Siegfried
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Review: 42060 Roadwork Crew
Name: Roadwork Crew
Number: 42060
Theme: Technic
Year: 2017
Pieces: 365
Price: $29.99 USD, Euro 19.99€, AUD $39.99
Brickset: Extra InfoTechnic Early 2017 Review Series
Welcome to the sixth in my batch of 2017 Technic reviews! I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process. Due to this remember that I'm happy to take extra photos or provide extra info on request, and anything especially good will be added to the main body of the review. Do note though that sometimes the model may no longer exist if I have have made an alternate. On the subject of alternates, I will be making the alt model, if I have the instructions, think the model is worth making, and I have the time. Also I'll show mid stage construction only if I think it's relevant. Thus don't ask for construction photos or alt models if they aren't part of the review.... I am prepared to extract parts for detail photos though. Photos will all be hosted on Flickr so larger versions are available, and relevant videos will be on YouTube and linked to from here. I will try to not be repetitive; thus it's worth reading the other reviews. For example I'm not going to complain too much about the digital instructions.
Here's all the other reviews of H1 2017 Technic...
42057 Ultralight Helicopter
42058 Stunt Bike
42059 Stunt Truck (and 45058/42059 Combiner)
42060 Roadwork Crew
42061 Telehandler
42062 Container Yard
42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
42064 Ocean Explorer
42065 Tracked RacerMucho multi thanks to the EB LUG Ambassador CopMike and the LEGO CEE Team and Designers for allowing me to review these sets for Eurobricks. So onto the review!
Packaging
Front....
...back....
...top.
Unboxing
Standard punch box. Instructions were loose, build is segmented so the 1 bags are for the truck, the 2 bags are for the trailer and digger. Both models have included instructions, covers are of slightly better quality to the pages themselves.
1 Bags...
... and 2 Bag.
It is a good mixture of parts, especially in orange, and new parts being the 40th anniversary 3 beam...
...this new opportunity creating connector...
...these odd parts...
...and the wonderful new worm gear. I unfortunately don't have the other new worm gear, so I'm curious of any opinions and comparisons.
Parts list.
Random instruction page.
Build
It's done! OK, maybe I should back track a bit.
The 1 bags build this truck...
...with these being the spares.
Bag 2 make the trailer...
...and the digger...
...with these being the spares.
Combined Spare parts.
The anniversary part is on the bottom of the trailer.
Before I start discussing, it's best to watch a video demonstrating the functions..
I find these models odd. The digger uses one of my most disliked buckets and uses it's click joint as a function... if it was for the fact that the scale is too small I'd almost be confusing it as a city set... OK, that's going too far, but I do wonder (aside from filling a price point) what is the intention of TLG with these sets. The inclusion of the minifig tools almost makes me think they are trying to bridge Technic and City...
...but they seem too small to me, and the digger isn't too pleasant looking either.
Mini Gritter with Plow (B Model)
I was curious of this model as I thought it seemed more interesting than the main model.
While it does use most of the parts thankfully the bucket is ignored. (The other click joint part is used as a brush.)
I think the functions are better than the A model, and here's a video!
I love the more complicated tipper mechanism; due to the worm gear this can lock at any position. The steering works well too.
I also like how the tracks are used as a conveyor. It makes a good usage counterpoint to the main model. They are geared to be manually turned unfortunately; linked to the wheels would have been more interesting.
The anniversary part is better placed too. (The tan pins are used as a simple steering limiter.)
Almost walrus compatible too.
Ratings
Function:
The A model I didn't really like; the steering is average, the tray tipper design has been done a lot, and the digger has overly simplistic arm controls. However I was more pleased with the steering on the Gritter and was impressed by the tipper. Putting those two designs together makes this set an excellent example of steering and tipping. 8/10
Parts:
The set is a very good collection of parts for the set size. 9/10
Price:
It's OK value, but nothing special. 8/10
Accuracy:
The main model isn't too consistent IMHO. The truck is accurate enough, which highlights how the digger is overly ambitious considering the scale, and the trailer is very weak. Personally I think making the digger go in the back of the truck would have worked out better, especially since the main box shot doesn't show the trailer anyway. As for the B model, as an Australian I don't know much about gritters, but a quick web search found a few similar ones. 6/10
Fudge:
Small sets are a challenge to fit in good varied and interesting functions. I think this set has done well all things considered.7/10
Overall:
It's a good small set, with some interesting engineering examples. 7/10
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1 hour ago, Jim said:Done!
