Posted by FlagsNZ, 06 Aug 2022 07:00 View image at Flickr
22342 ViewsIn a series of reviews for this year's LEGO City train sets, I first look at 60337 Express Passenger Train.
It has been four years since the release of the last series of City trains. Read on to see whether this one is a welcome inclusion into this popular theme.
60337 Express Passenger Train, 764 pieces.
£139.99 / $189.99 / €159.99 | 18.3p/24.9c/20.9c per piece.
Buy at LEGO.com »
A brightly coloured, welcome return to the ever expanding LEGO City train network.
This set comes in a reasonably large box. There is a shutout to the Powered Up system, and Powered Up lights are included with this set.
There is a small suburban train platform and enough track to make a simple loop.
The instructions (and sticker sheet) come in one sealed bag.
The instructions are divided up into four booklets
There is one sticker sheet with the usual set of stickers found on LEGO train sets.
The 763 parts for this set come in seven numbered bags.
The Powered Up parts and specialist train parts come in two perforated bags.
The track sections and the engine chassis come loose in the box.
The primary colour of the Express Passenger Train is Bright Yellowish Green (BrickLink: Lime).
Several parts in this colour have been seen in only a few sets. There are parts in this colour seen for the first time:
Other parts seen in new colours for the first time:
Despite being released in 2018, this is the first set to include the Powered Up lighting (Cable Light No. 2).
The LED light fits into a Technic hole, and the cable can be clipped onto a Technic pin.
There are six Minifigures in this set:
The torso and pink hair of the woman with a briefcase are new in this set.
The dark azure backpack seen on the young man in a wheelchair is a new part.
The Dark Turquoise uniforms of the City Train employees are new for 2022 and seen in this set and 60335 Train Station, both released this year.
The female City Train employee, the teenager with a laptop, and the woman with a briefcase have alternate face prints.
Building the Express Passenger Train is divided into four distinct sub-builds:
The small suburban platform is assembled with the parts from Bag 1.
The platform has ramp access, so the cyclist has easily ridden up to the platform.
The Bright Reddish Violet (BrickLink: Magenta) cycle has only been seen in four sets.
It has brick-built Flame Yellowish Orange pannier bags.
The chassis of the engine is built using the parts from Bag 2.
A closer view of the Powered Up lighting with the two black Front 4x6x1 parts removed.
The engine is complete using parts from Bag 3. The nose of the Express Train is fully brick-built.
The Powered Up hub lifts out easily, giving you easy access to the battery box. Pressing down on the Dark Green 1x1 Tile will enable you to pair the Hub with the Bluetooth controller.
The parts from Bag 4 make the chassis of the café and disabled carriage.
A close-up of the café.
This carriage is completed using the parts from Bag 5.
The two roof sections are removed.
Looking down into the café.
The carriage doors are open, so you can see the young man securely sitting back in his wheelchair.
The parts from Bag 6 make the chassis of the carriage with cycle storage.
The carriage is completed with the parts from Bag 7
The woman with her briefcase and smartphone is standing, ready to disembark the carriage.
A close-up view of the cycle storage area in the carriage. Clever use has been made of two white 1x1 Bricks with Handle as the bike rack.
Due to constraints imposed by the LEGO scale, a passenger can't get past this bike should they want to get to a seat or disembark from the train.
Note that the sign indicates that the train is travelling at 303 km/h (188 mph).
I think it is good to have a brick-built nose for the engine rather than one-off moulds seen in previous City passenger trains.
The front of this engine is twelve studs forward of the pivot of the front bogie. Consequently, the train swings three studs wide when on the curved track.
This is not so much a fault of the engine; it is principally due to the tight curvature of the LEGO train track.
Similarly, the carriages turn inside the track by the same three studs.
There is very little clearance under the two carriages, so you must be careful if you introduce some inclines to your train track.
The engine is relatively long compared to other City trains. It is only one stud shorter than the Creator Expert 10233 Horizon Express.
In this view, there are four train engines lined up:
The carriages are the same length as the 10219 Maersk Train.
While the two Dark Stone Grey Chassis 6x16x2 2/3 that make up the Express Passenger Train carriages are two studs shorter than the Medium Stone Grey Chassis 6x34x2 2/3 of the Maersk Train, the Express Passenger Train has a one-stud-long brick-built gangway connection at each end of the carriages.
