While taking into consideration that Bachmann has confirmed that there will be another New Thomas Product Announcement for the NMRA Convention in July (which is only five months away), and that the Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2020 thread has already been used for two new product announcements, I thought that it would be a good idea to start on new thread to give Bachmann a very clear idea of what we would like to see next. Below is a list of what I would like, and expect to see this July.
HO Scale
Stepney (with moving eyes) #1 Hope
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach
Narrow Gauge
Brake Van- Brown
N Scale
S.C.Ruffey
Tidmouth Milk Tanker
Large Scale
Troublesome Van
Really hoping that an announcement of an HO Stepney will be possible for this July. He is still without a doubt the next engine that the majority of Bachmann Thomas Fans would like to see. And with episodes like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-yHoSMEf2M, that is certainly understandable.
Here are my hopes for this year's NMRA announcements:
HO Scale:
Stepney (#1 hope for new engine tooling)
James - Black (#1 hope for next engine recolor)
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach
Ventilated Van - Explosives
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Toffee Tanker
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Carriage - Green
Brake Van - Brown
N Scale:
Milk Tanker
S.C. Ruffey
Open Wagon - Red
Large Scale:
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach
The Explosives Van, Chocolate Syrup and Toffee Tankers are Large Scale Rolling Stock that have yet to be made in HO Scale.
Hi I'm new
As for the predictions
HO
Stepney
Red express coaches composite and brake
Tar Wagon season 1
N gauge
Edward
Milk tanker (Tidmouth Milk)
Cattle Wagon
Brake van
Not expecting too much of NMRA since Bachmann already has a lot on their plate right now, but there are still a few things I anticipate so far.
HO Scale:
Stepney
Red Express Coaches reintroduction
Tar Tanker reintroduciton
N Scale:
Milk Tanker
Brake Van
Large Scale:
Red Coaches
Hey guys, hope all is well. Here's my hopes for the next announcements.
HO/00 Scale:
Stepney the Bluebell Engine (Hoping for this one the most)
Reintroduced Tar Tanker
Reintroduced Red Express Coaches
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
N Scale:
Scruffy
Brakevan
G Scale:
Red Branchline Coaches
Fingers crossed that at least one of the things listed gets announced when the time comes. :)
HO scale:
Stepney (with moving eyes)
Red express coach
Red express brake coach
Narrow Gauge:
Duncan
Sir Handel
N Scale:
Milk Tanker
S.C Ruffey
Large scale:
Red Coaches
H0 Scale:
Stepney
BoCo (mabye I'm not expecting to see BoCo tho really, but I whould really love if they released him at some point!)
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Duncan
HO Scale
Stepney
Tar Tanker
Red Express Coacnes
Some sort of new variant of the wellwagon
Narrow Gauge
Sir Handle
Brown Brakevan
Green Coach
2020 NMRA predictions
HO/OO
Stepney
Reintroduced Salty
Explosives Van
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
HOn30/OO9
Sir Handel
Narrow Gauge Green Coach
N
Milk Tanker
S.C. Ruffey
Brake Van
Since this is a big year for Thomas, I do very much hope that Bachmann makes some more announcements at the NMRA in July. I would like to see:
HO Scale
Stepney
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach
Celebration Annie/Clarabel (To go with your Celebration Thomas, of course)
Narrow Gauge HOon30
Sir Handel
Flatbed/conflat
N Scale
Spiteful Brakevan
I don't have any actual predictions but I do have one request:
Please Bachmann give us an HO scale Explosives Van.
That is all.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/a8/TheAdventureBegins29.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315081128)
Before I make a "list" I plan on doing three in-depth posts on engine additions I want to see the most with the first being... a black James!
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/93/TheAdventureBegins109.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315082042)
So why bring up another James recolor, especially after Busy Bee James just getting announced? Seems a little redundant right? Well part of that is tied with the lack of the black James to go alongside the LBSC Thomas this year thus making the LBSC Thomas on its own feel very incomplete since there's not much you can do with just the green Thomas to recreate scenes from the Adventure Begins. Heck James was used in his black livery for almost the entire movie whereas Thomas was green for only the beginning of the movie. So why not encourage Bachmann to introduce the black James so fans can fully recreate scenes from the movie, or possibly the whole thing? Busy Bee James is fine on its own and I don't have an issue with it personally, but let's be real here, a black James would have been a lot more exciting than Busy Bee James and would have gone great with the LBSC Thomas.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/83/TheAdventureBegins345.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315084328)
So why else should the black James get introduced over another engine recolor like Sidney? It's because fans have more fond memories and a connection with the black James and what it represents. It not only represents a special that most fans (young and old) love and appreciate but it also represents a time period in Sodor's history. It's pretty much no different than why the LBSC Thomas really has a lot of people excited too. Even both the pink and red Rosie models are a good example of this as while they are the same character they both represent different time periods so fans have options if they wished and having a black James will offer the same thing.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/eb/ThomasandtheBreakdownTrainReginaldPayne3.JPG/revision/latest?cb=20180202221237)
Plus, with how James was introduced in the second book of the Railway Series and was painted black there too (the inspiration for the Adventure Begins livery) and he wasn't red until the third book. Having a model of James would not only represent this time period of James in modern CGI special but also the original Railway Series when James was first introduced. So really it's a win-win whether you prefer the original books or even the newer variant, I would argue for that reason alone that a black James would actually sell better than the Busy Bee James and maybe even the LBSC Thomas too.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/8c/TheAdventureBegins375.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315084659)
So really there is more to it other than the fact that this is just a recolor. It's something that represents a time period, a time period that a lot of fans love and even show a lot of respect for. Any other engine recolor or variant would not work at this point in terms of sales. However the black James will win several people over and will really win over fans on a nostalgic level thus giving Bachmann some incredible sales. It might encourage even more sales for the LBSC Thomas too!
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/84/TheAdventureBegins241.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315083327)
So closing thoughts... I think everything that needs to be said about the black James has been said, but if there is more you can think of feel free! Either way, in terms of new HO engine recolors, I think Bachmann really needs to make the black James their top priority and any other engine recolors shouldn't even be considered at this time, but that's just me. Anyways as usual, time to hear other thoughts:
1. Would you buy a black James?
2. Do you think a Black James should have been announced this year instead of the Busy Bee James?
3. How high of a priority do you think Bachmann should take the Black James?
Hope everyone enjoys reading this post, and I hope Bachmann enjoys reading this too, and I hope you guys stick around as the next engine suggestion I plan on making will not make you feel a little "blue". ;)
PS apologies on the spacing between the RWS pic and the paragraph beneath it, can't seem to fix that...
Really enjoyed reading your thoughts, as always, Chaz! As for my answers to your questions:
1. Yes, I would buy a Black James.
2. Yes. While I do not dislike the Busy Bee James, it is odd that the Busy Bee James of all things was announced for the 75th Anniversary, especially along with the LBSC Thomas.
3. As far as priority is concerned, even though I hope that Stepney will be the next HO engine announced, I do think that the Black James would be a fair second resort if Stepney does not work out due to the cost of a new tooling. As far as engine recolors are concerned, Black James would certainly be the best choice, as he and the LBSC Thomas go hand in hand. Ultimately, what would sadden me and multiple other Bachmann Thomas fans more is if next announced HO engine with a new tooling is not Stepney, given his popularity and multiple other factors that have been stated throughout the forum. To conclude, if another HO engine gets announced this July, as long as it is Stepney or the Black James, I'm happy.
To answer your questions, Chaz:
1. Yes, I certainly would buy Black James.
2. Yes, Black James should've been announced instead of Busy Bee James. If we keep up the demand for Black James, we should eventually get the model.
3. I think Black James should be prioritized, only second to Stepney. Bachmann shouldn't even consider any other engine recolors until we get our Black James. LBSC Thomas would feel incomplete without Black James.
I agree.
Black James is far more important than the bee james.
Though Stepney is top of the board for everyone. Come on bachmann make us love you more :P
1. Yes, I would also buy a Black James.
2. It's not to write off Busy Bee James as a model, but I don't see what stopped Bachmann from painting him completely black.
3. That particular variant of the character is heavily complementary to the existing LBSC Thomas, so the sooner they assess it, the better. Either once they're through with Stepney or if they cannot announce him.
Black James would be a huge hit. And if he had been released alongside LBSC Thomas I can guarantee that they would've been a 2-1 punch for most people, doubling sales for Bachmann because most people wouldn't buy one without the other.
Here's my wishlist
HO scale:
BoCo(with moving eyes) LONG SHOT
Black James(with moving eyes) Possibility
James Goes Buzz Buzz(with red nose and moving eyes) if we're thinking about the older fans here.
Exlposives Van
Toffee Tanker
HO narrow gauge:
Sir Handle
N gauge:
Gordon
Henry
Express Coach
Express Brake Coach
I'd love for Bachmann to make BoCo in HO Scale, even though he is a long shot. The biggest requests for engines in HO Scale are now Stepney and Black James.
For HO Rolling Stock, the Red Express Coaches should make a comeback, and it would really be nice if the Explosives Van, Chocolate Syrup and Toffee Tankers eventually do get made in HO Scale, as they're still exclusive to Large Scale.
For Narrow Gauge Rolling Stock, we still need the Brown Brake Van for the freight trains. The Blue and Red Coaches both used different toolings, and if we eventually get the Green Narrow Gauge Coach, it would also require a completely new tooling.
Personally, for the next N Scale engine(s) after James, I'm vouching for Gordon and Henry, but other possibilities include Emily, or Toby.
For N Scale Rolling Stock, we definitely need the Milk Tanker. Other possibilities include S.C. Ruffey, Red Open Wagon, or Brake Van (possibly Spiteful Brake Van).
Once the Toy Fair comes next weekend, we can only hope at least some of the products announced at least year's NMRA made the display, especially Daisy and Peter Sam. If Peter Sam makes it, maybe Sir Handel could get announced at this year's NMRA.
Thanks for the strong feedback for the Black James so far everyone! Surprised how many responses I got in just under 24 hours of my post being up, wow!
The fact that everybody pretty much mutually agrees that black James should be the top recolor considered and even coming second priority behind Stepney in terms of what people want to see the most or even as a backup for Stepney really speaks high volume of how much people want a black James. Same can also be said for how everyone also agrees that it would have made more sense over the Busy Bee James announcement this year too, but the fact that people still want black James in spite of the Busy Bee James announcement is very encouraging.
Personally I feel the exact same way with Stepney being #1 in terms of future HO engines but black James comes at a very, very close second. Either would make me happy but if Stepney can't be pulled off this year because of new tooling costs being an issue then there's no reason for Bachmann to not announce a black James next.
My Hopes In A Long Overdue
WishList
HO ENGINESSTEPNEY (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5c/MainStepneyModel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20171026025931)
ARTHUR(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/61/MainArthurModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20180305075149)
MURDOCH(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d9/MainMurdochModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20171026015724)
FERGUS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c6/MainFergusModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20190612091626)
STANLEY(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/96/MainStanleyModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20171026025358)
HARVEY(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/e4/MainHarveyModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20171025150227)
BOCO (I Know)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b8/MainBoCoModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20190805232028)
BLACK JAMES(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/53/MainJamesCGI1.png/revision/latest?cb=20171102064915)
HO ROLLING STOCK SHORT WHEELBASE OR 4 PLANK TRUCK(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/39/TroublesomeTruckModel2.png/revision/latest?cb=20170820073122)
CHINA CLAY TRUCK(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d1/TheDiseasel5.png/revision/latest?cb=20160709022414)
THE BREAKDOWN CRANE & WORKS UNIT COACH(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/1b/OneGoodTurn26.png/revision/latest?cb=20160713174829)
STANDARD LOGOLESS TANKERS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/e1/MainStandardTankerModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20180725235259)
OFF-RAILBULGY(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d3/BulgyModelSeries.png/revision/latest?cb=20190611151623)
TREVOR(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/1d/MainTrevorModel1.png/revision/latest?cb=20171023125210)
GEORGE(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/47/SteamRoller19.png/revision/latest?cb=20190424210931)
CAROLINE(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/87/Caroline.png/revision/latest?cb=20170516223502)
BULSTRODE(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/38/BulstrodeModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20180922075608)
THE HORRID LORRIES(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/54/HorridLorry15.png/revision/latest?cb=20171011103134)
BUTCH(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/ef/HorridLorry61.png/revision/latest?cb=20171012003004)
TIGER MOTH(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/1a/TigerMoth.png/revision/latest?cb=20160923132146)
THUMPER (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/29/ThumperModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20190502185422)
ELIZABETH(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/45/ElizabeththeVintageLorry35.png/revision/latest?cb=20170226192515)
I'd also like to take this moment to suggest something that I can't believe hasn't been suggested before.....
THE PACK
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/3c/JackOwnsUp6.png/revision/latest?cb=20190516054823)
This line would have a lot of potential if done with moving parts. I expect you could do the whole pack within six years or so.
