Main manufacturers: sell good models, but for the price of great ones 🙄 Smaller Manufacturers: sell great models at the price of good ones 🤩 Heljan: Sells bad models at the price of great ones 🥸😖 This hobby is confusing sometimes. Thank goodness we have reviewers like you that help us identify what’s worthwhile and what isn’t.
Smaller manufacturers tend to do all their work in house and therefor have lower production costs whereas larger manufacturers have to farm out their production to be able to keep up with demand so their production costs are naturally going to be higher and with that said the production costs are passed along to the consumer, hence the higher the demand equals higher cost.
Bought the Dapol 122 some while ago. No problems (yet) but I assumed that the Bachmann 121 would be a lot better and it would be worth getting one. e.g. lower floor. Thanks for the review - probably put the money towards something else now.
YES a Class 121 I have been trying to get two in the Green Livery so I can Couple them up with each other to recreate the scene where a railway is Really busy and running one DMU isn't efficient enough so by adding another Class 121 increases the Passenger capacity and I'm probably going to get hate comments but I Quite like the Pacer and I would like to Get one I also would like to Get the hornby Class 158 EMU in Arriva Wales Livery and I would like to Get the Lima Class 156 Super sprinter and then I would like to Get the Hornby Class 153 single car unit in The East midlands Livery Cheers.Lewis 👍
I may be a car guy but I like trains as well! It's quite interesting to learn about these locomotive! I would be surprised if one day if you reviewed a vehicle on train wheels! :D
Sam I always love your videos. I take a lot of stock in your reviews and only purchase on the good reviews of each product. Keep those great videos coming.
Hi Sam, just a point about sprung buffers..... Some of us railway modelers run stock close coupled and the sprung buffers allow negotiation of curves that fixed buffers wouldn't, fixed buffers would cause a 'jacknife' derailment. Also, my DMU units have the scale couplings at each end so when they come up to buffers or other units at stations its a happy little pleasure I have to watch the sprung buffers depress as on prototype, so sprung buffers for some of us are not useless and can be a deal breaker. An excellent review as always though Sam.
A fascinating review Sam, and you're invaluable eye for detail, picking up both the positive and negative issues with this model. Thanks as always...Bob
This Class 121 single-car DMU Engine's colour👌👍👏wow nice I love it. Bachmann was verry good at malking these. Thankyou Sam because of you we could get to now about these trains. So detailed. Love from Sri lanka. I'm Dayan Akash.
Of course, a valid question would be "how often did a 121 actually travel at 70mph?" On branches, speeds limits would have prevented it, while the GWML has frequent stops, so high speeds can only be attained by units with good acceleration. There isn't really much need for the model to do more than 50 or so, especially since most models using a 121 will probably depict the area around a station.
That's true - but it just seems like a good idea to allow the model to reach the real life theoretical maximum speed... should have been a decision for the customer, not the manufacturer! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I say Mr.Sam should start his own show with his model trains and also probably make an N scale narrow gauge model railway with narrow gauge model locomotives. Sam Has the equipment to mar this Hypothetical show. The show could be called Sam’s Trains Adventures.
this railcar looks like the Berlin Undergrund railcar A3 / III or the railcar D, and the three-part front letter reminds me a lot of the driver's cab of the train, this Railcar, was build in the LEW Henningsdorf, in the former GDR
I used to take the chiltern bubble from Aylesbury to Princes Risborough almost everyday for the few years before they retired it. Lots of interest on the last day, I have pics and rode on it. Even had free coffee and cakes!
The Class 121 DMU’s or Rail Cars are absolutely beautiful, and I rode on one at the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, which is near my home. It’s a beautiful locomotive, and it was brilliant.
I am a big fan of 'bubble cars' and particualy those with 'cow horn' exhausts which this model has. yes it is expensive but the model ticks all boxes as on my favourite things in real life I treated myself. I love the livery, slow speed lighting, and runs very well indeed on my branch line. I have had a lot of pleasure from this model, and so makes me happy. Good Review Sam
Seeing the destination pleased me greatly - it means that I have definitely travelled in one of these, from the station at Par, going to Newquay - I have family there.
The best feature of this DMU is the lighting? It is a coach with an electric motor fitted to it and then it doesn't even run at a scale speed. You even spotted a fault with the painting. My 1960s Diesel Rail Car with the centre coach knocks spots off this example. Martin. (Thailand)
I used to ask for train sets for Christmas as a child (Hornby) and then as I got older, my interest waned a bit, but I never lost interest completely. I have always been interested in trains since I was young. I have fond memories of my late mother taking me into town in the 80's, and we would always get on a DMU of some description (117 I think, Valley Lines), so the DMU's are my favourite. I am looking into getting back into it again as an adult, but I haven't got a clue where to start as it is all different now: more companies than just Hornby, new fangled digital sets etc. So I have subbed in hoping I can pick a few tips and tricks up here and there.