Thanks!
1 hour ago, Siegfried said:I'm a bit unsure what he meant, but yeah, that's how it is. I'll make a video...
Done!
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On 26/01/2017 at 8:20 AM, Blakbird said:I know, but it is still a reasonable approximation given the constraints of the parts.
Yeah, a true boxer in this size would be hard.
On 26/01/2017 at 8:21 AM, legolijntje said:This is about the only 1H 2017 set that I'd really like to buy. The other sets are kinda meh, just some nice parts packs here and there.
Sadly I mostly agree. I haven't assembled the plane or the boat yet. From what I know about the boat I think is a bit meh, but I can't tell yet about the plane.
On 26/01/2017 at 10:45 AM, BrickByBrick Official said:Along with the rest of the sets, will you be reviewing b-models as well?
Mostly. I'm halfway through the 42060 and 42061, and I'm building both models for those. I plan to build both planes. Not sure about the boat or the container transporter. But things change; I never planned to make the alt model for this....
21 hours ago, vectormatic said:Im slightly disappointed at the price though, €55 where-as 42039 and 42007 were €40 and €30 respectively, ive got a hard time justifying the added cost purely with the monoshock front and details, given that some of the detailing is off... (or in the case of the paniers, i dont really care for them)
I think considering the design work it's a good deal. On parts alone it's not as clear.
10 hours ago, Jim said:I would love to give you the Technic tag, but the currently limits the number of tags.
Feel free to replace the robot!
10 hours ago, Horace T said:Do those boxes really open?
Yeah. The side ones you push in from the back, the back has a turny handle. I might add a video...
11 hours ago, Attika said:With all due respect actually it does. There is a 2 stud long "telescopic" travel on the top of the forks on the 9L axles, therefore the handlebar is independent from the forks. It is right in the level of the mudguard, easy to miss on the pics.
I'm a bit unsure what he meant, but yeah, that's how it is. I'll make a video...
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Review: 42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
Name: BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
Number: 42063
Theme: Technic
Year: 2017
Pieces: 603
Price: Euro 49.99€, AUD $89.99
Brickset: Extra InfoTechnic Early 2017 Review Series
Welcome to the fifth in my batch of 2017 Technic reviews! I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process. Due to this remember that I'm happy to take extra photos or provide extra info on request, and anything especially good will be added to the main body of the review. Do note though that sometimes the model may no longer exist if I have have made an alternate. On the subject of alternates, I will be making the alt model, if I have the instructions, think the model is worth making, and I have the time. Also I'll show mid stage construction only if I think it's relevant. Thus don't ask for construction photos or alt models if they aren't part of the review.... I am prepared to extract parts for detail photos though. Photos will all be hosted on Flickr so larger versions are available, and relevant videos will be on YouTube and linked to from here. I don't edit photos much; very rarely I'll crop one and almost never will "correct" them so the photos should be as natural as possible. I will try to not be repetitive; thus it's worth reading my other reviews. For example I'm not going to complain too much about the digital instructions; I'll try to complain about new things, or maybe not complain at all!
Here's all the other reviews of H1 2017 Technic...
42057 Ultralight Helicopter
42058 Stunt Bike
42059 Stunt Truck (and 45058/42059 Combiner)
42060 Roadwork Crew
42061 Telehandler
42062 Container Yard
42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
42064 Ocean Explorer
42065 Tracked RacerMucho multi thanks to the EB LUG Ambassador CopMike and the LEGO CEE Team and Designers for allowing me to review these sets for Eurobricks. So onto the review!
Packaging
Front....
...back....
...top.
The combiner is interesting in this one so I did make it.
Unboxing
Standard punch box. Instructions and wheels were loose.
Instructions are provided for both models, and the quality is excellent with thick bound covers.
The build is not sectioned. Aside from the anniversary piece there isn't anything new here, but the panels used for the side and the windscreen are new colours, and more importantly the wheels are in black at last.