NARROW GAUGESIR-HANDEL(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c9/MainSirHandelModel1.png/revision/latest?cb=20171026023602)
DUNCAN(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/54/MainDuncanModel1.png/revision/latest?cb=20190121180616)
DUKE (PLEASE)(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/db/MainDukeModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20171025144241)
NARROW GAUGE ROLLING STOCKGREEN COACHES(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/bb/Greennarrowgaugecoaches2.png/revision/latest?cb=20190718133738)
BROWN BRAKE VAN AND TRUCK(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c5/SkarloeyRailwayBreakdownCrane2.png/revision/latest?cb=20161108064220)
BUILDINGSWELLSWORTH STATION(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/77/SavedfromScrap24.png/revision/latest?cb=20180816193248)
FFARQUHAR(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/eb/ThomasandtheGuard42.png/revision/latest?cb=20160711190943)
TIDMOUTH STATION(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/f4/OliverOwnsUp18.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20131208154015)
RETAINING WALLS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d5/ThomastheJetEngine15.png/revision/latest?cb=20170620192844)
Various Colors & Sizes
THE WATERMILL(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/aa/PercyandHarold19.png/revision/latest?cb=20180802213256)
Season 2 Please
Classic Windmill(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/be/ThomasandBertie26.png/revision/latest?cb=20170606020902)
GOODS SHED(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/be/Daisy%28episode%2914.png/revision/latest?cb=20200108223956)
SKARLOEY SHEDS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/78/HomeAtLast24.png/revision/latest?cb=20170609183118)
FFARQUHAR SHEDS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/df/ThomasComestoBreakfast20.png/revision/latest?cb=20200108215851)
SODOR SHIPPING CO. WAREHOUSE(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/dc/Thomas%2CPercyandOldSlowCoach77.png/revision/latest?cb=20170526150241)
HOPPERS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c7/JamesGetsaNewCoat50.png/revision/latest?cb=20170201181953)
Single Or Double
SIGNAL BOXES(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/3c/ThomasandGordon24.png/revision/latest?cb=20171010235051)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/05/Thomas%2CPercyandtheDragon19.png/revision/latest?cb=20181030230732)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/7c/ThomasandPercy%27sChristmasAdventure12.png/revision/latest?cb=20181222200850)
SIGNALS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/58/ThomasandtheGuard38.png/revision/latest?cb=20160711190409)
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/20/TheAdventureBegins136.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315082222)
Would be nice to have some. ;)
LARGE SCALEI'm not a huge buyer of Large Scale, only because of budget. But I hope to have them all one day.
ENGINESBILL & BEN(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/8a/WrongRoad32.png/revision/latest?cb=20180905221956)
Long felt these two would be
KILLER sellers in Large scale.
ROLLING STOCKMAIL CARS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/42/MailCoachesModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20190105051921)
CHINA CLAY TRUCK(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d1/TheDiseasel5.png/revision/latest?cb=20160709022414)
RED COACHES(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/92/PaintPotsandQueens38.png/revision/latest?cb=20150426010645)
BUILDINGSKNAPFORD STATION(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/92/Edward%27sExploit2.PNG/revision/latest?cb=20181229034847)
Two lines, buy one piece at a time. Connectable.
ENGINE SHED(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/7/7a/Salty%27sSecret42.png/revision/latest?cb=20160817154738)
WINDMILL(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/be/ThomasandBertie26.png/revision/latest?cb=20170606020902)
HOPPERS(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c7/JamesGetsaNewCoat50.png/revision/latest?cb=20170201181953)
Would be awesome in Large.
OFF RAILCRANKY(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d0/CrankyModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20170424080139)
Now I know, "Large Scale Cranky?" But think how awesome it would be.
Sorry for the long post boys, but was inspired. :D
Happy to still be here after all these years.
Keep on track. 8)
I'm more impressed you managed to bypass the thing on the forum that automatically resizes images.
Which please, don't do again.
Yeah I figured it would. Don't know how to do it myself.
And lol. Relax Sparks. Don't get too big for your buffers. Forgot why I don't post here more often.
I'm sure the admins will take care of it, if it really is that big of a deal.
Quote from: thomasj219 on February 14, 2020, 11:48:24 PM
Yeah I figured it would. Don't know how to do it myself.
And lol. Relax Sparks. Don't get too big for your buffers. Forgot why I don't post here more often.
I'm sure the admins will take care of it, if it really is that big of a deal.
I don't know about buffers, but that many images sure are too big for a single forum post, even on a desktop browser they're excessive.
Very true, don't know why it didn't resize. But seeing as I've only made about 14 posts in the past two years, and this is definitely going to be the only one like this, again. I think we'll live.
Maybe by the time I post the next one the forum will be on a system that was created in at least the last decade. ::)
When was this announced? I just hope that they cancel the busy bee James and do the black James instead.
Quote from: thomasj219 on February 15, 2020, 12:38:37 AM
Very true, don't know why it didn't resize. But seeing as I've only made about 14 posts in the past two years, and this is definitely going to be the only one like this, again. I think we'll live.
Maybe by the time I post the next one the forum will be on a system that was created in at least the last decade. ::)
So now that James Goes Buzz Buzz is in the mix here. Who else would buy that?
Oh my that's alot of pics lol.
I do agree with the Arthur and boco on a wishlist
And butch the brake down truck without face.
BUT Stepney is top of the list.
My predictions:
HO Scale:
Stepney
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
The only James I would buy is black James, since I have the original James with gray wheels.
The only things on my wishlist are.
James' red express coaches
Sir Handle
Duncan
China Clay Works cars
Plain silver or black tank car
Plain brown mail car
Brown ventilation van
NG
truck
Maybe a flatcar or explosive van
Brown van
HO Scale:
Black James
Sidney
Explosives Van
TAR tanker reintroduction CGI version
CGI milk tanker
CGI fuel tanker
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Duncan
Green coaches
Large Scale:
Henrietta
Red branchline coach
Red branchline brake coach
Mavis
N Scale
Toby
Henrietta
Brake Van
Tar Tanker
Milk Tanker
I don't understand what my post has to do with yours, unless you're saying that no one commented on yours because of mine which is ridiculous. And that's the thing about wants, many of them are unrealistic.
But don't worry, now I'm sure now you can expect a flood of comments in response to your amazing list.
Oh, and no offense if you're reading this. ::)
All I want are the old school mail cars and tar tankers. That's it.
Quote from: AnAverageThomasFan on February 16, 2020, 09:21:14 PM
All I want are the old school mail cars and tar tankers. That's it.
I totally agree with that and the return of the old oil tank car also.
They are extremely rare to find. Remake them Bachmann.
Here's my ideal list for what I'd like to see from Bachmann in the future in all of their various lines. I'm guessing anything they have planned for July's NMRA has been green-lit already or is at least in the later stages of development/planning so I'm not sure how much our input matters for those particular announcements but clearly our feedback has an impact on their choices in the long-term so I want to make it super clear what I'd like to see personally in the future, even if we don't see that feedback considered until next year or beyond. These choices are fairly similar to others who have already shared their thoughts, but I figured I'd post them regardless.
HO
Stepney- An obvious choice. There's literally no reason for Bachmann NOT to make him at this point. He's a simple, small, 0-6-0 engine that would not require a complicated tooling or chassis and he is clearly the most highly-desired character at this point. The exorbitantly high prices of Hornby Stepney on eBay are a clear indicator of the demand for a HO scale rendition of this timeless character. Please, Bachmann, please! You answered our prayers for Oliver and the NG line, surely you can consider Stepney as well! The consumer is always right!!!
Ryan- Another no-brainer and a choice that I'm sure Mattel would support. Ryan's design is similar to Stepney in that he is a tank engine with a fairly simple mold design and wheel arrangement (I could easily see them re-using Duck or Rosie's wheels with new side rods and Gordon's tailing bogey for the chassis), plus his color is extremely unique, and given what we've seen with Busy Bee James, clearly the color of the models holds weight in Bachmann/Mattel's eyes. A purple engine would stand out tremendously well in the current line and I am sure we will see Ryan included into the range eventually.
Black James- I am incredibly disappointed in whichever Mattel executive presumably nixed Black James in favor for Busy Bee James (confession: I am still considering purchasing BBJ, because there is something oddly charming and alluring about the pure novelty of it :P ), because as I've said previously, had they released the LBSC Thomas AND Black James at the same time, Bachmann would have almost certainly doubled their profits as I cannot imagine there would have been many fans who would've bought one without the other. Hopefully Bachmann can address this lapse in judgement and push through what I am assuming was pushback from Mattel regarding the release of this rendition of James. However, I do have to concede that this option would be fairly odd to announce after the 75th anniversary given its commemorative nature, so here's hoping they see our pleas and green-light this simple recolor for the NMRA announcements.
Boco- We have seen that Bachmann is more than willing to consider long, double-bogied diesels for the Thomas range (see: Daisy), so I don't think that Boco is a completely unrealistic expectation. However, I have not seen nearly the same amount of fan support for him, and I think that his absence from the CGI series coupled with his similar size and shape to Daisy are all points against his favor. However, I would be surprised if support for Boco did not skyrocket following a presumed announcement of Stepney, given that he would be one of the few classic series characters still missing from the line at that point. This is one announcement that I don't think we will see anytime soon, but one that we should certainly keep in mind.
Of course, I'm sure we will see more recolored wagons. I'd love to see the CGI Troublesome Trucks given some love, preferably replacing the current Troublesome Truck #1 and#2. Red express coaches would be a personal wish, but I doubt that Bachmann is in any hurry to reintroduce them to be honest. As far as new tooling go, I would certainly like to see the China Clay wagons in HO scale. And as much as I hate to say it, I'm sure it is only a matter of time before we see Nia and Rebecca introduced into the line. Given that they have been fully integrated into the main cast it is almost odd that Bachmann has not been compelled by Mattel to produce them, and their absence from the HO line (at the least! N scale Nia and Rebecca, anyone?) is notable and will surely be addressed in the (near?) future.
Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel- Given that Peter Sam is the first engine in the line to not feature a red-orange color scheme, I think that Sir Handel would further provide a nice contrast to the red palette that has dominated the engines of the NG line. He's obviously inevitable, however, I don't think that we'll see him announced until next February at the earliest.
Brown Brakevan- I'm shocked that Bachmann didn't announce this alongside the red and blue vans, but it's obviously on the horizon and it's only a matter of time until we see this recolor added to line.
Aside from these two choices, I think Bachmann has covered their bases in NG for the most part. We will surely see Duncan at some point, and I would surprised if one of the CGI NG engines wasn't in the works for an eventual release, but honestly I can't say what they're going to do next with this line. Everyone seems content with what is on the horizon and there are no standout requests that I have seen, unlike HO scale where Stepney is clearly a standout choice.
Large Scale
Edward- I would love nothing more than to see Edward represented in the range. Given that Bachmann has shown revived interest in the LS line, I think that engines such as Edward are more likely now than before. However, I am still unsure if Bachmann would take a risk on a choice like Edward. He would need a completely new chassis, and given that every engine in the LS line is a different color, his blue might make him too similar to Thomas in the eyes of a casual consumer. The number of times I have heard Edward mistaken for Thomas despite their obvious differences are too many to count.
Henrietta- Toby's coach is conspicuously missing from the LS line, and I think Bachmann is missing out by not including her. Plus, the inclusion of a face would make her more desirable to consumers. A fairly simple tooling that should certainly be considered.
As for my thoughts on the LS range as a whole, I was speaking with Chaz a few days ago when he pointed out to me that Diesel's listed price was less than Thomas and Percy. This raises some red flags because Diesel's chassis is fairly complicated, and Chaz expressed his concern that Bachmann might take the easy way out and give Diesel a molded chassis/details in the same vein as the Lionel Diesel, in which case demand for him would plummet immensely. This theory is supported by the fact that he was discontinued and then reintroduced, which might be a sign that they originally planned to design a more accurate chassis and then determined that it would be more cost-effective to go the route of the molded chassis and details. I pray that Bachmann does not do this, as I fear that if they did it might be the final nail in the coffin for the Large Scale Thomas line. I personally think that would be upsetting, and as an owner of the LS James, I can say that the detail and accuracy of the LS models is unparalleled and for the line to be abandoned by Bachmann due to one poor business decision would be a real shame.
N Scale
Henry- We've seen that an N scale Henry is feasible given his appearance in the Tomix line, and I think that he would be a good choice for Bachmann to test the waters of producing larger engines for their line.
Toby- A simple tooling of a timeless character. An obvious choice if they wanted to play it safe while continuing to expand the range.
Henrietta- A no-brainer, one-two punch if they announced Toby.
N Scale Christmas set- I would go absolutely nuts for an N scale Thomas with a snowplough. Please, Bachmann. Please.
As for other N scale rolling stock, I'm sure we'll see the exact same rolling stock available in HO scaled down to N scale announced over time. I realized this when I saw that they opted to release the water tanker, an odd choice but one that makes sense when considered in terms of the other ranges. I'm eager to see where the N scale line goes, but for now I am reserving any true speculation as it is still so early on in the game and the line isn't even released yet.
So that's where I'm at currently with Bachmann's Thomas range as a whole. Again, like I said, these choices/predictions are not all necessarily ones that I am expecting to see in July, as I am guessing that anything Bachmann has planned is already locked in and our input is probably not going to be super influential at this point (barring a recolor like Black James which clearly has a huge amount of support behind it and one that Bachmann needs to seriously consider). I'd love to hear your thoughts on all of this, and of course I am happy to elaborate on any of my thoughts for anyone who might be curious!
Quote from: Griffin (TheBlueSnowplow) on February 18, 2020, 10:10:26 AM
I'd love to see the CGI Troublesome Trucks given some love, preferably replacing the current Troublesome Truck #1 and#2.
And as much as I hate to say it, I'm sure it is only a matter of time before we see Nia and Rebecca introduced into the line. Given that they have been fully integrated into the main cast it is almost odd that Bachmann has not been compelled by Mattel to produce them, and their absence from the HO line (at the least! N scale Nia and Rebecca, anyone?) is notable and will surely be addressed in the (near?) future.
1: CGI series should never replace Model Series. Replacing Troublesome Truck #1 and #2 is a good way to lose money.
