RC Ramp Plans: Build Your Own Car Ramp - Complete Guide

Commercial RC ramps are ideal for making your RC cars fly, but they come at a huge cost ($200+, to be exact). Worse, they often break after a few big jumps. There goes your money, time, and effort!

Thankfully, we at EuroRC have spent 17 years testing RC ramps with 3,000+ builders across 25 countries. They're proven plans that handle everything from 1/10 scale cars to monster trucks. We've completed 500+ test jumps with zero structural failures. Most importantly, our tested plans let you build better ramps for $50-120!

Three Proven RC Ramp Plans

After testing tons of designs, we've narrowed it down to three winners. Each solves specific problems: maximum durability, space-saving storage, or complete versatility. Choose the right plan and you'll be jumping like a pro within hours.

Basic Fixed RC Ramp

Perfect for beginners. Lasts for years. The triangle design gives your RC car the perfect 35-degree launch angle, and we have tested it with over 200 successful jumps.

• Best for: First-time builders, 1/10 scale RC cars, permanent setups
• Build time: 2-3 hours
• kill level: Beginner

Weatherproof plywood construction with curved launch surface. Support beam system handles repeated impacts without flexing. 

Portable Folding RC Ramp

Space-limited? This folding design breaks down to fit in most car trunks. Setup takes under 90 seconds from storage to ready.

• Best for: Apartment living, multiple locations, easy storage
• Build time: 3-4 hours
• Skill level: Intermediate

The hinge system folds the ramp in half. Chain supports prevent over-folding and adjust launch angles. Same performance as the fixed ramp with superior portability.

Adjustable Angle RC Ramp

Our most advanced design for serious RC enthusiasts. Change launch angles from 15 to 60 degrees in under 30 seconds. The precision bracket system locks into 10 different positions.

• Best for: Multiple RC scales, testing different heights, experienced builders
• Build time: 4-5 hours
• Skill level: Advanced

Gentle 20-degree angles for heavy monster trucks. Steep 50-degree angles for backflips and aerial stunts. This ramp grows with your skills and handles any RC car in your collection.

Now that you've chosen your design, let's break down the actual costs.

How Much Does an RC Ramp Cost to Build?

Building your own RC ramp costs significantly less than buying pre-made options, but the exact savings depend on your design choice. Here's the complete cost breakdown so you can budget properly and choose the best option for your wallet.

Ramp Type	Materials Cost	Total Investment	Savings vs Store-Bought
Basic Fixed	$50-75	$65-90 (with tools)	$135-160 (68% savings)
Portable Folding	$75-100	$90-125	$110-135 (55% savings)
Adjustable Angle	$100-120	$125-145	$85-105 (42% savings)

Planning Essentials: Your RC car determines ramp size. Use standard plans for 1/10 scale, reduce by 25% for 1/18 scale, add 25% for 1/8 scale, and for monster trucks. Need 20 feet of approach space and 30 feet of landing area minimum.

With your budget set, let's gather the materials you'll need.

Materials List for All RC Ramp Plans

The right materials make the difference between a ramp that lasts one season and one that handles years of abuse. We've tested every component to ensure maximum durability at the lowest possible cost.

Base Materials (Required for All Ramp Types):

Component	Specifications
Side Panels	6mm weatherboard/plywood, 960 x 900mm
Ramp Surface	4mm plywood, 1000x1010mm
Lower Support	2x4" beam, 1000mm + 1x4" panel, 1000mm
Surface Support	5x 1x2" bars, 1000mm
Hardware	3" screws (12), 1.5" screws (24)

Additional Components by Ramp Type:

Ramp Type	Extra Components Needed
Basic Fixed	None
Portable Folding	Piano hinges (36"), hobby chain (2 feet), eye bolts (4), S-hooks (4)
Adjustable Angle	L-brackets (8), adjustment pins (4), locking washers (8)

Essential Tools: Circular saw, drill with wood bits, measuring tape, square, clamps

Quality hardware matters. Check our tools section for precision components that ensure lasting builds.

With materials ready, it's time to start building.

Step-by-Step RC Ramp Build

Building your RC ramp correctly the first time saves hours of frustration and potential rebuilds. Follow these proven steps and you'll have a professional-quality ramp ready for action.

Cut Your RC Ramp Pieces

Cut two identical triangles from 6mm plywood for side panels. Get the 35-degree launch angle right using a string compass for smooth curves. Sharp angles damage the RC car chassis.

Clamp both panels together and cut simultaneously. This ensures perfect matching sides with Finnish precision.

Assemble the RC Ramp Frame

Position the triangle panels upright and parallel. Cut 2x4 support beams to fit exactly between panels. Pre-drill all screw holes to prevent wood splitting.

Install the lower support beam first for a stable base. Add back support beam, then angled supports under ramp surface. Use construction adhesive plus screws for maximum strength.

Install RC Ramp Surface

Cut 4mm plywood to match the curved triangle shape. Start fastening at the flat end, work toward the curve. Use short screws every 4 inches along support beams.

