[crazyjr]

Originally Posted by ssspconcepts

I don't personally know Mike, but doubt he will want to do something like that because he probably doesn't want to taint his reputation by being perceived as somebody that would infringe upon the competition by using someone else's proprietary designs-even if it was "their" fault not to do the leg work of getting the appropriate patent. I speculate that Mike will release his own line of patented and trade marked products that are compatible with many different rc brands. The slipperential is a perfect example...a slipper and diff combined...that will work in almost any rc vehicle that uses a center diff or center slipper. If it is marketed properly and the demand is high....then you could see Losi, Associated, X-Ray, Kyosho, etc. all clamboring to offer some version of his patented slipperential with their latest new and improved buggy/truggy. Look at the "new" diffs that X-Ray and Losi just came out with...lord only knows who really has the patent. It could be that one of these big companies tries to buy the slipperential patent out from under Mike...I hope he perseveres and stays the course as I think it would benefit him in the long run.

As for UE stuff...it is a shame that Robin doesn't retart his production. The craftsmanship of his parts (not the ofna based components) is truly second to none. My guess it just is not cost effective to maintain that level of attention to detail. He was probably barely making any money on what he was producing.

I agree to a point, and understand mike might not want into it. But would you rather buy from someone that makes quality copies (with permission of course) or cheap knockoffs. If Mike were to do this, I'm sure he'd do it right and ask to copy, using the identical materials, so as to not take away from the origional quality and durability. Someone less dedicated than mike (to the hobby and to UE) would take shortcuts and soon UE would be a joke and myth