Parts list.
Random instruction page.
Build
This is the lower frame with the engine and driveshaft joined. This is the bottom of the bike; the anniversary piece and the central gear are viewable in the finished model.
It's done!
Spare parts.
This 600 part set, vs the 250 part 42007 (orange bike), but obviously it's not that much bigger. ('cos it's got the same wheels.) All those parts are just to make the bike better! (Black bike is a MOC. Not being reviewed.)
Ahhhgh! Someone dropped my bike! While it's down you can see the frame shown earlier. The gear is there partially so you can spin the drivetrain, although it is functional as well. (Be careful to pick it up with your legs not your arms; these things weigh around 250kg.)
Unflattering cam. Even with the extra parts it still suffers the curse of most Technic bikes; near transparency. Doesn't bother me, but it's a common complaint. What does however bother me is the exhaust; it's on the rear swingarm and is thus suspended. This was probably a compromise due to the already complicated rear, but it's just weird. (And incorrect.) The front suspension is mostly correct; telelever or something close anyway. What am I on about? OK....
..look here. Most motorcycles have a shock either side of the front wheel, but many (not all) BMW ones have what they call Telelever, which put simply is a variant of double wishbone suspension. It has many advantages on paper but this discussion is beyond the scope of this review.
Now look here! I'm no expert (not modesty!) but it's in the ballpark. The first time in an official set I believe.
OK, let's put the stickers on now... on a side note I find it funny how the designers needed to widen the cylinder head to give it the correct BMW look that causes so many debates about leanability... but I digress again.
Each box gets branded, but the model doesn't use the stickers for shape or even panel blending. You can also see here how relatively compact the shaft drive is. (First time in a set also?) Lack of rear brakes is disappointing though.
No controls this time. The Technic front fairing is simple but it works well IMHO; these kind of fairings are rather hard to do well. (I cheated and used system on my own MOC.)
Going nowhere fast it seems.
The boxes come off without too much damage... which highlights that the rear suspension needs better pre-load adjustment (haw, haw, haw) as it's really not strong enough for this model unless it's going luggage free. (I think it's OK in the front.) Maybe it's time LEGO made a really hard spring...
To my surprise they open too, which took some creative pin usage.
Functional video.
Future Bike Concept (B Model)
Well for a start, it gets full points for building something very different in a licensed model! To be honest I didn't want to make this, but....
...I then saw how nice the presentation of it was in the instructions. So I ended up making this first.
It uses most of the parts...
...and even gets it's own sticker! (The un-used one.) I didn't realise this until I finished the A model. On a related but negative note, it assumes you have not used the stickers yet, but I don't think it would look bad if you had already applied them
The functions are a rotating and angling rear thruster, steering vanes and folding wings. It's best to watch a video.
While I do think it's a cool model with decent functionality... I just don't get it. Internal combustion engine in a flying bike? That kinda negates the possibility of Star Trek style tech so how does it take off? The thruster is too far back....
Nor does it lift enough to be an effective force in forward flight.
Looking at the art and the front I suspect they wanted to work in the second wheel, but ran out of parts. The steering vanes are pretty cool though.
The landing function is good however.
The stand makes heavy usage of the pannier parts, which leaves me wondering if the panniers were added to make the B Model better! (I'm out of stuff to say about the B model, but there's plenty more photos on Flickr.)
Ratings
Function:
BMW bikes are a good choice for LEGO as they are very different and give a chance to make a different model. (I hope though that they'll do other licenses.) As bikes go this is an excellent set, adding panniers and an interesting B model pushes this set to top gear. 10/10
Parts:
A good blend of parts, although the panniers are not terrible exciting. 9/10
Price:
Yeah, it's more expensive than I'd like, but it's licensed and would have taken a lot of work. 8/10
Accuracy:
Ignoring the B model, the only flaw is the exhaust placement. 9/10
Fudge:
Motorbikes + Technic? What a winning combination. 10/10
Overall:
Ride out and get one! 9/10
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On 10/01/2017 at 0:43 AM, Cwetqo said:So, 42065 has updated V1 receiver. Do we know it's characteristics?