Nice review as per usual Sam. I’m currently in the market for a “bubble car” the issues with Dapols 121/122 has put me right off although they do look fantastic. That leaves me in the market for the Bachmann version. Lots to like about the model you covered here, but the amount of plastic used in construction is pretty poor, so I have to agree with you regarding Bachmann penny pinching! I’m hoping Accurascale decide to produce a DMU in the future! Cheers John b😊
I’m amazed, Dapol, Hornby and Bachmann could have made this such a beautifully detailed locomotive. It could have been a beautiful model to run but it’s like they focus on one area then let every other area a let down.
Sam, really enjoyed the review. Love the 121s and this is a superb model. I have had one running for 6 months and it is superb. The speed does not worry me because I have a terminus to fiddle yard layout.
I think for £155 no, never in a month of Sundays for me.. However. For £110? Well now, for the features that's almost reasonable!❤️ Jolly good show Sam old boy 👍
It might be my mood...but I cant help but think the brain trust at Bachmann was banking on the trick pony being the multi-light feature. I mean who would pay for the feasibility of having so many different lighting choices with just a flick of a few switches. Everything from simple security lighting of a loco sitting in a yard waiting for assignment to a fully loaded passenger consist deadheading through London at 2am. I know there were issues...paint and what not...but I'd pay for that feature...Of course I remember when led lighting was just hitting the scene back in the 80s with flashing lights designed to mimic Mars lights. Back then it was aftermarket. Bachmann was still in that phase where ya got what ya got. Oh...and on the lighting....wow...those bulbs really just illuminated the immediate space in the coach as it would if it were full size. That to me is really impressive. Id love to see how it would look dc'd. Anyhow...I dont wish to be argumentative...that lighting set up really impressed me.
Per circa 3m 20s it is a DMU because it: (1) Is Diesel Powered and (2) is capable of connecting to some other Multiple Units to form a train ... all of the DMU's being controlled from one cab. As I'm comment 373 someone probably said this at comment 10.
I would not be surprised if that one uses part of the chassis of the DB VT62 / SNCB reeks 600... The drive system is exactly the same and the interior shows the basic characteristics of the average Euro EMU / DMU design with the seats being used to keep the floor pan straight.
Only take off the body shell if you need to Sam it can damage the model in the process once you done looking at the details just run the thing and only take it off if you need to
Personally felt the final score was a little harsh for the money (assuming they’ve been around £130 most of the time). That being said couldn’t radically disagree with any of the individual scores. The handles looked decent for moulded parts (no flashing). The speed of the motor is a little concerning running at high speed but I think for most smaller layouts, which this is arguably targeted towards being that it’s a complete train, then slow speed is critical and I guess a bonus is the lights are on better with DC. The lights look like quite a good feature with the switching being nice and good for DC modellers who rarely get such a choice. The area I felt really let this one down was the dodgy paintwork. Lack of die cast and pulling power to me isn’t relevant really as this only worked in multiple and wouldn’t pull coaches / wagons. All in all a really good review and very informative.
Apart from the faults and hi price tag, it is a great looking model. I like how they have modelled the key hole lock holes on each of the doors. At least Bachmann produce plenty of their models and allocate enough models to suppliers unlike another manufacturer and retailer. As you can tell I had some models on pre order cancelled.
I guess it can technically still be called a "multiple unit" as it wasn't uncommon at all to see them coupled to other DMUs to up the number of seats on particularly busy workings
I know this is unrelated, but have you ever thought about using the musical piece Pacific 231 by Arthur Honegger for a video about Pacifics? ("231" is the French form of 4-6-2.)
You got to remember, Bachmann basically is cheap made if it had metal it probably would have been cheap Chinese metal. It looks nice and color is smashing.
There should be no excuse for that though - Kader produce all their stuff at their own factories, so they have control over every aspect of production. Never had a problem with Bachmann diecast either! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Does the warranty still only apply in the UK. Seems from previous paperwork that Bachmann do not provide a warranty outside the UK. Important for overseas buyers like Australia to know.
Try everard junction dapol 121. His are still running and he pointed out the fault with the bogey, easily resolved, and they needed running in, I have 9 of these and all are fitted with sound on DCC. Never had a problem. Maybe you should go the DCC Route Sam. And maybe build a proper layout. mmmmm
After seeing a few Bachmann reviews, I'm starting to think Hornby and Lima are the better options, as it seems you're not gaining anything from the additional expense. Thanks for another great video, Sam. Are we likely to see a video showing off your entire diesel fleet?
