stacker9000

I am very excited about the new sets, they look GREAT to me! And I don't have a problem with reissueing previously produced sets...as long as they have been updated for look and building techniques. I actually feel that a gas/service station set should be offered every year, and when I was younger I remember a motorcycle sales/service set...I would love to see that brought back with the new vintage motorcycle (Indiana Jones set) in new colors!!

Ok,...Now we're brainstorming!! I understand your point about the notch, and for my idea, only one side would need to have the notch...the piece would merely have to be flipped around every other rail(so notched ends meet and flat ends join back to back). and for clutch issues, I think using something like 2(6 long) tiles on the inside of the rails could could adequately connect PF track to these brickbuilt rails. Oh well...maybe its all just wishful thinking anyway?

Hopefully this is considered within the boundries of this topic... Maybe a 12v fan can help explain?....The train rails included in the large mining set(12v rails I believe),how many uses do they serve?...As I am wondering why LEGO doesn't re-tool/mill that mold to make it compatible to the PF track(meaning make it the same height,smooth the top edge,and give it the same attachment end notch to link to track pieces.) To me, that would be the simplest,cost effective way to provide TFOLS with a way to produce the much desired straight runs, similar to ME models design..we build the straight track(very surprised LEGO did not do it before ME models did.) And as someone posted earlier...I would LOVE to see the return of the 90degree cross track!!

As this topic has not been locked yet, I am hoping its still relevant to post suggestions... With the upcoming release of a new and wonderful train(Horizon Express),I can't help but wonder why we haven't seen any new track piece or pack options? My suggestions.. another vote or request for part: 90 degree train crossing track piece description: similar to 9v version usage: allows track to cross itself giving more options for layouts part: large radius curve train track description: gives neccessary larger curve to lay parallel to existing curve track usage: allows for a clean installation of a secondary outer track to a layout part: electric switch track gearbox description: a prepackaged mechanism that could be connected to manual switch tracks to operate them remotely usage: allows switches of large layouts to be operated quickly and easily from a distance Thanks for the opportunity..and hoping for more great train options from LEGO!

Awesome looking bike!! I have a great appreciation and envy for all your builds. But I think you might want to create a new name for the evolution of "Model Team", as m#gabl**ks has already done a probuilder series(may still be) Anyway..OUTSTANDING build!

I would agree with Davey's comment of these sets encourage a younger group and their parents into getting interested in Lego trains. As a TFOL, I greatly appreciate these sets for helping make known that LEGO trains exist, although I haven't bought any due to the fact that I would rather just but CITY train sets or the sets aimed directly for TFOL's. Great question though, with interesting answers too!

Impressive build Dfenz, very sleek and clean. The paint scheme and colors looks terrific. Great work!

Great concept, your designs are looking very good. Very interested in seeking it in real bricks. As for the engine: the picture of the number 1(C.K. Holiday),Looks almost exactly like the Toy Story train That LEGO released. I would go to LEGO.com and download the directions to that set and start there, then add details or items as needed until I was happy with its design. Good luck and excellent job so far!

+1 to vriverajr3

+1 for jFox

Its beyond words...I'm amazed at what you can do with bricks! Stunningly Beautiful Truck! Another Excellent build Sariel!

The Brickster is right...absolutely INGENIOUS!! Amazing overall design, I especially like that you left the gearing exposed..gives it a industrial feel, really showing showing what it would take to move those huge heavy engines. Another Fantastic build LT12V.

All the parts used were extras(I don't actually own 8051), and I didn't limit the build to that sets piece inventory, the core connections of the frame is pretty much the only thing similar to 8051. And your right about the suspension, it will compress a tiny amount, but there is more flex over the whole length of the forks than to actually be worthwhile, due to the limitations of LEGO connections the engine design and neck/fork assembly is pretty fragile. Its pretty much designed to just look cool on a shelf. Thanks for the interest and kind words of approval!

Thanks Tim & dhc6, The motor detail was one of the most important features to me(I found it very difficult within the limitations of LEGO). I was extremely happy with the inset of the shocks that the dark gray offset pieces gave the front end.

