Unbridled Speed: Finding the Fastest Role Horse in Red Dead Online

The world of Red Dead Online (RDO) is vast and unforgiving, and having the right horse can make all the difference between a successful bounty hunt and a dusty demise. While numerous factors contribute to a horse’s overall performance, speed is often a top priority for players looking to cover ground quickly. So, when it comes to role-specific horses, which reigns supreme in the realm of raw speed?

The answer, based on thorough analysis and player testing, is the Norfolk Roadster, specifically when fully equipped with the best available gear. While it is not a role horse itself, access to it is through progressing in the Moonshiner role. Unlocked at Moonshiner level 20, this breed, when paired with the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups, achieves the highest combined speed and acceleration stats, making it the fastest horse in Red Dead Online when fully equipped. No other role-specific or non-role horse in the game can match its blistering pace with these crucial upgrades. It’s essential to note that without these, the Norfolk Roadster will not reach its full potential and will not be the fastest.

The Quest for Speed: Understanding Horse Stats in RDO

Before we dive deeper, let’s understand how horse speed works in Red Dead Online. Unlike some games that rely solely on a single speed stat, RDO uses a combination of speed and acceleration to determine how fast a horse can reach its top speed and maintain it. A horse with high speed but low acceleration might take a long time to get up to that speed, making it less practical for quick getaways or navigating rough terrain.

• Speed: This determines the horse’s top velocity.
• Acceleration: This determines how quickly the horse reaches its top speed.

Furthermore, horse breeds have base stats that can be modified by equipment, such as saddles and stirrups. The right combination of breed and tack is paramount for maximizing performance. This is particularly relevant to the discussion around the fastest role horse, which often requires specific gear to reach its peak potential.

Why The Norfolk Roadster Reigns Supreme

Several factors contribute to the Norfolk Roadster’s dominance in speed:

• Base Speed & Acceleration: Even without top-tier equipment, the Norfolk Roadster has a strong foundation in both speed and acceleration. It has a good starting point in both of these, which are further amplified with superior gear.
• Upgradability: The pairing of the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups is essential to maximizing the Norfolk Roadster’s statistics. The Naco saddle boosts the core stats, and the hooded stirrups improve acceleration, allowing the horse to reach its maximum speed almost instantly.
• Accessibility: Although the Norfolk Roadster is tied to the Moonshiner role, the requirement of reaching level 20 is achievable through consistent gameplay. While it requires some effort, it makes it more accessible than other high-tier horses that may only be found as wild spawns.
• Practicality: Unlike other horses with high top speed, the Norfolk Roadster is not easily spooked. It has decent stamina and health, making it a well-rounded option for various activities, not just racing or traveling. This means it does not need an extensive bonding to be reliable under pressure, unlike some other horses that require max bonding.

Other Fast Contenders

While the Norfolk Roadster stands at the top for role horses, it’s worth mentioning other noteworthy horses that excel in speed:

• Missouri Fox Trotter: Often cited as one of the fastest horses overall, the Missouri Fox Trotter, when fully upgraded, can reach impressive speeds. However, it slightly falls behind the Norfolk Roadster with top equipment. Though not a role-specific horse, it does have a high base level and can rival other top horses.
• Arabian Horses: Known for their excellent speed and acceleration, the Arabian breed is also a strong contender. The Rose Gray Bay variant is often mentioned as a top choice for overall speed; it has high stats for health, stamina, speed and acceleration. However, the higher acceleration of the Naco saddle and hooded stirrups when combined with the Norfolk Roadsters overall speed gives that horse the edge.
• Turkoman: These are slightly slower than the others but are known for their bravery and impressive health and stamina. It’s not as fast as the Roadster or the Missouri Fox Trotter, but it’s a dependable horse that’s good for combat. This makes it a more well-rounded choice if speed isn’t your only priority.