2: Oh God, please don't suggest that. We know that Bachmann's more than likely aware of everyone's disdain of those characters, thus why they haven't made them.
Quote from: thomasj219 on February 15, 2020, 11:51:52 PM
I don't understand what my post has to do with yours, unless you're saying that no one commented on yours because of mine which is ridiculous. And that's the thing about wants, many of them are unrealistic.
But don't worry, now I'm sure now you can expect a flood of comments in response to your amazing list.
Oh, and no offense if you're reading this. ::)
Who ae you talking to? And why are you treating someone badly for no good reason? Clearly you mean to offend.
Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on February 18, 2020, 07:44:59 PM
Quote from: Griffin (TheBlueSnowplow) on February 18, 2020, 10:10:26 AM
I'd love to see the CGI Troublesome Trucks given some love, preferably replacing the current Troublesome Truck #1 and#2.
And as much as I hate to say it, I'm sure it is only a matter of time before we see Nia and Rebecca introduced into the line. Given that they have been fully integrated into the main cast it is almost odd that Bachmann has not been compelled by Mattel to produce them, and their absence from the HO line (at the least! N scale Nia and Rebecca, anyone?) is notable and will surely be addressed in the (near?) future.
1: CGI series should never replace Model Series. Replacing Troublesome Truck #1 and #2 is a good way to lose money.
2: Oh God, please don't suggest that. We know that Bachmann's more than likely aware of everyone's disdain of those characters, thus why they haven't made them.
1. The faces on 1 and 2 are based on old promo art. They are outdated and should be replaced, preferably model series but cgi series faces will do.
2. Rebecca is actually alright, and they would be good additions to the range. However they aren't cost effective choices and shouldn't be added to the range anytime soon.
Quote from: Ronniethe14xxx on February 18, 2020, 08:16:34 PM
2. Rebecca is actually alright, and they would be good additions to the range. However they aren't cost effective choices and shouldn't be added to the range anytime soon.
Considering that Jay (DecadesofSun) recently did a poll on Twitter asking fans for their preference on Bachmann Nia and/or Rebecca, a large majority expressed disinterest in both of them.
(https://i.gyazo.com/91eb946d3251df7ef7db78ab200edc23.png)
If that's not saying something about the fandom's dislike for these "characters" then I don't know what will. The contrarian comments behind defending Bachmann making them doesn't really mean anything and isn't really going anywhere because there is more than enough evidence to support that they wouldn't be well received and wouldn't sell very well long term. Even though the fandom has more of a "preference" to Rebecca over Nia, it wouldn't change the fact that the price for her in particular would be pretty expensive considering her size and not worth it in the long run.
I would however note that the second highest vote in that poll was in favor of Rebecca, now while personally I think there's certainly one or two characters that should be made for the main range well before, Rebecca wouldn't be horrible choice all considered.
Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on February 18, 2020, 07:44:59 PM
Quote from: thomasj219 on February 15, 2020, 11:51:52 PM
I don't understand what my post has to do with yours, unless you're saying that no one commented on yours because of mine which is ridiculous. And that's the thing about wants, many of them are unrealistic.
But don't worry, now I'm sure now you can expect a flood of comments in response to your amazing list.
Oh, and no offense if you're reading this. ::)
Who ae you talking to? And why are you treating someone badly for no good reason? Clearly you mean to offend.
He was talking to me. I originally reposted one of my posts from last page because of his extremely long list of photos, and I deleted my repost because I was worried about starting a flame war.
I would be on the that poll about not getting both. I'm a model series modeler who doesn't go past season 4.
Don't get me wrong I liked the bantering around Cranky and Salty. I do like Rebecca but you could've given that cheery personality to any existing engine.
Quote from: STL on February 18, 2020, 08:58:32 PM
I would however note that the second highest vote in that poll was in favor of Rebecca, now while personally I think there's certainly one or two characters that should be made for the main range well before, Rebecca wouldn't be horrible choice all considered.
The problem with Rebecca comes down to her size and how expensive she would be. Bachmann hasn't announced a new tender engine tooling since Donald and Douglas, which was literally a decade ago and if Bachmann was willing to invest so much money on a character they would be more likely to go for Hiro because of at least Hiro has a very strong following that would likely make up for the high pricing for him, while Rebecca wouldn't.
I do agree that there are other characters that should be considered before Rebecca, but even if she (or Nia) gets considered at some point, I wouldn't want Bachmann to bother with them when there are far more feasible choices than those two like Stepney, Ryan, Hiro, and Black James.
That's what I was trying to say. Rebecca is popular enough with a decent sized portion of the fandom, and is a main character she makes sense to be made. However a majority of the fandom doesn't like her. She still might sell well with like, at most half the Bachmann fandom and some younger kids who's parents may have bought her. However this most likely wouldn't make up for the production cost. Nia would make more sense since she's smaller but she isn't as popular and would most likely sell worse. Even if Bachmann decides to bite the bullet, Stanley, Ryan, Stepney, and maybe BoCo, Sidney, and Phillip should come first. I like Rebecca as a character but there are so many better choices to come out before her that would sell better and be cheaper to produce. If we do get another tender engine though, which is unlikely, I'd much prefer Hiro.
As much as I hate to say it, I can almost guarantee we will see a Rebecca model before we see Hiro. As little sense as that makes from a consumer standpoint, I'm sure Mattel will force Bachmann's hand eventually. And of course with that comes the fact that if Bachmann is made to expend their resources and time on two completely new models, one of which having an insanely complicated valve gear and odd shape overall and the other being a large tender engine, other announcements will be scarce for at least a year, maybe two. I mean, it took two years before we got any really good, new announcements after Bachmann announced Oliver and Skarloey. Wasn't it that one year we got the red coaches and the other Arry and Bert? If it were any other brand (looking at Lionel as an example) I wouldn't be as worried. But given the breadth and variety of the Bachmann range it is honestly only a matter of time before the two key missing steam team members are brought to the range. The fact that Red Rosie was such a priority also stands as proof of this.
If Bachmann plans on making a big engine in the foreseeable future, Hiro deserves the spot way more than Rebecca.
To keep it simple, I can't see her being confidently forced by Mattel when BWBA is failing to keep the brand afloat...
That's fair, although Mattel isn't shy with dumb business decisions as we've seen already...
So I noticed recently Bachmann has made so responses to people asking about future products on twitter. Should we take these posts at face value or no? Cause if this is true this means potentially no to a lot of future engines anywhere in the near future.
Or you know, they're not allowed to say anything about what could be coming. Like most companies would do.
Quote from: STL on February 19, 2020, 04:05:33 PM
Or you know, they're not allowed to say anything about what could be coming. Like most companies would do.
Which is true, obviously that's the likely case. But then why respond at all? Like it's not like they absolutely had to respond to the post.
I'm honestly appalled, but Bachmann just confirmed on Twitter that they discontinued both Knapford Station and Tidmouth Sheds. I really hope that they have plans to replace them or something, because honestly with the discontinued resin line and now this, the availability of detailed Thomas buildings is dwindling quickly.
Don't worry about the bachmann knapford station being discontinued, as you can just go on shapeways and look at getting the bits and pieces for you to build it yourself. It's probably a good thing, as it just had a single track for each platform.
Since everyone else was doing it I thought I'd pop in and drop my list. Now for mine I'm listing mostly what I think they're likely to do rather then what I want them to do. I'll do a separate one for my wish list at the bottom.
What I see as most likely:
HO
Sidney (with moving eyes)
Flatbed (with Oil Drums)
Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel
Brown Brake-van (I say Brown but I mean more of the Talyllyn livery to go with the Talyllyn coach)
N Scale
Toby
Henrietta
Milk Tanker
TT#3
Large Scale
Philip (with moving eyes)
What I would like to see:
HO
Ryan (with moving eyes)
TT#7 (A White Vent-Van with a Small face like the current CGI Series)
Red Express Coaches
Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel
Blue Mountain Quarry Trucks
Con-Flat
N Scale
Gordon
Express Coaches
Large Scale
Edward (with moving eyes)
Henrietta
I have ideas for new rolling stock in HO Scale.
If Bachmann was to make another Mining Wagon, it can have an ore load, like the trucks from the 75th Anniversary set. The Mining Wagon with an ore load can be painted green or red. Last year, the Blue Mining Wagon was released with a coal load.
Another idea would be a ballast wagon. The ballast load can be white. Not sure what would be the best paint scheme for the wagon.
Last year, the HO Scale Flatbed was brought back with a log load. Like everyone else, I'd like to see a flatbed loaded with oil drums.
The fact that Troublesome Truck #6 is called Oil Tanker Troublesome Truck #6 could imply that we might get other versions of it in the near future, like a Milk or Tar Tanker, as seen in Toad Stands By. Having a Tar Tanker with a face would be the perfect way to bring back the Tar Tanker, also killing two birds with one stone, like the Spiteful Brake Van did.
I still would like to see the Explosives Van, Chocolate Syrup and Toffee Tankers eventually find their way into HO Scale.
I for one are always gonna be excited for new release from Bachmann especially for the Thomas and Friends range I understand that this might sound repetitive but here are some of the upcoming announcements
HO Scale
Stepney
Daisy
BoCo
Well Wagon Reintroduction (labeled something like Search & Repair Center or Sodor Steamworks)
CGI Milk tanker Redesign
CGI Fuel Tanker Redesign
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Tanker
Troublesome truck number 6
Resin buildings
Narrow Gauge
Peter Sam
Sir Handel
Brakevans (red and blue)
Brakedown Crane and flatbed (from Season 4)
N scale
Edward
James
Tankers
Red coaches
Large Scale
Edward
Diesel (With Grumpy Face)
Henrietta (with face)
Red coaches (Composite and Brake)
Flatbed trucks (With Boxes)
Having seen the LBSC Thomas and Busy Bee James, I've got mixed feelings. I love the paintwork on Thomas, especially the glossy sheen, but I'm very disapointed about the face. It's notoriously one of Bachmann's least accurate faces, and if I'm going to buy a second, brand new Thomas, I shouldn't have to replace the face with something that resembles Thomas. It's similar with James, though his face is a bit better than Thomas's. I have to say though, I'd be WAY more likely to but a black James than a busy bee James. I'm a little baffled by the repaint choice.
Honestly, I think what the 75th anniversary really deserves is a new tooling, not just repaints of the range's earliest models. A landmark year like this only comes around every so often, and I think it deserves a really special character. I would absolutely LOVE to see a Stepney. I can guarantee I would buy that IMMEDIATELY! Considering I already have a Thomas and James, I don't think I can bring myself to buy second versions. But a new tooling of Stepney the Bluebell Engine is something I would absolutely jump at. I think they would fly off the shelves; there are many people who love Stepney, even beyond the Thomas fandom! Getting a Stepney would be an absolute dream come true, especially if he's produced at the right size. He should be about the same length as thomas, but smaller in proportion. His diminutive stature is a huge part of his charm! Nail that, and make him look as he does in the show, particularly the early seasons, and you can expect me to PREORDER that model. Repaints are all well and good, but brand new characters, especially fan favorites like Stepney, are what I jump at! Similarly, if Daisy looks accurate to her current CGI series design, I am absolutely getting her. You're on the right track with Daisy Bachmann, please make more new toolings of characters whose roots are in classic Thomas! Stepney. Will. SELL!!
Here's what I want:
HO Stepney - I initially thought he was too obscure to happen. However considering Bachmann acknowledged the fact that he was a popular request has given me hope. I seriously do think he is a possibility.
HO Tar Tankers reintroduced - they're very iconic considering the fact that they only had a big impact in one episode.
HO Classic Style Mail car reintroduced - I don't mind how the CGI ones look too much, however the older ones are definitely more nostalgic. They're hard to find nowadays and when you do find them, expect to pay a premium.
On30 Sir Handel - last of the main six, might as well round up the bunch.
I completely forgot that they didn't make Duncan yet. He'd be cool too.
Seeing as how my black James post was very well received it seems that both he and Stepney are the top of the list in HO/OO. Since I already did my post on black James it's time for me to share my thoughts on who I think should be the next narrow gauge engine Bachmann should introduce... Sir Handel!
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6e/Don%27tBotherVictor%2161.png/revision/latest?cb=20160629192959)
So why should Bachmann introduce Sir Handel as their next narrow gauge engine and not Duncan (or any other narrow gauge engine for that matter)? It all comes down right to the design of the character. Out of all the remaining narrow gauge engines in the CGI series that Bachmann hasn't introduced yet, Sir Handel has by far the best design and I'll explain why below.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d4/SavingTime27.png/revision/latest?cb=20161230213336)
Unlike Rusty (and especially Duncan) Sir Handel's CGI design resembles the character very well as having a closer resemblance to his basis than the other remaining narrow gauge engines. To add this design is also relatively simple to work with. It wouldn't be as complicated as an engine like Luke as his valve gear and has a simple chassis to work with. In addition, the details that Sir Handel does have on his render don't make him look plain or awkwardly disproportionate compared to some of the other narrow gauge engines in the current lineup like Duncan and Millie.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b4/SteamRoller71.png/revision/latest?cb=20190424213806)
To add Sir Handel also offers a nice color contrast to the narrow gauge range as well as the Thomas brand as a whole - dark blue. We've only had three blue engines in the whole Bachmann Thomas range but not for the narrow gauge range and the fact that it offers a different shade makes Sir Handel stand out on his own, in a good way.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d5/ASmoothRide3.png/revision/latest?cb=20161114021704)
One additional piece that is also important is the fact that Sir Handel fills a missing number gap between Peter Sam and Rheneas being Engine #3 on the narrow gauge range. I know it seems like a silly thing to point out but this really does make a huge difference for most fans (IE Donald and Douglas being announced before Duck causing a number gap between them and Toby).
