Bachmann Trains - Thoroughbred Ready To Run Electric Train Set - HO Scale

I bought this as my first train set for me and the kids. It has everything you need to setup an ovel track and a few cars to get you started. I have added 3 additional cars so far and it still pulls them all with ease. I also got some extra track so I can create different layouts. And now me and the kids will have great fun building a diorama scene together that fits the theme of our train. And to be clear yes, it is fragile, but it is a model, not a toy. Models, trains or otherwise, have never been toys. That is one reason they are not cheap, and also not for everyone. But it is a hobby that can be enjoyed even by small children they just need to be supervised and taught the difference between their toys and a model.

Pro: Affordable, easy to set up, easy to operate, decently detailed locomotive, a time waster.Con: Freight cars & caboose feels cheap. Runs a bit loud at full speed. A time waster.Verdict: Good starter set for newbie like myself.Just got this set for myself and set it up under Christmas tree. Set up was a breeze. The train was up and running in 20 minutes. Make sure to read the manual on track assembly. The tiny metal tracks and connectors need to line up and putting tracks together requires minimal efforts. If you are using more forces than closing a cooler lid to push tracks together, then track connectors are not lined up properly. Use your fingers or needle-nose plier to make small adjustments until they line-up, and push them together. It's a firm push, but does not require much force. Manual also stated setting up tracks where you want to lay them. This is to avoid twisting assembled tracks and un-align the connectors.With my setup, I was able to run the train at full speed foward and reverse without derailments. And this is on short pile carpet. Tracks and train stability probably would be better on hard surfaces like a plywood board, but on carpet I can feel the light rumbles as the train makes its way around the oval.Talking about the oval, it's about a 4' x 3' in size. For us it's perfect underneath a tree. But I'm already feeling the need to expand tracks for more variety. Even though I spent 3 hours just watching the train going around the oval last night, with no other track decorations. I guess this is how model trains get people to hook up. Once you have a taste, you just keep wanting more.Overall a good starter set that provides hours of entertainment at a very affordable price. One note: not sure if the locomotive is DCC-compatible so might run into some issues later when expanding. Bachmann's DCC controller supposedly is able to connect with the basic controller that come with this set. I will see when I get to that point.

I recently purchased the Bachmann Trains Thoroughbred Ready-To-Run set and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. The set comes with everything you need to get started - locomotive, freight cars, track, and power pack. The quality of the components is top-notch, with attention to detail evident in the design of the locomotive and cars.Setting up the track was a breeze, and the locomotive ran smoothly right out of the box. The train operates quietly and pulls the cars along steadily, creating a realistic and enjoyable train experience. The track pieces are sturdy and connect easily, allowing for various layouts to be created.I appreciate the attention to detail Bachmann has put into this set, from the realistic design of the train cars to the smooth operation of the locomotive. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned model train enthusiast, the Bachmann Trains Thoroughbred Ready-To-Run set is a fantastic choice that provides hours of entertainment. I highly recommend this set for anyone looking to start or expand their model train collection.

Nice train set, seems a little pricey for a plastic toy and the cabbosse derails not matter what we try. But we like it ok.

I live in Italy and I am passionate about American trains. I was pleasantly surprised by the excellent Amazon shipping service. On October 24th I purchased this beautiful starter set and on the 27th I received my package perfectly packaged. Upon opening the package Bachmann took care of packaging separate for the locomotive and the three wagons from that of the rails, the transformer and the speed regulator with the connection cable to the tracks. In Italy the current is 220v but it was not a problem to replace the American transformer with a European one that has the same connection plug. I am fully satisfied with my purchase, the locomotive works perfectly straight away without any need for running-in and is finely detailed as are the freight cars. I am already thinking about the next Bachmann start set to purchase to implement my collection.Alberto - Genoa .Italy

Good company and product. Can't do wrong. I would only suggest to the company is to add room in the box to add more tracks for storage. I like to keep it all in one box, purchased more and would be nice to have room. Tight fitting.This unit is very good, highly recommended!I would not allow children under 13 play with it. It is a toy, but is also fragile.

The locomotive in this train set runs very quietly. I bought this set to get started in HO scale and will be expanding wry soon.