These horses each have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Turkoman excels in combat, while the Arabian is known for its maneuverability and responsiveness. However, for pure, unadulterated speed, the Norfolk Roadster, particularly when paired with the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups, emerges as the superior choice in the context of role horses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the Missouri Fox Trotter still a good horse in RDO?

Yes, absolutely! While the Norfolk Roadster takes the crown for absolute top speed with optimal gear, the Missouri Fox Trotter remains a top-tier horse with excellent speed and stamina. It’s a fantastic all-around choice, especially if you’re not looking to max out a specific role horse.

2. How do I unlock the Norfolk Roadster?

You unlock the Norfolk Roadster by progressing through the Moonshiner role in RDO. You need to reach Moonshiner level 20 to purchase it.

3. What is the best saddle and stirrups for the Norfolk Roadster?

The best combination is the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups. These items offer the greatest boosts to speed and acceleration, maximizing the horse’s performance.

4. Can I use the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups on other horses?

Yes, you can use the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups on other horses, but they won’t provide the same level of performance as on the Norfolk Roadster, which seems to be the most enhanced horse in the game when using this setup.

5. Is the Arabian horse still worth buying in RDO?

Yes, the Arabian horse is still a great horse to have. It has high base stats across all areas, and whilst it may not be the top fastest, it is still a fantastic all round horse and performs well with its top-tier stats.

6. Are there any faster horses in RDO than the Norfolk Roadster with the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups?

Currently, based on player testing and analysis, no other horse in Red Dead Online can achieve higher speed and acceleration numbers when equipped with the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups. The combination is the most effective.

7. Do horse breeds matter more than equipment?

Both horse breeds and equipment are essential. A great breed without proper equipment won’t reach its full potential, and vice versa. The best results come from choosing the right breed and pairing it with the best gear.

8. How can I improve my horse’s stamina in RDO?

You can improve your horse’s stamina by bonding with it, using horse care items (such as horse revivers and food), and using the right saddle and stirrups. Also, avoid constantly galloping at full speed, as this will deplete stamina quickly.

9. Are there any horses that are brave in RDO?

Yes, certain breeds are known for their bravery, such as the Ardennes and Breton. These breeds are less likely to spook during combat or when facing predators. A fully bonded and confident horse will be braver overall.

10. Can I lose my horse in RDO?

No, your horse cannot permanently die in Red Dead Online. If your horse’s health reaches zero it will become incapacitated for a short period, after which time it can be revived using a horse reviver, or will be revived automatically. If you have insurance for it, your horse will be revived instantly with full health.

11. How do I bond with my horse in RDO?

Bond with your horse through regular actions such as feeding it, patting it, grooming it, and riding it. The more time you spend with your horse, the higher your bond will increase. A higher bond increases your horse’s health, stamina, and handling.

12. Are wild horses worth taming in RDO?

Wild horses generally have lower stats than those bought from stables. While you can find them in the wild, it’s often more efficient to purchase a horse with the specific stats and traits you need from a stable.

13. Can I have multiple horses in RDO?

Yes, you can own up to 10 horses in RDO, which is increased with the purchase of the stable upgrade.

14. What’s the best horse for a beginner in RDO?

A good starter horse includes the American Standardbred or Kentucky Saddler. These are relatively inexpensive and good enough to get around and participate in activities. It’s best to save up for a better horse like a Missouri Fox Trotter as soon as possible.

15. Does the time of day affect horse stats?

No, the time of day does not affect horse stats. Horse stats are consistent regardless of the time or weather conditions.

Conclusion

In the pursuit of pure speed in Red Dead Online, the Norfolk Roadster, unlocked through the Moonshiner role, emerges as the fastest option when fully upgraded with the Naco Saddle and Hooded Stirrups. While other horses may have their own unique strengths, the Norfolk Roadster is the reigning champion for raw velocity, ensuring you can traverse the Wild West with unmatched speed. Equip your trusty steed, and may your journeys be swift!