Nice one Sam. I did see these at just over a ton, and was tempted. My trains rarely run over a scale 50 anyway as otherwise they look like passenger slaughterers as they career round the curves, but I think you are right about the speed in this case 🤔 Lovely looking but...hmmm...I like it....but it is a bit disappointing as well...😂 But it is a step up on the others I guess 👍 BTW, re the “DMU debate” thing: surely isn’t a multiple because the thing itself is a multiple, but because the individual units can be connected in multiple and behave like one vehicle? 🤷🏻♂️ Meh, too much thinking for a Friday! 😝 Have a nice weekend mate 👍🍀🍻
With me being retired it doesn't make you want to save a buy with not coming up to standard! Hattons have cancelled my order for the new Horby Phoenix class 37 before ists even out
Thanks for sharing Ashly - Hornby is to blame over the pre-orders being cancelled, they're really cheesing a lot of people off with it! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
A shame they put on the prototype "continental" buffers as the class had the extra large buffers to cope with the occasional hitching up of wagons and tankers of different ride heights to cope with the by 1960 still quite old stock to be found on BR. These were used here in Dorset on the Bridport branch.
You should see the prices now at Rails, £229 reduced from £269 😶. But you do get a speaker fitted for that. Or you could get the Dapol O guage with more features for just a bit more at £254.
I'm so glad you have reviewed this one. I have the exact same model. I run on DCC and don't get any issue with speed....I don't really get that. The full blown controllable lighting is amazing on DCC too. I did have problems at first until it was run in but now it runs perfectly and has become one of my favourite loco's. Price wise, well, they are all hideously expensive aren't they? One more thing, why bother having couplings when it couldn't pull the skin off that rice pudding you had!
Thanks for sharing Wayne - yes very impressed with all the lighting on this, they did a cracking good job. Yes way too expensive, and that's a good point - the coupllings are a bit redundant aren't they?! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I enjoyed the Bachmann Class 121. But being that Bachmann has build up an "el cheapo overpriced piece of rubbish" reputation by now the complaints was a no surprise to me. I always loved DMUs. They remind me of a subway train expect it operated 100% above ground while subways are 50/50 or only underground. Too bad we never had (too my knowledge) DMUs here in the United States. No way though I'd spend $220 (US dollars equivalent) for one though.
Good work again on the review. You’ve made me go look at my brand new Dapol, which I haven’t run yet; your comment about your Dapol derailing bothered me. Looking at mine; the footsteps on one bogie hit the underframe detail at tighter bogie turn positions - I’ll be filing a slither off the back of the steps before I run mine. It might be a thing with your specimen as well?
I prefer the Dapol, personally,it matches the bachmann in detail, mine was a better performer, also had a 1970s all over blue version available,considering the bachmann came after dapol by years doesn't offer anything better
Good review Sam a very nice looking model there in that blue and grey livery I still have my dapol one fully detailed up which does still run very well
Excellent review of the Bachmann Class 121 Sam 👍👍 I’m sorry to hear that you have to buy the Dapol version again & again and then got tired of the model. But never the less, I’m glad you are happy with the Bachmann version even that it does run a bit slow. The two issues that I find with this one is that I’m not pleased that there a plastic chassis and the rise floor going right next to set level which is a disappointment to me as I had hope for Bachmann do well than Dapol.
Thanks so much Joe - yeah I got fed up of the Dapol in the end, even though it looked lovely. Yeah I agree - no reason for those issues as far as I can see! :( Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I'm thinking that they have geared it slowly for smooth running because most of these models are used on small station layouts where they only pull in and out of a station. I agree though... I prefer heavy vehicles.
Hi Sam, excellent review. I was going to buy one of these, but for the money I would have preferred a metal chassis. Not sure I will buy one now...Simon
Thanks so much Simon, hope you're doing well my friend. Yes for the money you don't quite get what you pay for - I've seen worse of course, but can't fully recommend it! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Agree with your excellent review Sam, nice model with faults 1) being ridicous price of £180 for one engine and having less than satisfactory detailed / paint chippings / marks. Can I ask why these Blue / grey Class 121 have a blank roof code, e.g., no roof lights in config like this [0 0] or any destination boards ?
Funny that Hornby's 121 is still the best performer. If they released a highly detailed version I think it would blow Bachmann and Dapol out of the water!
"unique with 3 current models" *looks at hornby/bachmann/hattons 66s... I have 2 121s, both hornby bodies on lima chassis, both DCC fitted. They run ok, but the lack of pickups is an issue. They really could do with stay alives, or extra pickups. But, this one seems nice, and would run better coupled to my bachmann 105/108 (although the speed difference may be an issue. There again, those other units are heavier so might just drag it). A shame bachmann isn't doing the 121 trailer cars, or the 122s, so I'll have to get a dapol 122. But, I'd rather save and get an 0 gauge 121/122 instead. Seems odd that it'd be so light. However, with a bachmann 37 costing about £180 nowadays without any interior, I think the price isn't too bad. Still, I'd expect separately fitted door handles. The floor looks to be an ok height, based on riding a 122 at the Weardale Railway back in 2019, but why is the floor the same colour as the seats? You should review the hornby 153, to continue with single car DMUs. A great model, lower priced. True, the lights may not be spot on for every model, but its still good. Also, wish hornby would retool their 155 to be like the 153.