All combined, 60337 Express Passenger Train is very long compared to other City-themed passenger trains.
While not the fastest train in the world, at 303 km/h, 60337 Express Passenger Train operates at a respectable speed compared to the speeds of other high-speed trains currently or soon in service.
This set has grown on me. I was somewhat reluctant to take a look at this set, but after building it and reviewing it, I have come to like it more and more.
We had two grandchildren over for a sleepover during the build and review stage. This image shows them playing with the train at our dining table.
They had quite a lot of fun that afternoon. They even managed to operate the Express Passenger Train at full speed!
It stayed on the track - something that didn't occur when I speed-tested LEGO City's last High-speed passenger train.
60337 Express Passenger Train set up with 60335 Train Station (the subject of my next review).
Irony: Saw "Bullet Train" tonight, before seeing this review. D
Seriously, if there's problems with 'the curves', TLG may have to loosen up on the radiuses. wonder what happened to TLG looking at partnering with outside companies for new track sections.
“ It has brick-built Flame Yellowish Orange pannier bags.”
Thanks for the review. It seems like a good train set for kids. Now I want some flame yellowish orange saag paneer from the Indian restaurant down on Center Street.
So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now.
I like trains, but I have the unfortunate memory of a set this size, and being 9 volt with metal rail track (which LEGO used to claim as why trainers were so expensive) being 99 USD at a point, heck seeing a set like this being 129.99. I get inflation, but 189.99? (and yes I can already hear the LEGO cheerleaders screaming inflation and about price per piece). Ill just say that I want it, as I collect the trains, but will be definitely looking for it on sale.
@madforLEGO said:
"I like trains, but I have the unfortunate memory of a set this size, and being 9 volt with metal rail track (which LEGO used to claim as why trainers were so expensive) being 99 USD at a point, heck seeing a set like this being 129.99. I get inflation, but 189.99? (and yes I can already hear the LEGO cheerleaders screaming inflation and about price per piece). Ill just say that I want it, as I collect the trains, but will be definitely looking for it on sale."
This will go on sale many times, 20% off without even blinking. I wouldn't worry too much about it.
@madforLEGO said:
"I like trains, but I have the unfortunate memory of a set this size, and being 9 volt with metal rail track (which LEGO used to claim as why trainers were so expensive) being 99 USD at a point, heck seeing a set like this being 129.99. I get inflation, but 189.99? (and yes I can already hear the LEGO cheerleaders screaming inflation and about price per piece). Ill just say that I want it, as I collect the trains, but will be definitely looking for it on sale."
I mean, I'm just going by what Brickset has listed, but.
I'm having trouble finding a 9V Lego Train set for $99. If you're referencing something that was discounted at the time, then that makes no sense as a comparison (and 60337 has already been on some excellent discounts since release). It is CURRENTLY 25% off where I live.
What ancient set were you referencing in particular?
I actually like this way more than I thought, mainly due to the brick built nose. It's a bit like a green Horizon Express. Also love that the coaches finally have proper doors. Although that price is eye watering, especially if you combine 2 copies for the "complete" train. I think this is definitely one to look out for, either on heavy discount from Amazon, or even on a 3 for 2 at Argos.
@Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
Unfortunately not every Lego collector is a grumpy middle aged man, they feel like they have to pander to these children in order to make more money, rather than appealing to what should be their core audience.
My suggestion is to rip every 2nd page out of the books to amp up the challenge a little.
Thanks for the extensive review. Nice job showing the sticker sheet and visually showing the issue with the track. Looking forward to the other two, especially for the station.
I've seen people ask about the review for the Loop Coaster, but I've been waiting longer for these three.
The Powered Up lights were never made available for regular retail purchase in my country, not even in LEGO Certified Stores. I'm thinking of BrickLinking them. As much as I like lime green LEGO bricks, I'm very happy with my 60197 and my MOCs. That said, this is a much better set than that with all the features included. I'm just not as fond of the train itself — while it's cool that it introduced a new chassis part, it does come at the expense of regular 24- or 28-stud train bases which means we'll have to rely on old stock and BrickLink.
Also, I don't think @FlagsNZ would appreciate that kind of comment on a review that contains a photo of and talks about their grandchildren. I think this is the lowest I've seen Brickset comments stoop. Far from the first I've seen of any adult fandom of something made for kids and families, but a first for a LEGO community, and why I wish I could participate in fandoms while distancing myself from their adult communities, and why I don't identify as an AFOL except where absolutely necessary.
