TDmonthly's Top 10: Hobby and R/C

Automobiles Race With Bots

High-flyin' and fast-racing toys easily grab attention at Toy Fair, as do sleek die-cast and innovative robotics. Here are TDmonthly Magazine's top picks in these categories:

Ducati Desmosedici by SILVERLIT TOYS

Ducati Desmosedici by SILVERLIT TOYS This 1:12-scale motorcycle with rider is designed with auto-stable technology in order to stay upright and lean into turns, simulating realistic driving action. It features spring suspension, digital proportional steering and speed control, a throttle-rate selector and a steering-trim-system. It operates on a 4.8V Ni-MH rechargeable battery and 27 MHz FM modulation radio control. 2/19/2008 (Age: 8 and Up)

38001 1:50 John Deere Equipment White WC22 Cab with LaCrosse Lowboy by SpecCast

The 1954 White WC22 tractor-cab and lowboy combination is decked out in authentic John Deere graphics and ready to haul equipment. The cab doors open to reveal a detailed interior, the distinctive piano-style hinged-hood opens to reveal a detailed White “Mustang” engine. The lowboy trailer is detachable from the cab and features positioning loading ramps. 1/7/2008

i-Fly Vamp by INTERACTIVE TOY CONCEPTS LTD.

The i-Fly Vamp’s flapping wings mimic the behavior of a bird or an insect, giving the eerie illusion that the toy is alive. The two-frequency device can climb, glide, descend, make turns and fly freely for over ten minutes with just 20 to 30 minutes of charging. An R/C transmitter, a flight battery and instructions are included. No assembly is required. Launch date: December 1, 2007. ( Watch Video) 11/30/2007 (MSRP: $39.99; Age: 8 and Up)

Glow Loop Scorcher by DARDA INC USA

Glow Loop Scorcher by DARDA INC USA The track- and car-set features a glow-in-the-dark track and a car that can complete 360 degree curls on the curved tracks and loops. ( Watch Video) 10/19/2007 (Age: 4 and Up)

Spykee Micro by MECCANO

Spykee Micro by MECCANO This robot is a miniature of the original Spykee. It has a simple remote control and the ability to move forward, backward and turn 360 degrees. It comes in four colors. Launch date: Late 2007. 2/19/2008 (MSRP: $24.99)

H2Go by CORGI USA

H2Go by CORGI USA Developed by Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technologies, this car runs on hydrogen power supplied from a charger unit that stores the water (fuel). It comes with a handset for controls and offers five to seven minutes of playtime per two-minute (full) charge. Whereas similar models, such as the H-Racer, were more for education and demonstration purposes, this model is designed for play, according to Mark Bawtree of Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies. Launch date: September 2007. 2/19/2008 (MSRP: $99.00)

Roboni-i Programmable Gaming Robot by ROBONICA

The Roboni-i features a programmable, remote-controlled robot that is equipped with sensors so it is aware of its environment. It is created especially for gaming and can function alongside other robots. The Starter Pack includes one Roboni-i robot, a remote controller, an infrared pod, a ball scoop, an electronic-game accessory, two electronic-game tags, an electronic ball, instructions, a USB cable, computer software, and five action games with remote-control reference cards. 2/19/2008

HEXBUG Micro Robotic Creature by INNOVATION FIRST LABS, INC.

The micro-robotic HEXBUG is a tiny, obedient insect that features bump-sensor feelers that help it avoid objects in its path. It responds to clapping or other loud noise by backing up or changing direction. The HEXBUG is small enough to fit in the hand and comes in five different body types and colors including pink, blue, green, yellow and orange. Awards: TDmonthly Innovations 2008.
— According to more than 60 reviews on Amazon.com and Radioshack.com, this fun, durable toy has been rated 4 out of 5 stars due to its entertaining and educational features. It is portable for any occasion and appropriate for any age. Consumers should be careful though, as they have been known to be flimsy and easily breakable, like real bugs! (09.12.08)
— "Everyone wants one, from adults to kids," Charles Bonner, owner of Heights Toy Center in Little Rock, Ark., told TDmonthly of this best seller in April 2009. "I sell 200 to 250 a month." Three of 44 retailers tagged Hexbugs as an overall best seller in late fall 2009.

— During a September 2010 survey, two of 44 retailers listed Hexbugs as their top-seller for tweens.

( Watch Video) 2/12/2008 (MSRP: $9.99; Age: 8 and Up)

Air Force One United States of America International Airport by DARON WORLDWIDE TRADING

This set includes an airport with moveable jet ways, a van, a helicopter and an Air Force One plane. The airport is designed to correlate with the company's colorful, new Airport Play Mat. Launch date: 2008. 2/19/2008 (MSRP: $25.00; Age: 3 and Up)