BaneBots Gearmotors

Banebots has a series of gear motors custom manufactured for them. These are the first affordable motors I've come across that were developed specifically for combat robotics.

The motors come in 4 different sizes ranging from 1.1oz up to 7.5oz. Each motor size is available in several different gearings. All motors use metal gears.

The least expensive motors start at a little over $10. The 28mm and 36mm are more expensive, but include mounts. Spare motors are available.

These motors seem very solid. The only apparent downside is that many of the smaller motors are only available in relatively low voltages (6v). Some tests stalling them at 12v quickly resulted in smoke.

My next bot (antweight) is being developed using the 11:1 16mm motors running at 7.4v with 1.5" wheels. The test platform moves very quickly, but still has good torque and control.

Tamiya 72002 High Speed Gearmotor

The included motors are designed for 3v - but I've run them at 7.2v with no problems. They are extremely fast at 7.2v.

The shafts are the perfect size for "Du Bro" foam wheels.

This drivetrain includes an adapter so it can be used with a smaller (and lighter) "140" size motor. I've seen reports of people having luck with this - I however cooked some motors trying it. Something to do with putting heavy loads on a motor that you're already running at over twice its rated voltage. Probably would work better with smaller wheels.

I've just ordered some special 140/1 motors from Technobots (look for "MFA Motor RE 140/1") rated for 6-9v instead of 1.5-3v. These should be a little slower - but a lot less likely to burn up. I haven't tested it yet - but this would bring the drivetrain to about 1.6 oz.

Tip:
Glue the motors in place with a little superglue. Otherwise they can rock around and break their tabs.

Stuff that hasn't worked as well for me...