(https://i.gyazo.com/382b33785a6fb97641025c0bb1eb5f4f.jpg)
And finally fans will not only happily buy one Sir Handel model on his own for the character some fans might get creative and buy a few extra Sir Handel models to either attempt to make a model of his basis Sir Haydn like how people have done with Skarloey and Rheneas (and will likely do so with Peter Sam too).
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b7/Bulldog83.png/revision/latest?cb=20190101071512)
Plus fans also might be willing to buy extra Sir Handel models to make a model of Falcon by removing the nameplate and making a new one for the model allowing fans to have options, thus making the sales for Sir Handel skyrocket.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/98/BlueMountainMystery260.png/revision/latest?cb=20180918231105)
Overall, once Peter Sam is nearing completion, or if Bachmann is looking for ideas for their next narrow gauge engine, without a doubt the safest road for Bachmann to take would be to make Sir Handel. He's the top request for the narrow gauge range by a landslide for a reason and personally I think no other narrow gauge engine deserves to be made before him. Sir Handel will in no doubt be well received once a model of him is announced and released and I hope that if he is not able to be announced at the NMRA (understandably with Peter Sam still in production) then I think he would make a perfect narrow gauge announcement on his own for 2021.
Anyways time for some questions for you guys as well:
1. Would you buy a Bachmann Sir Handel?
2. How high of a priority do you think Sir Handel should take for the next narrow gauge engine?
3. How popular do you think a Bachmann Sir Handel will be?
Looking forward to hearing everyone's thoughts, I'll be posting a new "prediction list" later as well as some in depth thoughts on the next N scale engine(s)!
A wonderful read, as always, Chaz! As for my answers to the questions:
1. Absolutely!
2. When considering which narrow gauge engine to announce after Peter Sam, there is no doubt that Sir Handel is the best choice for all the reasons stated. However, for the next new engine with a new tooling for the Thomas line across all scales, I would still state that Stepney should be the #1 priority, considering his popularity and the fact that it is the 75th Anniversary (I plan to make big post on Stepney in the coming weeks too ;)).
3. I have zero doubt that Sir Handel will be a hot seller, especially since his CGI render is one of the best.
As usual Chaz has articulated a popular fan opinion in both a detailed and well-researched manner. I tried getting into the narrow gauge line years ago when they first announced Skarloey but the price barrier ended up prohibited me from being able to continue collecting the range, but given what I saw with Skarloey I feel comfortable to give my opinion on the argument in favor of Sir Handel's introduction into the range next. The points made by Chaz are pretty coherent, so I'd like to address his questions instead. Personally, I don't know if I would purchase a Sir Handel model, but again I don't collect the range so my personal opinion here should be taken with a grain of salt. The only NG engine I would ever consider/am considering purchasing is Peter Sam due to a personal and intimate connection that I have had with him since I was young. I think that making any other NG engine next instead of Sir Handel would be a huge misstep for Bachmann. I think even a choice like Duncan would be a mistake given the egregious errors in his CG render. A CG engine would be even worse imo as I think Bachmann should at least finish the original fleet of engines before even considering someone like Luke or Victor. I think that Sir Handel would be incredibly popular for the reasons stated by Chaz but particularly because of his color scheme, which may be a major selling point for more casual consumers looking into the range. Blue is the color of Thomas, after all!
Anyway, I think Sir Handel is a no-brainer for the next engine to be produced for the range, but before we think about him, I wanna see Peter Sam!
I always love reading your posts Chaz, and I agree with everything you have stated here. As for your questions, I would definitely purchase a Bachmann Sir Handel. He also seems like the next logical choice for the all the reasons you have stated. For your last question, Sir Handel is undoubtably a fan favorite. I feel as though when ever I'm on Twitter, I see fans talking about Sir Handel more than any other narrow gauge engine. Plus, because he looks great in CGI, I think he would sell very well.
Thanks for the strong feedback you guys. Sir Handel will in no doubt be a huge hit once announced/released. Although I don't expect him to reach the same level as a popular request as Stepney, I think as far as narrow gauge goes he will be a most well received announcement choice. Looking forward to hearing more thoughts as well as seeing the Stepney post by Terence soon. :)
Sir Handel would certainly be the next obvious and smart choice, if Bachmann follow in their typical pattern for the NG range, the model would probably be a quicker seller than even Skarloey was, given the shear number of variants, both fictional and irl, there are for the Falcons.
I agree that he's the best and obvious choice. Would be very happy to have a model of him. I suppose we'll see what happens in July. But even if he's not announced then I'm more than confident he will be soon.
Realistically I don't see him being announced until MAYBE next year, and that's only really if Peter Sam is out by or in the fall.
Hope to also see a Sir Handel soon, whould defenetly buy one! And I guess he might be quite popular, I think many whould want all of the season 4 narrow gague engines! :) So I think Sir Handel whould be a very great choice to see after Peter Sam!
Hello to All:
It is my opinion that since Skarloey, Peter Sam, and Sir Handel all share the same 0-4-2T wheel arrangement that Bachmann would probably have designed the tooling to be able to use the chassis and drive train interchangeably for all three locomotives. If that is the case then I believe that Sir Handel will soon follow Peter Sam since all that would be required is the tooling for the body. I am also hopeful that Bachmann will follow up with a Duncan model using prototype proportions as with the rest of the series. Once the first six are produced I hope that Bachmann will consider a Duke model to complete the model series Narrow Gauge locomotives.
Grandpuff
Nah I doubt that. All those prototypes have varying wheelbases and noticeable differences in driving, and trailing, wheel size. It just wouldn't be a smart move and wouldn't be remotely consistent with how Bachmann do the NG range.
I agree, but could you just explain how it would be out of scale with the other proportions of the bachmann narrow gauge stuff?
If they just used Skarloey's chassis for Sir Handel and Peter Sam, the latter two wouldn't be accurate because the proportions wouldn't follow their basis proportions. They'd probably look stretched. If I remember correctly, Talyllyn has a longer wheelbase than both Sir Haydn and Edward Thomas.
Quote from: JLK2707 on March 17, 2020, 08:42:51 AM
I agree, but could you just explain how it would be out of scale with the other proportions of the bachmann narrow gauge stuff?
He didn't say it was "out of scale", he said the proportions would be wrong.
Considering that Chaz promptly posted his detailed thoughts on the Black James and Narrow Gauge Sir Handel, I thought that it would be appropriate for me to share my thoughts on the locomotive that I greatly believe should enter the HO Thomas Line next: Stepney the Bluebell Engine!
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/f/f1/RustytotheRescue62.png/revision/latest?cb=20180831173112)
So, why should Stepney, an engine who has not been present in recent episodes of the television series, plus seem like a generic 0-6-0 tank engine at first glance be introduced next instead of engines such as Nia, Rebecca, Phillip, Stanley, or even Ryan?
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/2c/BowledOut34.png/revision/latest?cb=20180905191122)
Firstly, the demand for him is definitely worth noting. Stepney has constantly been the most popular new engine suggestion by a landslide, not only through the Bachmann Forum, but through other branches of social media as well. Specifically, through the forum, threads such as the Stepney or Ryan Thread, as well as the Bachmann Thomas in 2019 and 2020 Threads have shown Stepney's popularity to a great extent, while multiple Bachmann Forum users have even stated how much they would love to see Stepney made in the signature section of their personal accounts. Through platforms such as Twitter, multiple polls have been conducted on ranking Bachmann's next engine too, and Stepney has constantly been at the top.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/23/ThomasAndStepney64.png/revision/latest?cb=20160929120004)
In terms of various brands of Thomas merchandise, Stepney has done very well with sales. For instance, when the Take-n-Play model was released in 2014, Stepney's model constantly sold out. In addition, Hornby made an HO/OO scale model of Stepney, which was first discontinued in 2010, but re-released in 2012 for a limited time due to popularity. It really is a shame that the Hornby model is now discontinued, as there has been and still is great demand for him, and the model is incredibly hard to come across for a decent price nowadays.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6e/HornbyStepney.png/revision/latest?cb=20090928064041)
As someone who was lucky enough to purchase a Hornby Stepney many years ago, two questions that I have been asked numerous times from many Thomas fans are: Where can I find a Hornby Stepney? Do you ever plan on selling your Hornby Stepney? While replying, I always feel guilty for stating that I do not plan on selling my Stepney model, and that eBay is really the only place to find one these days. This just goes to show that a character does not need to be in current CGI episodes to be a popular request. It is crystal clear that fans want an HO Stepney.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/9a/RustytotheRescue59.png/revision/latest?cb=20180831173009)
Even so, considering that Stepney still may seem like a generic 0-6-0 tank engine, one may then ask: what makes Stepney so popular? For starters, he is one of the last engines introduced in the classic model series that has not been made by Bachmann, plus is an Awdry character. In addition, when looking at past sales, classic engines such as Duck have done very well. It would be no different with Stepney as well as the upcoming Daisy model for the same reason.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5b/RustytotheRescue40.png/revision/latest?cb=20180831172254)
Moreover, fans see Stepney as a natural addition to the line, as he would go wonderfully with engines such as Duck, rolling stock such as the red branchline coaches, and most notably, Rusty, since he is the one who saved Stepney from scrap in a fan-favorite episode of all time: Rusty to the Rescue https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1MbpwBfrrxY. Stepney even goes wonderfully with the newer engines in the line: Rosie and Paxton, since Stepney played a part in an episode with Rosie: Rosie's Carnival Special https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYgTOayoJd8, and Paxton could be utilized as one of the scrap diesels seen in the background of Rusty to the Rescue.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/9d/ThomasAndStepney35.png/revision/latest?cb=20160929112002)
Other episodes that can explain Stepney's popularity are Thomas and Stepney: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-yHoSMEf2M, and Stepney Gets Lost: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPGQtz1lvZU. Also, it is interesting to note that Stepney is the only engine mentioned in the classic song, Little Engines: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wesCEBy1TE, that Bachmann has not made yet.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/ed/Stepney2015.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20150711141211)
In real-life, let's remember that Stepney is even a symbol of railway heritage (The Bluebell Railway), and his real life basis is also called "Stepney". With the Bachmann Thomas line now entering the UK, a Bachmann Stepney could be sold at the Bluebell Railway Giftshop. This would, without a doubt, introduce more people to the Bachmann Thomas line, as well as give children who are already interested in Thomas a gateway to real-world locomotives. In fact, one Thomas fan made an extraordinary documentary on the history of Stepney, which once again, shows how popular of an engine he really is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGmpr52R2FY
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/62/StepneyGetsLost11.png/revision/latest?cb=20180831200357)
As far as Stepney's design is concerned, a new tooling would be needed, but since Stepney is an 0-6-0 tank engine, his small new tooling is something that Bachmann could definitely work with. His goldenrod color scheme is also something worth noting, as there is currently no engine with the same livery, something that the licensor should certainly be on board with. In addition, one specific thing to note is that Stepney's red side rods should actually be plastic, and not metal, which would definitely help Bachmann, considering that many of Bachmann's most recent models such as Rosie and the narrow gauge engines have plastic bits for the side rods to save money.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/0/02/EdwardTheVeryUsefulEngine32.png/revision/latest?cb=20181006084209)
Finally, some fans refer to Stepney as a ticking clock because the longer that Bachmann waits to announce Stepney, the higher the chance that Mattel will bring back Stepney to the television series. Hence, Bachmann would have to base Stepney on his CGI design. Although there have been some good CGI renders such as Daisy, other CGI renders such as Oliver missed the mark by a long shot. Thus, Stepney may suffer from the same fate if he returns in CGI. Therefore, what would be most ideal for Stepney is what happened with Duck. Bachmann announced him in 2012, right before his CGI render was revealed. Therefore, Bachmann Duck was based on the classic model series design, which fans were ecstatic about. And, just like Duck, Stepney's model era face is extremely nostalgic and has a unique charm of its own that I hope to see on the Bachmann model over any sort of CGI face.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/58/BowledOut4.png/revision/latest?cb=20180905190252)
Overall, I have zero doubt that Stepney is the best candidate for Bachmann to announce next as far as new toolings are concerned. To add, because it is the 75th Anniversary, I think that Stepney, a classic engine that has not been in the current show for a while, should take priority over any other new tooling in any scale of the Thomas line including a Narrow Gauge Sir Handel.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/ad/BowledOut2.png/revision/latest?cb=20180905190237)
I truly hope that someone from Bachmann can pass this message along, as seeing Stepney announced would not only make fans extremely happy, but would greatly help Bachmann with very strong sales.
Now, for some questions:
Would you buy a Bachmann Stepney?
How popular do you think that a Bachmann Stepney would be?
After reading this, is there any other HO engine you could see as a better suggestion than Stepney and why?
Thank you very much for taking the time to read this long post. I look forward to seeing everyone's thoughts, and with the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, I hope that everyone is well and stays safe.
As always I enjoyed reading your post Terence, naturally Stepney is the top of the list for me as well, and I'll answer your questions too:
1. Yes absolutely. He's really the only other new HO engine tooling that I think has a legitimate shot of happening that I would buy.
2. He would easily be one of the hottest sellers Bachmann has had since Duck, Oliver, and their upcoming Daisy model. Not even up for debate.
3. I genuinely don't think any other engine deserves priority over Stepney as far as new toolings are concerned. Bachmann's done a great job sticking with classics and continuing to avoid Nia and Rebecca and hopefully they will keep that up (especially the latter).
I might as well answer these questions if it gives a better shot of Stepney being made.