It looks pretty nice actually. The only things that are keeping me from buying my first train sets since the 9v system are the price and that. well, green colour.
@LegoSonicBoy, to which comment do you refer?
@Huw: Watsonite's. I could just be overly sensitive, but it does make me uncomfortable in the context of this review.
The shiny table gives me visions of the whole track getting a bit mobile when the train corners at speed!
Am I the only one that likes the colour?
It truly isn't easy being green. ;-)
I'm still not getting familiar with Powered Up: no rechargeable option And you have to use tons of AAA batteries. And the hub only comes with two outputs, one for motor, one for lights. No way of stacking a second pair of lights or a second motor :-(
Any experience with the new one wheel train wheels which are snapped in the newer wheel holder anyone?
@Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
For the target audience ie. children, and shockingly not AFOLs, I imagine its a big plus.
Agree that the negativity for negativity’s sake round here is getting tiresome.
What a great looking train with opening doors and working lights!
Nice review. I really enjoy the real world photos and especially the comparison of past models.
They really have made quite a few of the passenger trains. Seeing them all together makes me want to expand beyond my 60051.
@Rare_White_Ape said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
Unfortunately not every Lego collector is a grumpy middle aged man, they feel like they have to pander to these children in order to make more money, rather than appealing to what should be their core audience.
My suggestion is to rip every 2nd page out of the books to amp up the challenge a little."
Easy instructions helps for the 'drinking-with-Lego' fun times! ;)
Thanks for this well-written review. I cannot wait to a couple to my own collection. I like that they included the usually separately-sold lights.
What is your opinion of the new wheelsets? There is no metal axis anymore. The two wheels are now fully independent from each other. On one hand, this should help with the uneven angular/linear speeds when in a curve, but then we have the increased plastic to plastic friction compared to the lower plastic to steel coefficient.
Is it weird that the most exciting part of the set for me is the bike with panniers?
This has grown on me a lot thanks to this review, although I still don't love the choice of windscreen. I know I'm not supposed to like the single use pieces of 60197, but I just really like that train still. Possibly I just really like keetorange.
This may be one of the best Lego "basic" trains.
Debating between buying this and 60197. Anyone who owns both have a preference?
Thinking aloud, but I'd love to see a train that gets expanded every year. Kind of like the Modular Buildings but for trains. Every year a new carriage. Occasionally a new engine for anyone who misses the original engine.
I imagine it would have to be a freight train rather than a passenger train because of the lack of variety in passenger train carriages.
@Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose.
"The platform has ramp access, so the cyclist has easily ridden up to the platform." Or, you know, Wheelchair Guy. I mean, the cyclist can carry his means of conveyance up stairs if need be.
I find it interesting that only one side of Laptop Girl's head is printed with glasses. Must be blue-blockers.
@Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
Isn’t being able to build a LEGO set you bought kind of important? Do you suggest we make the instructions harder?
A LEGO set’s difficulty should come from the build, not the instructions.
Even though I agree with the notion that LEGO instructions have become too dumbed down over the years (even for the average kid I mean, not just for grumpy entitled old men like myself), I really love the style of your review, @FlagsNZ . Thank you very much.
As for the colour, in Germany we have a carrier called FlixTrain, and lime is the primary colour of their trains too:
It's tragic irony this review comes out after the train just got a huge price increase in North America.
@Norikins said:
"It's tragic irony this review comes out after the train just got a huge price increase in North America."
"Tragic" might be pushing it a bit! Especially for a relatively small price increase of 6%.
@Lyichir said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose."
Easy can be bad, well, easily. Too much hand holding can lead to difficulties dealing with failures and problem solving. It's important for a child to challenge themselves and I do find modern instruction to be very hand holding.
I'm not saying everything I've had as a child was objectively "better", but I do fondly remember hunting for "what got added" while looking at the next step while building the set that I got, and it was fun and rewarding. TLG do oversimplify instructions these days, sometimes even with one brick per step, which also leads to more paper waste and weight of shipment (which can be drastic with TLG scope of goods).
This is easily solvable via their digital instructions app. They could have an option to adjust the "skill level"/"Age" and render instructions accordingly. They can also add "hardcore 80s mode" for fans and colour-blind version etc.