Hi Sam. Interesting to see a complete all-in-one train such as this! Lol. The slow speed, plastic chassis and high price would make this a 'no' as far as I am concerned. But most of all the other features are good. Maybe a 5 pole motor would have served it better than the (presumably) coreless motor fitted? Hmm, I wonder. Nice detail though. Best, Pete.
Thanks Pete - yeah that's fair enough - at that price some of those features don't make any sense... can't blame you for calling it a no! Thanks for watching, Sam :)
70mph is the maximum speed allowed on the Main Line. Yours is going at the preserved Branch Line speed of 25mph. I loved it when you turned the lights off, I would have loved to see Dusty DMU in the Dark. Don't put Dusty DMU down, he didn't fancy running at Main Line speed. He's more of a Branch Line Speed fanatic, and I don't blame him. He just wanted to show you what a good performer he is at 25mph. That's how fast a DMU goes on the Llangollen Railway, same speed as the steamies there.
For me the Bachmann version is not appealing. It is equipped with questionable square buffers and does have a flush roof when it actually should have roof ribs going by photos. Though I suspect that the Dapol version of the roof ribs is too pronounced that, in my eyes, still looks better than a completely flush roof. And I personally prefer the front ends of the class 122. But admittedly that is a matter of taste.
No, he doesn‘t say the full scale speed but the 50% scale speed which was 27 mph. So maybe the full scale speed is around 54 mph (with linear engine performance).
Love that dapol version, well, just the color 👌 .
Yeah I did too - shame I had to let it go :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains it looks like the br class 101
I like how the class 121 looks, might have to get Dapol’s N gauge one,hopefully it’s better than it’s 00 gauge version-Ben
Main manufacturers: sell good models, but for the price of great ones 🙄
Smaller Manufacturers: sell great models at the price of good ones 🤩
Heljan: Sells bad models at the price of great ones 🥸😖
This hobby is confusing sometimes. Thank goodness we have reviewers like you that help us identify what’s worthwhile and what isn’t.
haha yeah - that sums it up about right... it sure is confusing!! :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Smaller manufacturers tend to do all their work in house and therefor have lower production costs whereas larger manufacturers have to farm out their production to be able to keep up with demand so their production costs are naturally going to be higher and with that said the production costs are passed along to the consumer, hence the higher the demand equals higher cost.
The cocktail jazz over the ratings card is a nice touch.
Bought the Dapol 122 some while ago. No problems (yet) but I assumed that the Bachmann 121 would be a lot better and it would be worth getting one. e.g. lower floor. Thanks for the review - probably put the money towards something else now.
YES a Class 121 I have been trying to get two in the Green Livery so I can Couple them up with each other to recreate the scene where a railway is Really busy and running one DMU isn't efficient enough so by adding another Class 121 increases the Passenger capacity and I'm probably going to get hate comments but I Quite like the Pacer and I would like to Get one I also would like to Get the hornby Class 158 EMU in Arriva Wales Livery and I would like to Get the Lima Class 156 Super sprinter and then I would like to Get the Hornby Class 153 single car unit in The East midlands Livery Cheers.Lewis 👍
I may be a car guy but I like trains as well! It's quite interesting to learn about these locomotive! I would be surprised if one day if you reviewed a vehicle on train wheels! :D
Already did
Sam I always love your videos. I take a lot of stock in your reviews and only purchase on the good reviews of each product. Keep those great videos coming.
Thanks so much - really appreciate the kind words Louis!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Definitely a nice looking DMU. The British Rail branding works really well with it.
Hi Sam, just a point about sprung buffers..... Some of us railway modelers run stock close coupled and the sprung buffers allow negotiation of curves that fixed buffers wouldn't, fixed buffers would cause a 'jacknife' derailment. Also, my DMU units have the scale couplings at each end so when they come up to buffers or other units at stations its a happy little pleasure I have to watch the sprung buffers depress as on prototype, so sprung buffers for some of us are not useless and can be a deal breaker.
An excellent review as always though Sam.