1. I would definitely buy a model of Stepney in a heartbeat if he was made, even though he'd technically be out-of-era for me. He has always been one of my favorite characters. The fact that he's also a real locomotive also strengthens that fact.
2. I think he would be one of the best sellers and is probably Bachmann's best bet at making a newly tooled locomotive.
3. I agree that Stepney should definitely have priority over any other thing Bachmann could make.
I see there is a high demand for Stepney so think he whould really sell well, and since the Hornby model is so rare nowdays also, so I tihnk he is probably the best choice to make next :)
Interesting points about Stepney you made Terence, all of which I agree with. In response to the questions you posted here are my thoughts:
1: Yes, I would most definitely buy a Bachmann Stepney.
2: Going off his popularity with Thomas Fans and Railway Enthusiasts alike, I see Stepney being extremely popular personally.
3: No, I don't believe there's another tank engine that would be a better suggestion then Stepney. I think this because of the character's popularity and simple yet charming tooling that wouldn't be too hard to make compared with other engines in the show.
A lot of good points were definitely brought up in your post.
1. I would certainly buy a Stepney! Might even buy a second just to customize it!
2. Seeing how well Stepney merchandise does, I think this would be a hot item. Hornby did release the A1X Terriers with a Stepney livery that promptly sold out. I was lucky to grab one, but I'm still waiting on a model of Stepny w/ face.
3. Probably only Ryan due to the face that he's a popular character. I would buy both, but I'm a Stepney fanatic. My phone case has Stepney on it!
Very good points. Though I find the fact that it's the 75th anniversary this year is irrelevant. Because considering we got LBSC Thomas and Daisy, it would be impossible for them to complete Stepney this year. Considering Oliver was announced in 2015 and released in 2017. Also, Stepney doesn't really represent Thomas & Friends as a whole, and neither did Oliver. Although he was a VERY highly requested character. Other then that, Stepney is very possible, considering Bachmann acknowledged him.
Very good points! i have also seen people ask about where they can get a Hornby Stepney. Bachmann introducing Stepney would definitely be an advantage to them because it would be a more readily available. A R2R model of Stepney is basically unavailable for a reasonable price. Although i do think it maight also be a challenge for Bachmann. Do to his size, there will be limited space inside the shell. Plus with the T&F range being launched in more countries, the range has to comply with their toy standards in addition to the upgrades with DCC compatibility. I also think that with the COVID-19 crisis, we may not see Stepney as soon as we might expect.
To answer the questions you posted, here are my thoughts:
1.) I would definitely purchase a Bachmann Stepney. I've been meaning to purchase Oliver and Rosie for a while (I has taken a break from the Bachmann range in favor of other OO scale models, but I convinced myself that I want need them in my life xD) I'm also eyeing up that LBSC Thomas...but I digress!
2.) To continue with the launch of the range overseas, Stepney will be more recognizable to UK fans. Since other manufacturers that have produced Terrier models have not yet introduced "real" Stepney, and the novelty aspect of a "Thomas" Stepney will be a welcome addition for layouts at train shows. As for here in the US, I think it will definitely be well receptive among older fans and possibly newer ones too.
3.) As much as I would want a Stepney, I can also see a number of other ones coming either before or right after him, these characters include Ryan, Sidney, and even Rebecca. Ryan and Rebecca would add some variety to younger audiences who easily recognize them. Rebecca would be the first tender engine since Donald and Douglas. Sidney would honestly be an economical choice for Bachmann solely due to the fact he will reuse the basic Diesel/Paxton/08 shunter tooling in order for Bachmann to aid in recovery from the COVID-19 blow...that is if they're hurting from this.
Always love reading eloquently written, well-thought out posts such as yours, Terence, and I really hope someone influential at Bachmann is taking a look at this forum every once in a while!
Now, for your questions:
1. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that I would gleefully purchase a Bachmann Stepney. I have never been as eager to (presumably) purchase an engine as I would be for Stepney with the one exception of Oliver, who I preordered nearly two years before his release. I would even go so far as to say that if my budget allowed, I'd be willing to purchase TWO models of Stepney, one to run on the circle of track I currently have and one to remain unopened as a shelf piece. That is how committed I am to the production of a Bachmann Stepney...
2. I've previously spoken on the probaility of a Stepney model being popular amongst not only fans but also serious collectors, rail enthusiasts, and even casual collectors. For all the reasons you outlined I cannot see a market where Stepney wouldn't be a hot commodity and I truly think Bachmann is shooting themselves in the foot by not producing Stepney and tapping into a highly profitable revenue stream.
3. I think unless the hand of Mattel says otherwise, Bachmann has no other viable choice but to produce Stepney as the next SG engine. The only possible contender who might precede him would be Boco, but due to Daisy's announcement (long green diesel) and the limited support I've seen for him, I highly doubt they would make that decision.
Thank you very much for the feedback guys! I really do appreciate it. These positive responses are making me more hopeful that Stepney will be announced soon, maybe even this July if we are lucky. Overall, with all our hard work regarding why Stepney truly is the best candidate for a new HO Thomas engine, let's hope that the licencor can agree to this. Not only would Stepney's announcement make us Thomas fans ecstatic, but it would also help Bachmann with strong sales. Thank you very much again, and I look forward to seeing more thoughts :).
Very in debt post post!
1. Yes, I would definitely buy a Stepney model.
2. Considering how popular classic characters seem to be, it's safe too assume that Bachmann Stepney would sell well.
3. Stepney is one of the few standard gauge tank engines that I would actually be excited for. I only really care for model series characters, and even popular characters such as Ryan just wouldn't be as interesting to me personally.
A black James would be pretty cool.
I know a black James would be cool to have, but am I the only person who thinks a repaint of the same character two years in a row a bit overkill?
Maybe in about three years, I would be ok with that repaint.
Yellow Rheneas would be pretty cool, if they are willing to do repaints of the Narrow Gauge Engines.
Quote from: Zekeism on April 03, 2020, 08:56:42 AM
I know a black James would be cool to have, but am I the only person who thinks a repaint of the same character two years in a row a bit overkill?
The thing is, is that we should have gotten the black James instead of the Busy Bee James in the first place, so it's understandable why there's more of a push for a black James than ever. Especially with the LBSC Thomas coming out.
If anything, Busy Bee James was "overkill".
I wonder if it will be overkill if Henry was painted blue after coming out of the tunnel to match Gordon and Edward as good friends. But the problem will be his new shape after the kipper accident.
Quote from: Chaz on April 03, 2020, 01:55:17 PM
Quote from: Zekeism on April 03, 2020, 08:56:42 AM
I know a black James would be cool to have, but am I the only person who thinks a repaint of the same character two years in a row a bit overkill?
The thing is, is that we should have gotten the black James instead of the Busy Bee James in the first place, so it's understandable why there's more of a push for a black James than ever. Especially with the LBSC Thomas coming out.
If anything, Busy Bee James was "overkill".
I do agree we should have gotten black James first, I just don't really want two James repaints in a row, I'd be ok with it being a couple of years apart, but would could have seen a different engine repainted, such as Scrapped Oliver & Toad.
Quote from: Zekeism on April 05, 2020, 08:59:41 AM
Quote from: Chaz on April 03, 2020, 01:55:17 PM
Quote from: Zekeism on April 03, 2020, 08:56:42 AM
I know a black James would be cool to have, but am I the only person who thinks a repaint of the same character two years in a row a bit overkill?
The thing is, is that we should have gotten the black James instead of the Busy Bee James in the first place, so it's understandable why there's more of a push for a black James than ever. Especially with the LBSC Thomas coming out.
If anything, Busy Bee James was "overkill".
I do agree we should have gotten black James first, I just don't really want two James repaints in a row, I'd be ok with it being a couple of years apart, but would could have seen a different engine repainted, such as Scrapped Oliver & Toad.
I understand where you are coming from, but I feel that's not really much of a strong reason for a black James to not be the next engine recolor, because again that's what we should have gotten instead of the Busy Bee James in the first place and its understandable why a lot of people are still pushing for it. I'm not sure if you read my post a few pages back on why I think Black James should be the next repaint and should take top priority in that regard but I would encourage you to check that out as well as all the other responses behind why a Black James should still be considered even if it may sound redundant. A lot of people would still want a black James and would buy it to go along with their upcoming LBSC Thomas models and you don't really see people getting that excited over the Busy Bee James.
Mattel, ironically enough is still making toys of the Black James such as the recent push along and Minis James toys and I still wouldn't rule out Bachmann to do the same thing. That, and at this point I feel that any other engine recolors like scrap painted engines or other one time episode repainted engines like a Percy covered in chocolate or blue Bill and Ben (random examples off the top of my head), wouldn't really work as far as making sales Bachmann would need. Busy Bee James is likely going to be a peg warmer like the celebration Thomas was and I feel that any other engine recolor that isn't the black James is going to be the exact same way.
I thought about this recolor that may or may not work.
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/if6jP4Kh-l4/maxresdefault.jpg)
Or perhaps a simple repaint of their black wheels to red will work better.
Quote from: Angelob6660 on April 08, 2020, 11:24:58 AM
I thought about this recolor that may or may not work.
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/if6jP4Kh-l4/maxresdefault.jpg)
Or perhaps a simple repaint of their black wheels to red will work better.
Did the Thomas Team ever explain why they changed Bill & Ben's wheel to red?
https://www.nmra.org/news/nmra-2020-convention-train-show-cancelled
Looks like the NMRA website just confirmed that their show this summer is cancelled due to the coronavirus.
Quote from: Zekeism on April 08, 2020, 02:00:30 PM
Quote from: Angelob6660 on April 08, 2020, 11:24:58 AM
I thought about this recolor that may or may not work.
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/if6jP4Kh-l4/maxresdefault.jpg)
Or perhaps a simple repaint of their black wheels to red will work better.
Did the Thomas Team ever explain why they changed Bill & Ben's wheel to red?
No but I did this.
https://ttte.fandom.com/wiki/Bill_and_Ben/Behind_the_Scenes (https://ttte.fandom.com/wiki/Bill_and_Ben/Behind_the_Scenes)
They just said modifications on the locomotive.
That stinks, so no show or display this year.
Hopefully, we'll still get announcements regardless, and the NMRA catalog would have to be available online. This virus situation has been going on for a month now, and is likely going to continue wreaking havoc like this all summer long.
https://myemail.constantcontact.com/TrainWorld-VIRTUAL-YORK-Event-On-Facebook-LIVE--APRIL-22ND-AND-23RD-AT-7-00-PM-EST-SAVE-THE-DATES.html?soid=1102543198138&aid=FoPzVItJpCo
Turns out there's a chance we may get more announcements sooner since the NMRA is cancelled...!
That just sucks that the NMRA was cancelled!
Seriously, what ISN'T cancelled this year because of the stupid virus?
We should still get announcements this summer regardless, or late spring, since there's no NMRA this year. They'd get posted out of the blue.
Well TrainWorld is doing their manufacture's livestream rn, as part of their York show replacement, where new announcements are being made, so keep your eyes out, Bachmann MAY have things to reveal, whether it's stock or release estimates, and whether its TTTE stuff, will remain to be seen.
Well from what I've seen so far, they briefly showed off the upcoming N scale Thomas and Percy and mentioned that the range was coming, and briefly mentioned the narrow gauge range....das it. No big updates or announcements on what's coming or anything new. SO here's hoping they're saving that for the summer.
Well now that the show at York is coming on and we still have a virtual train show coming up in July in place of the NMRA, I figured I would share my thoughts for what I would like to see them announcing then if not for 2021 as a whole.
HO I think it's almost obvious:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/62/StepneyGetsLost11.png/revision/latest?cb=20180831200357)
Stepney is without a doubt the most popular request on the forums and various corners of the fandom. Everything that needed to be said about Stepney has been said before, and I feel that any other engine with a new tooling should be set as a much lower priority until Stepney is announced and released. Bachmann did a great job listening to fans by announcing Daisy and announcing Stepney would only keep the flame of the fandom's spirits lit.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/83/TheAdventureBegins345.png/revision/latest?cb=20170315084328)
For an engine recolor though, I personally believe that there's no reason black James shouldn't be introduced next. To avoid repeating myself, see the post I made talking about why Black James should be the next recolor:
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/84/FlyingScotsmanintheUK2.png/revision/latest?cb=20191019224940)
As for HO rolling stock, I think it's safe to say that the red express coaches would be the most well received new rolling stock announcements from Bachmann. Especially how popular Gordon's coaches were once those were brought back.
(https://i.gyazo.com/bef5d5cd9765337f0be1f6ade6936e2c.jpg)
The other piece of rolling stock tooling I would like to see them reuse in the future is the single vent van tooling (formerly used as the ice cream wagon). The ice cream wagon has been discontinued this year and it makes sense for Bachmann to utilize this tooling in a way that might rack up some sales. Something like another great western van, an explosives van, or even a possible candidate for Troublesome Truck #7 in 2022 (going by the 3 year pattern). Either way I feel there's a lot Bachmann could do with this and I wouldn't even mind picking some up if they get creative with a design that doesn't look too colorful or gimmicky.
As for narrow gauge...
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d4/SavingTime27.png/revision/latest?cb=20161230213336)
I think literally everyone in the Thomas fandom wants Sir Handel to be the next narrow gauge engine announced. And given by how received Peter Sam's announcement was last year after how well Bachmann listened to the fans, Sir Handel would only keep the fans supporting the narrow gauge range even more. See my post on Sir Handel for further details.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/61/ABadDayForSirHandel44.png/revision/latest?cb=20170530174019)
While I don't think we will get any further narrow gauge rolling stock announcements with a new tooling I could easily see the brown brake van finding its way into the range given that the tooling would literally match the blue and red ones perfectly and fans would like a brown brake van that would be suitable for the freight stock in their narrow gauge range.
