbing some shock on landing. If sealed or treated, a plywood ramp can work outdoors, though constant exposure to moisture may still be a risk.
Good plywood ramps often benefit from a smooth takeoff curve, a sealed/painted surface to protect from weather, and a sturdy under-structure (cross-bracing, strong legs) to avoid flex or collapse with heavy trucks.
Steel-frame ramps
Ramps that use a steel or metal frame as the base, often with a metal or composite takeoff surface, provide serious durability. The frame holds its shape under load.
Metal-framed ramps are often preferred for 1/8-scale buggies/trucks and heavier rigs. They resist bending under repeated stress, and if properly coated or galvanized, handle outdoor conditions better.
Polycarbonate or hard-plastic ramp faces
Using polycarbonate (or similar impact-resistant plastic) for the ramp surface, perhaps mounted on wood or metal, combines toughness and smoothness.
Polycarbonate resists cracking under repeated hits, and its smooth surface helps wheels grip and roll cleanly. For outdoor setups, UV-resistant plastics or specially treated surfaces help ensure longevity.
UV-resistant outdoor-grade ramps
For ramps that stay outside, materials that resist UV damage, moisture, and weather cycles are essential. This can mean sealed plywood with exterior paint, UV-stable plastics or composites, or metal ramps with rust-resistant coatings.
These ramps are built to take frequent exposure to sun, rain, dirt, and heavy landings without degrading quickly.
What to choose depending on what you drive
- For heavy trucks, 1/8-scale buggies, or strong 1/10-scale vehicles aiming for big jumps and repeated bashing: go for steel-frame ramps or polycarbonate-faced ramps with a sturdy base.
- For backyard stunts or mixed surfaces, especially if you want some “give” and easier DIY build, a thick plywood ramp can be a good compromise (preferably sealed and maintained).
- For outdoor permanence: pick UV-resistant plastics or metal ramps with proper weather-proofing.
Check these RC cars at RC Vision and see how they perform on tracks and ramps.
Portable ramp options for small spaces
Portable ramps can be a smart solution when space is tight or you don’t want a permanent setup.
Foldable ramps offer easy storage and quick setup, which is ideal when you’re using a garage, balcony, or small backyard.
Lightweight ABS-plastic ramps pack down small and stay easy to carry around, making them a go-to if you want something you can move wherever you go.
Modular ramp systems take portability even further: pieces lock together for a customizable course, but you can break them down and store them flat when not in use.
These options give flexibility without sacrificing much in jump quality when used with smaller RC cars or lighter builds.
How To Improve Jump Performance With Better Ramp Design
Understanding the ideal ramp angle and curvature
Understanding ramp angle and curvature is the key to building predictable, controlled, and repeatable jumps.
A low takeoff angle sends your RC car into long, shallow arcs that favour distance over height.
A steeper angle produces more upward lift, giving the car extra airtime and a more dramatic trajectory.
Curved or transitional ramp faces create the smoothest launches because they guide the suspension through a gradual lift rather than a sudden hit, which helps protect shocks and reduces the chance of chassis slap.
Sizing the ramp for your RC car scale
Sizing the ramp correctly for your RC car scale matters just as much as the angle. Larger 1/10 and 1/8 scale buggies need longer ramps with a softer, more progressive curvature to prevent the front end from digging in during takeoff.
Micro RC cars such as 1/24 models can use shorter, sharper ramps without stability issues because they weigh less and place far less stress on the suspension.
Surface material considerations
Surface material also plays a role in jump quality.
Smooth composite boards create a clean, consistent flow up the ramp and reduce bounce at the moment the tyres leave the surface.
If you need extra grip for acceleration or control, a slightly textured coating or material helps the tyres bite before takeoff.
The right combination of angle, sizing, and surface finish makes each jump feel controlled, predictable, and easier on both the car and the driver.
Creative Ways To Build Your Own RC Car Ramp
DIY wooden ramps
DIY wooden ramps are a classic choice because they’re strong, customizable, and easy to shape.
Using plywood for the surface and 2x4s for the frame creates a solid structure, while a curved template helps you form a smooth, predictable launch. Adding grip paint gives tyres better traction and prevents sliding as the car approaches the takeoff point.