Thanks a lot for sharing Anthony - amazing that some are actually able to make use of the sprung buffers!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I went to a local model shop today and they had a 101 in this livery. I love the blue, yellow and grey it really fits the DMU style.-Das Mann
Ahh fantastic -yeah it does, great livery isn't it? :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@Joe Parker that may make the model go faster!-Das Mann
A fascinating review Sam, and you're invaluable eye for detail, picking up both the positive and negative issues with this model. Thanks as always...Bob
Just got one of these. My first Bachmann engine. It looks great to me
Sam's trains!!! Another Buchmann train. You was detailing it clearly. Love Sam's trains from Srilanka
This Class 121 single-car DMU Engine's colour👌👍👏wow nice I love it. Bachmann was verry good at malking these. Thankyou Sam because of you we could get to now about these trains. So detailed. Love from Sri lanka. I'm Dayan Akash.
Of course, a valid question would be "how often did a 121 actually travel at 70mph?" On branches, speeds limits would have prevented it, while the GWML has frequent stops, so high speeds can only be attained by units with good acceleration. There isn't really much need for the model to do more than 50 or so, especially since most models using a 121 will probably depict the area around a station.
That's true - but it just seems like a good idea to allow the model to reach the real life theoretical maximum speed... should have been a decision for the customer, not the manufacturer!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Can you review the 1980s Clockwork Thomas?
Ooooh, lovely DMU, all you need now is a 158 to go along side it...
Great video, stay safe and take care :)
Thanks mate - I agree, that'd be perfect! :D
Thanks for watching - Sam :)
I say Mr.Sam should start his own show with his model trains and also probably make an N scale narrow gauge model railway with narrow gauge model locomotives. Sam Has the equipment to mar this Hypothetical show. The show could be called Sam’s Trains Adventures.
this railcar looks like the Berlin Undergrund railcar A3 / III or the railcar D, and the three-part front letter reminds me a lot of the driver's cab of the train, this Railcar, was build in the LEW Henningsdorf, in the former GDR
I used to take the chiltern bubble from Aylesbury to Princes Risborough almost everyday for the few years before they retired it.
Lots of interest on the last day, I have pics and rode on it. Even had free coffee and cakes!
The Class 121 DMU’s or Rail Cars are absolutely beautiful, and I rode on one at the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway, which is near my home. It’s a beautiful locomotive, and it was brilliant.
I did the driving experience there. Fantastic railway!
I am a big fan of 'bubble cars' and particualy those with 'cow horn' exhausts which this model has. yes it is expensive but the model ticks all boxes as on my favourite things in real life I treated myself. I love the livery, slow speed lighting, and runs very well indeed on my branch line. I have had a lot of pleasure from this model, and so makes me happy. Good Review Sam
Seeing the destination pleased me greatly - it means that I have definitely travelled in one of these, from the station at Par, going to Newquay - I have family there.
Yeah that's a lovely touch isn't it? Particularly good for you too! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
The best feature of this DMU is the lighting? It is a coach with an electric motor fitted to it and then it doesn't even run at a scale speed. You even spotted a fault with the painting. My 1960s Diesel Rail Car with the centre coach knocks spots off this example. Martin. (Thailand)
I’ve heard that for the 121 the M in DMU stands for Mechanical (Diesel Mechanical Unit), obviously referring to the mechanical transmission.
Fab review, just ordered a 121 in NSE- £165 DCC sound from TMC!
I used to ask for train sets for Christmas as a child (Hornby) and then as I got older, my interest waned a bit, but I never lost interest completely. I have always been interested in trains since I was young.
I have fond memories of my late mother taking me into town in the 80's, and we would always get on a DMU of some description (117 I think, Valley Lines), so the DMU's are my favourite.
I am looking into getting back into it again as an adult, but I haven't got a clue where to start as it is all different now: more companies than just Hornby, new fangled digital sets etc. So I have subbed in hoping I can pick a few tips and tricks up here and there.
Yay I love single car DMUs. :D
Me too!! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
So do I. I collect Japanese trains as well and I am a huge fan of their KiHa DMUs.
Nice review as per usual Sam.
I’m currently in the market for a “bubble car” the issues with Dapols 121/122 has put me right off although they do look fantastic.
That leaves me in the market for the Bachmann version.
Lots to like about the model you covered here, but the amount of plastic used in construction is pretty poor, so I have to agree with you regarding Bachmann penny pinching!
I’m hoping Accurascale decide to produce a DMU in the future!
Cheers John b😊
Paid 79 quid for my dapol version, straight out of the box and into the workshop, very happy with it now, works fine 🙂
Yeah mine was cheap too - great to hear yours is working fine! I just gave up after my third! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I’m amazed, Dapol, Hornby and Bachmann could have made this such a beautifully detailed locomotive. It could have been a beautiful model to run but it’s like they focus on one area then let every other area a let down.
Sam, really enjoyed the review. Love the 121s and this is a superb model. I have had one running for 6 months and it is superb. The speed does not worry me because I have a terminus to fiddle yard layout.
I think for £155 no, never in a month of Sundays for me..
However.