Thanks for that info... I however don't know how it's improved.
On 10/01/2017 at 0:51 PM, Saberwing40k said:Great review, but it's still a very boring set. Now, I'm not saying that having a fast motorized set is a bad thing, but could they have at least included some gears, or even some primitive kind of suspension?
Yeah, I'll have to make the B model; that has suspension. In my experience though simple suspension generally is unreliable; with 8275 for example they tend to rotate.
On 16/01/2017 at 8:39 PM, Lasse D said:I will look into how to add gears for a more interesting model, as I'm planning on adding differential drive.
It turns out that using L-motors doesn't really add much to the set. I have made a separate video to show this ("Lasse Deleuran" on youtube).
Your videos are excellent! I'll have to give the diff version a go!
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Review: 42059 Stunt Truck
Name: Stunt Truck
Number: 42059
Theme: Technic
Year: 2017
Pieces: 142
Price: USD $19.99, Euro 19.99€, AUD $32.99
Brickset: Extra InfoTechnic Early 2017 Review Series
Welcome to the fourth in my batch of 2017 Technic reviews! I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process. Due to this remember that I'm happy to take extra photos or provide extra info on request, and anything especially good will be added to the main body of the review. Do note though that sometimes the model may no longer exist if I have have made an alternate. On the subject of alternates, I will be making the alt model, if I have the instructions, think the model is worth making, and I have the time. Also I'll show mid stage construction only if I think it's relevant. Thus don't ask for construction photos or alt models if they aren't part of the review.... I am prepared to extract parts for detail photos though. Photos will all be hosted on Flickr so larger versions are available, and relevant videos will be on YouTube and linked to from here. I don't edit photos much; very rarely I'll crop one and almost never will "correct" them so the photos should be as natural as possible. I will try to not be repetitive; thus it's worth reading my other reviews. For example I'm not going to complain too much about the digital instructions; I'll try to complain about new things, or maybe not complain at all!
Here's all the other reviews of H1 2017 Technic...
42057 Ultralight Helicopter
42058 Stunt Bike
42059 Stunt Truck (and 45058/42059 Combiner)
42060 Roadwork Crew
42061 Telehandler
42062 Container Yard
42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
42064 Ocean Explorer
42065 Tracked RacerMucho multi thanks to the EB LUG Ambassador CopMike and the LEGO CEE Team and Designers for allowing me to review these sets for Eurobricks. So onto the review!
Packaging
Front....
...back....
...top.
Unboxing
Standard punch box. Only one instruction book and it's staple bound without a substantial cover. Secondary model has instructions online only.
The build is not sectioned... OK it is sorta. There's a "1" bag... and another. So in short, it's not. The panels in "Medium azure" and pullback motor are slightly special, with the ramp and the...
...the anniversary part being slightly more special than those.
Parts list.
Random instruction page.
Build
It's done!
Spare parts.
Power is directly applied to the rear wheel. No gearing or any other functions are in this model.
The ramp is a custom colour with a wheel pattern that matches the respective vehicle and has rubber feet to help it grip rather than slip.
You can see the anniversary part here on the top.
Action video!
The stickers are quite effective in this set as they help blend the colours.
Power Racer (Combiner)
I was considering making this into a separate review, but ultimately I don't have much to say about these sets, so I think it's more fair to include it here. (Do note though that I don't count this model when rating the set.) I made it after the main sets so I don't have photos without the stickers.
I believe these are the spare parts. There could be some missing.... one of our resident cats slept here (hair left as evidence) and left me with doubts.
I did think this part of the build was cool, in that it took advantage of the 45 degree cutouts to increase robustness.
Overall I liked the look of this model. It reminded me of some the the early studless Technic models. The stickers worked well, even though one is upside down (correctly placed, it's just designed for the A model), and the colours blend well, which is impressive since there isn't always an even pairing of parts.
Both of the anniversary parts are used, but only one is visible.
Quick action video!
Longer action video! Since I won't be rating the combiner, I will make a quick comment that I was impressed with how well it handled; when aimed well it was fast and jumped high.