Having said that, I don't think it's that much of an issue to warrant getting upset about.
@Rare_White_Ape said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
Unfortunately not every Lego collector is a grumpy middle aged man, they feel like they have to pander to these children in order to make more money, rather than appealing to what should be their core audience.
My suggestion is to rip every 2nd page out of the books to amp up the challenge a little."
I tend to do that for simple sets. Not literally rip out pages, but looking at every fourth image or so.
@Koend1999 said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
It is comments like yours that make me wish that Brickset would introduce a dislike button. Getting a bit fed up with these grumpy, entitled middle-aged men comments. Nobody needs your criticism. Nobody needs your negativity. "
Playing devil's advocate, I didn't read the comment as any more than questioning why it was specifically noted as a plus point when it applies to pretty much all sets now.
(but maybe I'm just being extra tolerant because the Atari just arrived!)
I like aspects of this train (and the colour scheme is gorgeous), but it's very big and quite expensive. And I'm just not sure about those carriages. I do like the 6-wide-double-door pieces, but they don't thrill me being used on train carriages.
If it weren't for the price increases, I'd seriously consider buying this train - it looks great and it'd be a nice change of pace from the 9V system that I just can't seem to repair.
For those complaining about instructions, I offer the following modifications .
1. Rip out every other page, per @Watsonite 's suggestion - and then recycle of course. Now you have a challenge and you're doing some good for the world!
2. Download the PDF instructions, open a hex editor, and change every other byte to something incomprehensible. You'll feel like a real hacker building a Lego set from a corrupted manual!
3. Ask a friend to sit on the other side of the room and verbally describe each page of the instructions, then only build from those. It is entirely possible to finish the set this way! It is also entirely possible that you or your friend will repeatedly consider murder before rage-quitting . or carrying out those murder plans.
4. Build the set with two car battery cables clipped to your wrists. If your friend sees you place a piece incorrectly, you don't just 12.6V - you get the FULL 100-something amps! If you think that's too cruel a penalty for forgetting a singular 1x2 plate, just remember: "only the best is good enough!"
5. Build the set with someone you know who is not familiar with Lego and therefore has no standards regarding instructions. Side effects may include forming invaluable memories, having a positive impact on someone's life, and the realization that the world does not revolve around you and that though you will die one day and your Lego collection will end up in a landfill somewhere when it's all over, the people around you are the most important parts of your life, so cherish them well.
6. Eat the pieces. If you can ignore the age range on the box then you can ignore the safety tags.
What a great train review. Wait, I mean what a great review of a train. I’m ok with the design of this one (much more so than the freight one) but the dimensions immediately make it a no-go for me. My layout unfortunately can’t possibly handle the length of the engine.
As far as the comments above, thank you to whomever listed the drawbacks of powered up. I’m still a power functions guy but am running out of PF parts. I’m also one who thinks the instructions have started getting silly with a whole page devoted to just one or two parts. The idea of “ripping out every other page” is so funny and awesome. :o)
@GBP_Chris: LEGO was trialing audio instructions for blind people some time ago. I wonder what came out of it. I'm not sure if building with someone new to LEGO would work — I can't imagine building with someone who's constantly so obnoxious about LEGO and questioning why they're still a fan.
@LegoSonicBoy said:
" @GBP_Chris: LEGO was trialing audio instructions for blind people some time ago. I wonder what came out of it. I'm not sure if building with someone new to LEGO would work — I can't imagine building with someone who's constantly so obnoxious about LEGO and questioning why they're still a fan."
You know, it's not so much about the destination as it is the journey - if you are really upset with said fan, you can always place pieces incorrectly or misplace them just to stoke the fire a bit .
Real talk tho the audio instructions idea is really cool, I bet it'd be a great way for those who can't see the bricks to still enjoy the process. And if it gets too easy, just take out every other word!
Hear, hear! Honest constructive criticism should always be welcome when addressed respectfully and specifically. On the other hand, @Watsonite’s comment was expressed rather brusquely. Perhaps you might have asked for clarification about @FlagsNZ’s summary comment rather than responding as you did.
I’d like to again point out that this is a FREE blog/website/tool maintained by a generous and well-informed set of enthusiasts. Those who can’t comment with a modicum of civility are more than welcome to create their own LEGO review sites. I hope that the public will be more respectful to you and others than you’ve been today.