PVC-frame ramps
PVC-frame ramps offer a lighter, more portable option. They’re easy to assemble, surprisingly sturdy, and ideal for moving around yard setups.
By covering the frame with polycarbonate sheets or a thin layer of plywood, you get a smooth takeoff surface without adding much weight, making them simple to transport or store.
Foam and EVA-based practice ramps
Foam and EVA-based practice ramps are great for beginners, kids, or indoor environments.
They absorb impact instead of fighting against it, which helps protect lightweight RC cars and keeps crashes gentle. Their soft structure also makes them safer to use in tight spaces.
Modular ramp systems
Modular ramp systems allow for more creativity. Building two or three smaller ramp sections lets you connect them into different shapes, angles, or step-up features.
You can rearrange them to create a new challenge every time you drive, all without making a full-size ramp.
Adjustable test-bench ramp
An adjustable test-bench ramp is another clever idea. By attaching the ramp surface to simple hinges, you can change the incline whenever you want.
It’s perfect for experimenting with different angles and studying how your RC car reacts to each setup, making it a great tool for tuning suspension, speed, and jump control.
Safety And Stability Tips
Ensure safe landings
Safe landings start with a well-prepared landing zone. A smooth, open space gives the car room to settle without bouncing or flipping, and adding padding such as gym mats, grass, or even a second low ramp helps soften the impact.
This reduces stress on shocks, chassis components, and suspension arms, especially when you’re experimenting with higher jumps or steeper takeoff angles.
Secure your ramp structure
Keeping the ramp structure secure is just as important. Anchoring the base prevents shifting during takeoff, while anti-slip pads under the feet help the ramp stay firmly planted on concrete, decking, or indoor floors.
For outdoor sessions, simple weight bags or sandbags can keep the ramp from sliding on dirt or grass, giving you a consistent launch every time.
Weather and terrain considerations
Weather and terrain conditions also influence how your ramp behaves.
Rain can make surfaces slick and unpredictable, wind can push lightweight cars off course mid-air, and gravel or uneven ground can tilt the ramp slightly and change the jump angle without you noticing.
A quick check of the surface and surroundings before each session helps keep everything stable and predictable so your jumps stay safe and controlled.
How To Store And Transport Your RC Car Ramp
Storing and transporting an RC car ramp is much easier when you choose designs that break down or fold flat.
Modular ramps can be separated into smaller sections that stack neatly on a shelf or slide under a workbench, making them ideal for hobbyists with limited space.
Foldable ramps collapse into a compact shape that fits in a car trunk, garage corner, or storage box without taking over your setup area.
Lightweight materials like ABS plastic, PVC, or thin composite boards also help keep clutter down, since they’re easy to carry and reposition whenever needed. With the right design, even a full backyard jump setup can pack away cleanly and stay organized between sessions.
Connect this section to your upcoming storage-ideas article.
Conclusion
The perfect RC car ramp depends on your driving style, space, and skill level, but the fundamentals stay consistent: a stable structure, a suitable takeoff angle, and materials that can handle repeated use.
Let’s say you prefer a ready-made option or a custom DIY build. The aim is always the same: a smooth, predictable jump that helps you grow your skills with confidence.
With the design ideas and safety tips above, you can create a setup that suits both beginners and seasoned hobbyists, and combine it with smart storage solutions to keep your RC environment organized and ready for every session.
FAQ
What is the best material for an RC car ramp?
Plywood, ABS plastic, and polycarbonate are the most reliable and stable for repeated jumps.
How tall should an RC car ramp be?
Most hobbyists use ramps between 20–50 cm tall depending on car scale and desired jump distance.
Can I use household materials to build a ramp?
Yes, plywood sheets, cardboard (for small-scale cars), and foam blocks are common DIY choices.
Are portable RC car ramps worth it?
Yes. They’re ideal for beginners, small yards, or hobbyists who want quick setup and easy storage.
What angle works best for jumps?
A 20–35 degree incline is optimal for most 1/10 and 1/8 scale RC cars.