Sand rough edges smooth. Even small splinters damage RC car plastic bodies during jumps.

Test & Fine-Tune

Start with slow approaches to check the launch angle. RC car wheels should hit the ramp first, not the chassis. Too steep causes nose-dives, too shallow kills the fun.

Check for flex during jumps. Add support beams if the ramp feels bouncy. Solid ramps are safe ramps.

Your basic ramp is complete, but there's more you can do to optimize performance.

What Size Ramp Do I Need for My RC Car?

RC Scale	Ramp Length	Ramp Width	Launch Angle	Weight Limit
1/18 Scale	750mm	750mm	20-30°	2 lbs max
1/10 Scale	1000mm	1000mm	30-40°	6 lbs max
1/8 Scale	1250mm	1250mm	25-35°	12 lbs max
Monster Trucks	1500mm	1500mm	20-30°	20 lbs max

Ramp Variations & Performance Optimization

Once you've mastered the basics, it's time to take your ramp to the next level. These advanced techniques and modifications can double your jump distance, improve consistency, and adapt your ramp for different RC car types.

Design Variations

Folding RC Ramp: Piano hinge at ramp surface midpoint. Cut the surface plywood into two equal pieces. Chain supports prevent backward folding during jumps. Folds to 24" x 18" x 12" for storage.

Adjustable RC Ramp: L-brackets with multiple mounting holes give 5-degree adjustment increments. Range covers 15 degrees (gentle slope) to 60 degrees (steep launch). Most RC cars work best between 25-45 degrees.

Performance Optimization

A basic ramp gets you jumping, but the right optimizations can transform your setup from good to incredible. Small tweaks to angles and surfaces often make bigger differences than expensive upgrades.

Surface Treatment Guide:

• Carpet strips: Indoor use, easy replacement, moderate grip
• 120-grit sandpaper: Permanent solution, excellent grip, all-weather
• Rubber matting: Premium option, superior traction, expensive

Launch Angle Performance:

Angle Range	Jump Characteristics	Best RC Applications	Landing Impact
15-25°	Long, low trajectory	Distance competitions, heavy trucks	Gentle
30-40°	Balanced height/distance	General bashing, most 1/10 cars	Moderate
45-60°	High, short arc	Aerial stunts, lightweight cars	Hard

Common Problems & Quick Fixes:

• Ramp movement: Add 25 lbs of weight to the back or use ground stakes
• Structural flex: Space support beams 6" apart for trucks over 8 lbs
• Inconsistent launches: Sand surface perfectly smooth, check gradual curves
• Weather damage: Apply exterior stain annually, replace soft wood immediately

RC Car Compatibility

Best performers include Traxxas Rustler, Associated Rival, and Team Losi desert buggies. These handle jumps well with affordable replacement parts. Check our RC cars collection for jump-ready models.

Performance Upgrades That Matter:

• Quality shocks absorb landing impacts
• Proper tires provide ramp traction: Tires and Wheels
• Chassis reinforcements handle repeated jumps: Parts and Accessories

Browse our Hop-up Parts section for proven upgrades.

How Long Does It Take to Build an RC Ramp?

Realistic Build Times:

• Basic Fixed Ramp: 2-3 hours (first build), 90 minutes (experienced)
• Portable Folding: 3-4 hours total, 45 minutes for hinge installation
• Adjustable Angle: 4-5 hours total, 2 hours for adjustment mechanism

Time-Saving Tips: Pre-cut lumber at hardware store. Use construction adhesive for faster assembly. Have all tools ready before starting.

RC Ramp Plans FAQs

What are the best materials for building an RC ramp?

The best materials for building an RC ramp are plywood, treated lumber, and PVC. Plywood provides a smooth surface, treated lumber adds strength, and PVC can form lightweight, durable frames. Use screws and weatherproof coatings for added durability outdoors.

How steep should an RC car ramp be?

An RC car ramp should have a slope between 25 and 45 degrees for optimal performance. Steeper angles allow higher jumps but reduce control, while shallower slopes provide smoother launches with more stability during takeoff.

How to build a folding or portable RC ramp?

Build a folding or portable RC ramp by using lightweight plywood panels connected with hinges. Attach folding legs or supports for stability, and use locking mechanisms to secure the ramp during use. Keep the design compact for easy transport.

How to build an RC ramp for monster trucks?

Build an RC ramp for monster trucks by using thick plywood and reinforced supports to handle extra weight. Create a wider and taller ramp with a gradual slope to accommodate large tires and high jumps. Ensure stability with cross-bracing underneath.

Your RC Ramp Plans Journey Starts Now

Ready to build your RC ramp using our proven plans? Start with the basic fixed design, then progress to advanced variations. These DIY RC ramp plans have helped 3,000+ builders create epic jumping setups for under $120.

Share completed ramp photos on Instagram @eurorc - tag us for community features! Also, check for replacement parts after epic crashes (which is perfectly normal in this case!). Finally, Check our complete guide collection if you want more power with our electric motors.