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Discussion Boards => Thomas & Friends => Topic started by: TerencetheTractor525 on July 17, 2020, 09:19:42 AM

Title: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on July 17, 2020, 09:19:42 AM
I was initially going to wait much longer to start another one of these, but after yesterday's disappointment, I wanted to start this ASAP with the hope that February's announcement will be much better, even though it is after the 75th Anniversary:

HO Scale
Stepney (with moving eyes) #1 Hope
Ventilated Van- Explosives
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach

Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel
Brake Van- Brown

N Scale
Toby
S.C.Ruffey
Tidmouth Milk Tanker

Large Scale
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach
or
Troublesome Van
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on July 17, 2020, 09:21:48 AM
I know that it is best to avoid double posting as much as possible, but I decided to repost my Stepney post from the previous thread, given Stepney's massive popularity amongst fans:

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.

Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: GordonPacific04 on July 17, 2020, 10:19:01 AM
In response to Terrence's questions:

Yes, I would buy A Bachmann Stepney.

I'd think he'd be very popular with the older fans. I know there are some people who say how irrelevant he is and that he wouldn't be as popular with kids. (I used to be one of those people, believe it or not.) Frankly that shouldn't matter so long as we show Bachmann our love for him. Lets not forget that Duck was announced in 2012 before he returned to CGI. And even still, the majority of the people who use Bachmann are older fans of the show.

As for any other character that would be a better fit, I can't think of one. (In HO scale) the amount of support for Stepney has been immeasurable. Bachmann has always been good to us in the past, so let's hope they'll keep it up.

So here's what I want:

HO SCALE:

Stepney
Tar Wagon
Well wagon
Red Express coach
Red brake coach

Narrow gauge:
Sir Handel
Brown brake van

As for the other scales, I don't really know, seeing as I don't use them, but I'm still looking forward to February.

Remember this post by Bachmann's Twitter:

"Our product development team is well aware of the requests for Stepney and is exploring the possibility of producing it in the future."
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on July 17, 2020, 11:10:36 AM
Here's what I hope to see surface throughout next year. I'm mainly making safe guesses with a few potential long shots.

HO Scale:
Stepney
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach

Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Green Carriage

N Scale:
Ventilated Van
Milk Tanker
Brake Van

G Scale:
Mavis
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach

To answer the Stepney-related questions:
- Yes, I'd most definitely buy him.
- I can see him selling out almost instantaneously among older fans. If I thought Duck was popular back in 2012/2013, I just might not be ready for Stepney.
- Despite my unfamiliarity with him, I think Ryan feels like the best backup plan since there's just as many good reasons to make him. I'd also suggest Boco, but I'm not so sure with his irrelevance and Daisy's prolonged production in mind.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Large Scale Champion on July 17, 2020, 11:15:28 AM
Large Scale:

Well firstly we are delighted by the big reveal of diesel, Well Done Bachmann! but we need more variety!

So let's crack on!

Loco:
Duck
Edward
Oliver

Coaches:
Red or Old Coaches
Henrietta

Wagons:
Troublesome Box Van
Flat Wagon
Toad

Accessories:
Wagon Loads
More Figures (we have the 4 you've done)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on July 17, 2020, 11:48:07 AM
In answer to Terence's questions. Yes I would by Bachmann Stepney in a heartbeat without a doubt. My layout is primarily based on series 4 and even has Bluebell Valley situated on the extension board so there's already a Home there for him. In terms of being popular I think he will be extremely popular. Theres clearly a demand there for him and I think once he os released it would be a repeat of Skarloey's release where he sold out everywhere really quickly. In terms of can I name a better fit? No Stepney is my number one choice but more on that next.
So heres my list
HO Scale
Stepney
Need I say more. He is my top pick however failing him I would welcome Ryan as he's been my second choice ever since Daisy was announced. Besides those two I guess Sidney is an obvious  an obvious choice given he's the last 08 shunter besides the magic railroad characters.
Red express coaches
These are another item that there seems to be alot of demand for. They have always been popular in the model series and have been making appearances again since 2016 so it would be nice to have them back for the fans who missed out on them the first time around.
Flatbed with car or lorry
Now this was something me and Terence spoke about a while back on how Bachmann could market non rail characters like Sir Topham Hatts car. Well stick it on a flat bed truck. But if not Sir Topham Hatts car then any car would do. They have been part of the rolling stock scenery since series 2 and its a neat little way to add something extra but not breaking the bank to the range. Same could apply to the horrid lorries. Just put a lorry on a flat the same way Ertl did for Lorry 1.
Explosives van
I must admit I do like the look of the large scale model of this so it would be nice to have a HO scale counter part.

Narrow Guage
Sir Handel
Again Sir Handel seem to be the most logical choice to follow Peter Sam into the Narrow guage line. However I would be happy with Duncan next too.
Brown brake van
Again another obvious choice given this years announcements of the Red and Blue counter parts.
Blue Mountain Quarry Truck
Now I get to be a bit more out there. As someone who collects the Narrow guage engines and rolling stock items I just want some more rolling stock and a little rusty truck even with the Blue Mountain quarry logo on the side will do. Its enebitable it will happen. All the Narrow Guage engines are listed as "works in the blue Mountain quarry" might as well get the gimmick out the way and like I say we are very low on Narrow Guage rolling stock.
D Fusit
Alternatively something that will please alot of classic fans would be the D Fusit trucks from series 4. They are probably one of the most recognised trucks on the narrow guage line besides the slate trucks.

N Scale
Toby
Its pretty obvious Toby will follow next after James either him or.Emily and I think Bachmann would be wise to get Toby out next
Scruffy
Again another enebitable product.
Tidmouth Milk Tanker
Again another obvious choice and is bound to be introduced

Large scale
Paxton
OK hear me out. With Diesel being made and so well I might add it makes sense to do Paxton since they share the same body and chassis. Its financially beneficial to use that especially since alot of us are crying out for new products with new tooling in all other scales. I love the large scale range but I think its foolish jot.to consider Paxton being next in line. I would love to be wrong and for it to be Edward or Mavis or Duck but at the same time its been a rough year so if you can make something new using something you already own why not.
Red coaches or Troublesome truck 3 (van)
The red coaches seem to be another product that will enebitablely make their way to Large Scale same with the next troublesome truck which will probably be a van.

Out there ideas
OK my first idea is for older fans why not sell packs of figures like driver, firemen, station master, ect it could be maybe a pack of 4 or 6 figures and alot of us would buy them. You could even do packs like "Brendem Docks works" or "passengers" just something a bit different that fans will jump on. But make sure they are in scale then eventually they could release a pack with characters like the thin controller and farmer McColl ect.
Second and probably the one everyone is waiting on buildings and non rail. Even just one or two buildings a year or every few years will do just help us fans expand our layouts. As for non rail again its just something to expend our Thomas World and I feel like Bulgy would be perfect for Bachmann to make especially since his come back
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: thomasj219 on July 17, 2020, 01:46:52 PM
I don't think there's anything here that people don't already know.

Of course a Bachman Stefanie would be a great seller. And I do believe he is their next model, unfortunately just seems we have to wait a little longer for the certainty of an announcement.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on July 17, 2020, 02:14:15 PM
Quote from: Chaz on March 20, 2020, 10:59:58 PM
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). 

Pretty much my thoughts are the exact same as earlier with Stepney and Sir Handel being the only engines that I have the most interest in seeing in the future. 

I'm also going to mirror that after how the large scale Diesel turned out that I think Paxton wouldn't be a bad idea for the large scale range at some point in the future, even though I think Arry and Bert are kind of a given due to their "two for one" ordeal despite their poor sales in HO. 

I also wouldn't mind seeing the N scale range introduce Diesel at some point too.  Engine wise for that range, Toby would be on top of the list for me with Edward being a close second followed by Diesel.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 17, 2020, 02:57:58 PM
It's been a rough year for all of us, and the world's been straight to hell for over four months now, no thanks to the coronavirus, and will likely stay that way for the rest of this year.

Anyways, here's my predictions for February of 2021:

HO Scale:

The product with the highest demand is Stepney, but since Daisy is delayed, it's uncertain whether or not another new tooling in HO Scale is possible just yet. Maybe they will announce Stepney anyway if the fans are getting tired of recolors.

If we have to get yet another engine recolor, the best possible choices are either Sidney, or Silver/Shiny Spencer. I'd be okay with either one. It would be best for Bachmann just to get Sidney out of the way, or release Spencer in his metallic silver livery from Season 10 onwards. For Sidney, they might have to alter his facial features to fit the eye mechanism, and hide the eye mechanism with a painted border around his face.

For rolling stock, the most requested pieces are for the Red Express Coaches, and the Tar Tanker to return, while the Explosives Van, Chocolate Syrup, and Toffee Tankers are still exclusive to Large Scale, and should be made in HO Scale someday.

Narrow Gauge:

Peter Sam is currently delayed, but it still would be nice to get Sir Handel. With the Red and Blue Brake Vans coming soon, we still need to get the Brown Brake Van to go with goods. Another piece of rolling stock Narrow Gauge could use is the Green Carriage. A Skarloey set still would be nice.

N Scale:

The first wave of N Scale models still isn't out yet, but must be out soon, certainly by the end of this year. James and some tankers were announced back in February. The next engine for N Scale, I'd personally be okay with Toby, Diesel, or big engines like Henry and Gordon being next after James. Given the current situation, Bachmann may not be ready to do the big engines just yet, so they'll most likely go with Toby as the fourth N Scale engine.

For rolling stock, it's surprising that the Milk Tanker wasn't announced yet, and the Water Tanker was announced first. Given the placeholder image, it appears the N Scale Water Tanker will be based on the HO Scale model, and not the Large Scale model. Aside from that, the next pieces of rolling stock that should happen for N Scale would be the Milk Tanker, S.C. Ruffey, Red Open Wagon, and possibly a Brake Van or Mail Car.

Large Scale:


Announcements for Large Scale have really been minimal for many years. Diesel was first announced in 2017, then was cancelled a year later, and after a few years of popular demand, Large Scale Diesel is FINALLY seeing the light of day. He is the first actual engine to be made in Large Scale since Toby. The next engine for Large Scale could be Paxton, 'Arry and Bert, or for some highly-requested new toolings, Edward, Mavis, Duck, Rosie, or Bill and Ben.

For rolling stock, the best I can think of are the Red Coaches, using the Annie and Clarabel tooling with a few modifications.

Out there ideas for HO Scale:

Green Salty
Blue Bill and Ben
Glow-in-the-Dark Henry
Orange Branch Line Coaches
Green Branch Line Coaches (using the red coaches' tooling; might look cool with Green Salty)
Flying Kipper Van (ventilated van or mail car tooling)
Mr. Jolly's Van
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Toad139 on July 17, 2020, 03:44:52 PM
In response to TerencetheTractor525's questions:

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.

My predictions for the HO Thomas ranges in 2021:

Standard Gauge:
Stepney
Well Wagon With Load
Flatbed WIth Paint Drums (Reintroduction)
Red Express Coaches (Reintroduction)

Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Green Coaches

Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: steakandcake on July 17, 2020, 10:06:33 PM
man I just want Ryan and Stepney

that is all
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: FfarquharStudios on July 18, 2020, 03:21:52 AM
I Definitely would buy Bachmann Stepney
Stepney is a Very unique Engine and very popular in the series ive always
Wanted Hornby Stepney but a Bachmann version would be even sweeter with moving Eyes and a more accurate TV series look i hope they bring him back
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Zekeism on July 18, 2020, 02:22:02 PM
Prediction, one of the following:
Pink undercoat James (Tickled Pink)
Tar covered James (Dirty Objects)
Coal covered James (Calling All Engines)
Blue James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Green James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Silver James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Brown James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Purple James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Yellow James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Orange James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on July 18, 2020, 02:41:43 PM
Quote from: Zekeism on July 18, 2020, 02:22:02 PM
Prediction, one of the following:
Pink undercoat James (Tickled Pink)
Tar covered James (Dirty Objects)
Coal covered James (Calling All Engines)
Blue James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Green James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Silver James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Brown James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Purple James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Yellow James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Orange James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Bu-But why
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: thomasj219 on July 18, 2020, 02:57:51 PM
Quote from: Zekeism on July 18, 2020, 02:22:02 PM
Prediction, one of the following:
Pink undercoat James (Tickled Pink)
Tar covered James (Dirty Objects)
Coal covered James (Calling All Engines)
Blue James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Green James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Silver James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Brown James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Purple James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Yellow James (An Engine of Many Colours)
Orange James (An Engine of Many Colours)

I think three versions of James are quite enough. 

You're getting a little ridiculous now my man.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Kemptown Branch on July 18, 2020, 03:11:05 PM
Guys, I think it was a joke...
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: thomasj219 on July 18, 2020, 03:13:35 PM
A bad one.  ;D

Don't give them any ideas.  ;)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 18, 2020, 03:45:44 PM
I do agree that we don't need anymore James recolors after Busy Bee and Origin James, but I don't think Bachmann can just stop doing recolors in general even though everyone's getting tired of them. Daisy, an upcoming model with a new tooling, has been delayed, most likely due to the ongoing pandemic. I'm pretty sure Bachmann understands that many of us are getting tired of recolors, and will gladly announce engines with new toolings when they can, but the reason they do so many recolors is because a new tooling hasn't been as financially viable in recent years. Since Mattel's takeover, the only new toolings we got in HO Scale were Oliver, Rosie, and the upcoming Daisy. I really don't know if Bachmann can do new toolings like they used to anymore. Should we just get used to there being so many recolors?