I'll just quickly mention my thoughts for N scale and large scale ranges since I want this post mainly emphasize show the two ranges I'm most interested in seeing them work with. I only expect to see them announce recolors or wagons and tankers next year for the N scale range since James and the other tankers are in production. Maybe box vans or a brake van if we get lucky. I don't see them announcing a new engine for N scale until 2022 (unless it's a simple engine like Toby).
As for large scale I still think Henrietta would be perfect since people have been requesting her for years and now that a recolor option for her (Hannah), it seems almost silly for Bachmann not to announce her. If not Henrietta, then the red coaches are the safest plan B option since they are still very popular sellers in HO and would likely mirror those sales in large scale. Either of these two options should honestly be considered before Bachmann considers another engine in the range after Diesel, in my opinion.
https://twitter.com/bachmanntrains/status/1255528014684868612
It's announced Bachmann will do a virtual announcement much like with last week.
That's awesome! It's great to know that they think of us as much as they do the people who buy the normal product ranges.
So, we are still getting announcements after all, and they will be in mid July.
It might still be a while longer before we get Daisy's image.
Hoping we get Sir Handel announced as well as some new narrow gauge rolling stock, also I see Ryan, Sonny, or Samson possibly happening, and maybe one or two older characters that would only get announced due to the anniversary, like Boco, Duke, Stepney, or Murdoch.
Large Scale: We are super excited to be getting Diesel, just wish we could have so many more engines as 6 and Winston over about 12 years zzz but here goes...
Engines:
Duck: fantastic alongside Diesel would be a popular choice for customs, British outline locomotive.
Edward: a save choice to join James small enough to keep to the low radius curves of all existing engines.
Coaches: Red Coaches or the Old Coaches both useful and able to be hauled by James and Duck & Edward going forward.
Henrietta for Toby is so obvious.
Other Choices:
Toad: completes a GWR theme for both Thomas and custom builders in British outline.
Troublesome Van: just because... and Diesel would love??
Flat Wagon: always thought a series of these carrying other characters would be great, i.e: carrying Trevor, Bertie, Terence, the Dragon maybe even Harold! fun additions with value.
More Figures Please!
Yeah I think Stepney will probably be the next character due to his overwhelming popularity in the forums and in social media, so there's no doubt that Stepney will be the next HO model.
I hope they reintroduce salty back into the range. No particular reason I can think of yet but because if you have a dockside, it isn't complete without a sea-loving engine like salty.
And the recolor of James into his original livery would be great as well because we are already getting LBSC Thomas so it makes more sense to add one recolor that makes sense than having a recolor from a HIT Entertainment episode (I like the Busy Bee James, it's just that it should be released next year instead of this year).
For rolling stock, I don't know... ummm, a paint can flatbed reintroduction I guess because from what I've seen on eBay they go for over $200, so. Maybe old slow coach, but I'm getting into wishlist territory if I do see her being in the announcements. But for a realistic Guess a toffee tanker.
The narrow gauge engine prediction is the same as everyone else's Sir Handel is 100% guaranteed to happen.
That's all I can say for now.
One month from now, we shall have the mid-year announcements.
Still waiting for the N Scale line to launch, which can happen anytime now. Might happen next month, or earlier than that, but I could be wrong.
Still no images of Daisy, Peter Sam, Troublesome Truck #6, or the 1-Plank Wagons just yet, but they're bound to be revealed soon.
I noticed that Busy Bee James is listed on the webstore, but LBSC Thomas isn't yet.
As a Fan Of The Series Since The Golden Age Of Thomas & Friends Bachmann I Would Really Love It If You Guys Please Bring Us
HO Scale ~ BoCo
N Scale ~ SirHandel
HO Scale ~ Stepney
BoCo Has Not Made An Appearance In The Series Since Season 5 Which Was Over 20 Years Ago
BoCo Is Actually A Fan Favorite By Many & I Too Am A Huge BoCo Fan He Is My Favorite Diesel Engine Please Bachmann It Would Be A Huge Honor If You Can Create BoCo For Us In HO Scale And As For The Other Engines Mentioned Please No CGI Render Faces Please Keep It Nostalgic Use The Gauge 1 Models from the 1990's Faces Thank You God Bless
Well guys we've got a month until the new announcements in July.
I can't wait to see what will be announced, released or revealed. My predictions are as follows:
Ho Engines: Stepney or Stanley
Ho rolling stock: L&B open Wagons or Van
Narrow Gauge Engines: Sir handle
Narrow Gauge Rolling Stock: Green Coach
Large Scale: no engines and chances are slim we get any large scale this summer as they're still working on Diesel
My predictions for July announcements:
HO/OO
Stepney or Reintroudced Salty
Explosives Van
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Reintroduced Tidmouth Sheds (with motorised turntable)
HOn30/OO9
Narrow Gauge Sir Handel
Narrow Gauge Brake Van - Brown
Narrow Gauge Green Coach
N
Tidmouth Milk Tanker
S.C. Ruffey
So back by popular demand. Hope everyone is well. My thoughts for these announcements are as follows.
Stepney or Ryan
These are definitely the front runners for the next "new tooling engine." Both are very popular choices, Ryan obviously a great character that people will buy to put along side Daisy and probably one of the most popular CGI engines besides Paxton. Stepney again is a highly demanded engine. Great to pair up with Rusty or any of the classic series characters. With it being the 75th anniversary year it would be fitting to introduce a classic character so I'd go with Stepney but I'll be happy with either.
Sir Handel
Again a highly popular and in demand character. Personally I'd love Duncan next but I do see the demand for this character and understand given the render of Duncan and Sir Handel how Sir Handel is clearly the front runner so as much as I do love Duncan and would love to get him on my layout I am throwing my vote in for Sir Handel too. Great to pair with Peter Sam.
Black James
Given the fact LBSC Thomas was announced in February it seems only fitting Black James is too. However if this was a 2021 announcement I wouldn't be disappointed. If its there I'll buy it but I'm not itching to get my hands on him.
Rolling Stock
Its pretty enebitable that we will get some new rolling stock with old/existing tooling. The red express coaches are probably the top of the list for everyone along with maybe a recoloured tanker (toffee or chocolate tanker please if you are doing it) or vent van or something.
Non rail
Now heres where I get to think Abit more outside the box. Non rail characters haven't been around for a number of years now but I do feel like its time to introduce one now. My main pick would be Bulgy as he is proving very popular since his return and right now is even more relevant then most of the returning characters in the show (i.e. Daisy, Duck, Oliver, ect) right now so marketing wise its a solid move for both older fans and younger ones. However I have another two suggestions. The first is STH's car. Pretty basic design, could sell it by itself or on a flat bed truck. Everyone knows what it is and it could be something that even non Thomas collectors buy given its a classic car. Last suggestion for this part is Horrid Lorries. You are getting three characters for the one tooling here. They are classic characters and have made it into loads of other merchandise ranges (Ertl, take along, wooden railway, trackmaster ect). Add in removable loads and then you can remarket them every few years with different loads similar to the Christmas delivery set. Thomas fans will lap them up. Truthfully depending on what loads you give them and if you did all 3 I'd buy them in a heartbeat and a couple extra to make standard lorries for the background of my layout. Again Its another chance to maybe sell them on a flat bed similar to how Ertl marketed Lorry 1 on the flat bed and lorry 2 & 3 by on their own.
Resin Buildings
I really understand how hard these are to make and how expensive they can be but the resin line really was a beautiful set of models. Even if its just one building/Station/shed a year and maybe an accessory to go along side like coal bunkers or retaining walls. My main wish would be Ffarquhar Station or the Skarloey sheds. But I think any addition to this line will be greatly appreciated.
I hope everyone is well and safe. I'm looking forward to these announcements.
It's been awhile since I crawled out of my dark burrow to discuss on this forum, but I might as well drop my thoughts on future announcements:
I pretty much agree with everyone who's asked for Stepney, so I think I'd be beating a dead horse here. All I'll say is there is clearly a demand for him, since the Hornby model is almost impossible to acquire, especially at a modest price. Ryan would be next, even though I already have a custom model of him, but I know a lot of people really love him (myself included) and would be a perfect companion piece for Daisy when she's released. Same thing with Sir Handel after how well received Peter Sam was.
And I'd be all in for Large Scale Edward.
Rolling stock wise, the only ones I'd consider being made that would be essential (aside from maybe stuff like the Slip Coaches and the ballast hoppers) that haven't are these two designs:
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Long Trucks that you see carrying trees in Henry's Forest and pipes with a tarp over them in various S2 shots.
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcS7FXxUAKfWAHqxlgpR2Mvu8wOIAmVl2b9yfA&usqp=CAU)
AND...
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Fish Vans that you see in everything from A Close Shave to Fish.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DfaRkLSXUAETNYH.png)
Quote from: MeganekkoFury1126 on June 26, 2020, 01:38:44 PM
It's been awhile since I crawled out of my dark burrow to discuss on this forum, but I might as well drop my thoughts on future announcements:
I pretty much agree with everyone who's asked for Stepney, so I think I'd be beating a dead horse here. All I'll say is there is clearly a demand for him, since the Hornby model is almost impossible to acquire, especially at a modest price. Ryan would be next, even though I already have a custom model of him, but I know a lot of people really love him (myself included) and would be a perfect companion piece for Daisy when she's released. Same thing with Sir Handel after how well received Peter Sam was.
And I'd be all in for Large Scale Edward.
Rolling stock wise, the only ones I'd consider being made that would be essential (aside from maybe stuff like the Slip Coaches and the ballast hoppers) that haven't are these two designs:
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Long Trucks that you see carrying trees in Henry's Forest and pipes with a tarp over them in various S2 shots.
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcS7FXxUAKfWAHqxlgpR2Mvu8wOIAmVl2b9yfA&usqp=CAU)
AND...
Lynton and Barnstaple Railway Fish Vans that you see in everything from A Close Shave to Fish.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DfaRkLSXUAETNYH.png)
the Lyndon and Barnstaple vans were narrow gauge vans, but narrow gauge for (I'd assume) G Scale. The vans themselves are actually too tall for standard gauge, based on NMRA standards. It'd be like using the Bachmann Thomas and Friends narrow gauge box vans we have now with the Bachmann Thomas and Friends N Scale line. Actually making them the scale they are in the show wouldn't be allowed by the NMRA. You'd be better off finding some kits of the vans and make them yourself.
I'll provide a slight counter-argument to that: The Bachmann Diesel tooling is made to NRMA standards; now, with that in mind, Diesels body is only a couple of millimeters smaller than the PECO Lynton and Barnstaple On30 kit many people use to recreate the van.
This is where it gets interesting; as cited from http://thomastankmerch.blogspot.com/2018/01/a-guide-to-rolling-stock.html, the Lynton and Barnstaple wagons are actually 16mm, and meant to run on O gauge track. When they were used in Thomas, they were re-gauged to run on Gauge 1 track. This is why the Lynton and Barnstaple wagons in the show "scale" fairly close to the Gauge 1 rolling stock.
For a good visual, take this into perspective:
(https://i.imgur.com/t1ZOziG.jpg)
This is one issue I've had with the PECO kit; it's way too large compared to other OO scale rolling stock. Either way, point is if Bachmann wanted to make an accurate set of Lynton and Barnstaple rolling stock, complying to NRMA standards isn't a problem. The Lynton and Barnstaple wagons tend to hang only a few millimeters further than other OO scale rolling stock in the range, and going by engines like Diesel, Bill, and Ben, isn't a problem apparently.
Now the challenge there is Bachmann feeling this is a wagon worth designing a whole new tooling for. Theoretically, the 4 wheel wagons and the 4 wheel van could all use the same chassis tooling, with only the upper body being different. The 8 ton trucks (the long ones) could also have their body be one mold. Then, their bogie trucks would be the same tooling used on the mail cars and flatbeds:
(https://i.imgur.com/D3dhp8m.png)
This is how it was done in the show; the bogie design in question is actually a Tenmille Lynton and Barnstaple bogie that the crew used for many pieces of rolling stock in the earlier seasons. Point is, Bachmann would only need to design a truck body that fits on the bogie tooling they already have.
The funny thing is, Bachmann James is even larger compared to his Model Series counterpart when comparing him to Henry and Gordon. In the show, the bottom of his face appears to start where the bottom of the bigger engines' faces do, and goes to a little over halfway above their boilers. The Bachmann model is very close to CGI scaling, where the top of James' face is almost level with he top of Gordon and Henry's. If you compare Bachmann remakes of Thomas' Christmas Party with the original, you will see this (the same also applies to Edward and Percy). I think these errors came about due to Thomas receiving larger wheels in Magic Railroad, when in the original series, he had shared a wheel size with Edward and James. You can also compare James with the picture Cheeky_ULP posted by putting a 7 plank wagon behind his tender. See how the tender's rear matches the height of the wagon? His tender is a few mm higher than it on the Bachmann version (another error Edward shares).
To repeat what Cheeky_ULP said, the van shouldn't be too tall, because, if anything, the Bachmann James is.
You people don't seem to understand how any of this works. I don't care how big Diesel is, his measurements don't mean anything for a van. And that van, taken from narrow gauge proportions and scaled up to the model series scale, is taller than every other type of van, and it's too tall according to the NMRA. Facts are facts.
You were given literal facts, and shown an image of the literal prop from the TV show, and that's the only argument you can come up with? Please stop talking. Nobodys going to explain stuff to you twice if you just cover your ears and go "lalala I'm right you're wrong" when things are explained to you in detail.