For £110? Well now, for the features that's almost reasonable!❤️
Jolly good show Sam old boy 👍
It might be my mood...but I cant help but think the brain trust at Bachmann was banking on the trick pony being the multi-light feature. I mean who would pay for the feasibility of having so many different lighting choices with just a flick of a few switches. Everything from simple security lighting of a loco sitting in a yard waiting for assignment to a fully loaded passenger consist deadheading through London at 2am.
I know there were issues...paint and what not...but I'd pay for that feature...Of course I remember when led lighting was just hitting the scene back in the 80s with flashing lights designed to mimic Mars lights. Back then it was aftermarket. Bachmann was still in that phase where ya got what ya got.
Oh...and on the lighting....wow...those bulbs really just illuminated the immediate space in the coach as it would if it were full size. That to me is really impressive. Id love to see how it would look dc'd.
Anyhow...I dont wish to be argumentative...that lighting set up really impressed me.
Per circa 3m 20s it is a DMU because it: (1) Is Diesel Powered and (2) is capable of connecting to some other Multiple Units to form a train ... all of the DMU's being controlled from one cab. As I'm comment 373 someone probably said this at comment 10.
I basically made up the term DSU for locos like this. Essentially, if DMU means Diesel Multiple Unit, then DSU means Diesel Single Unit.
haha yeah - that would make a lot more sense!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Goodness, that motor sounds a bit like a cow going mooooooo!
I would not be surprised if that one uses part of the chassis of the DB VT62 / SNCB reeks 600... The drive system is exactly the same and the interior shows the basic characteristics of the average Euro EMU / DMU design with the seats being used to keep the floor pan straight.
Paint missing . That's weathering. justifies the high price.
Only take off the body shell if you need to Sam it can damage the model in the process once you done looking at the details just run the thing and only take it off if you need to
Loving it Sam!
Great video, once again
Personally felt the final score was a little harsh for the money (assuming they’ve been around £130 most of the time). That being said couldn’t radically disagree with any of the individual scores. The handles looked decent for moulded parts (no flashing).
The speed of the motor is a little concerning running at high speed but I think for most smaller layouts, which this is arguably targeted towards being that it’s a complete train, then slow speed is critical and I guess a bonus is the lights are on better with DC.
The lights look like quite a good feature with the switching being nice and good for DC modellers who rarely get such a choice.
The area I felt really let this one down was the dodgy paintwork.
Lack of die cast and pulling power to me isn’t relevant really as this only worked in multiple and wouldn’t pull coaches / wagons.
All in all a really good review and very informative.
Apart from the faults and hi price tag, it is a great looking model. I like how they have modelled the key hole lock holes on each of the doors.
At least Bachmann produce plenty of their models and allocate enough models to suppliers unlike another manufacturer and retailer. As you can tell I had some models on pre order cancelled.
I agree Ben - overall a great looking model! That's true - Hornby being a real nuisance at the moment!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Mmm yes. That livery looks excellent on that class 121!
It sure does! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains :)
I guess it can technically still be called a "multiple unit" as it wasn't uncommon at all to see them coupled to other DMUs to up the number of seats on particularly busy workings
Thanks Mitchell - that's an interesting thought!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I know this is unrelated, but have you ever thought about using the musical piece Pacific 231 by Arthur Honegger for a video about Pacifics? ("231" is the French form of 4-6-2.)
haha that sounds like a great idea - I'll look that up! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Cool model Sam! These units proved to be very popular with enthusiasts!
Thanks a lot Ryno - they sure do! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
If I were to get one of these, it would probably be BR green. Great video sam! Shame the chassis aren't metal.
You got to remember, Bachmann basically is cheap made if it had metal it probably would have been cheap Chinese metal. It looks nice and color is smashing.
There should be no excuse for that though - Kader produce all their stuff at their own factories, so they have control over every aspect of production. Never had a problem with Bachmann diecast either!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Does the warranty still only apply in the UK.
Seems from previous paperwork that Bachmann do not provide a warranty outside the UK.
Important for overseas buyers like Australia to know.
Congrats sir im from Philippines in Asia 🎊🎉
Fast-forwarding to December where Bachmann takes a clean sweep on the Top 5 Worst and the Top 5 Best locomotives of the year
haha I doubt this will make the bottom 5!! ;D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Try everard junction dapol 121. His are still running and he pointed out the fault with the bogey, easily resolved, and they needed running in, I have 9 of these and all are fitted with sound on DCC. Never had a problem. Maybe you should go the DCC Route Sam. And maybe build a proper layout. mmmmm
After seeing a few Bachmann reviews, I'm starting to think Hornby and Lima are the better options, as it seems you're not gaining anything from the additional expense. Thanks for another great video, Sam. Are we likely to see a video showing off your entire diesel fleet?