I'd still like to know which recolor should happen next, if we have to get yet another. As I've stated a few other times, the best options I can think of from the top of my head are:

-Sidney
-Silver/Shiny Spencer
-Glow-in-the-Dark Henry
-Green Salty
-Blue Bill and Ben

Which one of these would be the favorite, now that Origin James is on the way? Or, is there something else you'd like to see that I didn't list? I did list these a few other times, but the only reason I'm doing it again is because no one answered me before, and I'd like some feedback on what should be the next recolor IF we have to get another, and which one would be the best-received.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Ronniethe14xxx on July 18, 2020, 09:04:26 PM
Personally don't see the appeal of releaseing a new Spencer. They should just do what they did with Toby and update the paint color rather then release a new model
As for what I'd like to see next yea either in Feburary or July (assuming we do get announcements then), as well as some ideas for updated models and recolors
(HO)
Stepney
Sidney
Reintroduction of Salty
Explosives van
Reintroduction of the wellwagon (with machinary load)
Reintroduction of Red Express Coaches
Reintroduction of Tar Tanker
Updated Henrietta with face
Hannah

Something I don't personally see happening but would love to see is adding more non-rail characters to the range. Characters like Butch and Bulgy would fit in very well. Maybe if we were lucky they'd add on cranes like Reg and Big Mickey, although they are super unlikely and will probably never happen.

(Narrow Gauge)
Sir Handle
Brown Narrow Gauge brakevan
Green coaches

(N scale)
Toby
Henrietta (with face)
Hannah
Milk Tanker


Although I don't want to see them until we get Stepney, some other engines I would love to see in the future would be Ryan, Whiff, and Sonny. Probably alone on that last one but would love to hear everyone's thoughts

Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 18, 2020, 11:04:51 PM
So, if Bachmann does make Spencer in his metallic silver livery, they're better off doing that as a sudden update like they did for Toby.

Looks like the best choice for a recolor in the HO Scale range for 2021 is Sidney. To me, Green Salty is just a personal preference because I like the look, but I'd like Sidney to finally get out of the way, once and for all. It's been two years since Paxton hit the market, and for our (most likely) last Class 08 diesel shunter in HO Scale, it has to be Sidney. After getting LBSC Thomas, Busy Bee and Origin James, the next recolor should be Sidney, so Bachmann can just get it over with, and be done with their Class 08 characters for HO Scale (excluding Splatter and Dodge, Mainland Diesels (such as Ulli), and international Class 08s (such as Fernando)). At this moment, the number one priority for a recolor is Sidney, now that Origin James is coming soon.

If Bachmann does make Green Salty, it could increase the demand to bring Salty back in his normal livery, unless they do both, or they're better off just bringing back Salty in his normal livery. Some could argue that Green Salty is too gimmicky for Bachmann, but so is Busy Bee James, but another thing is that Busy Bee James is a repaint of a main character. It will take some popular demand to convince Bachmann to reintroduce Salty. It took years of popular demand to bring back the Express Coaches.

My predictions for 2021:

HO Scale:

Stepney
Sidney
Ventilated Van - Explosives
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Toffee Tanker
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach

Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Brake Van - Brown
Green Coach

N Scale:
Toby
Henrietta (with face)
Hannah
S.C. Ruffey
Open Wagon - Red
Milk Tanker

Large Scale:

Paxton or 'Arry and Bert
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach

For N Scale, I feel Toby is most likely going to be the fourth engine, as he is a simple box shape, and his chassis can be reused for Mavis. Diesel would also be a good choice because multiple characters can be done with the tooling. As for the big engines like Gordon and Henry, Bachmann may not be ready to make those yet, especially given the current situation. I'd welcome Toby or Diesel with open arms.

For Large Scale, Diesel's tooling can be used to make either Paxton, or 'Arry and Bert in the near future.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on July 19, 2020, 06:34:41 AM
One thing I have been thinking about in terms of Narrow Guage is Troublesome trucks. Going back to series 4 theres two stand out designs.
(https://i.gyazo.com/d777479f5974f571f3c29a5827ad22ce.png)
The first being the most iconic. The Troublesome slate trucks. Seen in series 4 and 5 mostly but always lurking in the background. I think if Bachmann were to do a Troublesome truck this would be the most profitable option given their classic design and ability to remaket them with different faces and mayge without faces. I know we have to little slate trucks in the range which are great for people trying to replicate a real railway but sadly those of us who are trying to replicate the tv series are looking elsewhere . (https://i.gyazo.com/44671dde629bea18bf2699035775f1c6.jpg) this from Thomas the Tank merch also shows the large scale models to so theres always a possibility to use the N scale truck face masks for these trucks. (Not sure if the N scale trucks faces are molded onto the body or if its just a separate thing. Assuming its separate)
(https://i.gyazo.com/87ce264958ed2a4e2140b3aecef2e644.png)
Next is the brown trucks. Again these are another bit of rolling stock from the classic era and seen in the new era aswell. These again have the same appeal at least to me as the slate trucks and I'm sure would be something fans would buy if they were out there.
So I will ask the same questions as Terence did for Stepney.
1. Would you buy a narrow guage troublesome truck or rake of trucks?
2. Do you think a narrow guage Troublesome truck or trucks would be profitable?
3. If not a troublesome truck then what narrow guage rolling stock (besides breakvans and coaches) do you think would be good for the range?
I do seriously think that this is a piece of rolling stock that needs some consideration. Like i say i know we have the slate trucked which replicate the real life slate trucks perfectly and the open wagon but we do need something to give the rolling stock side a boost and I think a Troublesome truck would fit perfectly. Its not like they aren't a part of the Skarloey railway. Thank you for reading.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 19, 2020, 04:17:31 PM
The products I'm expecting to be released by the end of this year are the HO Scale LBSC Thomas, Busy Bee and Origin James, the 75th Anniversary Thomas set, and maybe the 1-Plank Wagons with Troublesome Truck #6. The first wave of N Scale models that include Thomas, Percy, Annie and Clarabel, Troublesome Trucks #1 and #2, and the Thomas starter set should also be available anytime now, by the end of this year for sure. Large Scale Diesel could also be available by the end of this year, since he already has an unpainted prototype, which will be fully painted soon, unless he arrives in stock in early 2021.

No new tooling for HO Scale should have priority over Stepney, as he's been in popular demand for many years. I wouldn't vouch for Norman until after Stepney gets announced. It's a shame Norman never got his chance to shine, and Mattel made no toy of him since their takeover. He literally speaks every three years, but did have some speaking roles in Season 23. He still has yet to have an episode dedicated to him that focuses on how much Norman keeps breaking down, but tries his best to work hard, being really useful and friendly. If Bachmann does make Norman someday, then they can also make Dennis, as he would use the exact same tooling, so two engines can be done there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07lTgrm901I
This fan-made episode shows how Mattel should've handled Norman, instead of just treating him like a background character. I really think Norman was wasted potential. Who else agrees that Mattel should've given Norman a chance to shine? Even Sidney had a chance to shine after Paxton did.

Bachmann must make Stepney first, though, being the next engine with a new tooling after Daisy, while the next recolor for HO Scale should be Sidney. Characters like Ryan, Norman, or even BoCo can be considered later priorities for new toolings after Stepney.

And about the Narrow Gauge Troublesome Trucks:
1. Yes, I would buy.
2. Yes, they would be profitable.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on July 19, 2020, 10:02:44 PM
Thank you very much to everyone who responded to my Stepney post. I really appreciate it, and am confident that he will be announced next year, as long as things improve with the pandemic. There is no doubt that he is the best choice when it comes to new HO engines with a new tooling.

In response to TrainFan97's post on engine recolors, I fully support Bachmann making Sidney at some point since he is a separate character, just like Paxton. However, considering that there are now three Thomas models, and three James models, the engine that makes the most sense to make the next recolor with is Percy. He is the only one of the "main trio" that has not received any repaints.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/14/Percy%27sChocolateCrunch62.png/revision/latest?cb=20190430015953)

One recolor that immediately comes to mind is "Chocolate Covered Percy" from Percy's Chocolate Crunch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bC9NtDCvReg.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/87/JackFrost77.png/revision/latest?cb=20170613233909)

If possible, it would be interesting to see them tackle a "Jack Frost Percy" from Jack Frost as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEnSXtHZyeE, but I do see it as less likely since it is more than a simple recolor.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/94/PercyRunsAway54.png/revision/latest?cb=20180707162230)

One other engine with modification that I would like to see is Gordon with the cable wire, which was seen throughout the early model series in episodes such as Down the Mine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KquR4KdI8UU, and Percy Runs Away: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hE1t0VT2iUQ. Not going to lie, I would purchase a brand new Gordon model just to get this cable wire. If other avid Thomas fans feel the same way, then this may be an idea to take into account. Bachmann could make a huge profit off something like this if that is the case, since a small addition, being the cable wire, should not be too costly. After all, the Red Rosie included the lamp that was not seen in the Pink Rosie that was announced prior to it. What are everyone's thoughts on this?

Lastly, in response to Mulfred100's narrow gauge troublesome trucks suggestion, I would be all for them! If they make wagon tooling that is more accurate to the televisions series wagons, I may consider purchasing one or more. As for sales, seeing that rolling stock with faces generally do very well in HO scale, I could see narrow gauge troublesome trucks doing well with sales. Finally, apart from the brown brake van and green open carriage, there are not any other pieces of narrow gauge rolling stock that I would personally suggest.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Anthony P2 on July 19, 2020, 10:51:55 PM
Would you buy a Bachmann Stepney?
Yes. I would definitely get a Bachmann Stepney! I have the Hornby version and would love to see how Bachmann would produce him.

How popular do you think that a Bachmann Stepney would be?
I think Stepney would be a popular model. Now that Bachmann have the licensing to distribute to the UK, I think Bachmann Stepney would do well overseas. Definitely at the Bluebell Railway for kids to own their own model version of him and for model clubs to run on their layouts at shows and exhibitions. If DCC compatibility is included then definitely a good item for clubs to have in the UK, AUS, and the US.

After reading this, is there any other HO engine you could see as a better suggestion than Stepney and why?
Possibly Ryan or Rebecca. More simple designs. Ryan being a tank engine in addition to Rebecca having a less complicated valve gear. Plus they'd add diversity among the characters in terms of newer faces kids are more familiar with and adding another female character would be great to get young girls interested in trains.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Kemptown Branch on July 19, 2020, 11:06:04 PM
I'd agree that Stepney should be made next. Terence, I think the Gordon with Cable Wire could be an interesting addition, although I think that if they do that, adding a new face could help with sales. Maybe the "working hard" version of his angry face like was seen in Down the Mine?

For Narrow Gauge, I'd guess Sir Handel and maybe a Brown Brake Van.

For N Scale, if they can announce another engine, I would guess Toby, but I think they might just do a lot of rolling stock this next year, since we still have James in progress. If that's the case, I think doing the Milk and Tar Tankers, S.C.Ruffy, and the coal wagon with load would be good choices.

For Large Scale, Red Coaches should be done next.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: MeganekkoFury1126 on July 19, 2020, 11:08:27 PM
Short answers: Yes, I'd buy Stepney for sure, since there's no way I'd be able to purchase the Hornby version without selling an arm and a leg. Same with Sir Handel in 009.

If we're going to talk about repaints of other characters, the only ones I'd be interested in would be Railway Series blue painted Donald and Douglas. I am one of those who prefer the twins in the all black schemes, but I know that many Railway Series purists would love blue Donald and Douglas since pretty much in all the books after The Twin Engines Donald and Douglas are painted blue. That is almost 50 years in terms of the books where Donald and Douglas are blue, so it's not just a one off thing like busy-bee James. I know the books and the show are two different things, but it would be a nice variation nonetheless.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dz5hsRRWwAAZN_C?format=jpg&name=medium)

Though, I personally wouldn't mind a Scrap Oliver and Toad from Escape, or a red undercoat Henry from Henry Sees Red (which might be better received than a Tickled Pink James). Long shot, I know, but a fan can dream.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/14/MainOliverModel1.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/350?cb=20200601183533)

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zrZ19Y4SHXo/VTBIqMFGUoI/AAAAAAAAB_0/s8cK1GhE2h8/s1600/HATE4.png)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 20, 2020, 01:25:08 AM
Scrap Oliver and Toad also sound like good ideas for future repaints. Blue Donald and Douglas would be great for Railway Series purists out there.

The reason why we haven't gotten any Percy repaints yet is because unlike Thomas or James, Percy really doesn't have much to work with. The best there is would be Chocolate Covered Percy and Jack Frost Percy; both of which are from Season 6, and at least they'd have a nostalgia factor. Throughout the entire history of the show, Percy has consistently kept his green livery.

I still think Sidney is the best choice for the next recolor in HO Scale. Not just because he would wrap up the Class 08 series of characters (excluding Splodge, Mainland Diesels, and international Class 08s), but also because he's a separate character like Paxton. Though, if we do get repaints that date back to the early 2000s or before, it could increase Splatter and Dodge's chances, simply because of how versatile Diesel's tooling is, despite being one-off characters, but we can't have Diesel 10 though, due to his claw. Splodge abandoned him anyway at the end. The reason Splatter and Dodge never came back is because their models were repainted back into 'Arry and Bert. They would've been more possible in the CGI series though. Fact: Splatter and Dodge were dropped from Day of the Diesels, and The Great Race.