Thank you, Brickset moderators and contributors, for all that you do. You are such an amazing resource for the community!
@Koend1999 said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
It is comments like yours that make me wish that Brickset would introduce a dislike button. Getting a bit fed up with these grumpy, entitled middle-aged men comments. Nobody needs your criticism. Nobody needs your negativity.
Thank you for the review!
Side note, I really like the design of that wooden table.
Honestly. not a fan. I do appreciate the brick-built nose, but I don't like how it looks. (Yes, I get that it's based more on bullet trains than anything we tend to see in the States, but I just think it looks rather odd). Granted, I also didn't like the previous passenger train for the opposite reason (looks way too blunt-nosed), but I digress.
Also still not a fan of the "new" power system (howdidthelastpassengertraincomeoutfouryearsagoalready). Looks to be a pretty good set objectively, but it's not for me.
@sjr60 said:
" @Norikins said:
"It's tragic irony this review comes out after the train just got a huge price increase in North America."
"Tragic" might be pushing it a bit! Especially for a relatively small price increase of 6%."
It wasn’t exactly an amazing deal to begin with.
I'm not sure the dark azure backpack is a new piece. I think it's a new colour, but it originally appeared in the Skydiver CMF in series 10.
This is my favorite City passenger train for sure , like it took design styles from Horizon Express and Metroliner (secondary build passenger car with middle doors) and combined them.
Not sure how long modern rechargeable batteries last on this, I know nowadays 1.5 V lithium batteries do exist, my last train was a 9v.
Not a high priority set for me as trains take space, and I still have my 9v train somewhere, but the design is an improvement, but I can understand the length of the nose in turns being a valid point for tight layouts/tunnels/train yards etc.
So much better than the previous passenger train! And I like the inclusion of the lights. The one thing I don't like is that again it's just half a train.
Have they ever done an amputee minifigure e.g. with only one leg?
@gunther_schnitzel said:
"Have they ever done an amputee minifigure e.g. with only one leg?"
Well, there was one with a prosthetic leg in 60347, I guess that's the closest there has been?
@WizardOfOss said:
" @gunther_schnitzel said:
"Have they ever done an amputee minifigure e.g. with only one leg?"
Well, there was one with a prosthetic leg in 60347 , I guess that's the closest there has been?"
I hadn't noticed that figure!
The classic pirate captain had both a peg leg, a hook for a hand, and an eye patch. Pretty stereotypical and old-fashioned ways to depict people with disabilities.
The one in the grocery store set is much more inclusive.
@gunther_schnitzel said:
"Have they ever done an amputee minifigure e.g. with only one leg?"
The wooden-legged pirates presumably qualify.
@Rare_White_Ape said:
"The classic pirate captain had both a peg leg, a hook for a hand, and an eye patch. Pretty stereotypical and old-fashioned ways to depict people with disabilities."
Wasn't that more of a typical way to depict pirates? And more often than not a captain or other high ranking one? I never really associated that with real-life disabled people, at least not from our current era.
@elangab said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose."
Easy can be bad, well, easily. Too much hand holding can lead to difficulties dealing with failures and problem solving. It's important for a child to challenge themselves and I do find modern instruction to be very hand holding.
I'm not saying everything I've had as a child was objectively "better", but I do fondly remember hunting for "what got added" while looking at the next step while building the set that I got, and it was fun and rewarding. TLG do oversimplify instructions these days, sometimes even with one brick per step, which also leads to more paper waste and weight of shipment (which can be drastic with TLG scope of goods).
This is easily solvable via their digital instructions app. They could have an option to adjust the "skill level"/"Age" and render instructions accordingly. They can also add "hardcore 80s mode" for fans and colour-blind version etc.
Having said that, I don't think it's that much of an issue to warrant getting upset about."
1 minus as a kid in the nineties you only had a TV to distract you, now lego has to compete with a lot more.
I prefer a more simple instruction so it would indeed be nice if lego offered you the option to choose easy or hard but unlikely that will happen.
These new instruction are a pain to store 41130 gives you a small book with 180 pages (1124 parts) while 6086 is 32 pages (600 parts)
@Rare_White_Ape jeez how unsafe is working in lego city with all those disabled people?
Monster Fighters had a guy with a metal leg BTW
@AustinPowers: Do they show movies on those trains? Because "flicks" is in the name and all.