Alright..This is my first major Technic creation(I am primarily a train fan). So, through buying some bulk lots to build my collection, I have gathered a few technic pieces and have always wanted to try and build a motorcycle. My intial inspiration came from the 8051 Motorbike set(the alternate build of the chopper, Which I actually consider a "bobber"). So, I set out to build my idea of a true chopper, In which I lost some of the technical aspects in favor of the overall appearence. All comments and criticisms welcome! lego chopper by stacker9000, on Flickr lego chopper by stacker9000, on Flickr lego chopper by stacker9000, on Flickr lego chopper by stacker9000, on Flickr engine by stacker9000, on Flickr

Great looking buggy Andy, the only thing I could suggest is, it could use some sort of grill/headlight assembly. As for traction, maybe weighting the tires might help, I think I would try stuffing the tires with Play-doh. Awesome build anyway!

I'll be looking forward to seeing your finished design!(I own one of these trucks,extended cab,2 1/2 inch leveling kit with 35 inch tires) I don't mean to criticize, but you say your going to try to incorporate a moving v8 engine?, but the Cummins is a inline 6 engine.(which would be cool to see in LEGO!) Good luck!!

#9=4 points (Its what I would've liked to build if I had the parts) #6=3 points (nice simple build with immediately reconizeable design) Great job to all entries!!!

I have very similar feelings to andythenorth, I think LEGO should package only the train-rolling stock-track pieces & motor equipment in a set(for a decent price), and separate the accessory buildings/vehicles to separate City packs. As it really wouldn't change piece production, it would only add an additional City set to be purchased.(making it easier for collectors to purchase either type in larger amounts to amass parts) But, hopefully also giving LEGO the oppurtunity to change designs for each type more often. For example the new "Gold Mine sets"..a meduim size set, priced at 39.99 or so could easily tie into a train set with a dump truck, conveyer system, and bulldozer or frontloader(dumptruck delivers ore, bulldozer/frontloader feeds conveyer to the train)...Where the set could exist on its own too(the bulldozer/frontloader uses the conveyer to load the dumptruck) I only have bought one of each of the current train sets available(E.N.,yellow cargo,red cargo, Maersk)But, I would have bought doubles or maybe triples of a few of them if they were a little cheaper.(and I know, a person can sell off the extras(possibley at a profit)in the secondhand market, BUT, it is very difficult to convince my wife that if I spend it up front, that I can make it back. Also it is a moderate hassle for me to picture, transfer, and post an ad.(I am more of a buyer than a seller.) I understand LEGO adds accessories for the playability factor, but yes,a person could quickly fill a loading yard with cranes and forklifts from the past few sets that have been available. And I eagerly await new designs and equipment!

Very clever modification, Jeroen! Can you edit your post to say where you get the solenoids you are using, and if they can handle momentary power or longer duration power? I am very interested in your solution, and am eager to modify mine this way! Thanks!

This is definitely a design I can support! All I can add is, when this makes it to production, I think those involved should push hard to keep the chromed rims! (They look too good not have them!)

Spectacular work LT12V, Very impressive and attractive design, I especially like the crane!! Just amazing!

I must agree, the combination is way better! I don't really care for the passenger train sets, but I find your MOC very attractive. Great job! Those lightbulb moments are great, mine currently burned out and was replaced with one of those energy-efficient ones, it doesn't seem to burn as bright.(might have to install another socket and try two together )

I can't really tell from the photo, but it looks like there is no ridges on the top of those rails. If they are indeed smooth on top, then it would be wonderful if TLC created a end-piece to connect to their train tracks to butt these pieces up to, where we could then create straight runs like ME-Models rails allow you to. I know some of you are hopeing for narrow guage tracks, but as standard tracks and options(crossovers, larger radius curves for example)don't seem to be being explored by TLC, I doubt they would create a whole other line of smaller track. But, I keep hopeing!(for more standard track options anyway!)

Welcome leeislee, Don't be too sad, most of us here have similar experiences coming back into LEGO, you'll find great help here with any questions..and we look forward to seeing any creations you build. I suggest checking out Bricklink and Peer-on, and learning how to navigate their sites, as I have found them very useful for parts and instruction scans. Best wishes