I think what caused 'Arry and Bert not to sell well in HO Scale is because their faces looked almost identical, and it's hard to tell which one has more stubble.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on July 20, 2020, 03:00:28 AM
Thank you so much for the response regarding a Narrow Guage Troublesome Truck. Its something I'm really going to try and get behind for 2021. I ran a poll on my Instagram and I haven't got the biggest following but 77 out of 78 votes were all for a narrow guage Troublesome truck and the 78th voter messaged me saying he clicked the wrong box. It would be great to have a narrow guage rolling stock item with a face and a bit of character to it. Again this is something I feel they could do with the coaches further down the line once they start running out of ideas. As for the whole recolour thing. I do think Sidney will be the next in line but I think that these items should be approached with caution. Sindey or characters based of other characters like Billy/Charlie or Norman/Dennis or even Smudger and Bertrum yeah I fully Support as I do for repaints like Red Rosie or stuff like original Thkmas and James based on something special for the 75th anniversary but Busy Bee James was something no one asked for and I really don't think it will sell very well compared to the other two announcements. If Bachmann continues down this path making engines with different paint jobs it almost feels like its cheapening the brand a bit to me and going down the trackmaster/take n play/adventures route which I'm sure non of us want. Besides completests and people who want to remake their own version of that story can you really see people buying items like Busy Bee James or Blue Bill and Ben or Green Salty or glow in the dark Henry or Diesel ect. I'll be honest unless I was remaking something I don't think I would buy them. I know they are nice little alternatives but I can't see them doing very well if they go down that path. I'd love to be wrong and everyone to get what they want so everyone is happy I really would but thats how I see the matter unfortunately. I'm not trying to be rude just voicing my opinion on the matter
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on July 20, 2020, 01:58:46 PM
Quote from: Mulfred100 on July 20, 2020, 03:00:28 AM
As for the whole recolour thing. I do think Sidney will be the next in line but I think that these items should be approached with caution. Sindey or characters based of other characters like Billy/Charlie or Norman/Dennis or even Smudger and Bertrum yeah I fully Support as I do for repaints like Red Rosie or stuff like original Thkmas and James based on something special for the 75th anniversary but Busy Bee James was something no one asked for and I really don't think it will sell very well compared to the other two announcements. If Bachmann continues down this path making engines with different paint jobs it almost feels like its cheapening the brand a bit to me and going down the trackmaster/take n play/adventures route which I'm sure non of us want. Besides completests and people who want to remake their own version of that story can you really see people buying items like Busy Bee James or Blue Bill and Ben or Green Salty or glow in the dark Henry or Diesel ect. I'll be honest unless I was remaking something I don't think I would buy them. I know they are nice little alternatives but I can't see them doing very well if they go down that path. I'd love to be wrong and everyone to get what they want so everyone is happy I really would but thats how I see the matter unfortunately. I'm not trying to be rude just voicing my opinion on the matter

Honestly, I 100% agree with you.  The problem with doing so many recolored engines is that not only does it get redundant and also make Bachmann kind of look bad if they continue to go down this route.  Red Rosie, LBSC Thomas and Origin James all work because those represent different eras as well as different parts of the Thomas and Friends history.  These recolors make the most sense to me and it would explain why people were requesting these recolors at the time.  Busy Bee James and some of these other recolors I've seen people suggest are recolors that were more or less made solely for toys in the episodes they appeared in.  Sidney is really the only other recolor that makes sense to me since he is a new character for the range, even then I can't imagine fans would be as excited for Sidney as they were for Paxton.

If Bachmann needs to do more recolors while Daisy and Peter Sam are on the way, I'd rather they stick to some of the more popular rolling stock toolings like red express coaches, some new vans or even a brown brake van for narrow gauge.  Troublesome trucks in narrow gauge are actually a really good idea too and I hope Bachmann can consider pulling those off in the future in addition to a brown brake van and Sir Handel in their narrow gauge range.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 20, 2020, 03:25:25 PM
You have a point there. Bachmann really should get new toolings out again. If recolors get too abundant, it'll only make Bachmann look bad. At least ONE new tooling is on the horizon for HO Scale, being Daisy. Once Stepney is announced, we can then discuss other new toolings for Bachmann, including characters like Ryan, Stanley, Norman, BoCo, and more. We understand the current situation with the pandemic, but Bachmann should do something to break the monotony with the HO range.

Sidney is really the only recolor left that actually makes sense, especially because he is a separate character. Red Rosie, LBSC Thomas and Origin James were acceptable because they represent different eras in time. Busy Bee James, on the other hand, was one nobody asked for. Sidney would sell better than that.

I would buy a Bachmann Sidney to complete my Class 08 collection.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Zekeism on July 21, 2020, 05:10:08 AM


How would people feel about Emily with her new number 12?
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on July 21, 2020, 06:19:47 AM
Heres idea for the HO rolling stock range. Why not introduce the circus into the line similar to how hornby did back in 05?
(https://i.gyazo.com/2a9321f9d5f4c2406121a1aa863fd9c9.jpg)
Hornby released 9 vans, a cattle truck and two flat beds with loads which were all part of the circus range. They even made tents and stalls based on Thomas and the Circus from series 8. We already have the vans and cattle truck toolings. However i personally feel that this might be a better option.
(https://i.gyazo.com/f11e7d2287be62afb354a771131ab843.jpg)
These are from Henry and the Elephant. They have a more simplistic design compared to series 8 where each truck had its own design these just use simple white rolling stock with red linings and the Topham circus (or just circus) on the side. Theres a better variety of rolling stock used here with standard trucks (Troublesome truck 1,2 ect), vent vans (ice cream van, fruit van ect), utility vans (mail car ect) flat beds and salt vans. I mean its pretty easy for recolours of rolling stock and dare I say could even spin out to an eventual train set with thomas and a few of these items. Again just something I was thinking about for rolling stock.
As for Emily with the number 12 I think it will happen but not just yet. Maybe 2022/23
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: MeganekkoFury1126 on July 21, 2020, 01:19:03 PM
I think the season 4 Topham Circus rolling stock would be an excellent idea. The older fans will buy them because it's from a particularly beloved classic season, and newer fans will buy them because they have bright colorful decoration. Plus, who doesn't love circus trains?
________________________

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/48/Thomaswithnameboard.png/revision/latest?cb=20161110071111)

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/a/ac/Skarloey%27snameplate.png/revision/latest?cb=20100119052956)

This was also a bit of a small idea I thought of, but I think Bachmann would do well to make name boards available for its roster of Thomas characters. Really, the only product line I've seen that did the classic name boards in merchandise was the Departing Now line from Japan in the early 90's, so this could be a potential gold mine.

(https://www.picclickimg.com/00/s/MTYwMFgxNjAw/z/McIAAOSwN~Vdz1LB/$/Departing-Now-Series-Thomas-Box-Set-Remote-Control-_57.jpg)

Considering some people buy the Bachmann models as collector items to display on shelves instead of operating them, what would make a better display than having all the characters with their matching name boards to answer to a casual visitor who each character is? I don't think they'd be too expensive to make in plastic, or would be priced high for a bag of maybe 8 or 10 each. Plus, in addition to having the names of all the existing characters in the line, they could even have a way to for collectors to customize the text on them for other characters if the buyer wants to.

The only real problem I see is them becoming a small hazard for younger children who put anything in their mouths without thinking, but considering the parents are usually the ones buying these inexpensive products (plus given the age restrictions on Bachmann Thomas items anyways) I don't think it's the biggest worry.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on July 21, 2020, 02:51:51 PM
I could see Emily getting her #12 in a revision or updated model in the future with her HO and/or large scale model since that's really just an additional decal they could add which really wouldn't cost them anything to do.  If Emily gets announced in the N scale range though, then I can see her #12 being added to her then.

As for circus cars, I've said this before but I'm still surprised Bachmann never looked into making these considering how often Bachmann has been turning to rolling stock recolors apart from this year.  If I'm being honest though I could see them going for the season 8 design since it would look a lot more colorful and kid-friendly.  If they went with the Topham Circus style from season 4 then I might consider picking them up. 

Nameboards don't seem like something Bachmann would make, but the good news though is that they would be simple to make if you wanted to make them yourself.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 22, 2020, 12:28:41 AM
While Bachmann's still working on N Scale James, there's a very good chance they're going to announce Toby as the fourth N Scale engine, especially if they're not ready to make the big engines yet because of the pandemic. Once we get Toby, we'll already have half the original Steam Team in N Scale, with the remaining members being Gordon, Henry, Emily, and of course, Edward. Maybe for 2022, they can start doing the big engines for N Scale, like Gordon and Henry. Only small and medium-sized engines can be made in Large Scale, but N Scale should handle big engines much better. For now, we can expect Toby announced in February.

I think I'd rather have Toby than Diesel in N Scale for now because Bachmann should build up the original Steam Team a little more before we start getting other characters. Diesel would be great, maybe even better in N Scale than HO Scale, since there's no eye mechanism, which means characters like Paxton and Sidney would have perfect faces. With the Diesel tooling, which is quite versatile, Bachmann can make multiple characters like 'Arry and Bert, Paxton, and Sidney. Maybe 'Arry and Bert would sell better in either Large Scale or N Scale if their faces are better than they were on their HO Scale models.

If Bachmann announces Large Scale Paxton, he might once again have an oversized face, unless Bachmann actually designed Large Scale Diesel's tooling with multiple characters in mind. Paxton would be a great choice for Large Scale, since you can load up your trucks with stone (like at the Blue Mountain Quarry, where he collects stone), and Paxton can pull stone trucks or diesel tankers around your outdoor railroad.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on July 22, 2020, 02:46:32 PM
Honestly, I'd rather have diesel...granted my purposes are for 009 and having a cheaper outside framed, coupled chassis would be ideal. Hell, if only for NG parts use, the Diesel stuff would probably sell out somewhat quickly if priced well.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 22, 2020, 06:42:31 PM
Toby, Diesel, or even both would be great N Scale candidates for next year. Maybe someone can do a poll with a choice of Toby or Diesel for N Scale next year to see what the more popular choice is. One or the other is more likely, but if they can announce both, that would be nice. Toby and Diesel are both smaller engines to work with. Large Scale Diesel will most likely have black siderods, and the same can be like that for his N Scale model, also having black siderods. Grumpy Diesel in HO Scale still has his classic silver siderods. Once the first wave containing Thomas and Percy is finally available, the N Scale line should be very successful.

Maybe later this year, Bachmann could show an unpainted prototype of N Scale James once that's ready. Last year, they showed unpainted prototypes of Thomas and Percy, as well as the first rolling stock.

An unpainted sneak peak of HO Scale Daisy would also be nice possibly later this year.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on July 23, 2020, 07:58:38 PM
Between Toby and Diesel, I personally want Toby to come next for N Scale. He was among the first couple characters in both scales he was previously in and it'd make sense to follow suit with this one. He'd be a generally inexpensive engine to make (considering both his previous equivalents were made much sooner than Diesel's) and his chassis can be reused for Mavis if she is ever made as well. And if it's been a struggle to make Henrietta in Large Scale after Toby's release, I can see the Bachmann team having an easier time translating her to N Scale alongside Toby. Toby's also seemingly gotten less attention in recent years than Diesel, so it'd be nice to give him a major piece of merchandise again to make up for it.

It's difficult to explain and I don't mean offense to anyone else who wants him, but I'm honestly not keen on Diesel being made for the moment. It's not that I am against the idea of Diesel being made to begin with or the fact that his tooling can be reused for other characters, but this line is still pretty new and I'm generally concerned about bringing in an engine with an easily reusable tooling this early into the line. It's been a safe move for rolling stock so far, but engines are generally more expensive investments to make regardless of their scale and tend to be announced less often than rolling stock. For the most part, announcements of engine recolors in HO Scale have been much less rewarding for our patience than that of new toolings.

Don't get me wrong - it helps to have a versatile tooling (especially with no eye mechanism) and things will most likely be different for this line long-term because of the ongoing health crisis. But both other major scales Bachmann did previously had varying character toolings to start out with and I don't think it'd make the N Scale line look good to have a bunch of similar-looking diesel engines in its infancy. Especially if engines will be announced on a basis that is more or less similar to the Large Scale line's.

I'm also uneasy about the idea of the N Scale line's assortment of engines being too similar to Large Scale for a period of time, taking into consideration that we're also yet to see Diesel's Large Scale model released, which already opens up tooling-recycling potential in its respective line. Seeing two lines with very identical sets of characters produced, or being produced, would most likely turn consumers off from one of them, or even both.

Again, this is all just my personal stance on Diesel and I don't mean to talk anyone down from supporting him. I just want to share my concerns in relation to him and hope that some variety between Bachmann's lines can be had, even in the face of a health crisis. I'll be open to him if he's announced, but I still want Toby more between the two.

I'm thinking Edward has a decent chance since James is already made and he'd be cheaper to make in N Scale than in Large Scale, but I'm not sure how soon he'd come compared to a smaller engine like Toby or Diesel and considering his seemingly reduced role in the show. (I'll admit I haven't watched any new episodes in quite some time, let alone kept up with show news, but I at least heard he might've been shunned.)

It's already pretty tough to tell who will come next in N Scale, but a character smaller than Gordon/Henry/Emily will likely come for sure.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 23, 2020, 08:53:45 PM
You have a good point there. It really wouldn't be the best idea to introduce a character with a versatile tooling, like Diesel, to the N Scale line just yet, especially when the N Scale line is in its infancy. Bachmann is much better off making Toby next year for N Scale. Edward is also a great choice, even though he has yet to be made in Large Scale, and he was the last of the original Steam Team to be made in HO Scale. Edward's role in the show has been reduced considerably ever since he and Henry were both removed from the main cast. Maybe Edward or Emily can be made after Toby. Should big engines like Gordon and Henry be saved for last, or should we vouch for them after Toby? Within a few years or so, Bachmann should get all the original Steam Team ready in N Scale.

Diesel is better off being saved as a later priority for N Scale. I would prioritize the remaining original Steam Team over him.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on July 24, 2020, 03:53:14 AM
I'm also going to mirror Falcon's comment regarding the preference of Toby being the next engine for the N scale range over Diesel.  I'll admit I might have gotten a little hyped the moment I saw the large scale Diesel engineering sample from earlier, but with how much the large scale range was struggling over the last couple of years with mostly lackluster/non-existent announcements seeing Diesel being brought back and looking incredible really got a lot of people talking about large scale, but that's beside the point. 

Toby would feel like the most natural addition at this point for the fourth engine in the N scale range because of Bachmann's track record of making more simple engines in ranges while production on previously announced engines get held up (IE Rusty for narrow gauge), Toby would be the only engine that would be the safest choice. 

