Polar Express G-Gauge Train Set from Lionel Trains features a finely detailed style that evokes the magnificent steam engines of times gone by and authentic train sounds for a real-life experience. This large-scale, battery-operated train set is based on the Caldecott Award-winning book "The Polar Express," and the movie that followed in 2004. Easy to assemble, it's an exciting, interactive way for children ages four and up to relive their favorite scenes from the movie or create their own adventures.
Polar Express G-Gauge
Train Set
At a Glance:
Age/Weight Requirements:
4 years and older
Assembly Requirements:
6 C batteries (included) and 2 AA batteries (included). Assembly is required.
Warranty:
Limited one-year warranty
The Berkshire steam locomotive features realistic details complete with
retro styling. View larger.
You can make the mysterious hobo disappear and reappear on top of the
observation car. View larger.
Easy Setup and Remote Control Operation
Designed for easy use, the Polar Express G-Gauge Train Set comes with six C batteries for immediate fun. You can also operate the train with a 9.6-volt rechargeable battery (not included). The set includes an RC remote controller (complete with two AA batteries) that's easy for little hands to use. The 12 curved and 4 straight track pieces fit together to create a 55-by-72-inch oval, and when you're done, they pack up quickly and easily for storage.
Retro Detailing for Life-Like Experience
This train is highly detailed with retro styling on its Berkshire steam locomotive, blue and red passenger coach, and observation car with a "disappearing" hobo for an extra surprise. Fixed knuckle couplers, a working headlight, and realistic setup and shutdown sequences complete the authentic look and feel of a powerful G-gauge locomotive.
Authentic Sounds and Whistles
Clearly marked buttons on the remote control let little ones move the train forward and backward, sound the whistle, ring the bell, and play "All aboard the Polar Express!" as the train chugs around the track. For added fun, The Polar Express G-Gauge Set comes with conductor and boy figures that can be positioned on top of the locomotive, tender, or passenger car.
More Polar Express Fun with G-Gauge Diorama
To expand your adventure and enhance your holiday displays, pair this train set with the colorful, two-sided Polar Express G-Gauge Diorama (sold separately) with tunnel portal openings.
The Polar Express G-Gauge Train Set is backed by a manufacturer's limited one-year warranty. See owner's manual for details.
What's in the Box
Steam locomotive, tender, passenger coach, observation coach, remote control, twelve curved and four straight track pieces, three figures, six C batteries, two AA batteries, and instructions.
CUSTOMER REVIEW
I was surprised to see the negative reviews on this product, but after reading them I think most of them were from people that did not read or understand the product description. This is a 'G' scale toy plastic train with plastic track that is battery powered and is controlled by an R/C unit.
I have not seen another 'G' scale set with better quality equipment and features for the price. The engine has built-in sound that makes a steam 'chuff' noise synchronized to the speed of the engine. It also makes a steam brake release noise when it stops. It has a bell sound and whistle that you can control from the R/C unit. It has 3 speeds in both forward and reverse directions. The speeds seems very prototypical. The speed is also momentum controlled - the train speeds up and slows down at a measured pace just like a real train. The detail on the engine is quite good for a 'toy' train.
I had the same experience with the included batteries as others - they barely moved the train for a few minutes and then conked out. I replaced the standard batteries with alkaline ones and it ran for about 10 hours before needing replacement. I have switched to a compatible 9.6v rechargeable battery that works great, is cheaper to run, and environmentally better.
The packaging states the set is for kids 4 years or older. Both my 4-1/2 year old and 2 year old can run the train with the R/C controller (and did not stop playing with it for almost a week). However they do not have the dexterity to couple the cars or snap the track together. I would guess that a 5 or 6 year old would be able to assemble and operate everything without adult help. They have banged the engine, thrown the controller, and knocked the coaches around quite a bit without any damage.
For model railroaders or anyone who wants to tinker, you could add lighting to the coaches fairly easily. I think the train would work well outdoors if you want to try creating a garden railway. I do wish Lionel would make more track options - an 'X' crossing and R/L hand switches would allow expansion to a true train layout instead of just an oval or circle.
I don't think you could find a better quality radio controlled toy 'G' scale train with so many features for such a low price.