Ratings
Function:
Technic fans probably should look elsewhere. 2/10
Parts:
The highlight really is the "Medium azure" 6/10
Price:
The Australian price of this set seems rather high IMHO. 6/10
Accuracy:
Considering the limited parts it's not a horrid truck model. 6/10
Fudge:
Pullback cars aren't really my thing. But it's a good kit for experimenting with them. 6/10
Overall:
It's the better deal of the pullbacks, but even so, there's better Technic for less money 5/10
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Review: 42058 Stunt Bike
Name: Stunt Bike
Number: 42058
Theme: Technic
Year: 2017
Pieces: 140
Price: USD $19.99, Euro 19.99€, AUD $32.99
Brickset: Extra InfoTechnic Early 2017 Review Series
Welcome to the third in my batch of 2017 Technic reviews! I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process. Due to this remember that I'm happy to take extra photos or provide extra info on request, and anything especially good will be added to the main body of the review. Do note though that sometimes the model may no longer exist if I have have made an alternate. On the subject of alternates, I will be making the alt model, if I have the instructions, think the model is worth making, and I have the time. Also I'll show mid stage construction only if I think it's relevant. Thus don't ask for construction photos or alt models if they aren't part of the review.... I am prepared to extract parts for detail photos though. Photos will all be hosted on Flickr so larger versions are available, and relevant videos will be on YouTube and linked to from here. I don't edit photos much; very rarely I'll crop one and almost never will "correct" them so the photos should be as natural as possible. I will try to not be repetitive; thus it's worth reading my other reviews. For example I'm not going to complain too much about the digital instructions; I'll try to complain about new things, or maybe not complain at all!
Here's all the other reviews of H1 2017 Technic...
42057 Ultralight Helicopter
42058 Stunt Bike
42059 Stunt Truck (and 45058/42059 Combiner)
42060 Roadwork Crew
42061 Telehandler
42062 Container Yard
42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
42064 Ocean Explorer
42065 Tracked RacerMucho multi thanks to the EB LUG Ambassador CopMike and the LEGO CEE Team and Designers for allowing me to review these sets for Eurobricks. So onto the review!
Packaging
Front....
...back....
...top.
Unboxing
Standard punch box. Only one instruction book and it's staple bound without a substantial cover. Secondary model has instructions online only; I'll be making this soon.
The build is not sectioned. The yellow bionicle tooth and pullback motor are slightly special, with the ramp and the...
...the anniversary part being slightly more special than those.
Parts list.
Random instruction page.
Build
It's done!
Spare parts.
For better or worse (spoiler: probably worse) the pull back motor has a geared drive train. Since this offers no mechanical advantage it really just adds style... and friction.
The ramp is a custom colour and has rubber feet to help it grip rather than slip.
You can see the anniversary part here on the bottom.
Action video!
Bonus action video!
Adding stickers doesn't really change the look that much IMHO but I will say there seems to be a common theme with the "companies" this year. I wonder what "CHEQ-URED" sell?
Ratings
Function:
Well really this is a Racer with a pointless gear link. But it gets an extra mark for the gear link. 3/10
Parts:
Not much special so if you're short on small wheels, small gears, paper ramps or pullback motors it's a good set. 4/10
Price:
The Australian price of this set seems rather high IMHO. 5/10
Accuracy:
Well.... Clearly it looks like no bike. (Yeah, that's a challenge.) It also would be horrid for stunts. (Better for drag racing.) But as square bikes go it's pretty cool. 4/10
Fudge:
Pullback cars aren't really my thing. If they are your thing then you'd probably see the worth in this 6/10
Overall:
Meh. Loads better Technic for less money 4/10
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On 31/12/2016 at 11:07 AM, Huaojozu said:So I built packs 6 and 7 and stopped after attaching the battery to test it out. The scooping function works for a second or two, then stops. If I push on the bucket, it will restart, keep going for another second and stop again. I can't figure out if I messed up somewhere during the building process or if I missing something somewhere - anyone else with the same problem?
I think it's been said before but a common mistake (I made it) is to not ensure that the gear quarters are aligned. They seem to be not perfect circles and thus if don't align them the wheel goes from a bad circle that matches on both sides to a bad circle that doesn't. Thus increasing friction massively.