Even if Toby isn't exactly marketable in Mattel's eyes, he was a huge hit when he was first released in both HO and large scale and both Toby models are hot sellers to this very day indicating that if Toby were to be introduced in the N scale range the results would be no different.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on July 24, 2020, 05:52:48 AM
To be honest I've got to agree with Chaz and Falcon too in regards to Toby or Diesel coming after James in N Scale. Despite how popular Diesel is in the show especially of late I think Toby still has that edge weather he's being used as often in the show or in marketing/products as he once was. Bachmann seems to play by quite old school rules when it comes to making engines in any scale and they know what the target Audience would prefer over others. Yes Diesel would be a very simple make and then once you have him there's 'Arry, Bert, Paxton and Sidney who all share his design tooling but Toby has always been at the core of the show. In fact I think Diesel won't be on the table for at least 2 more years as the chances are the bigger engines. I.e. Gordon and probably Emily will come out before Diesel which I think is something Bachmann will explore more in the range since obviously they are limited to what they can do with bigger engines like Gordon in large scale given the wheel arrangement and how big he would be and being able to run round a layout. That problem isn't a factor in N Scale like Large so yeah. But whatever is announced after James will be a welcome surprise however I do think Toby will and should be next in line unless they do want to be ambitious and go for Gordon.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on July 24, 2020, 10:33:50 AM
While I am optimistic about the future of the Bachmann Thomas N scale line, I wanted to share my thoughts on future engines for the line as well. Firstly, I completely agree that Toby should be the next N scale engine for all the reasons that were previously stated. Yet, the other engine that I would love to see announced afterwards is Gordon. Other than the fact that the HO Daisy and Narrow Gauge Peter Sam models are currently delayed, the one concern that I see with an N scale Gordon is that the model would require a complex side rod configuration with very thin side rods. I see this as an issue, given that the N scale Thomas model has side rods that are oddly thick, compared to the size of his wheels and body altogether. Even so, Bachmann has made Non-Thomas N scale tender engines with complex side rod configurations in the past: https://shop.bachmanntrains.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=265_372&zenid=7tvpg04lr8qknape0o12nddq45 Hence, I still see Gordon as a possibility for the future if the demand for him is there.  
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 29, 2020, 01:45:02 AM
Toby is the clear winner for next year's N Scale announcement. If Bachmann was to make another smaller engine to go with Toby (if they announce two engines), another good choice would be Mavis because she can use the same chassis as Toby. Or, for a medium-sized engine, Edward or Emily.

N Scale rolling stock that would be most welcome would be:

-Milk Tanker
-Tar Tanker
-Mail Car
-S.C. Ruffey
-Open Wagon - Red
-Coal Wagon with Load
-Brake Van
-Red Coaches
-Henrietta (if they make Toby)
-Hannah
-Express Coaches (if they make Gordon)
-Emily's Coaches (if they make Emily)

At least some of these are bound to be announced in February, especially the Milk Tanker, which I'm surprised hasn't been announced already.

Rolling stock HO Scale still needs:

-Ventilated Van - Explosives
-Toffee Tanker
-Chocolate Syrup Tanker

All three of them are still exclusive to Large Scale. Where are the HO Scale versions? Will we eventually get them? The most-requested reintroductions are the Red Express Coaches, and the Tar Tanker.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on July 29, 2020, 03:44:04 AM
I'm surprised you remembered the red open wagon but you forgot the coal wagon with load.  That I could see happening in the future as well for the N scale range and would also be a popular seller.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on July 29, 2020, 01:53:40 PM
Quote from: Chaz on July 29, 2020, 03:44:04 AM
I'm surprised you remembered the red open wagon but you forgot the coal wagon with load.  That I could see happening in the future as well for the N scale range and would also be a popular seller.

I didn't forget that one. I just didn't list it because I wasn't sure about it since I thought the one with the logo that was released in HO Scale last year might replace the old, logoless one. Now that you mentioned it, I will list it now.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on August 10, 2020, 05:02:17 AM
So similar to how Terencethetractor525 resurfaced his Stepney post, I figured I would resurface my thoughts on Sir Handel in addition to sharing ideas for rolling stock.  So here are my thoughts on future ideas for the narrow gauge range:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/6e/Don%27tBotherVictor%2161.png/revision/latest?cb=20160629192959)
Engine-wise, there's really no reason for the next narrow gauge engine to not be Sir Handel.  He's got a great design going for him, he's a popular request, fills in a number gap between engines and offers a nice color contrast for the narrow gauge engines.  Hopefully Bachmann will include him in the range soon, even if they want to wait until Peter Sam is out I think Sir Handel would be all around their safest bet for the next narrow gauge engine to have strong sales after Peter Sam.  Read my more in-depth post on Sir Handel here if you want to hear more details on him:

https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,36575.msg269948.html#msg269948

With that out of the way, it's time to talk about rolling stock!  There's definitely a lot more worth talking about in this category as there is a lot to do, and more importantly I think everyone is in mutual agreement on Sir Handel being made next in narrow gauge.  

One thing I would really like to see are some new wagons, specifically coal or stone wagons as shown here:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/2d/SkarloeyRailwayTrucks.png/revision/latest?cb=20140310213929)

I've stated this before but Bachmann could get really creative with this and offer different loads for these wagons and these would be really popular sellers and would be a huge improvement over the Peco wagon that was added to their range.

I also want to talk about a suggestion Mulfed100 made earlier regarding narrow gauge troublesome trucks.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/30/Trucks19.png/revision/latest?cb=20170531184434)
Now originally I was thinking Bachmann would use their current slate wagons and slap a face on those and call it a day... which looking back now would look ridiculous as the slate wagons are so small that adding a face to them would look really odd to be frank.

(https://i.gyazo.com/b4b099b136cc10469a3e1031ff2fdbbb.jpg)

That's why I'm going to suggest Bachmann actually invests in another slate wagon tooling for narrow gauge troublesome trucks and make them the same size as the ones used throughout the classic series.  Especially since the larger slate wagon tooling also appeared in full CGI alongside the smaller ones.  I know it may sound extremely redundant but I feel like it would actually really benefit Bachmann really well for two reasons:

1. While I still really like the slate wagons Bachmann is offering I'll admit once Bachmann UK used the same slate truck tooling in a three pack with the slate wagons weathered and in different liveries for around the same price as one Thomas one, I and many other Thomas fans felt short-changed.  Making the slate wagons bigger and more accurate to the model era would save Bachmann any frustration and hassle from the UK for reusing that tooling and keeping it "Thomas exclusive" if you will.

2. Troublesome trucks always sell really well from Bachmann, objectively their best sellers when it comes to rolling stock because fans don't just buy one of each troublesome truck, they typically buy a couple of each so they can create "troublesome trains" for engines to pull or to leave scattered out in the yard.  This would be no different for narrow gauge, as the sales for these will fly off shelves in a matter of seconds.

Like in HO, large, and N scale Bachmann should play it safe and announce two troublesome trucks by giving them names like "Narrow gauge troublesome truck #1" and "Narrow gauge troublesome truck #2" and maybe even introduce another slate wagon with no face as a bonus.

So what faces should they use?  Naturally I feel like the smaller scale ones from seasons 4 and 5 are a low hanging fruit, here are my two favorites:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/61/Snow37.png/revision/latest?cb=20180112195826)
(https://i.gyazo.com/b8e6257dbac4f756b8882cfb86966155.jpg)

I also liked the one I posted above as well, either of those three would be winners in my book.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/68/MainNGBrakeVanModel.png/revision/latest?cb=20190104060353)
And of course the brown brake van saved for last.  I know it's easy to assume that this may be a recolor but sitting back on it a little bit we don't have a definitive answer at this time regarding the toolings for the red and blue brake vans.  Either way I do hope a brown brake van can be pulled off at some point.  

So there you have it my thoughts on future suggestions for the narrow gauge range, but now I would really like to hear everyone else's thoughts:

1. Would you be interested in seeing Sir Handel or any of these pieces of rolling stock?  

2. Regarding rolling stock, how much would you be willing to buy of each (if any)?

3. Which faces would you like to see for narrow gauge troublesome trucks?

Probably my last in-depth suggestion post in a while but hopefully once Peter Sam is near completion/released we can see Bachmann jump on the opportunity to make Sir Handel and at least one of these rolling stock suggestions once the brake vans are out too.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on August 10, 2020, 08:34:18 AM
Firstly thank you Chaz for picking up on the Narrow Gague Troublesome truck idea. As for your questions. Firstly I would absolutely buy Sir Handel, trucks and brown breakvan In a heartbeat. I see no reason either why Sir Handel and a brown breakvan won't be introduced next. The hype around Sir Handel seems to be growing every day. As for the breakvan well its not only logical as its a popular item its practical too. Its a simple recolour that Bachmann can roll out after the red and blue ones. As for the Troublesome trucks I feel they would be a massive hit. The slate trucks that are currently released while being true to the basis sadly don't measure up for me being so small so I agree that just sticking a face on one would be a very bad move. Plus if I'm not mistaken the current slate trucks are the poorest sellers across the entire Thomas Narrow Gauge line. They are always in stock on various websites I've checked.
For me I would buy 2 maybe 3 Brown breakvans and depending on if Bachmann actually make a TV accurate model of the trucks even if its just 1 truck I'd buy 10 maybe 12 take the faces off some. Obviously I'd prefer to have different faces on these trucks but if Bachmann just released 1 truck with a face I would buy it but in an ideal world Bachmann would release 2 maybe 3 variants which I will show my top three faces.
(https://i.gyazo.com/f35aa082ebae5379e1513cbb04b32f4a.png)
Firstly I feel this is the most popular and recognised Narrow Gauge Troublesome Truck face mask used in the show. Its pretty iconic and appears in both series 4 and 5.
(https://i.gyazo.com/0507a040dfde0c8ef7de2c74bd67d29e.png)
I feel like the surprised face also is a pretty popular choice especially for those who want to remake Peter Sam's accident
(https://i.gyazo.com/c436c1f96a3a359e90f28f4e025c3749.png)
Lastly this little fella. I mean if this guy doesn't scream Troublesome then what does?
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on August 11, 2020, 12:07:05 AM
An enjoyable read, as always, Chaz. As for the questions:

1. I would definitely be interested in seeing Sir Handel, as well as all of the suggested rolling stock.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/4a/YouCan%27tWin12.png/revision/latest?cb=20160121213212)

The only other piece of narrow gauge rolling stock that I would really like to see made in the future is the green open carriage. Given that it is an open carriage, it would bring some more diversity to the rolling stock line, while still remaining nostalgic as it has made multiple appearances in the classic model series.

2. I intend to purchase multiple narrow gauge open wagons and troublesome slate wagons, but only if Bachmann were to make new toolings for both, especially a new slate wagon tooling for the troublesome slate wagon that is bigger than the tooling that is currently in the line. As for the brown brake van, I would most likely purchase one.

3.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/61/Snow37.png/revision/latest?cb=20180112195826)

As for the faces of the narrow gauge troublesome trucks, I completely agree that the face shown above is the most iconic narrow gauge troublesome truck face, as it was used in very memorable narrow gauge episodes such as "Rusty Helps Peter Sam": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HKZD7UImqI and "Snow": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lF9cuUu__YI.

I would love to see Bachmann nail this face perfectly, just as they did with the Spiteful Brake Van, which makes me wonder if the 3D printed version could help (It is the face in the middle): https://www.shapeways.com/product/HV98H88G8/ng-character-pack-1?optionId=68884941&li=shops

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/24/Slatetrucks6facereferences.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20200516182733)

It is also #17 from this reference.

As for other faces, a surprised face (most notably the one on the left of the Shapeways 3-Pack) would also be a great choice, but I would be perfectly happy with any other face, as long as it is from the model era, and not the CGI era or a random sculpt.

These faces can really play a large factor on how well received the products are, as the Spiteful Brake Van most definitely showed. Thus, I look forward to seeing how the face for the HO Troublesome Truck #6 turns out as well, as I hope that a square model era face is considered for the model instead of a CGI one.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: GordonPacific04 on August 11, 2020, 09:59:55 AM
Sir Handel will be made next after peter Sam, no doubt in my mind. Of course I want Bachmann to make Duncan, but they gotta do the four little engines first in my eyes. And I wouldn't mind if they used the darker blue as used on the CGI render. Not sure how much of a popular opinion this is but I actually prefer the darker blue, but again, just my opinion.

I also think the troublesome truck idea is a great one. I've always hated how small Bachmann's slate trucks are so a new tooling would be nice.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainCollector on August 11, 2020, 11:55:06 PM
Okay little late to the party on this one so here's what I'd like to be announced in February 2021.

HO Scale:
Silver Spencer
Fish van
Open wagon with crates
Troublesome Truck #7 (utility van)

HO narrow gauge:
Sir Handle
Duke(long shot)

N scale:
Henry
Gordon
Express Coaches
Troublesome Truck #3
S.C.Ruffy

Large Scale
Mavis
Troublesome Truck #3
Fish van

This is just what I would like to see Bachmann make. I can tell you some of these predictions are bound to happen sooner or later. What those predictions are is up to you. We can talk it over.

Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Elsbridge Productions on August 13, 2020, 02:59:00 AM
I've been thinking a lot lately about the possibility of Bachmann eventually making a model of Duncan for the Narrow Gauge line, and I have been worried about what they might use as a basis for the model. Duncan has been through a lot of big changes in the TV series, not all of them good - so I wanted to collate my thoughts and share what I think would be the best way to make Bachmann Duncan a reality.

Series 4 Small Scale Model:
Duncan first appeared in the TV series in Series 4. He was based on the Talyllyn Railway's No. 6 'Douglas', though the model makers took some liberties of course. This original Duncan model remains a fan favourite - his faces and general proportions were aesthetically pleasing and have stayed fairly consistent until the CGI series. Personally I'd love to see this version used as a basis for a Bachmann Duncan. There is ample room in the boiler for the motor and electrics (unlike the CGI model, which I will detail later), this version of Duncan is beloved by practically all fans, and he is as close to his original Talyllyn Railway basis as a Duncan model ever got, which would entice some buyers who are looking to recreate the TR's Douglas or another Andrew-Barclay locomotive.

Series 5 Large Scale Model:
This model of Duncan was a bit odd. Some of his proportions changed when the model makers made larger scale models for this season, and his faces were remade to suit the larger size. These faces were not too noticeably different from his Series 4 faces, though I believe many would say they prefer the earlier faces. However, the model makers were clearly not happy with Duncan's proportions on this model, as they felt the need to redesign it for the very next series. Because this model was seen so briefly, it would be difficult (and make little sense) to use this model as a basis for a possible Bachmann model.

