Nor-Cal Hobbies & Raceway – San Jose, California

I. Location Details:

• Name of Venue: Nor-Cal Hobbies & Raceway
• Address: 2099 S. 10th Street, San Jose, CA 95112, USA
• Contact Information:
  • Phone: (408) 293-5555
  • Website: http://www.norcalhobbies.com/
  • LiveRC (Track Page): https://norcalhobbies.liverc.com/
• Operating Hours (Shop & Practice):
  • Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Note: Race schedules may affect practice hours. Always check their website or LiveRC for the most current information.
• Type of Venue: Indoor RC Tracks (Off-Road & On-Road) & Full-Service Hobby Shop

II. Track Information:

• Track Types & Surfaces:
  • Indoor Off-Road Track: Currently a carpet off-road track. Historically, it has been an indoor clay track, and the dirt track is still under the carpet, allowing for potential changes in the future. The layouts are regularly changed.
  • On-Road Track: They also offer on-road racing, likely on a carpet surface, possibly a reconfigurable area within the facility or a dedicated space.
  • Micro Crawler Course: There is also a dedicated micro crawler course for smaller scale crawling.
• Authorized Scales: Primarily 1/10th scale electric off-road (buggies, stadium trucks, short course trucks), and various scales for on-road and micro crawlers.
• Facilities/Amenities:
  • Indoor Pitting: Features 80 powered pit spots. Pit mats are required (a bath towel can also be used).
  • Elevated Drivers Stand: Yes.
  • Lap Counting System: Yes.
  • Air Compressor: Yes.
  • Restrooms: Available.
  • Wi-Fi: Available.
  • RC Truck Rental: Available.
• Track Rules: Strict rules regarding traction compound (not permitted on the indoor track), sportsmanship, and pit area conduct are enforced for a family-friendly environment.

III. Racing & Event Information:

• Race Program/Schedule: Nor-Cal Hobbies has a very active racing schedule:
  • Wednesday Night Sprint Racing: Regular weekly racing.
  • Friday Night Fight Series: Another weekly racing series.
  • Weekend Racing: Regular races on weekends, including On-Road Spring Series and Off-Road Champs Belt Races.
  • R/C Boot Camp: They offer a “Boot Camp” for beginners to learn skills.
  • Nor-Cal Rocks: Events related to crawling.
• Classes Raced: A wide variety of classes for 1/10th scale off-road (2WD Buggy, 4WD Buggy, Stadium Truck, Short Course), and various on-road classes. Specific class rules are often based on ROAR standards.
• Pricing (Racing): Specific race entry fees vary by event.
• Events: They host various competitive series and special events throughout the year.

IV. Hobby Shop Information:

• Inventory/Specialties: Described as a full-service hobby shop with one of the most experienced staffs in Northern California. They stock a massive array of RC cars and supplies for racing and bashing, including:
  • Kits and Ready-to-Runs (RTRs).
  • Parts, tires, electronics (motors, ESCs, batteries, chargers).
  • Paints, tools, and accessories.
• Services:
  • Expert advice and guidance.
  • Assistance with repairs and upgrades.
  • Ship-to-Store option for Horizon Hobby purchases.
  • Early Access programs (Crawler, Basher).

V. User Reviews & Tips:

• Excellent Staff: Highly praised for their knowledge, helpfulness, and passion for RC.
• Indoor Advantage: Provides a consistent racing environment year-round, regardless of weather.
• Regular Layout Changes: Keeps the track fresh and challenging.
• Family-Friendly: Emphasizes a welcoming and respectful atmosphere.