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6 hours ago, JGW3000 said:I am assuming that an Sbrick will fit in just fine, has anyone tried controlling 42065 with Sbrick?
Yeah, I gave it a quick go and it worked.
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8 minutes ago, brunojj1 said:What does he say? Please quote such relevant information here since not everybody likes to use Fakeboost or something. Thanks in advance!
Well I did give one of this new-fangled links (and no; don't need to sign up), but to save you the time;
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The set uses "updated V1"s. Supposedly the V2s have smoothness issues. That's what the designer says on his FaceBook page...
16 hours ago, mattthewise said:Two of the 2-long axles and red spacers left over go in the remote to make "joysticks".
Ahh! Silly me; I tend to just re-use one...
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Just now, nguyengiangoc said:I hereby formally summon the designer, Mr. Milan Reindl, @grohl
Well I wasn't going to ask him directly, but since you've done it. I am curious... 
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Review: 42065 RC Tracked Racer
Name: RC Tracked Racer
Number: 42065
Theme: Technic
Year: 2017
Pieces: 319
Price: USD $??.99, Euro 79.99€, AUD $119.99
Brickset: Extra InfoTechnic Early 2017 Review Series
Welcome to the second in my batch of 2017 Technic reviews! I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process. Due to this remember that I'm happy to take extra photos or provide extra info on request, and anything especially good will be added to the main body of the review. Do note though that sometimes the model may no longer exist if I have have made an alternate. On the subject of alternates, I will be making the alt model, if I have the instructions, think the model is worth making, and I have the time. Also I'll show mid stage construction only if I think it's relevant. Thus don't ask for construction photos or alt models if they aren't part of the review.... I am prepared to extract parts for detail photos though. Photos will all be hosted on Flickr so larger versions are available, and relevant videos will be on YouTube and linked to from here. I don't edit photos much; very rarely I'll crop one and almost never will "correct" them so the photos should be as natural as possible. I will try to not be repetitive; thus it's worth reading my other reviews. For example I'm not going to complain too much about the digital instructions; I'll try to complain about new things, or maybe not complain at all!
Here's all the other reviews of H1 2017 Technic...
42057 Ultralight Helicopter
42058 Stunt Bike
42059 Stunt Truck (and 45058/42059 Combiner)
42060 Roadwork Crew
42061 Telehandler
42062 Container Yard
42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
42064 Ocean Explorer
42065 Tracked RacerMucho multi thanks to the EB LUG Ambassador CopMike and the LEGO CEE Team and Designers for allowing me to review these sets for Eurobricks. So onto the review!
Packaging
Front....
...back....
...top.
Unboxing
Standard punch box. Only one instruction book and it's staple bound. Secondary model has instructions online only, at this stage it is not there. Not a big fan of the whole on-line instructions system. There seems to always be a delay in the release of the secondary model, and the app does not support all devices. For example my Xperia Z5 is not compatible, but my Xperia Z Ultra (older but larger screen, but a phone, not a tablet) is not.
The build is not sectioned. In hindsight I probably should have left the tracks bagged for this photo. The special parts being....
...the anniversary part....
...and the recolour of the track sprockets (If I'm missing any please tell me!).
Parts list.
Random instruction page.
Build
It's done!
Spare parts.
The model opens up nicely to reveal easy access to the battery box top...
...and bottom. As a result you don't even need to remove it to replace batteries; you can just slip off the covers. Oddly though there is no way to clip down the body; it's held in place by gravity only.
You can see the anniversary part here at the rear.
Inside there isn't much; the motors are directly linked to the sprockets...
...and aside from the benefits tracks give, there is no suspension.
Since this is a Remote Controlled Racer by name, I decided to make some videos highlighting its capabilities.
Adding the stickers does help blend the panels together. On the subject of aesthetics, the "antenna" is an interesting addition. Since it's not really a RF car it has no purpose except making it look like one... thus does this make the set a model of a non-LEGO RF tracked model, or is it deliberate deception? I should ask the designer I suppose...
No "Octan" sticker to my disappointment. Only companies like "Roaring Motors", "Fat Tyres", "Acelle Rate"...
