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Unread 14-01-2004, 14:22
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FRC #0555 (Montclair Robotics)
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Join Date: Jan 2002
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Re: Tank tracks vs. Wheels

Speaking from experience (we used treads in 2002):

Pros: One of the major pros of using treads is that you get a lot more traction on the bot. It will be much harder for other bots to push you around. Treads (with correct design) also make it easier for you to drive up the platform (from the 6" side panel).

Cons (Important!): Treads require a lot of torque as they produce a great deal of friction with the carpet. This is a major problem, especially if you aren't the greatest with a drive system and gearing (just like us in 2002), as turning becomes almost impossible and causes the breakers to blow quite frequently. Depending on where you buy them (we purchased ours from BrecoFlex) they may take quite a while to get to the school. Ours took over 4 weeks and left us with almost no practice time (under a day before shipping).

I'm not denouncing treads but I would be careful before using them.
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