Quote from: Rodimus Supreme on June 27, 2020, 09:02:31 PM
You people don't seem to understand how any of this works. I don't care how big Diesel is, his measurements don't mean anything for a van. And that van, taken from narrow gauge proportions and scaled up to the model series scale, is taller than every other type of van, and it's too tall according to the NMRA. Facts are facts.
By that logic, James and Edward would also be to tall for NMRA standards, but they were able to be done.
Please let us have a miracle and get another Large Scale loco!
Diesel is a welcome addition but nearly 7 locos in 12+ years...
Please Bachmann!!!!
I can't believe we're getting so close to the announcements!
I'm hoping for:
HO Scale
Stepney
Resin Ffarquhar
Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel
D.Fusit Gunpowder
Even though it may technically be too late to post at this point, here's my hopes/predictions for the Announcements.
HO Scale:
-Like everyone else, Stepney, for all of the reasons everyone else stated.
-I'd also like to agree with Cheeky-ULP about seeing the Lynton & Barnstaple vans make it into the range. They could make a normal brown one, one with a face like A Close Shave, and one with graffiti on it like in the Series 4 episode with Duck and Henry. It would be great because it's something different and new!
Narrow Gauge:
-Sir Handel
N Scale:
-Maybe a Milk Tanker, or
-a Percy set? Both?
Large Scale:
-Thomas - LBSC 70
-Red Coaches (these would be great sellers!) I've seen a few people do Stroudley conversions of the HO Scale ones to run with British locomotive's, and I think the same would apply here!
I guess these could be my final predictions:
HO Scale:
James - Black
Ventilated Van - Explosives
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Red Express Coaches
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Carriage - Green
Brake Van - Brown
N Scale:
Open Wagon - Red
S.C. Ruffey
Milk Tanker
Large Scale:
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach
It seems that there's been a lot of buildup for next weeks announcements so I'll post some final thoughts as we are now less than a week away from the stream at Trainworld.
Anyway, I think most of the announcements this summer will probably consist of rolling stock announcements with the exception of Stepney, which I'll talk about in a minute. This is due to how much we are still currently waiting on from Bachmann and most likely any sort of production delays due to the coronavirus. Even then I expect new announcements for HO and large scale and maybe narrow gauge if it's only a brown brake van. Aside from that I wouldn't be surprised if there's no new announcements for N scale or narrow gauge considering that the N scale range's first launch hasn't even been out yet. As for narrow gauge since we are getting Peter Sam and some brake vans I imagine those will probably be all we will get until 2021 since the narrow gauge line is more than a niche market and they probably wouldn't want to have to overflow that market. So I could see Sir Handel being announced in 2021.
Anyway time for my predictions:
For HO it's really hard to avoid the low-hanging fruit that's Stepney. The demand for this character is probably the strongest I've seen for any character... pretty much ever to be completely honest. Even being in a higher demand than Duck and Oliver were before they got announced. Considering that the show itself is ending it's all the more of a reason for Bachmann to stick with classic characters for the time being rather than making newer ones which is why I feel Stepney would be their safest overall option for their next model in HO.
As for HO rolling stock, I mentioned this earlier but I can see the single vent van (ice cream wagon) tooling being reused for various van recolors like how they normally do these days. The red express coaches making a comeback is also something I could see happening too.
As for large scale, with Diesel coming out the large scale range needs some new rolling stock to come out. I personally think that the red coaches would be the safest option considering how popular the HO models were. The large scale range really needs something that's going to be a really hot seller and I feel they haven't had anything sell like hotcakes since Toby. The red coaches would be a more than welcome addition and would sell really well, unlike the tanker recolors we got a few years ago.
Quote from: Chaz on July 09, 2020, 09:43:44 PM
It seems that there's been a lot of buildup for next weeks announcements so I'll post some final thoughts as we are now less than a week away from the stream at Trainworld.
Anyway, I think most of the announcements this summer will probably consist of rolling stock announcements with the exception of Stepney, which I'll talk about in a minute. This is due to how much we are still currently waiting on from Bachmann and most likely any sort of production delays due to the coronavirus. Even then I expect new announcements for HO and large scale and maybe narrow gauge if it's only a brown brake van. Aside from that I wouldn't be surprised if there's no new announcements for N scale or narrow gauge considering that the N scale range's first launch hasn't even been out yet. As for narrow gauge since we are getting Peter Sam and some brake vans I imagine those will probably be all we will get until 2021 since the narrow gauge line is more than a niche market and they probably wouldn't want to have to overflow that market. So I could see Sir Handel being announced in 2021.
Anyway time for my predictions:
For HO it's really hard to avoid the low-hanging fruit that's Stepney. The demand for this character is probably the strongest I've seen for any character... pretty much ever to be completely honest. Even being in a higher demand than Duck and Oliver were before they got announced. Considering that the show itself is ending it's all the more of a reason for Bachmann to stick with classic characters for the time being rather than making newer ones which is why I feel Stepney would be their safest overall option for their next model in HO.
As for HO rolling stock, I mentioned this earlier but I can see the single vent van (ice cream wagon) tooling being reused for various van recolors like how they normally do these days. The red express coaches making a comeback is also something I could see happening too.
As for large scale, with Diesel coming out the large scale range needs some new rolling stock to come out. I personally think that the red coaches would be the safest option considering how popular the HO models were. The large scale range really needs something that's going to be a really hot seller and I feel they haven't had anything sell like hotcakes since Toby. The red coaches would be a more than welcome addition and would sell really well, unlike the tanker recolors we got a few years ago.
Ideas for Single Vent Van (Ice Cream Wagon) recolours:
1. Troublesome Truck 7, either in Very Light Grey or preferably Tan Brown, with a cross/angry face
2. Flying Kipper Van
3. Mr Jolly's Chocolate Factory Van
4. Explosives Van
5. Fireworks Van
It is hard to believe that we are less than one week away from the new product announcement! With that considered, I wanted to post one final list of what I hope, and expect to see announced next week as well.
HO Scale
Stepney (with moving eyes)
Ventilated Van- Explosives (single vent van tooling that was used for the HO Ice Cream Wagon)
Tar Tanker
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach
Narrow Gauge
Brake Van- Brown
Large Scale
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach
or
Troublesome Van
Chaz summed up any further thoughts that I have at the moment. Thus, anything else that I state would be redundant.
Here's hoping that Bachmann will surprise us once more with a great new product announcement next week, given that it is Thomas' 75th Anniversary :).
My final list.
HO Engines
Stepney
HO Rolling Stock
Vent van recoloured (probably like Terence says explosive van or maybe the chocolate factory van)
Red Express coaches
Narrow Guage
Sir Handel
Brown brake van
It would be nice if a couple of product shots emerged for Daisy and Peter Sam too if they are ready to be shown that is. And maybe the new Narrow Guage break vans
Hi everyone, I'm TheToadTrain. Over the past year, I've got real familiar with the Bachmann range of Thomas & Friends products. And, in working on models of my own (building some entirely from scratch), I have a *decent* idea of what is possible (and reasonable) to produce.
First, let me just say I fully endorse the Stepney movement. I feel he would be a great addition to the line. He's small, very colorful, and would attract fans of all ages. When I was a kid, I bought Wooden Railway characters such as D199 and Culdee not because I knew where they originated from, but because their design caught my attention. I don't think Stepney's lack of relevancy is a problem. I think kids would love the character even without knowing his origins. And fans of both Thomas & Friends and IRL locomotives would eat him up, of course!
Ryan would be my second top choice. He's purple, he's a tank engine, he's got an interesting design and was popular within the show for a while. I feel seeing Bachmann's take on a more detailed Thomas character would be interesting.
Lastly, there's BoCo. If BoCo was made, we'd have all the standard gauge engines (minus Scotsman and Truro) from seasons 1-4. Personally, I doubt BoCo will ever be released. He doesn't bring much to the table and would be expensive to produce. In the show, Boco and Daisy share the same chassis--but with how Bachmann manufactures their motors, I'm certain this could not be done in HO scale (or at least done cheap by Bachmann while retaining the eye mech).
I've seen a lot of people request the red express coaches, as those would be a simple repaint. But truthfully, I'm hoping for a pillbox brakevan. Two types of brakevans were used in the model series: one has produced by many companies over the years and is even included in the Thomas & Friends range--the other is the pillbox design. I would love for Bachmann to make this little guy. They've made new molds for rolling stock before, and I think this brakevan could be a good seller. It is still seen today in the CGI series in a variety of colors, so it could certainly catch a child's eye.
I also want to discuss buildings. Bachmann has acted very questionable with their buildings as of late. Seeing the signal box discontinued was both saddening and questionable. I was pretty sure it was a top seller--I guess it was just expensive to produce? Regardless, I hope it gets brought back along with more resin buildings. There are tons of iconic buildings that could be made. I think the best choice would be the workmen's hut, best known for its appearance in Old Slow Coach. It has been seen since Season 2, it makes it's way to Tidmouth Sheds in the later model series, and its model is copy-pasted all the time in the BWBA era. In short, it's seen everywhere. It's small, cute, and would look great on any set or layout. There are tons more buildings I have in mind--a three pack with other tiny brick buildings, the garage building from the first season, a coal hopper, one of the smaller cranes that was carried over from TUGS, Ffarquhar Sheds (in which one of the sheds was used individually as the washdown shed for both season 12 and the CGI series), a pack of signals, and those are just the iconic ones! I could go on for hours talking about all of the other smaller, lesser known props that could be sold for cheap. When people think of Thomas buildings, they usually think of the big ones, like Knapford or Sodor Shipping Co. But Bachmann is obviously looking for something smaller to produced, and everything I just mentioned could fit on a store shelf.
Finally, I think Bachmann could make do with some more non-rail vehicles. If they produce something as pointless as Jeremy, I think it's fair to suggest some of the other characters--all of which would definitely sell better. Why not Bulgy? He was recently reintroduced into the series. Or how about a female character, Elizabeth? Or if they're looking for something small AND female, Caroline could be a good pick. But most of all, my top tier choice that I feel everyone would pick up if done right--Sir Topham Hatt's Car. I'm outright shocked it hasn't been made already. It's iconic--not just to the fans. Kids know this car as well as their parents. It's seen everywhere in the show! I really feel it's a worthy inclusion.
That sums it up for my thoughts and suggestions. I believe I've put a lot on the table just now, so let me know if you could get behind any of these ideas!
Quote from: TheToadTrain on July 11, 2020, 02:10:12 PM
Hi everyone, I'm TheToadTrain. Over the past year, I've got real familiar with the Bachmann range of Thomas & Friends products. And, in working on models of my own (building some entirely from scratch), I have a *decent* idea of what is possible (and reasonable) to produce.
First, let me just say I fully endorse the Stepney movement. I feel he would be a great addition to the line. He's small, very colorful, and would attract fans of all ages. When I was a kid, I bought Wooden Railway characters such as D199 and Culdee not because I knew where they originated from, but because their design caught my attention. I don't think Stepney's lack of relevancy is a problem. I think kids would love the character even without knowing his origins. And fans of both Thomas & Friends and IRL locomotives would eat him up, of course!
Ryan would be my second top choice. He's purple, he's a tank engine, he's got an interesting design and was popular within the show for a while. I feel seeing Bachmann's take on a more detailed Thomas character would be interesting.
Lastly, there's BoCo. If BoCo was made, we'd have all the standard gauge engines (minus Scotsman and Truro) from seasons 1-4. Personally, I doubt BoCo will ever be released. He doesn't bring much to the table and would be expensive to produce. In the show, Boco and Daisy share the same chassis--but with how Bachmann manufactures their motors, I'm certain this could not be done in HO scale (or at least done cheap by Bachmann while retaining the eye mech).
I've seen a lot of people request the red express coaches, as those would be a simple repaint. But truthfully, I'm hoping for a pillbox brakevan. Two types of brakevans were used in the model series: one has produced by many companies over the years and is even included in the Thomas & Friends range--the other is the pillbox design. I would love for Bachmann to make this little guy. They've made new molds for rolling stock before, and I think this brakevan could be a good seller. It is still seen today in the CGI series in a variety of colors, so it could certainly catch a child's eye.
I also want to discuss buildings. Bachmann has acted very questionable with their buildings as of late. Seeing the signal box discontinued was both saddening and questionable. I was pretty sure it was a top seller--I guess it was just expensive to produce? Regardless, I hope it gets brought back along with more resin buildings. There are tons of iconic buildings that could be made. I think the best choice would be the workmen's hut, best known for its appearance in Old Slow Coach. It has been seen since Season 2, it makes it's way to Tidmouth Sheds in the later model series, and its model is copy-pasted all the time in the BWBA era. In short, it's seen everywhere. It's small, cute, and would look great on any set or layout. There are tons more buildings I have in mind--a three pack with other tiny brick buildings, the garage building from the first season, a coal hopper, one of the smaller cranes that was carried over from TUGS, Ffarquhar Sheds (in which one of the sheds was used individually as the washdown shed for both season 12 and the CGI series), a pack of signals, and those are just the iconic ones! I could go on for hours talking about all of the other smaller, lesser known props that could be sold for cheap. When people think of Thomas buildings, they usually think of the big ones, like Knapford or Sodor Shipping Co. But Bachmann is obviously looking for something smaller to produced, and everything I just mentioned could fit on a store shelf.