@elangab : I had to chuckle at "hardcore '80s mode."
Thanks, everyone, for your supportive comments.
@sjr60 said:
"The shiny table gives me visions of the whole track getting a bit mobile when the train corners at speed!"
You're right. When the train was operating at the fastest speed setting, the whole track would slide back and forth.
@sjr60 also said:
On my Summary comment: Easy to follow instructions.
"Playing devil's advocate, I didn't read the comment as any more than questioning why it was specifically noted as a plus point when it applies to pretty much all sets now."
This is the first review I have done for some time of a City set. I'll expand on my thoughts in my next review
"Side note, I really like the design of that wooden table."
Thanks. The table extends out, too!
"This has grown on me a lot thanks to this review, although I still don't love the choice of windscreen. I know I'm not supposed to like the single use pieces of 60197, but I just really like that train still. Possibly I just really like keetorange."
I like 60197, too.
@elangab said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose."
Easy can be bad, well, easily. Too much hand holding can lead to difficulties dealing with failures and problem solving. It's important for a child to challenge themselves and I do find modern instruction to be very hand holding.
I'm not saying everything I've had as a child was objectively "better", but I do fondly remember hunting for "what got added" while looking at the next step while building the set that I got, and it was fun and rewarding. TLG do oversimplify instructions these days, sometimes even with one brick per step, which also leads to more paper waste and weight of shipment (which can be drastic with TLG scope of goods).
This is easily solvable via their digital instructions app. They could have an option to adjust the "skill level"/"Age" and render instructions accordingly. They can also add "hardcore 80s mode" for fans and colour-blind version etc.
Having said that, I don't think it's that much of an issue to warrant getting upset about."
The cost of printing all those instruction pages is probably why they had to increase prices for sets. If they added a few more bricks per step they could make huge savings on printing costs and lower the set prices again. And they'd save loads of trees because they would need less paper.
Je suis du même avis que certains : c'est plus cher, mais c'est moins bien. Je préfère de loin le système PFS au lieu de PUP. PFS good. Boitiers rechargeables, télécommande de train plus maniable, et que dire du prix . Pour ces raisons, depuis le PUP, je n'achète plus de trains ni de sets télécommandés.
@TheOtherMike said:
" @AustinPowers: Do they show movies on those trains? Because "flicks" is in the name and all. "
I have not yet used their trains (or buses for that matter - they operate internationally under the FlixBus label).
I don't know the exact origin of the name, but some say (no, not talking about the Stig) that it's an amalgamation of the two German adjectives fix and flugs, which both mean quick/fast.
@paulvdb said:
" @elangab said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose."
Easy can be bad, well, easily. Too much hand holding can lead to difficulties dealing with failures and problem solving. It's important for a child to challenge themselves and I do find modern instruction to be very hand holding.
I'm not saying everything I've had as a child was objectively "better", but I do fondly remember hunting for "what got added" while looking at the next step while building the set that I got, and it was fun and rewarding. TLG do oversimplify instructions these days, sometimes even with one brick per step, which also leads to more paper waste and weight of shipment (which can be drastic with TLG scope of goods).
This is easily solvable via their digital instructions app. They could have an option to adjust the "skill level"/"Age" and render instructions accordingly. They can also add "hardcore 80s mode" for fans and colour-blind version etc.
Having said that, I don't think it's that much of an issue to warrant getting upset about."
The cost of printing all those instruction pages is probably why they had to increase prices for sets. If they added a few more bricks per step they could make huge savings on printing costs and lower the set prices again. And they'd save loads of trees because they would need less paper."
Along the same lines I think the Icon/18+ sets should have instructions that recognise the target audience (AFOLs) e.g have a symbol that indicates hand and opposite (i’m an engineer) and then not print instructions for both left and right hand builds - more savings on paper and inks
Lego has the ability to mould the most intricate of pieces yet still can’t get a reasonable looking bike helmet.
I picked this up in Auckland over a month ago for 20% off and don't regret it a bit. It is a very snazzy train and the price is justifiable when you consider all the extra stuff you get in it that they haven't always included in train sets:
Battery Pack: 49USD
Tracks: ~28USD
Lights: 10USD
Remote Control: 23USD
Train Motor: 14USD
TOTAL: 124USD
With those removed from the count, that still leaves over 735 pieces in the set, which priced at 79USD is under the average price/piece. With a 20%+ discount, it's a steal.