Series 6 Large Scale Model:
This was the remade version of the Large Scale model, which had much closer proportions to the original small scale model. I am generally not a fan of the large scale narrow gauge models, however Duncan is an exception. His new model managed to retain most of the charm of the original model, and also remained fairly close to Duncan's basis on the Talyllyn Railway; Douglas. There is still ample room for a motor inside the boiler, and the model had an open cab. The only other thing worth mentioning is that new faces were made for this large model in Series 6, in addition to the few made for Series 5. These newest faces were not as 'Duncan-like' as the previous ones, and while they were used for quite a long time, they were never the strongest aspect of that version's model.

CGI Series Model:
When the Thomas & Friends animation company 'Nitrogen Studios' planned on reintroducing the Narrow Gauge engines into the show, they visited the Talyllyn Railway in order to get accurate measurements of the real-life counterparts for all the Skarloey Railway engines. Because of this, most of the narrow gauge engines in the CGI series were now very accurate to how their counterparts looked in real life. However, one exception was Duncan. Duncan's basis 'Douglas' was away for an overhaul when Nitrogen came to scan the engines, and so when Duncan was eventually brought back into the show as well (after Arc Productions had taken over animation), the animators did not use Duncan's real life counterpart as a basis at all. As a result, Duncan's CGI model looks the least like Duncan or Douglas than any other version. Not only is he overall too small, but his boiler is undersized, his running board is the wrong colour, his lining is incorrect and yellow instead of black, along with several other small mistakes which add up to make the CGI model possibly the worst portrayal of the character seen on screen to date. This opinion is shared by most Thomas fans, and you can be sure that very few narrow gauge modellers will try using a Bachmann Duncan model as a basis for a real-life steam engine if the model looked like Duncan does in the CGI series. The only reason I could see for using this model as a basis would be because children may recognise him a bit more with his CGI face.

Other versions worth mentioning: The character of Duncan was of course first seen in the Railway Series books (where he was painted red). The illustrators of the books used the Talyllyn Railway's 'Douglas' as a close basis for the character, and there were very few liberties taken. I think its safe to say that the Series 4 modellers used the book illustrations as a basis for Duncan, though they evidently had to change a few things in order to accomodate the necessary electrics and eye mechanism. I believe that many people would be interested in using a possible Bachmann Duncan model as a starting point for recreating TR's Douglas or other similar Andrew-Barclay engines, and while it is true that none of Duncan's models are extremely close to the real-life 'Douglas', I think its safe to say that either the Series 4, 5, or 6 models are the closest in that regard.

My Recommendation
The way I see it, there are three groups of people who want slightly different things. The corporate voices at Mattel most likely want a version of Duncan who is current to the CGI series and most recognisable to children, with little regard for the history of the character's design. Then there are the real-life Narrow Gauge modellers, who would most likely be interested in buying a Bachmann Duncan to use as a starting point for making engines like the Talyllyn Railway's Douglas or other Andrew-Barclays, and Railway Series modellers who want a RWS-accurate Duncan model. Finally, there are TV series fans, who I believe generally agree that the CGI model is not up to scratch and would much prefer a model series era version of Duncan.
In my opinion, the best way for Bachmann to please the corporate voices at Mattel, as well as pleasing those who want to use a Bachmann Duncan to model other real-life engines, AND keep the TV series fans content, would be to use either the Series 4 or Series 6 model as a basis for Duncan's body (which is as close to his real-life counterpart as he ever got) while using the CGI era face, which would make Duncan more recognisable to the children who have now grown up with the CGI era of the show and keep Mattel reasonably happy.
Of course, the beauty of model railways is that everything is customisable, and I'm sure railway modellers of all sorts will enjoy modifying their Bachmann Duncan to suit whichever era or version they like, but for those who want nothing more than to buy an accurate toy of Duncan, this model-era/CGI-era hybrid seems the most appealing option in my eyes.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. I'd love to know other people's opinions on this, and I would really like Bachmann to produce the best version of Duncan they can, which is why I decided to get my thoughts down on paper for them to see.
I've attached a photo of the different models and their pros and cons, to better illustrate my argument. Hope that helps! Thanks again!

(https://i.imgur.com/equBeKH.png)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Toad139 on August 13, 2020, 10:14:28 AM
I think Sir Handel is the clear choice for the next narrow gauge engine Bachmann should produce. Both Chaz and Elsbridge Productions bring up great points about the choices Bachmann has. I definitely think Sir Handel would stand out more due to his color alone, and his model will definitely do great with those who are looking to model engines from the Talyllyn Railway.

It is hard to say what Duncan will look like if he is made. I have heard that Bachmann got the measurements for their narrow gauge engines directly from their real life counterparts. I believe this to be true due to the amount of rivet detail on Skarloey that isn't present on his CG model in the television series. If this is the case, Duncan may have a lot of issues from his CGI model fixed. Although, issues regarding his livery will still likely be present, such as his gold lining and red running board. The worse case scenario is they do what they did with Rusty and just based it directly off the show. I can see them doing this because Duncan has always looked the least like his basis when compared to the other Skarloey Railway Steam Engines, even in the model series. His TVS design is much more simplistic, and they may decide to go with that because they don't want his design to stray from the show. I hope this isn't the case, but I guess we will have to wait and see if he ever does get made.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on August 13, 2020, 06:45:06 PM
Thanks for the strong feedback everyone.  I am glad that everyone mutually agrees Sir Handel should be made next in narrow gauge.

I forgot to add the green coach but that is also another addition I would like to see added in the range at some point.  Would look great, especially with a brown brake van too.  

I'm especially happy to see the strong feedback for the narrow gauge troublesome trucks.  Apart from the brown brake van, I feel like troublesome trucks in narrow gauge brake van would be the best option for the next rolling stock additions in narrow gauge and should take priority as far as new rolling stock toolings go.  

As for Duncan, as much as I would like to see him added at some point, I think it's inevitable they will go with the CG render as a reference if Oliver and Rusty are anything to go off of. Even though I was okay with Rusty (apart from scaling), Duncan's render is unfortunately a deal-breaker for me.  If they did go with an earlier model era design or even put in the effort to make Duncan resemble his basis with a CGI face then I would be more than open to buying Duncan but unfortunately as Bachmann's track record has shown, that likely won't be the case.  Personally the only engine I am anxious for is Sir Handel as my only other real interests in narrow gauge are the rolling stock suggestions mentioned earlier.  If they announce Sir Handel next and then Duncan some time after that, then it would be fair game as far as I'm concerned.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on August 13, 2020, 07:49:01 PM
The next Narrow Gauge engine from Bachmann has to be Sir Handel. Hopefully, when they eventually get to Duncan someday, Bachmann should be fully aware that none of us want Duncan based off his CGI render. Duncan needs to look as accurate to his basis as possible, with black lining (not gold), a white running board, and not red like in the CGI series. If Duncan is based off his CGI render, his sales will be very low, and could potentially bomb. 'Arry and Bert failed because their faces were bad, but that would be an easy fix if they ever get brought back. Duncan's tooling, however, would not be an easy fix. That's why Bachmann needs to pay attention to our posts, and make sure Duncan looks more accurate to his basis, if Mattel agrees.

For now, the number one priority for a Narrow Gauge engine is Sir Handel, while the biggest requests for Narrow Gauge rolling stock are the Brown Brake Van, the Green Open Carriage, and the Narrow Gauge Troublesome Trucks. Regarding the latter, Bachmann should definitely consider a new slate wagon tooling specifically for the Narrow Gauge Troublesome Trucks because the slate wagon tooling that's already there is much too small. Bachmann already made two Narrow Gauge coaches, both with completely different toolings. They can certainly make another slate wagon tooling. May need a different slate load as well.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on August 13, 2020, 08:51:52 PM
Absolutely on board with Sir Handel as the next Narrow Gauge character. He's my personal favorite of the bunch and I would reserve him in an instant if announced at any point. All reasons shared by everyone else so far have been valid in all senses. Announcing him alongside the Brown Brake Van and a potential Green Open Carriage would make for a nice set of products themed after "A Bad Day For Sir Handel".

To reiterate myself again, I'm an old-fashioned fan of the show and I would be down for Duncan on the two conditions that he is announced after Sir Handel and the team goes with either the Series 4 or Series 6+ model. To my knowledge, Duncan was the last of the main Narrow Gauge characters introduced in the fourth season and I can see Bachmann following suit here. Both models mentioned have a fair share of accuracy to the original basis and viable referential material (Series 4 has its ruler photos and Series 6+ has been preserved at the Hara Model Railway Museum). Basing Duncan off one of these models would be a compromise of consistency, but to attain better sales for the long run, it'd absolutely be worth it. If Bachmann has measurements of the engines form their real-world counterparts, it'd definitely help too.

Can't say a whole lot about the Narrow Gauge Troublesome Truck myself, but I'd certainly be interested if it were based on an older carnation and had a bigger size than the existing slate trucks. The ones already on the market are too small for most peoples' tastes. Maybe there could be a faceless version of the Troublesome Truck's tooling to serve as a replacement, but I'm not sure if that would end up happening.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on August 13, 2020, 10:03:56 PM
I am completely on board with supporting a Bachmann Duncan model that is not based on the CGI proportions as well. A Duncan model that is completely based on the CGI render would be a major let down in my books, and I do not intend to purchase the model if it turns out that way.

Even so, while Mattel may be concerned with how kids recognize each Bachmann model, I agree that the best compromise would be to use the proportions of one of the Duncan models from the model era when constructing the new tooling, but base the face on the CGI model. If Bachmann can make hybrid models of the Spiteful Brake Van and the narrow gauge carriages, then Bachmann can certainly make a hybrid model of Duncan too.

Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on August 13, 2020, 11:03:13 PM
Another good way for Bachmann to make Duncan would be to base him off his Season 4 Small Scale model, or Season 6-12 Large Scale model with a CGI face, since his model series design is arguably a lot better than his awful CGI render.

After Sir Handel gets announced, we can then vouch for Duncan or Luke. It might be better for Bachmann to make Duncan before Luke so we'd have all the original six Narrow Gauge engines (excluding Duke). The only reason Duke never returned after Season 4 was because his model was used to make Bertram, then as they were repainting the model back into Duke, it was never finished. Because Duke has yet to appear in full CGI, we may not see Bachmann make him anytime soon. Freddie and Mighty Mac also have yet to appear in full CGI. Freddie's siderod configuration might be a little complicated, while Mighty Mac would be two engines in one, costing at least twice as much to produce. First, we need Sir Handel, then Duncan, and then Luke. At least Luke is a CGI character who had a few starring roles.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on August 14, 2020, 05:33:17 AM
In regards to Duncan sadly I'm a sucker for him and I've said this.many times previously. As a content creator there is alot more I can do and would want to do with Duncan. I'd love him to be based off series 4 but I fully expect him to be based off the.CGI series however this is not a deal breaker for me. Its Duncan and I'll be happy to have him in the crew. But I fully support Sir Handel being next and hopefully that will give bachmann the time to get Duncan done right for everyone. In terms of rolling stock while I don't think this needs to be an immediate candidate for 2021 I do think this is a worthy suggestion for us to all consider for the future of the range
(https://i.gyazo.com/ae6644b685679415bef89eba2810e4d3.png)
The Refresment coach
First and only apperance in series 7 the Refreshment shares its basis with the Red Coach. Its colourful, something I can see on display at trainshows and its just got that Bachmann vibe about.it. When you consider all the rolling stock recolours from HO and Large Scale, Bachmann love things like this. The only drawback I can see is the opening hatch but I'm sure it can be done if the right minds Work on it. Even if they have it in one fixed position.
(https://i.gyazo.com/56c1c4d6623f9699a1561e17e270d0ff.png)
Plus we are getting Peter Sam so this would be a nice bit of rolling stock for him to be displayed with. I realise that the Troublesome trucks, green coaches and brown breakvan will and rightly so are more important and will be more likely to be made first. But theres not really a great deal of rolling stock like this on the narrow guage railway and its just something I think could be a nice alternative for the future
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Angelob6660 on August 16, 2020, 12:45:34 PM
I would like a model accurate or series 4 version of Duncan. He became a favorite character over time with the help of the cgi. The problem is he's render completely ruins the appeal.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainCollector on August 24, 2020, 02:22:39 PM
Anyone want Gordon or Henry in N scale along with the express coaches? I think it's a good idea.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Goosher on August 24, 2020, 02:47:24 PM
I think an N gauge Gordon and Henry would be great. But I want Edward and Toby 1st
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainCollector on August 24, 2020, 03:45:32 PM
Good point. But as far as rolling stock I wanna see the Express coaches made as soon as possible. I think they'll go great with James. Since James was announced earlier this year and most likely won't be out until next year. I think the Express Coaches would be a great addition.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on August 24, 2020, 03:57:29 PM
I would bet on the red coaches happening sooner than express coaches in sooner if there are no plans to do Gordon or Henry in N scale.  If Gordon and Henry are being planned though then adding the express coaches would be the most logical additions for the next N scale rolling stock additions.