You might be right - Bachmann are good but often only at considerable discount... this, not one of their best :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Just baught bachmanns class 57 and its a fantastic runner. Definitely recommend
Great model the Class 57, runs very well and looks the part
Nice one Sam. I did see these at just over a ton, and was tempted. My trains rarely run over a scale 50 anyway as otherwise they look like passenger slaughterers as they career round the curves, but I think you are right about the speed in this case 🤔 Lovely looking but...hmmm...I like it....but it is a bit disappointing as well...😂
But it is a step up on the others I guess 👍
BTW, re the “DMU debate” thing: surely isn’t a multiple because the thing itself is a multiple, but because the individual units can be connected in multiple and behave like one vehicle? 🤷🏻♂️
Meh, too much thinking for a Friday! 😝 Have a nice weekend mate 👍🍀🍻
I don't own a DMU yet and I have seen a few at auction. This looks good.
I have 5 121s I love them , superb models buy bachmann and Dapol. Can’t fault them
With me being retired it doesn't make you want to save a buy with not coming up to standard! Hattons have cancelled my order for the new Horby Phoenix class 37 before ists even out
Thanks for sharing Ashly - Hornby is to blame over the pre-orders being cancelled, they're really cheesing a lot of people off with it!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
A shame they put on the prototype "continental" buffers as the class had the extra large buffers to cope with the occasional hitching up of wagons and tankers of different ride heights to cope with the by 1960 still quite old stock to be found on BR. These were used here in Dorset on the Bridport branch.
Ahh really?? Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Me: Why doesn't he post reviews very often?
Literally every other subscriber of the channel: They don't make enough of them!!!
Love the music at the start
Thanks William! :D
You know he writes and plays the orchestra as well 😆.
That’s one of my favourite styles of dmu great video Sam
Ahh glad to hear that Harry - I love them too! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I like Locos with Lighting - means you can use them in the dark & makes them more interesting!!! 🙂🚂🚂🚂
The livery really suits the 121 👌👌👌 definitely a good buy with it on discount!
I agree - it's a gorgeous livery isn't it?
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
You should see the prices now at Rails, £229 reduced from £269 😶. But you do get a speaker fitted for that.
Or you could get the Dapol O guage with more features for just a bit more at £254.
Sam you are the one who's kind.
hi sam, yes its very expensive or what it is.i have one of the first hornby ones in green which does the job.all locos seem expensive these days
I'm so glad you have reviewed this one. I have the exact same model. I run on DCC and don't get any issue with speed....I don't really get that. The full blown controllable lighting is amazing on DCC too. I did have problems at first until it was run in but now it runs perfectly and has become one of my favourite loco's. Price wise, well, they are all hideously expensive aren't they? One more thing, why bother having couplings when it couldn't pull the skin off that rice pudding you had!
Thanks for sharing Wayne - yes very impressed with all the lighting on this, they did a cracking good job. Yes way too expensive, and that's a good point - the coupllings are a bit redundant aren't they?!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I enjoyed the Bachmann Class 121. But being that Bachmann has build up an "el cheapo overpriced piece of rubbish" reputation by now the complaints was a no surprise to me. I always loved DMUs. They remind me of a subway train expect it operated 100% above ground while subways are 50/50 or only underground. Too bad we never had (too my knowledge) DMUs here in the United States. No way though I'd spend $220 (US dollars equivalent) for one though.
Good work again on the review. You’ve made me go look at my brand new Dapol, which I haven’t run yet; your comment about your Dapol derailing bothered me. Looking at mine; the footsteps on one bogie hit the underframe detail at tighter bogie turn positions - I’ll be filing a slither off the back of the steps before I run mine. It might be a thing with your specimen as well?
I prefer the Dapol, personally,it matches the bachmann in detail, mine was a better performer, also had a 1970s all over blue version available,considering the bachmann came after dapol by years doesn't offer anything better
Man Even 100 pound HAL hornby has separately fitted grab handles !! that's insane that Bachmann didn't care to fit with grab handles on 140 pound DMU
Yay! New Loco's! Love to see these trains mate!
Thank you!! Glad you like them! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Good review Sam a very nice looking model there in that blue and grey livery I still have my dapol one fully detailed up which does still run very well
Thanks a lot David - if your Dapol one runs well, then this isn't any better!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
If they put a small recharge battery in there then the lighting could remain constant and brighter.
Yeah! That's kind of the idea with the capacitor I guess! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Your next challenge with this is to replace the motor / gearing :)
I love dmus keep it up sam!!!!!
Thanks a lot Fred - so do I! :D
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Excellent review of the Bachmann Class 121 Sam 👍👍 I’m sorry to hear that you have to buy the Dapol version again & again and then got tired of the model. But never the less, I’m glad you are happy with the Bachmann version even that it does run a bit slow.