Also, whatever happened to the rechargeable battery packs?
@paulvdb said:
" @elangab said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose."
Easy can be bad, well, easily. Too much hand holding can lead to difficulties dealing with failures and problem solving. It's important for a child to challenge themselves and I do find modern instruction to be very hand holding.
I'm not saying everything I've had as a child was objectively "better", but I do fondly remember hunting for "what got added" while looking at the next step while building the set that I got, and it was fun and rewarding. TLG do oversimplify instructions these days, sometimes even with one brick per step, which also leads to more paper waste and weight of shipment (which can be drastic with TLG scope of goods).
This is easily solvable via their digital instructions app. They could have an option to adjust the "skill level"/"Age" and render instructions accordingly. They can also add "hardcore 80s mode" for fans and colour-blind version etc.
Having said that, I don't think it's that much of an issue to warrant getting upset about."
The cost of printing all those instruction pages is probably why they had to increase prices for sets. If they added a few more bricks per step they could make huge savings on printing costs and lower the set prices again. And they'd save loads of trees because they would need less paper."
True. Per set the savings are minimal, but times all sets they produce - it'll be a huge money saver, and more eco-friendly.
@HangedSanchez is correct—that backpack element did originate with the CMF Series 10 skydiver. If memory serves, it has appeared a handful of times since as well, in a few different colors.
“Due to constraints imposed by the LEGO scale, a passenger can't get past this bike should they want to get to a seat or disembark from the train.”
That seems fairly realistic from my experience of dealing with bikes on trains…
@Brickalili for a true British train experience the bike should be dumped in the wheelchair space so the wheelchair user can't actually get in there. The set should come with a figure of someone from the British Transport Police who has been called to sort out the fight that has kicked off because of this. The figure with the mobile phone will be filming the whole thing to put on tik tok.
@whaleyland said:
"I picked this up in Auckland over a month ago for 20% off and don't regret it a bit. It is a very snazzy train and the price is justifiable when you consider all the extra stuff you get in it that they haven't always included in train sets:
Battery Pack: 49USD
Tracks: ~28USD
Lights: 10USD
Remote Control: 23USD
Train Motor: 14USD
TOTAL: 124USD
With those removed from the count, that still leaves over 735 pieces in the set, which priced at 79USD is under the average price/piece. With a 20%+ discount, it's a steal.
Also, whatever happened to the rechargeable battery packs?"
You're being very generous here, considering the rather inflated prices for those parts. I mean, $49 for a battery box (batteries not included), seriously? $28 for the track while brand new curved pieces on Bricklink aren't worth a brown 1X1 Decoration Top, No. 2? $10 for two LEDs? That said, I'm a bit surprised that the train motor isn't more expensive, I could easily see Lego ask $80 for that.
While I don't think'this set is outrageously overpriced in Europe, it is very much stretching it. The US price is even worse. I do think it's a good set and the play value is certainly there, but to call it a steal I'd need a much bigger discount than a mere 20%.
@paulvdb said:
" @elangab said:
" @Lyichir said:
" @Watsonite said:
"So 'Easy to follow instructions' are a plus now?
Lego's instructions (and not just the 4+ ones) have been bordering the infantile for years now."
In what universe is "easy" not a good thing? Simple, clear instructions hurt nobody, except maybe masochists who want things to be frustrating on purpose."
Easy can be bad, well, easily. Too much hand holding can lead to difficulties dealing with failures and problem solving. It's important for a child to challenge themselves and I do find modern instruction to be very hand holding.
I'm not saying everything I've had as a child was objectively "better", but I do fondly remember hunting for "what got added" while looking at the next step while building the set that I got, and it was fun and rewarding. TLG do oversimplify instructions these days, sometimes even with one brick per step, which also leads to more paper waste and weight of shipment (which can be drastic with TLG scope of goods).
This is easily solvable via their digital instructions app. They could have an option to adjust the "skill level"/"Age" and render instructions accordingly. They can also add "hardcore 80s mode" for fans and colour-blind version etc.
Having said that, I don't think it's that much of an issue to warrant getting upset about."
The cost of printing all those instruction pages is probably why they had to increase prices for sets. If they added a few more bricks per step they could make huge savings on printing costs and lower the set prices again. And they'd save loads of trees because they would need less paper."