Finally, I think Bachmann could make do with some more non-rail vehicles. If they produce something as pointless as Jeremy, I think it's fair to suggest some of the other characters--all of which would definitely sell better. Why not Bulgy? He was recently reintroduced into the series. Or how about a female character, Elizabeth? Or if they're looking for something small AND female, Caroline could be a good pick. But most of all, my top tier choice that I feel everyone would pick up if done right--Sir Topham Hatt's Car. I'm outright shocked it hasn't been made already. It's iconic--not just to the fans. Kids know this car as well as their parents. It's seen everywhere in the show! I really feel it's a worthy inclusion.
That sums it up for my thoughts and suggestions. I believe I've put a lot on the table just now, so let me know if you could get behind any of these ideas!
The only non rail I would include is the Horrid Lorries as you have basically 3 or 4 models for one tooling so from a marketing prospective its really easy money and you could sell them with different loads or maybe have one on a flat wagon similar to how Ertl marketed Lorry 1 on a flat bed truck, Lorry 2 with its covered cargo hold and Lorry 3 with a removable load. Plus then fans will likely buy extras to recrate faceless models of them which have appeared in the background since series 5. But yeah brilliant points. I hope bachmann do release another non rail character and some more buildings.
After Daisy, the only standard gauge engines from Seasons 1-4 left for the HO range would be BoCo, Stepney, and Class 40, excluding Flying Scotsman and City of Truro (technically, City of Truro exists in Bachmann's UK range). Flying Scotsman was intended to have a larger role in the Season 3 episode "Tender Engines" but his model was never finished for budget reasons. It wasn't until The Great Race when Flying Scotsman eventually did appear fully.
If Bachmann can make Daisy, they can make BoCo. In the model series, Daisy and BoCo shared the same powered rear bogie, with the only difference being BoCo having a six-wheeled bogie up front. Sometimes, Daisy has been seen with a "Co-Bo" wheel arrangement, including some illustrations, when really, she's supposed to have a Bo-Bo configuration. In the CGI series, Daisy appears to have a completely different chassis than she did in the model series. BoCo, on the other hand, has had fans wanting him to return for many years, and he still never did, most likely because Mattel would rather put out their resources to internationalism and half-baked characters. By default, BoCo would have to be based on his model series design, which would require a completely different chassis than Daisy if Daisy is based on her CGI design.
Stepney should definitely happen. He seems to be the all-time most-requested character from Bachmann, and I can see why. If he doesn't get announced this month, then hopefully in 2021.
Hopefully, we'll also get a better idea of when the N Scale line will launch. Will images of Daisy, Peter Sam, Troublesome Truck #6, and the 1-Plank wagons be ready soon? Large Scale Diesel has a price, but a lower one compared to Thomas, Percy and Toby. I just hope Diesel won't have problems like the ladders being molded to the body, or an inaccurate chassis like his Lionel and Hornby models.
Quote from: TrainFan97 on July 11, 2020, 04:27:39 PM
After Daisy, the only standard gauge engines from Seasons 1-4 left for the HO range would be BoCo, Stepney, and Class 40, excluding Flying Scotsman and City of Truro (technically, City of Truro exists in Bachmann's UK range). Flying Scotsman was intended to have a larger role in the Season 3 episode "Tender Engines" but his model was never finished for budget reasons. It wasn't until The Great Race when Flying Scotsman eventually did appear fully.
If Bachmann can make Daisy, they can make BoCo. In the model series, Daisy and BoCo shared the same powered rear bogie, with the only difference being BoCo having a six-wheeled bogie up front. Sometimes, Daisy has been seen with a "Co-Bo" wheel arrangement, including some illustrations, when really, she's supposed to have a Bo-Bo configuration. In the CGI series, Daisy appears to have a completely different chassis than she did in the model series. BoCo, on the other hand, has had fans wanting him to return for many years, and he still never did, most likely because Mattel would rather put out their resources to internationalism and half-baked characters. By default, BoCo would have to be based on his model series design, which would require a completely different chassis than Daisy if Daisy is based on her CGI design.
Stepney should definitely happen. He seems to be the all-time most-requested character from Bachmann, and I can see why. If he doesn't get announced this month, then hopefully in 2021.
Hopefully, we'll also get a better idea of when the N Scale line will launch. Will images of Daisy, Peter Sam, Troublesome Truck #6, and the 1-Plank wagons be ready soon? Large Scale Diesel has a price, but a lower one compared to Thomas, Percy and Toby. I just hope Diesel won't have problems like the ladders being molded to the body, or an inaccurate chassis like his Lionel and Hornby models.
To be honest out of the three characters you listed, BoCo, Stepney, and Class 40, the only one I see happening is Stepney due to his popularity and demand by thomas fans and rail fans along with bachmann even acknowledging the character. Boco doesn't have much of chance due to not appearing after his one appearance in season 5. As for the class 40 he's definitely not happening because he was a one off character who never returned after his one and only appearance. Plus lets not forget about the last remaining characters from seasons 6 and 7, those being harvey and murdoch.
Quote from: HO scale Den-liner on July 11, 2020, 08:11:55 PM
To be honest out of the three characters you listed, BoCo, Stepney, and Class 40, the only one I see happening is Stepney due to his popularity and demand by thomas fans and rail fans along with bachmann even acknowledging the character. Boco doesn't have much of chance due to not appearing after his one appearance in season 5. As for the class 40 he's definitely not happening because he was a one off character who never returned after his one and only appearance. Plus lets not forget about the last remaining characters from seasons 6 and 7, those being harvey and murdoch.
I didn't say Class 40 had a chance, due to being a one-off character. Though, he did get a Hornby model (which is really rare). After Daisy, the only larger diesel that has
any chance, if it all, is BoCo. Diesel 10 will never be made because of his claw.
But yes, out of the three characters I mentioned, Stepney definitely has the most chance, since he's the one with the most popular demand.
The Season 5 character, Derek, was also a one-off character like Class 40, so his chance would be very slim. As for Seasons 6 and 7 characters, Harvey's crane would be problematic for the NMRA standards, like Diesel 10's claw. Other characters from those two seasons that have yet to be made include Arthur, Murdoch, and Fergus. Out of those three, Fergus is the least likely, due to only appearing in Season 7.
Quote from: HO scale Den-liner on July 11, 2020, 08:11:55 PM
Plus lets not forget about the last remaining characters from seasons 6 and 7, those being harvey and murdoch.
Arthur and Fergus would like to have a word with you. ;)
Jokes aside, I personally would really like an Arthur model but like pretty much every character who hasn't appeared in CGI (except Stepney) I don't think the odds would be in his favor. If there was any other character exclusive to the model era though then besides Stepney, Arthur would be a very close second on my list.
Quote from: Chaz on July 11, 2020, 09:00:16 PM
Quote from: HO scale Den-liner on July 11, 2020, 08:11:55 PM
Plus lets not forget about the last remaining characters from seasons 6 and 7, those being harvey and murdoch.
Arthur and Fergus would like to have a word with you. ;)
Jokes aside, I personally would really like an Arthur model but like pretty much every character who hasn't appeared in CGI (except Stepney) I don't think the odds would be in his favor. If there was any other character exclusive to the model era though then besides Stepney, Arthur would be a very close second on my list.
Whoops, I completely forgot about them.
It's been quite a while since I last logged in, but as we're getting closer to the event, now would be a good time to lend my input on what could come. Keeping my quantities low considering older announcements.
HO Scale:
Stepney - It's become crystal clear that everyone wants this character to happen for a multitude of reasons. I won't go into the specifics since they've already been explained by others, but as an old-school fan of the show, he has my full support and I'll be eager to see him come up.
Red Express Coaches - I admit I cannot think of much HO rolling stock options that I would be interested in besides these. As the Green Express Coaches were brought back not long ago, these feel fairly likely.
Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel - This is another character lots of people want in their respective line and it's also already been explained as to why. He happens to be my personal favorite of the Narrow Gauge characters, so I'll be happy if he ends up announced.
Can't account for much rolling stock after the brake vans' announcement.
N Scale:
There's not much I want here since we've already gotten James and some tankers announced earlier this year, but I'm open for seeing more basic characters and rolling stock continue to be added overtime.
Large Scale:
Red Coaches - One of the better bets for anything new after Diesel would be these since they were successful HO Scale and are similar in shape to Annie and Clarabel.
Despite Diesel's gratifying return earlier this year, seeing a new engine announced anytime before his release can be considered a long shot. If anyone is to come after him, I'm still hopeful and all ears for Mavis. I've already shared my reasoning for her in the past, but it's not necessary to reiterate them right now since we don't have Diesel on the market yet.
It'd be nice to have pictures for any of the queued products including Daisy, Peter Sam, Large Scale Diesel and the N Scale starting line, but with the ongoing health crisis in mind, it's hard to say if we will end up seeing much.
Regarding BoCo, I'm well aware his chances are low due to his lack of recent appearances, but if Stepney does get announced (who is also a character who has yet to appear in CGI) that could increase chances and demand for BoCo, since Bachmann would be doing model series characters again. Murdoch might be too big, and Arthur might be a little complicated. I do wonder if they're both still doable. BoCo doesn't have as many windows as Daisy, but he would be a little bigger, and he's still a simple box shape. The model series characters Bachmann could make soon, or at some point in the future would be Stepney, BoCo, Arthur, and Murdoch. They wouldn't do one-off characters like Class 40 or Derek, or characters that only appeared in one season like Fergus. They certainly can't do characters with movable parts like Diesel 10 and Harvey.
As for Class 40, your best bet is to just take a Bachmann UK Class 40, and put a face on it. He got a Hornby model, but it's rare.
As what many have said here, Stepney is a prediction I hold that Bachmann will announce this year. Sir Handel or Duncan would be the other engines I predict to be announced.
Rolling stock I believe to be announced will be the Chinese Dragon, and the breakdown train. Two are classic model era rolling stocks that are popular, and have been made in countless other brands.
I hope people get their most wanted, but I do feel like people are expecting too much, and they are going to leave themselves disappointed.
I hope we get new characters, because repaints of the same characters would be very lackluster for me.
I would love some non rail characters to be reveled, but I think that is too high hopes haha.
Quote from: TM24 on July 12, 2020, 11:54:31 PM
As what many have said here, Stepney is a prediction I hold that Bachmann will announce this year. Sir Handel or Duncan would be the other engines I predict to be announced.
Rolling stock I believe to be announced will be the Chinese Dragon, and the breakdown train. Two are classic model era rolling stocks that are popular, and have been made in countless other brands.
The chinese dragon and the breakdown train would be great rolling stock additions.
Quote from: Zekeism on July 13, 2020, 02:33:11 PM
I hope people get their most wanted, but I do feel like people are expecting too much, and they are going to leave themselves disappointed.
I hope we get new characters, because repaints of the same characters would be very lackluster for me.
I would love some non rail characters to be reveled, but I think that is too high hopes haha.
I don't mind recolor engines, heck I would love to see a chocolate covered percy be a thing. Similar how this one was made by a japanese modeler 12 years ago. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1t7zyHNdFk If busy bee james can be a thing then lets see "Bon Bon Percy" be a thing. And also a glow in the dark henry like in that one CGI episode where henry was painted with glowing green paint instead of normal green paint.
I'm surprised Glow-in-the-Dark Henry never got any merchandise, at least not to my knowledge. How does a "Chocolate Covered" Percy sound? At least it would be nostalgic. Would Green Salty and Blue Bill and Ben be too gimmicky for Bachmann? Salty is discontinued, but his tooling still exists. Silver Spencer and Glow-in-the-Dark Henry could be interesting, where Spencer has his metallic silver livery from Season 10 onwards, and Henry when he was accidentally painted with glow-in-the-dark paint.
Recolors that would make the most sense would be Black James, and Sidney.
Quote from: HO scale Den-liner on July 14, 2020, 09:08:50 PM
Quote from: Zekeism on July 13, 2020, 02:33:11 PM
I hope people get their most wanted, but I do feel like people are expecting too much, and they are going to leave themselves disappointed.
I hope we get new characters, because repaints of the same characters would be very lackluster for me.
I would love some non rail characters to be reveled, but I think that is too high hopes haha.
I don't mind recolor engines, heck I would love to see a chocolate covered percy be a thing. Similar how this one was made by a japanese modeler 12 years ago. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1t7zyHNdFk If busy bee james can be a thing then lets see "Bon Bon Percy" be a thing. And also a glow in the dark henry like in that one CGI episode where henry was painted with glowing green paint instead of normal green paint.
I don't mind engine recolors, I just don't want 2 repaints of a character in the span of a year.
Quote from: Zekeism on July 15, 2020, 02:15:01 PM
I don't mind engine recolors, I just don't want 2 repaints of a character in the span of a year.
Yeah, about that...
Well I don't know if it is bad news or if it is just news but Bachmann have just tweeted they have ran into some production delays regarding Peter Sam and Daisy (which lets face it the worlds been broken for the last 4/5 months so its to be expected). I don't know weather this will effect any announcements tomorrow or not. Considering theres 4 HO engines waiting for release (LBSC Thomas, Busy bee James, Black James and Daisy) will they really add a fifth to the list even tho three out of 4 are recolours. As for Narrow Guage, they've got Peter Sam and the breakvans in the pipeline will they add more onto that or focus on getting this lot released then announce more in Feb or July next year.
With the pandemic at stake, it is certainly is not surprising that Daisy and Peter Sam have been delayed. Yet, I still hope that Stepney will be announced tomorrow, given that it is the 75th Anniversary, and would be something extra special to celebrate, as an overwhelmingly popular classic engine. Even if takes multiple years for the final model to be revealed, I know that the final result will be worth the wait. It always is, and I am certain that many other loyal Bachmann Thomas customers feel the same way.
I have my fingers crossed for tomorrow :).
Well, that was a letdown.