I've said it before, but Gordon and Henry really are the low-hanging fruit that would really take off in N scale and have phenomenal sales.  If they can't pull them off due to pricing or even the pandemic slowing things down then Edward or Toby would be the best back-up options for Bachmann to consider after James (especially Toby).
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainCollector on August 24, 2020, 10:42:04 PM
Oh Chaz that's a very good point. I'm pretty sure we are gonna get Gordon and Henry in N scale because all of Bachmann's n scale trains use the same track radius. So I don't think Gordon and Henry should be too challenging. Now I know this sounds rather illogical but maybe we could get Diesel 10 and Lady in N scale. Just because they weren't made in HO maybe we could get them in N scale if the demand is there. Just a thought. Well anyways Chaz I hope you have a great day, I just got Troublesome Truck 1 and Troublesome Truck 2 and I love them so much. I'm getting Percy when he comes out and my grandma told me she's getting me Thomas for Christmas. So my n scale line of Thomas products will be rolling along nicely.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on August 25, 2020, 10:48:31 AM
Glad to hear you're getting started collecting the N scale range too!  Regarding Lady and Diesel 10, besides the fact that they are not in HO, I think it might be too soon for Bachmann to consider any other engine outside of the remaining first 7 engines, Emily or Diesel.  Hope you have a great day as well.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Rodimus Supreme on August 26, 2020, 10:18:35 AM
Considering the NMRA has standards for every scale, I'd imagine an N Scale Diesel 10 would still breach NMRA standards.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on August 26, 2020, 12:51:40 PM
Diesel 10 and lady are pretty out of the question, not only cause the claw would breach standards and cost a fortune realistically, there is very little demand for characters that Mattel themselves would rather be forgotten, especially lady.
Personally, I'd rather see a N scale Diesel next...granted not for N scale reasons but still.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: ShadowMonk on August 27, 2020, 03:52:15 AM
HO:
Stepney

N:
Diesel
Brake Van
Milk Tanker
S.C.Ruffey

009:
Sir Handle

Large Scale:
Paxton (He was listed on Bachmann UK's website with a similar product number to LS Diesel, however it was removed after I had made a topic about it here, which was also removed so to me Paxton is pretty much confirmed for 2021).
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: jbray on August 27, 2020, 02:13:27 PM
Quote from: ShadowMonk on August 27, 2020, 03:52:15 AM
Large Scale:
Paxton (He was listed on Bachmann UK's website with a similar product number to LS Diesel, however it was removed after I had made a topic about it here, which was also removed so to me Paxton is pretty much confirmed for 2021).

If this is the case, they should focus on expanding the troublesome trucks/freight line to compliment the Diesels.

Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on September 08, 2020, 10:06:58 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Imph5AJz2kw&ab_channel=TerencetheTractor525

I just uploaded a video, showcasing all the products that I hope to see announced by Bachmann in the coming years, not just next year. I only included HO Scale and HO Narrow Gauge, as those are the two scales that I personally collect.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on September 09, 2020, 05:26:37 PM
So while looking at what's been available in the newer packaging as well as some interesting choices Bachmann has made while listing parts in their parts catalog, I figured I would go ahead and add something a little different which would be products that are going to be discontinued/dropped next.  Only going to stick with HO for this list, since large scale is starting to get a breather again with Diesel coming out and the N scale and narrow gauge lines are still fairly new (though if anything is getting dropped from NG it would be the peco rolling stock recolors, I hope I don't have to explain why for those..).  So anyway here's my thoughts.

So the next HO engine I could see getting discontinued would be Rosie.  Not the red one, but the original.  Upon looking at Bachmann's parts lot they added some of their recent engines.  They skipped over the original Rosie but have parts available for the red Rosie instead.  This tells me that due to the original one not being all that popular or being well received, that the original Rosie model will be dropped in favor of the newer red livery which I think fans seemed to appreciate a lot more. 

For rolling stock my money is on the following:
The Green mail car
Cargo Car
Raspberry Syrup Tank
Cream Tank

These pieces of rolling stock have not been updated with the newer packaging, and I don't recall too many people going crazy over these when they first came out which is why I can see these four being discontinued next over the next year or two. 

As far as buildings and accessories go, the Tidmouth shed expansion pack seems to be a given after how the sheds themselves got discontinued.  I still don't know why the switch tower is still up after all these years, even outlasting some of the resin buildings, but I feel that will probably be dropped at some point too. 

As for resin buildings, I could see the Storage shed being dropped next (since I don't think that was ever based off of anything from the show), and maybe once the resin line is reduced to four buildings maybe Bachmann can introduce four new resin buildings in their place?  I feel that with Bachmann's Thomas range coming to the UK and resin buildings being a lot more popular over there it would be a missed opportunity for Bachmann to not introduce some new resin buildings in the future.  My thoughts on what resin buildings I would be most interested in seeing haven't really changed much, as they remain the same being:

Ffarquhar station
Toby's shed
Narrow gauge sheds
narrow gauge water tower (If they made this in resin, I think it would especially be popular with the OO9 crowd)

Anyway, curious to know what everyone else's thoughts are on what you think might get dropped or if there are other resin buildings you think should come out next. 
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on September 10, 2020, 01:32:31 PM
I definitely agree with adding NG resin buildings to the line, they would be immensely popular with 009 modelers especially if priced well.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Angelob6660 on September 11, 2020, 08:43:59 PM
I liked the green mail car when it came out. I'll still be waiting for some brown ones.

Been meaning to get some cargo wagons but never managed to get them. One day I'll get one or two.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on September 12, 2020, 04:35:48 PM
On the subject of items to be discontinued, I definitely agree with Chaz. Specifically, there is no doubt that the amount of HO rolling stock that is currently available in the line is more than enough. Therefore, it makes sense to discontinue the worst sellers when announcing new pieces. For instance, if the Green Mail Car were to be discontinued, I would like to see a Brown Mail Car take its place. Perhaps a Silver Tanker could take the place of the Cream Tanker or Raspberry Syrup Tanker as well? It baffles me that the plastic switch tower is still in the line Thomas line too.

Regarding resin buildings, I also agree that it would be beneficial to announce one more batch of four new buildings after discontinuing one more building that is currently available, as resin buildings typically sell better in the UK. Personally, I would discontinue the resin storage shed, as it does not resemble anything memorable from the television series. As for the new batch I would love:

Ffarquhar Station
Retaining Wall
Narrow Gauge Double Engine Shed
Neptune Refreshments

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/4c/CallingAllEngines%2123.png/revision/latest?cb=20141209193758)

With Maithwaite Station discontinued, Ffarquhar Station could technically be its "replacement" as it is a station that is pretty much the same size as Maithwaite. However, I can see Ffarquhar Station selling much better than Maithwaite Station because of how memorable it is, as the station that Thomas always stopped at in the Classic Thomas Intro.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/80/What%27stheMatterwithHenry%3F38.png/revision/latest?cb=20170217204354)

I could see the Retaining Wall with Arches as the "replacement" for the Signal Box, and think that it will sell even better, as these walls have always been seen throughout the show, especially the ones with arches. I would sell the walls as 3-4 Arches per pack.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/54/DuncanGetsSpooked36.png/revision/latest?cb=20161012224120)

The Narrow Gauge Double Engine Shed could be the Storage Shed's "replacement" as they are similar in size. However, the Narrow Gauge Double Engine Shed would sell better due to its function and memorable look.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d9/PeterSamandtheRefreshmentLady29.png/revision/latest?cb=20190717220854)

Finally, Neptune Refreshments could be the "replacement" for the Black Loch Folly, as both are very small structures. While I cannot say with confidence that I can see Neptune Refreshments selling as well as my three other new suggestions or even the Black Loch Folly, it is a small, iconic structure that would go wonderfully with Peter Sam, the blue narrow gauge carriages and the blue narrow gauge brake van.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b3/PeterSamandtheRefreshmentLady27.png/revision/latest?cb=20190717220645)

Peter Sam and the Refreshment Lady, anyone? ;).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pY66BzRYWR4&ab_channel=ThomasHDClassics

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/4c/TobyandtheStoutGentleman41.png/revision/latest?cb=20180917215346)

To go even further, they could discontinue the current resin single engine shed and replace it with Toby's Shed. And with Toby's Shed as a very memorable shed and the classic version smaller in size (since it just needs to be long enough to fit small engines, like Toby), I could see it selling better than the current engine shed in the line.

Additional suggestions for the resin building line have been stated in this thread:
https://www.bachmanntrains.com/home-usa/board/index.php/topic,34707.0.html
Hopefully, we will see one more batch of new buildings down the line :).
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: MrNormalDraws on September 27, 2020, 06:50:35 PM
I'll be talking only on the HO range as that's the one I'm only gonna be focusing on. So I'll talk about what items they should bring back or what they could offer.

Salty
I think they should try this again as it's only about 5 years since they discontinued the engine, and while I can understand why Bachmann stopped making it, I think they can try putting Salty out in the market again now they stopped Arry and Bert recently. Plus it's a different tooling so it would be good to bring this guy out again as some people (like me) didn't had the chance to get him when I got back into modeling.

Splatter and Dodge
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b2/ThomasAndTheMagicRailroad234.png/revision/latest?cb=20150725150150)
With Arry and Bert now off of the market, I think it would be interesting to use the Class 08 tooling on these two as the only thing they have to do is just make a new face mold. Despite the fact Arry and Bert are more recognizable, I think Splatter and Dodge might work better for a few reasons. The first thing is that unlike the Ironwork Twins, Splodge are painted in different colors (green and purple). Plus because they never appeared in the CGI series, I think it'll be more of a excuse for Bachmann to give them different faces (eg Bill and Ben) as I think why Arry and Bert failed was because Bachmann made them a couple years after their CGI debut. Maybe give one diesel with a sad face and one with a happy one.
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/67/ThomasAndTheMagicRailroad508.png/revision/latest?cb=20150726192206)

Now one of the issues with them is that they only appeared in one story, but that didn't let Bachmann stop and create the Spiteful Brake Van, who was also a oneoff. But I think the main issue I think some people might have with them is how the film bombed years ago and the canonicity of the film and the show, plus also I don't know if there's a rights issue between Mattel and Sony as they're the ones who released the film. But I think they have potential as it would allow Bachmann to try another model series character. Plus it would be a gateway for them to try out doing Magic Railroad characters in case they want to do Lady and Diesel 10 (regardless of the canon and status of the film) and it's the 20th anniversary of the film.

Tar Tankers
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/5d/ChucklesomeTrucks82.png/revision/latest?cb=20190707180015)
Another iconic item Bachmann made long ago before it was taken off the market. I think they would be good items as the show brought them back last year.

Wellwagons
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasbachmann/images/1/1c/Wellwagon.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20200715192327)
Another item Bachmann made that was off the market, I think they are good for those who like to add other engines or vehicles on their trains. Maybe withe success with the conflats and flatbeds they brought back, maybe they can do the same.

Other items for the flatbeds
While I like the log cars from last year, I feel a bit off that they plastered logos on the sides. I know they're easy to take off, but  I don't want to ruin them by accidentally scraping the paint off of the wagons as well. So I like to see if Bachmann can make some other flatbed items.

Paint Drums
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasbachmann/images/d/d3/BachmannFlatbedwithPaintDrums.png/revision/latest?cb=20180216041650)
These were part of Bachmann's line in 2009, and while Calling All Engines wasn't my favorite special, I like the paint drums.

Oil Drums
(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/db/ThomasToTheRescue54.png/revision/latest?cb=20161104235104)
If Bachmann wanted to resue the paint drum tooling, they can make them into oil drums, much like in the episode "Thomas to the Rescue".


Sets with other characters
The one thing I missed from Bachmann is that they would make sets on different characters besides Thomas. I think these sets were charming as it allows consumers on picking out a set besides Thomas. I think the sets they could bring back are either Percy's or Emily's as they have those engines and exact rolling stock still being made.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on September 27, 2020, 08:01:22 PM
Quote from: MrNormalDraws on September 27, 2020, 06:50:35 PM
Sets with other characters
The one thing I missed from Bachmann is that they would make sets on different characters besides Thomas. I think these sets were charming as it allows consumers on picking out a set besides Thomas. I think the sets they could bring back are either Percy's or Emily's as they have those engines and exact rolling stock still being made.

Bachmann staff have stated that they aren't planning on introducing anymore sets for any other characters (besides Thomas) since sets for other characters like Percy, Emily, James or even Salty proved to not sell very well.  Sets with Thomas sell better because Thomas is the main character and is almost always the first engine fans want when they pick up a starter set to get them invested in the hobby.  It's exactly why they only gave Thomas a starter set in the N scale range and didn't bother to give one to Percy.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Angelob6660 on September 29, 2020, 01:47:47 AM
I missed out on getting James freight set with the updated version with the cargo truck and fuel tank car. 
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on October 18, 2020, 10:06:12 PM
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BoCo-Custom-OO-HO-Thomas-and-friends-Hornby-Bachmann-Heljan/353231307067?hash=item523e3a013b:g:B28AAOSwuoZfgCPO

For anyone who thinks that characters who only appeared in the model series do not have demand ;).
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on October 18, 2020, 11:48:51 PM
The fact that the BoCo model is going for well over $800 and the auction isn't over yet is really saying something... definitely curious to see what the final sale will be.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on October 19, 2020, 11:58:33 AM
That's honestly a very good custom Boco. The final price of it was outstandingly close to 1,000 US dollars (including shipping), so there must be some big hidden demand for him. I know I would love to see him made sometime after Daisy.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on October 19, 2020, 12:28:36 PM
Agreed! I would love to see Bachmann make BoCo in the future as well. Here is another stunner:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RARE-Hornby-THOMAS-THE-TANK-AND-FRIENDS-R9684-MURDOCH-Locomotive-DCC-Ready/264904270320?hash=item3dad8661f0:g:nD0AAOSwZbhfjHTf

Has not even been one day yet...

Edit: Check out my recent Twitter post.

https://twitter.com/TerencetheT525/status/1318310215796797440

Hopefully, it will spark some new and exciting ideas for Bachmann.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on October 20, 2020, 07:10:55 PM
Three listings for the long-discontinued Tomix Henry that I just found. Granted, the fromer two are Buy It Now and the latter hasn't gained much traction yet, but the prices between the three of these can still imply that there is great profit potential for an N Scale Henry.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Tomix-N-Gauge-93805-Henry-Express-Train-RARE-HARD-TO-FIND/164331947847?hash=item2642f28747:g:lYMAAOSwQwRfMe6c

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Tomix-93805-N-Scale-Henry-Steam-Locomotive-Accessory-Set-RARE-LN-Box/392969511539?hash=item5b7ecee273:g:pmQAAOSw4PNfe6-w

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Rare-Tomix-93805-Henry-Express-Coach-set-N-Gauge-Thomas-the-tank-Friends/143795218699?hash=item217adce90b:g:RmgAAOSwtYJfaIkj
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on October 22, 2020, 04:34:46 PM
I do like the idea of using Bachmann UK toolings to make Arthur and Murdoch. Because new toolings for those characters are not financially feasible, but Bachmann UK has the toolings for them, they can be repainted, and given faces, with only the internals having to be altered for the eye mechanisms. I think using the Bachmann UK toolings for Arthur and Murdoch would be a great idea.