Ratings
Function:
It does what's on the tin... but pure motor vehicles I do have trouble seeing as "Technic". Afterall, back in 2008 there was a Mars Mission model that was designed to be motorised and mechanically was much the same; the same motors directly driving the sprockets. Sets like this would have normally been grouped in the "Racers" line. 4/10
Parts:
Once again, it's as advertised. There's pretty much little functional Technic, but it is a RC Track Vehicle so faulting that isn't fair. 9/10
Price:
$119.99 AUD for 319 parts seems rather bad, but in reality the value is very high due to the motors; individually the Power Functions cost $95 AUD. 10/10
Accuracy:
I could fault the asymmetrical motor placement, but I think the design is intentional to reduce width and increase balance. Which is arguably an accurate decision since this actually has to move, which it does very well. 9/10
Fudge:
What we have here is the ultimate design-your-own-RC-tracked-vehicle set. Technic it may not be, but it is pretty cool. 5/10
Overall:
Buy! 7/10
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On 07/01/2017 at 2:10 PM, Saberwing40k said:Nice review, although some of the pictures are a little dark. Not enough to really impair viewability, but is certainly noticeable. It's something that could be better is all.
Yeah, I agree. As I said...
On 05/01/2017 at 4:43 PM, Siegfried said:I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process.
...and this was one of the issues I decided I wasn't happy with so I decided to re-arrange my room to take better photos of larger objects and not care if I was late. Originally I was only being given the smaller sets which I was going to photograph in a light box I bought recently as it enabled me to take photos faster. Ultimately I've decided I don't really like it that much (it doesn't really help as I still need good lighting) but those photos of the alt model and some of the parts were already taken. A greater percentage of the photos in the latter reviews I'm happy with...
Thanks though for the feedback!
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Review: 42057 Ultralight Helicopter
Name: Ultralight Helicopter
Number: 42057
Theme: Technic
Year: 2017
Pieces: 199
Price: USD $19.99, Euro 14.99€, AUD $29.99
Brickset:Extra InfoTechnic Early 2017 Review Series
Welcome to the first in my batch of 2017 Technic reviews! I was offered all the small sets early 2017 for review late last year... but I ended up getting them all! Thus I have a lot to review. I've been doing them in parallel and changing my process as I go so hopefully the latter ones will end up being the best. On that angle I'll probably retcon some of the earlier reviews if I improve my process. Due to this remember that I'm happy to take extra photos or provide extra info on request, and anything especially good will be added to the main body of the review. Do note though that sometimes the model may no longer exist if I have have made an alternate. On the subject of alternates, I will be making the alt model, if I have the instructions, think the model is worth making, and I have the time. Also I'll show mid stage construction only if I think it's relevant. Thus don't ask for construction photos or alt models if they aren't part of the review.... I am prepared to extract parts for detail photos though. Photos will all be hosted on Flickr so larger versions are available, and relevant videos will be on YouTube and linked to from here. I don't edit photos much; very rarely I'll crop one and almost never will "correct" them so the photos should be as natural as possible. I will try to not be repetitive; thus it's worth reading my other reviews. For example I'm not going to complain too much about the digital instructions; I'll try to complain about new things, or maybe not complain at all!
Here's all the other reviews of H1 2017 Technic...
42057 Ultralight Helicopter
42058 Stunt Bike
42059 Stunt Truck (and 45058/42059 Combiner)
42060 Roadwork Crew
42061 Telehandler
42062 Container Yard
42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
42064 Ocean Explorer
42065 Tracked RacerMucho multi thanks to the EB LUG Ambassador CopMike and the LEGO CEE Team and Designers for allowing me to review these sets for Eurobricks. So onto the review!
Packaging
Front....
...back....
...top. I find it odd that the 40th anniversary promotion is on the top, not the front, but I'm not in marketing! I also think it's misleading the
"+ beam" claim as it's NOT a plus, it's part of the model, and often structural. (From what I've seen so far it's always visible.)Unboxing
Standard punch box. Surprisingly there are two books; one for the alternative model. Staple bound, the main model has a better cover. Loads of stickers; all panels get one.
The build is not sectioned, but it's not really that big a model.
Quite a decent variety of parts, the special parts being....