This is a truly absurd take. I guarantee you that the ink and paper costs for instructions are far from the biggest driver of increasing prices.
@Lyichir said:
"This is a truly absurd take. I guarantee you that the ink and paper costs for instructions are far from the biggest driver of increasing prices."
True. Greed is.
But I do very much agree that the instructions are overly simplified nowadays. There's a difference between bad instructions and somewhat challenging instructions. And for those who want it as easy as possible. Lego could consider starting selling pre-assembled sets.
@WizardOfOss said:
" @Lyichir said:
"This is a truly absurd take. I guarantee you that the ink and paper costs for instructions are far from the biggest driver of increasing prices."
True. Greed is.
But I do very much agree that the instructions are overly simplified nowadays. There's a difference between bad instructions and somewhat challenging instructions. And for those who want it as easy as possible. Lego could consider starting selling pre-assembled sets."
Or a build service ?? kids working at the toystore can earn some money that way.
@Stee75 said:
"Or a build service ?? kids working at the toystore can earn some money that way."
Kids? Me!
On the topic of simple instructions, I do genuinely feel that for 18+ sets LEGO should make them a little more complex and thus reduce the size and paper content of the booklets.
@Reg said:
"On the topic of simple instructions, I do genuinely feel that for 18+ sets LEGO should make them a little more complex and thus reduce the size and paper content of the booklets."
For 18+ sets the instructions are often more complex by virtue of part count (like modular buildings where you can sometimes have to place 30 or so tiles in a single step) or in terms of techniques (with some sets requiring diagrams to guide assembly of large, complex build sections). Again, it doesn't matter WHAT the age range of a set is, simpler instructions are very helpful and hurt nobody.
Plus to be quite honest I feel like the fancy perfect-bound instruction books for sets like Barracuda Bay or the new Lion Knights' Castle can feel almost bookshelf-worthy (especially when they include a detailed and informative introduction). If you're buying a premium, adult-focused product, I feel like the last thing you should hope for is for Lego to cut corners on the instructions.
Have any of you found a reuse in MOCs for the storage pins that hold the track sections together for initial packing? I do hold on to mine to stack back together unused track for storage, but haven't found any good usage yet in MOCs.
I really like the color of this set.
@Lyichir said:
"(like modular buildings where you can sometimes have to place 30 or so tiles in a single step)"
For every step that has 30 or so pieces, there are dozens of steps with only one single piece. Or just en entire page to turn the thing around. You really don't think that's even the slightest bit excessive?
Most authors can only dream to ever write a page turner like Lego does.
As for the cutting corners part, I'd rather see them do that on the instructions than on things that impact the actual build. Which they do all the time, unfortunately.
I know train sets are always more expensive than the rest of city. but $190 for 700 pieces? That's a high even for trains.
@vader11 said:
"I know train sets are always more expensive than the rest of city. but $190 for 700 pieces? That's a high even for trains. "
. and to make a whole, proper looking train, you need two copies.
I like this train very much. Its brick built front, the doors, lights. The colour is something different, and not too "toyish" like the new freight train, imho.
The price is rather high, but it's already on discount with 35% off. I'll probably be getting two of them at some point.
Edit: the US$ price is indeed very high.
I do like this set a lot and bought 2 copies on day one (already 30 Eur off) to build a decent passenger train with symmetry between front and end sections. Lights included, split level wagons with doors, built nose => yes this one is cool!
Since yesterday night I do even own 3 sets, as my son wanted to have this and not the orange 60197.
Amazon offered this for 108,xx Eur and offered another 10 Eur discount. So for less than 99 Eur this was a pretty good deal.
The only thing I do not like is the new plastic wheel-sets. Running resistance is noticably higher. One motor has issues driving a double train (with a dummy-motor in the second set) through wild curved track. Ovals, single points and larger radii are ok.
@Wellspring said:
"Debating between buying this and 60197. Anyone who owns both have a preference?"
Clear answer: go and buy 60197!
Why? - Not because it is the better one (it is not), but now you can still get it at bargain prices. You certainly want to have more than 1 train and then the new 60337 will still be around at reasonable price.
The only benefit on 60197 is the metal axle wheel sets. Otherwise 60337 beats it: doors, longer, built nose, lights, nicer minifigures.
