Panda Cyclone - Hornet Clone
Just dug this out of the basement today. It's been stashed away for 10 years or so since I got it, and an enquiry from another TC member (Wes) made me get in there and take a few photos.
This is a Hornet clone, but with a few serious upgrades. The best thing is the double wishbone front suspension, closely followed by the rear sway bar, oil shocks and finished with the alloy nerfs and gold plated wheels.
While these look like the Hornet/Hopper chassis, apparently there are very few interchangeable parts.
These were made in Taiwan by Varicom, which I think is another spelling of 'Thunder Tiger'. There is an identical model called the Manx made by Mugen. I suspect that it was just this model that was re-named and sold under the Mugen brand.
As you can see this is minty fresh, never been finished. I really need to find some shelf space for this one.
Comments
neobrunox
Very interesting
berman
That looks seriously hotted up for a hornet style chassis! Hope you and yours are doing well Don! Was thinking it has been a looong time since we all got together and caught up
robertoro
yes clone cyclone at the end is the copy about the hornet or grassoper , i like the front arms plated and yellow front bumper.
MadcapIwant1
Cool, thanks for sharing, really love these kind of stories when they pop up, yup get it out of that box and on a shelf for every-day viewing
kalsh
One of your many gems tucked Away eh Don. Long time no see. I thought Mike was back in NZ working but haven't heard from him.
Bluefoot
Hey Kel, yep, it's been a while. You know it has been way too long when you find stuff in your own basement that you never knew you had... or is that just dementia setting in? And Neil, could be time for another TCNZ mini-meet eh?
berman
Yeah would be great to catch up with you guys again. Mike was meant to call by many a month ago but I didn't see him unfortunately. I don't mind a trek up to Orkland.
kalsh
Yep count me in
scollins
Wow!! I remember these!!! Loved and desired the anodized blue nerf bars for my own Grasshopper at the time. Thanks or sharing!
Frantic Freddie
Hey mate, it looks good, cant believe you have a whole kit..
Wes
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