With Daisy on the horizon for next year, BoCo should also be possible, though he would require a new tooling. I would love for Bachmann to make BoCo, as he is the only other larger diesel Bachmann could make who wasn't a one-off character like Class 40 or Derek. Diesel 10 will never be made because of his claw.

The argument that characters who only appeared in the model series don't have demand holds no water. Stepney is the epitome of a model series character with demand.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Cheeky_ULP on October 22, 2020, 05:58:36 PM
Re-using Bachmann UK toolings is entirely missing the point of what set Bachmann Thomas apart from Hornby Thomas. It's just not worth all the hoops and hurdles Bachmann would have to go through when they could make a more accurate model with a new tooling from the ground up. It would be inconsistent with the rest of the brand. If a 9F or 2MT is too complicated tooling wise for the Thomas range, Bachmann has plenty of characters to pick from that are in high demand but would be less-demanding tooling wise, such as Stepney or BoCo.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on October 22, 2020, 06:11:32 PM
I agree that what makes Bachmann special is that all the current engines are made with new toolings that matched the television series models. I also agree that Stepney or BoCo should be considered before Murdoch or Arthur, as Stepney and BoCo would fit the budget as far as completely new toolings are concerned. However, with a listing of a Hornby Murdoch at approximately $1,360 USD at the moment with multiple bidders, and seeing that Bachmann has made many unique additions to the Thomas line altogether: Narrow Gauge, Resin Buildings, etc. I do not see this as out of the question. To me, saying that Murdoch & Arthur cannot happen is like saying that Bachmann would have never been able to do Narrow Gauge or N Scale because moving eyes would have not been able to be incorporated within those models. Yet, they still surprised us.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on October 24, 2020, 04:05:42 PM
With the three 1-Plank Wagons with Crates revealed, and Troublesome Truck #6 most likely not far from completion, I am confident that we will see some new HO rolling stock announced in 2021. Even though most fans have stated that they would like to see rolling stock such as the explosives van, circus train, and return of the red express coaches, I wanted to bring up some ideas that have been suggested much less frequently.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ET1333MWoAIeVMu.png)

Starting with Toby's Museum Brake Coach, this piece of rolling stock appeared throughout the late model series, most notably at the end of the episode Toby Feels Left Out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGpdUfGm1s8&ab_channel=ThomasHDClassics. This coach would be an excellent way to reuse the Bachmann Red Brake Coach tooling, and it is a unique paint scheme: primarily dark brown with cream lining and a white roof. A standard coach would go wonderfully with the brake coach as well, even though the standard coach did not appear in the show.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/thomasmadeupcharactersandepisodes/images/8/83/Amandaandgabriella.png/revision/latest?cb=20141019165646)

The next rolling stock suggestion is Gordon's Special Coach. Two of them appeared throughout the late model series, specifically in the episode Emily and the Special Cars: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbLoOebXyks. Gordon's Special Coach is also a recolor of an existing tooling in the line: Spencer's Special Coach, and it is one of my favorites, as the dark blue paint scheme with red and gold stripe looks very smart. Would definitely purchase two of these.

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/3b/Thomas%27NewTrucks29.png/revision/latest/top-crop/width/360/height/450?cb=20170428135119)

Finally, I would love to see one of Thomas' New Troublesome Trucks as well as one of James' New Troublesome Trucks from the episode Thomas' New Trucks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gh90y7iNTHc. While these are technically standard troublesome trucks, they are exclusive to the episode Thomas' New Trucks. Thus, calling the Bachmann models "Thomas' New Troublesome Truck" and "James' New Troublesome Truck" would be more than acceptable to me. What's more, considering that Thomas and James each received eight new trucks in the episode, I know for fact that many avid Thomas fans would buy more than one of both.

If we are lucky enough to see these announced, I have suggested the faces that I would like to see for Thomas' New Troublesome Truck & James' New Troublesome Truck below as well:

Thomas' New Troublesome Truck Face:

(https://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/d/d6/Emily%27sNewRoute29.png/revision/latest?cb=20141105084749)

James' New Troublesome Truck Face:

(https://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/e6/Thomas%27NewTrucks84.png/revision/latest?cb=20170428143002)

Thank you very much for reading my suggestions, and I look forward to reading everyone's thoughts.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on October 24, 2020, 04:55:54 PM
I've spoken out against most of Bachmann's recent rolling stick recolors in the past as they don't resemble anything seen on the show.  These however I would be more than open to as these are accurate to what's been on the show in the past.

Toby's Museum coach I would be the most open to as these are probably one of the few pieces of rolling stock on the show past the classic seasons that looks pretty decent and not too colorful or wacky.  It would be a little odd to see it without a standard coach though even though one was never made for the show.  If they made a standard coach to go with it I would happily buy a pair of them.

It would honestly be pretty funny yet a little frustrating if they went that route and didn't even bother to make a brake coach for Spencer, but that's water under the bridge.

Gordon's special coaches would be fun too.  Like Toby's museum coach I am curious to know if they would just stick to one coach or if they would go the full mile and make a brake coach as well.  Probably not something I would be interested in though but I can see these being fairly popular. 

Thomas and James' Trucks I would probably pass on too, but if they go the full mile and make new model era style faces for these and not reuse any of the previous truck faces, I can see these being extremely popular sellers and I would happily buy some myself.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on October 25, 2020, 04:16:12 PM
Thanks for posting your thoughts, Chaz! Great to see that you are on board with my rolling stock suggestions.

On a separate note, the auction for the Hornby Murdoch model just ended a few minutes. The final price is nearly 3,000 USD, plus shipping :o:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RARE-Hornby-THOMAS-THE-TANK-AND-FRIENDS-R9684-MURDOCH-Locomotive-DCC-Ready/264904270320?hash=item3dad8661f0:g:nD0AAOSwZbhfjHTf

Talk about demand...
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: jbray on October 26, 2020, 01:06:11 PM
Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on October 25, 2020, 04:16:12 PM
On a separate note, the auction for the Hornby Murdoch model just ended a few minutes. The final price is nearly 3,000 USD, plus shipping :o:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RARE-Hornby-THOMAS-THE-TANK-AND-FRIENDS-R9684-MURDOCH-Locomotive-DCC-Ready/264904270320?hash=item3dad8661f0:g:nD0AAOSwZbhfjHTf

Talk about demand...

A sample size of one is not indicative of demand. Given that model railroading has an expense barrier, this seems like it is more indicative of a tiny subset of enthusiasts with enough money to spend whatever they like to complete their roster. 'Arry and Bert prove that when you get down to the level that only completionists are buying the product, it is no longer viable for the manufacturer to produce. Do you really think that Hornby would pull out of the Thomas market if it was making them money hand over fist? They weren't even making unique tooling for their locomotives and it wasn't enough money for them to continue.

At the end of the day, this is a case study of which we need multiple case studies to indicate larger demand.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on October 26, 2020, 08:38:34 PM
Quote from: jbray on October 26, 2020, 01:06:11 PM
A sample size of one is not indicative of demand. Given that model railroading has an expense barrier, this seems like it is more indicative of a tiny subset of enthusiasts with enough money to spend whatever they like to complete their roster. 'Arry and Bert prove that when you get down to the level that only completionists are buying the product, it is no longer viable for the manufacturer to produce. Do you really think that Hornby would pull out of the Thomas market if it was making them money hand over fist? They weren't even making unique tooling for their locomotives and it wasn't enough money for them to continue.

At the end of the day, this is a case study of which we need multiple case studies to indicate larger demand.
That's honestly a very good point now that I think of it. We may be making conclusions a little too early with just one listing and multiple may be necessary to determine the profitable nature of a character in a particular scale, similar to my post on the Tomix Henry. Custom characters like the earlier shared Boco are more of a special case, but for characters already officially made by other companies, it may be worth looking into several listings overtime before jumping to any conclusions.

Characters with as few appearances as Murdoch are naturally going to have some wealth to them and appeal to a certain competitionist demographic. It may be better for the long run to let other, more well-known characters like Stepney and Ryan be made first in their suitable respective lines before approaching obscure territory. I like Duke as much as the next guy, but I know it's better to let Sir Handel and Duncan have their shots first.

While we're talking about well-known characters, I'm honestly surprised not many have mentioned the possibilities of Hiro and Victor. Both have grown to be recognizable favorites among differing demographics, both have appeared consistently since their debuts and both have potential to be solid sellers for Bachmann.

Concerning Hiro, he would be a fitting and gratifying first choice of a new tender engine in the HO range, after Donald and Douglas way back in 2011. Even though I don't recall many customs for him being made and the costs may be similar to Murdoch in height, children are more likely to know him from the GCI Thomas media. To my knowledge, Japan got their first glimpses of the HO Thomas line this year, so it's all the more appropriate to make Hiro now that the line is being sold in his country of origin. Even though I don't see it happening too soon, I can still see Hiro being easily welcomed by fans.

After the main six Narrow Gauge engines are made, I also feel like Victor deserves consideration. His case is similar to Hiro's in a sense so there's not as much I have to say, though he's appeared a little more often. And if need be for a Narrow Gauge recolor, his yellow paint job from "Blue Mountain Mystery" makes a viable option. Even without a complementary Steamworks building, he would still be a natural addition to the engine selection.

Another character worth briefly mentioning is Glynn. There's a certain novelty to him that is shared by the upcoming LBSC Thomas & Origins James and I think fans would also be welcome to him. The two issues that I think are preventing him from being made are his less frequent appearances (both in the show and merchandise) and his compact size, though the latter may not be as much of an issue if he were made in Large Scale. If Winston was made without a problem, Glynn may have a shot and he may even sell better. Maybe he could be announced alongside an LBSC Thomas in the same scale.

Hard for me to conceive a way to conclude all this, but I do hope the points I made here are taken into consideration by the Bachmann team when thinking about future characters.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on October 27, 2020, 12:19:39 AM
Quote from: Falcon the 2nd on October 26, 2020, 08:38:34 PM
That's honestly a very good point now that I think of it. We may be making conclusions a little too early with just one listing and multiple may be necessary to determine the profitable nature of a character in a particular scale, similar to my post on the Tomix Henry

I forgot to comment on that post earlier, my bad.  I think there's a clear market out there for Henry in N scale based on those and many eBay sales (similar to the numerous high sales of the Hornby Stepney on ebay as well).  Especially when a lot of people have gone out of their way to reuse the Henry motor and chassis to make Gordon, who was also promised to us by Tomix making it clear that there is very much a market for both of them.  The only other factor besides pricing being a potential issue for those two also comes down to how much Bachmann can do during the pandemic, which is why Toby seems to be the safest option if they choose to include another new engine tooling while still working on James.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: jbray on October 27, 2020, 02:05:20 PM
Quote from: Chaz on October 27, 2020, 12:19:39 AM
I forgot to comment on that post earlier, my bad.  I think there's a clear market out there for Henry in N scale based on those and many eBay sales (similar to the numerous high sales of the Hornby Stepney on ebay as well).  Especially when a lot of people have gone out of their way to reuse the Henry motor and chassis to make Gordon, who was also promised to us by Tomix making it clear that there is very much a market for both of them.  The only other factor besides pricing being a potential issue for those two also comes down to how much Bachmann can do during the pandemic, which is why Toby seems to be the safest option if they choose to include another new engine tooling while still working on James.

Using characters from the first three seasons/series plus Emily is most likely the safest bet for any plan. There's no doubt that Thomas, Percy, and James are the givens in any production line and we've seen that in practice again and again from different manufacturers at different gauges/scales. From there, I'm not sure there's a single road map other than to consider practicality, production cost, and a guess at demand.

An example would be the value of Gordon in N scale/009 versus G/large scale. In large scale, a body at 1:22.5 scale with 1:32 chassis would be complicated at his size for the standard smallest curve radii. What may be practical for a James or Thomas model who struggle with these curves even with a missing middle flange, would be even more difficult from an engineering perspective with Gordon. It stands that Gordon is a popular character, probably the most popular large locomotive (given that he has not been removed from the series while Henry and Edward have been seen as the least damaging removals). If his production in N Scale/009 has reduced production challenges and reaches a larger market in N/009 than G/Large, Bachmann could look at him as THE premium model of the product line, while they keep Emily the premium model of Large scale despite desire (meaning demand may not be equal to interest).

There are two forces at work here: N Scale/009 is less popular than HO, BUT, the trend in the market is smaller scales given the lower cost barrier and space requirements. Because of this, we may never see the N scale line become as robust as HO but may come close (HO being more popular) and we may be seeing the limits of the HO line (Hornby pulling out of the Thomas line). In this sense, Henry seems like a future probability in N scale given his status as a former regular/current player but Murdoch seems improbable being a former player/currently missing.

Personally, I wonder if this move to N scale is a way for Bachmann to recapitalize on their best selling HO and Large scale items for a new market while they see diminishing returns in large scale consumers and filling out the back bench for HO. With that mindset and with COVID, I don't know that I expect many or even any new characters in 2021 in HO/HOn3 and Large scale other than those previously announced: Daisy, Peter Sam, Diesel. Maybe they might announce the next production goals for 2022 release.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on October 27, 2020, 02:40:21 PM
I'm sorry I just need to address this, N scale is not remotely 009, just needed to get that out cause the 2 are very different, one is N scale one and the other is narrow gauge. And I have to object on any semblance that the NG range isn't as popular as the normal HO(Really OO but that's been said many times anyway) range, cause the NG range is damn near constantly sold out with the exception of the reused Peco stock cause it's the same tooling you can get for like 1/3 the price without the SR lettering and livery. And as for the normal range reaching its limits? No? Hornby gave up the UK license cause they weren't making money, and it's kinda obvious why they weren't cause all the engines bar a couple were made using now decades old tooling and most of them were still tender drive until the end, that coupled with the fact they being sold at around the same price as many of their new tooled counterparts. Henry for instance, why get Henry when a brand new Black 5 is about the same price? AT least in terms of more experienced modelers. And the fact Hornby was in a really bad financial state.
As for their announcements for 2021, I expect some sort of new N scale release, new engine ideally, a smaller one of course so likely Toby or Diesel(hopefully), LS who knows, main range probably rolling stock recolors or a new Mainline tooling being introduced at the most, maybe a new engine but I don't expect it, NG? Harder to pin point, if Peter Sam is far enough along then we may see the likes of Sir Handel being announced and probably more new rolling stock.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: jbray on October 27, 2020, 03:25:11 PM
Quote from: STL on October 27, 2020, 02:40:21 PM
I'm sorry I just need to address this, N scale is not remotely 009, just needed to get that out cause the 2 are very different, one is N scale one and the other is narrow gauge. And I have to object on any semblance that the NG range isn't as popular as the normal HO(Really OO but that's been said many times anyway) range, cause the NG range is damn near constantly sold out with the exception of the reused Peco stock cause it's the same tooling you can get for like 1/3 the price without the SR lettering and livery.
That's my total ignorance and I've gone back and added strikethroughs. While trying to be inclusive of the UK, I went and made myself look like a moron. I appreciate the correction!