The two issues that I find with this one is that I’m not pleased that there a plastic chassis and the rise floor going right next to set level which is a disappointment to me as I had hope for Bachmann do well than Dapol.
Thanks so much Joe - yeah I got fed up of the Dapol in the end, even though it looked lovely. Yeah I agree - no reason for those issues as far as I can see! :(
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Nice Loco there mate! I like the color of it!
I'm thinking that they have geared it slowly for smooth running because most of these models are used on small station layouts where they only pull in and out of a station. I agree though... I prefer heavy vehicles.
Yeah maybe you're right, doesn't make much sense to me though really!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Looks like a good dmu!
Hi Sam, excellent review. I was going to buy one of these, but for the money I would have preferred a metal chassis. Not sure I will buy one now...Simon
Thanks so much Simon, hope you're doing well my friend. Yes for the money you don't quite get what you pay for - I've seen worse of course, but can't fully recommend it!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Agree with your excellent review Sam, nice model with faults 1) being ridicous price of £180 for one engine and having less than satisfactory detailed / paint chippings / marks. Can I ask why these Blue / grey Class 121 have a blank roof code, e.g., no roof lights in config like this [0 0] or any destination boards ?
Very nice and detailed 121!
Bachmann could have replaced those huge flange wheels with RP25 types to give the model more credit.
Funny that Hornby's 121 is still the best performer. If they released a highly detailed version I think it would blow Bachmann and Dapol out of the water!
"unique with 3 current models" *looks at hornby/bachmann/hattons 66s...
I have 2 121s, both hornby bodies on lima chassis, both DCC fitted. They run ok, but the lack of pickups is an issue. They really could do with stay alives, or extra pickups. But, this one seems nice, and would run better coupled to my bachmann 105/108 (although the speed difference may be an issue. There again, those other units are heavier so might just drag it). A shame bachmann isn't doing the 121 trailer cars, or the 122s, so I'll have to get a dapol 122. But, I'd rather save and get an 0 gauge 121/122 instead.
Seems odd that it'd be so light. However, with a bachmann 37 costing about £180 nowadays without any interior, I think the price isn't too bad. Still, I'd expect separately fitted door handles. The floor looks to be an ok height, based on riding a 122 at the Weardale Railway back in 2019, but why is the floor the same colour as the seats?
You should review the hornby 153, to continue with single car DMUs. A great model, lower priced. True, the lights may not be spot on for every model, but its still good. Also, wish hornby would retool their 155 to be like the 153.
Cheap and nasty is Bachmann’s idea of premium.
haha it sometimes seems so!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
@@SamsTrains No problem.
I was thinking about getting one of these a while back, but never really got round to it
I don't think you've missed out on much - nothing to shout about really!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
Awesome video today Sam such a shame about the locomotive you should do a video of changing a motor
I know it says DMU on the box but it's not a Diesel Multiple Unit, it's a Railcar
Hi Sam. Interesting to see a complete all-in-one train such as this! Lol. The slow speed, plastic chassis and high price would make this a 'no' as far as I am concerned. But most of all the other features are good. Maybe a 5 pole motor would have served it better than the (presumably) coreless motor fitted? Hmm, I wonder. Nice detail though. Best, Pete.
Thanks Pete - yeah that's fair enough - at that price some of those features don't make any sense... can't blame you for calling it a no!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
70mph is the maximum speed allowed on the Main Line. Yours is going at the preserved Branch Line speed of 25mph. I loved it when you turned the lights off, I would have loved to see Dusty DMU in the Dark. Don't put Dusty DMU down, he didn't fancy running at Main Line speed. He's more of a Branch Line Speed fanatic, and I don't blame him. He just wanted to show you what a good performer he is at 25mph. That's how fast a DMU goes on the Llangollen Railway, same speed as the steamies there.
haha that's true Kelly - a fine speed for a preserved DMU!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
I think in DMUs there will always be some conflict between thr floor level and the motor.
For me the Bachmann version is not appealing. It is equipped with questionable square buffers and does have a flush roof when it actually should have roof ribs going by photos. Though I suspect that the Dapol version of the roof ribs is too pronounced that, in my eyes, still looks better than a completely flush roof. And I personally prefer the front ends of the class 122. But admittedly that is a matter of taste.
this reminded me: bachmann have a pianted prototype of daisy now
I'm interested in what the dapol mechanical flaw is. I recently purchased a blue one, and I'd like to know what to expect
Did you say what it’s scale speed was at full speed? I only heard I was less than it should be, but not what it actually was.
It's a while since I filmed this one - did I not say? It just turned out less, that's all I remember!
Thanks for watching, Sam :)
No, he doesn‘t say the full scale speed but the 50% scale speed which was 27 mph. So maybe the full scale speed is around 54 mph (with linear engine performance).