..the anniversary part....
...this connector, which seems to be new this year...
...and this recolour. (If I'm missing any please tell me!)
Parts list.
Build
It's done! First things first, it's not a helicopter, it's a gyrocopter. Not sure why LEGO would pick the wrong name, perhaps to avoid confusion, but it does annoy me. (Grrrr.) But I'll pick more on that kind of stuff later.
Spare parts.
Side view highlights the rudder control and the inline engine...
...which fits in very neatly.
The anniversary parts is used as part of the rudder control...
...which probably deflects enough to be functional.
The other control surfaces are static.
The cockpit isn't really designed for a walrus.
Underneath you can spin the rotor and propeller and make sounds to your hearts content.
Adding the stickers does make the model look a bit more exciting, but I do think a more exciting colour would have made more sense here... but considering the rest of the line the year white isn't overused.
The overall model is rather small, but it is a low price point.
Build (Alternate)
The alternate build is an "Experimental Aircraft".
It looks Burt Rutan-ish to me....
...but it doesn't use much of the parts. (Hair is not part of the set.)
The cockpit is very squeezy....
...and it has a flat engine.
You can see the anniversary part here.
Ratings
Function:
Really I think a set this small could have got away with just the rotor, adding the rudder, and having the alternate use a flat engine instead of an inline is excellent as well. 8/10
Parts:
Nothing too exciting, but it's a very good blend and is a good source for some of the new connectors. 8/10
Price:
$29.99 AUD (19.99 USD) for 199 parts is good value considering the size of the set, the full set of printed instructions, and the variety of parts. 9/10
Accuracy:
If I rated this as a helicopter I'd give it 0/10.... but I'm not that mean. But even as a Gyrocopter it's wrong; the main blade is supposed to be free spinning. Some you can give a rolling start, but they are not powered, and this model gives the wrong impression. Also the blade is way too short.... 4/10
Fudge:
This is an excellent set for someone starting out in Technic, and a good parts pack for others. 8/10
Overall:
Buy! 7/10
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Just now, Peppermint_M said:But it still gives me an early morning chuckle when I log in and check if I won.
My work here is done!
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22 minutes ago, Andy D said:Am I the only one who just got it? Oh, the huge manatee! Maybe CopMike is hinting that we are getting a crashing air ship.
Andy D
Sorry to be a party pooper, but I picked the image. I used it last year too for a shorter period. Analysing its meaning is rather pointless...
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3 hours ago, dr_spock said:There are multiple winners each day. It's been the way it works for many previous Xmas raffles. Good luck.
Indeed; there are even links (most work I think...) to previous calendars in the footer.
3 hours ago, dr_spock said:I'd rather win a huge LEGO Fabuland Walrus.
Yeah, me too...
(His head is a nice brown too...)
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7 hours ago, mediumsnowman said:Of course two staff members win on the first day. Classic.
I didn't win last year...
But I won this year!
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Due to an odd mix up the calendar will be temporally hosted here...
Should be fixed in a few days.
FIXED!
Go here now;
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On 23/10/2016 at 11:24 PM, The lego fan said:Yep!
Mice moc!
On 22/10/2016 at 7:44 PM, The lego fan said:Nice!
Please don't bump topics that have been dead for 8 years for such a unimportant reply...
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So the only real job for transmission is to change the frequency of the grinding sounds.
Yeah, covering up the engine is just silly. This could be the first flagship I've missed since 8070... -
I can guarantee you that NOBODY dictates the way fansites review products. Only in one case (Hoth Assault) they sent some "key advantages" but even there nobody was asked to sahep their review because of it.
Indeed. I've done some rather harsh reviews in the past without complaint. I'd be very against us doing reviews if it was not the case.
[REVIEW] 42063 BMW R 1200 GS Adventure
in LEGO Technic, Mindstorms, Model Team and Scale Modeling
Posted
...OK, point taken. Let me clarify what I meant then!
Yeah, without creating new pieces a true boxer in this size would be hard.
However I do agree 100% that TLG should make new engine parts. They don't seem too interested in that though,
Nice build!
Well boxes are 100% required if you want to use your bike as tool, not a toy. It's how I get to LEGO shows...