8826 - ATX Sport Cycle

Rating:
Pros: A cluster of unique pieces; the little alternate dune buggy
Cons: Too small for its price; main model has almost no functionality
Contents: 94 pieces
Price: Discontinued
Reviewed: 23-Aug-1998
Reviewed by: G. M.

If there is an all time worst Technic set, this one might be it. It's not that I don't like it, I just expected a lot more. It has very little "technical" attributes and may be better suited as a Model Team kit.

It is a small sized ATV that may be capable of seating Technic figs, if you put them in the right way, although it is probably too large. As mentioned above, it has very little functionality. The back section of the ATV is built in a way so that it can tilt to either side, giving the impression of shock absorbers -- which are not included. The front part is hinged from the back and can steer using the hinge. The handle bars are also adjustable.

The colors of the model aren't too pleasing to look at: blue, yellow, black, and grey. Two colors would have done the job better. The model does have strong points though. It includes a lot of unique pieces which include two 2x2 round tiles with a preprinted grille, a weird 5x2x2 hinge piece, and a few "coat hangers".

The alternate dune buggy model is one of the rare cases in which the secondary construction is better than the primary. It is a sleek little car that has gears in it! The ATV model does not. The two small bevel gears are attatched to a bushing that, when turned, opens up the front hatch to get inside of the buggy. This feature is a lot of fun, even if it is simple. The ends of the canopy resemble fangs and I can remember driving this around, making it eat pencils and other office supplies.

While this model is not too thrilling, it is nice to have as the smallest Model Team set...even if it is a Technic set. The great little dune buggy is also tons of fun to have. Even if the set does have good aspects, I am still not rating it too highly or recommending it.