Quote from: STL on October 27, 2020, 02:40:21 PM
And as for the normal range reaching its limits? No? Hornby gave up the UK license cause they weren't making money, and it's kinda obvious why they weren't cause all the engines bar a couple were made using now decades old tooling and most of them were still tender drive until the end, that coupled with the fact they being sold at around the same price as many of their new tooled counterparts. Henry for instance, why get Henry when a brand new Black 5 is about the same price? AT least in terms of more experienced modelers. And the fact Hornby was in a really bad financial state.
Your last point here undermines your former and gets back to my point in the original post: If the Thomas line was making them money, they would not dump it. Because they had exclusive access to the UK market, they could have chosen to go back and update the tooling, but instead they dropped the line. That absolutely reads as them feeling that Thomas was not a lucrative enough product line to support. They could have altered many other facets of their business instead but chose to end the line.

Now, does competition with imported Bachmann models factor into that? Probably. It's hard to know how much market share was lost. This still gets back to my second point, which is that completionists are not a viable market. If Bachmann decides that having access to the UK increases the viability of introducing minor characters then all the better, but the majority of people are not buying the full range in any of the scales unless they have cash to burn. <- I'm excepting the narrow gauge range because of how specialized and limited it is. I never intended to come across as saying it was at risk and never felt that way. I chose with my post to talk about getting into minor characters from the model series in HO scale.
Quote from: STL on October 27, 2020, 02:40:21 PM
As for their announcements for 2021, I expect some sort of new N scale release, new engine ideally, a smaller one of course so likely Toby or Diesel(hopefully), LS who knows, main range probably rolling stock recolors or a new Mainline tooling being introduced at the most, maybe a new engine but I don't expect it, NG? Harder to pin point, if Peter Sam is far enough along then we may see the likes of Sir Handel being announced and probably more new rolling stock.
Agreed.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on October 27, 2020, 04:25:07 PM
Quote from: jbray on October 26, 2020, 01:06:11 PM
Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on October 25, 2020, 04:16:12 PM
On a separate note, the auction for the Hornby Murdoch model just ended a few minutes. The final price is nearly 3,000 USD, plus shipping :o:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RARE-Hornby-THOMAS-THE-TANK-AND-FRIENDS-R9684-MURDOCH-Locomotive-DCC-Ready/264904270320?hash=item3dad8661f0:g:nD0AAOSwZbhfjHTf

Talk about demand interest...

A sample size of one is not indicative of demand. Given that model railroading has an expense barrier, this seems like it is more indicative of a tiny subset of enthusiasts with enough money to spend whatever they like to complete their roster. 'Arry and Bert prove that when you get down to the level that only completionists are buying the product, it is no longer viable for the manufacturer to produce. Do you really think that Hornby would pull out of the Thomas market if it was making them money hand over fist? They weren't even making unique tooling for their locomotives and it wasn't enough money for them to continue.

At the end of the day, this is a case study of which we need multiple case studies to indicate larger demand.

It is fair to state that one sample size is not indicative of demand. I stand corrected there. However, at this point, with over twenty engines to choose from in the HO line, I do believe that every engine Bachmann considers for the future should be based on requests from older fans, as we are the ones who are interested in purchasing every engine.

It really says a lot when the last time we got an large engine with a complex side rod configuration was in 2006 (Spencer). That's why I brought up Murdoch, as Hiro (who has made more appearances) does not seem like a realistic option (as there is unfortunately no Bachmann UK basis for him), and it would be much too expensive to make one entirely from scratch these days.

Additionally, I am trying to speak out for fans who unfortunately missed out on purchasing a Hornby Murdoch, just as I was with Stepney. For years, fans have asked me through YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter where I purchased my Murdoch & Stepney models, and if I will ever sell them. When stating no, I feel sorry for them.

With the Thomas television series going through a major revamp, the new CGI characters are going to be considered as outdated characters in due time too. Daisy will not be out until 2021, after all, which means that the next HO engine with a new tooling will not be out before 2022 at the earliest; we will be well into the new revamp at that point.

With all of this stated, I do agree that the announcements for next February will most likely consist of existing toolings, due to the ongoing pandemic. In a perfect world, an HO Stepney would be announced, but the only new tooling that I really expect is an N Scale Toby. Hopefully, we will see some nice new HO rolling stock announced at the very least.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on October 28, 2020, 11:40:15 AM
Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on October 27, 2020, 04:25:07 PM
Quote from: jbray on October 26, 2020, 01:06:11 PM
Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on October 25, 2020, 04:16:12 PM
On a separate note, the auction for the Hornby Murdoch model just ended a few minutes. The final price is nearly 3,000 USD, plus shipping :o:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RARE-Hornby-THOMAS-THE-TANK-AND-FRIENDS-R9684-MURDOCH-Locomotive-DCC-Ready/264904270320?hash=item3dad8661f0:g:nD0AAOSwZbhfjHTf

Talk about demand interest...

A sample size of one is not indicative of demand. Given that model railroading has an expense barrier, this seems like it is more indicative of a tiny subset of enthusiasts with enough money to spend whatever they like to complete their roster. 'Arry and Bert prove that when you get down to the level that only completionists are buying the product, it is no longer viable for the manufacturer to produce. Do you really think that Hornby would pull out of the Thomas market if it was making them money hand over fist? They weren't even making unique tooling for their locomotives and it wasn't enough money for them to continue.

At the end of the day, this is a case study of which we need multiple case studies to indicate larger demand.

It is fair to state that one sample size is not indicative of demand. I stand corrected there. However, at this point, with over twenty engines to choose from in the HO line, I do believe that every engine Bachmann considers for the future should be based on requests from older fans, as we are the ones who are interested in purchasing every engine.

It really says a lot when the last time we got an large engine with a complex side rod configuration was in 2006 (Spencer). That's why I brought up Murdoch, as Hiro (who has made more appearances) does not seem like a realistic option (as there is unfortunately no Bachmann UK basis for him), and it would be much too expensive to make one entirely from scratch these days.

Additionally, I am trying to speak out for fans who unfortunately missed out on purchasing a Hornby Murdoch, just as I was with Stepney. For years, fans have asked me through YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter where I purchased my Murdoch & Stepney models, and if I will ever sell them. When stating no, I feel sorry for them.

With the Thomas television series going through a major revamp, the new CGI characters are going to be considered as outdated characters in due time too. Daisy will not be out until 2021, after all, which means that the next HO engine with a new tooling will not be out before 2022 at the earliest; we will be well into the new revamp at that point.

With all of this stated, I do agree that the announcements for next February will most likely consist of existing toolings, due to the ongoing pandemic. In a perfect world, an HO Stepney would be announced, but the only new tooling that I really expect is an N Scale Toby. Hopefully, we will see some nice new HO rolling stock announced at the very least.
Thing is I doubt Bachmann would even go down the route Hornby used? Which is reusing existing tooling? And it's more a equal part fan demand and what will kids/their parents actually buy, bit of an exception to the NG range of course, and in part the character's presence. It's why Stepney is a very very unlikely to happen model truth be told, cause after Daisy was announced somehow the connection was made that fan demand was the major factor, and of course its A major factor but wouldn't say its the main. Cause like Daisy was not only brought back into the series, she got a lot of attention and episodes to her, so she also was hitting the presence aspect, which in turn is an influence on the kids who want Bachmann models.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on October 31, 2020, 02:15:59 AM
Sitting back on this for a few days now, there are a few points I did want to mention.

The first thing I want to put out there, and I think it goes without saying, but Bachmann will not be using toolings from their UK range to make engines in the future.  If they really did go down this route, Duck and Diesel would have been announced a lot sooner.  To add, it would be difficult for Bachmann to incorporate the moving eye mechanism in these models which has always been Bachmann's main gimmick with their HO/OO and large scale ranges.  While a new tooling would be more expensive to produce, if it captures the character in a way that met Mattel's standards (or even Hit's standards back in the day), chances are they would sell a lot better.  Hornby's Thomas range did not do well not only for this reason but the pricing for their models made them too expensive for what they were.  Unfortunately Bachmann's pricing haven't been all that much better due to Mattel's ridiculous price increases over the years, but that's a topic for another day (most likely when we get a look at the 2021 catalog in a couple of months).  

The other thing I want to talk about is Murdoch.  While I completely understand that there's nostalgia for the character as well as his eBay sales being a moot point, I think it goes without saying but Murdoch is very unlikely to happen at this time.  Even around the time he was introduced and rarely used in the Hit model era, he was always shot down when he would be brought up on the forum back in the day because of his size and pricing and I really don't see why it should be any different back then.  Especially when requests for Duck, Donald, Douglas and Diesel were basically never-ending at the time too.  Plus if people back then would think a Bachmann Murdoch would have been too large and expensive back then, I can only imagine how crazy expensive a Murdoch model would be now with how Mattel's been handling the brand.  And with how much of a push there is for Stepney, bringing up Murdoch at this point doesn't make a whole lot of sense either when there's a more affordable character on the market that a lot more fans would like to see over Murdoch.

Stepney has also been a popular request too because of his Hornby sales being consistently going up, however the difference between him and Murdoch is that Stepney fits the budget Bachmann has much better than Murdoch because he's a tank engine with a nice color contrast for the range.  Other than Stepney, I think it's best to hold off on other non-CGI characters at this point (including BoCo), until Bachmann follows through with all the Stepney requests first.  Especially with the "reboot" on the horizon, I think if they announce Stepney then it would be a better time to bring up characters from the model or even CGI era who would most likely be absent from the reboot.

Quote from: jbray on October 27, 2020, 02:05:20 PM
Using characters from the first three seasons/series plus Emily is most likely the safest bet for any plan. There's no doubt that Thomas, Percy, and James are the givens in any production line and we've seen that in practice again and again from different manufacturers at different gauges/scales. From there, I'm not sure there's a single road map other than to consider practicality, production cost, and a guess at demand.

Bachmann typically responds or uses requests from Facebook/Twitter as well as the forums to figure out what they should consider for the future.  From there they would usually run back-and-fourth with communicating with Mattel (who would allow Bachmann to hold the license for the scales they manufacture models for) as well as the production team in China while determining the tooling cost and Mattel's approval for said engine/rolling stock to be considered for the future.  I also agree with you as well that the N scale range does have a lot of potential to very gradually add more engines and rolling stock in the future.  Although it's tough to say what the future is like, especially in these trying times, I think it's safe to say that once Thomas, Percy, and James are released and more characters are introduced, we will likely see this range become very popular.  

Speaking of N scale, I had a dream the other night that Bachmann announced Hiro... in N scale, not in HO.  Basically making him the equivalent of the large scale Winston by being exclusive to N scale.  The funny thing about that is N scale is especially popular in Japan and making a model of the character who is a huge icon over there would basically have Bachmann sitting on a gold mine.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on November 01, 2020, 02:59:34 PM
Quote from: Chaz on October 31, 2020, 02:15:59 AM
The first thing I want to put out there, and I think it goes without saying, but Bachmann will not be using toolings from their UK range to make engines in the future.  If they really did go down this route, Duck and Diesel would have been announced a lot sooner.  To add, it would be difficult for Bachmann to incorporate the moving eye mechanism in these models which has always been Bachmann's main gimmick with their HO/OO and large scale ranges.  While a new tooling would be more expensive to produce, if it captures the character in a way that met Mattel's standards (or even Hit's standards back in the day), chances are they would sell a lot better.  Hornby's Thomas range did not do well not only for this reason but the pricing for their models made them too expensive for what they were.

That's something I was thinking about as well but was hesitant to mention until now. It seems most people have bought Bachmann's Thomas models for being as close to the TV series models as you can possibly get on a reasonable buying budget. The physical accuracy of the engines is a huge part of the line's identity and I'm not sure if it would be worth tapering with now, in the midst of financially difficult times and after so many years of the line succeeding with mainly accurate models.

Quote from: Chaz on October 31, 2020, 02:15:59 AM
Speaking of N scale, I had a dream the other night that Bachmann announced Hiro... in N scale, not in HO.  Basically making him the equivalent of the large scale Winston by being exclusive to N scale.  The funny thing about that is N scale is especially popular in Japan and making a model of the character who is a huge icon over there would basically have Bachmann sitting on a gold mine.

The popularity of N Scale in Japan actually didn't don on me at first, but now I'm thinking that may be the most appropriate scale to make Hiro in if he were considered anytime. I'm unsure how the side rods would be handled going by the sizes of Thomas & Percy's, but besides that, it may be less a general burden to make him in a smaller scale. By then, every major scale would have at least one CGI character (Winston for G, Paxton for HO and Hiro for N) except for Narrow Gauge if that's considered separate from HO.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: HO scale Den-liner on November 05, 2020, 08:33:12 PM
Quote from: Falcon the 2nd on November 01, 2020, 02:59:34 PM


Quote from: Chaz on October 31, 2020, 02:15:59 AM
Speaking of N scale, I had a dream the other night that Bachmann announced Hiro... in N scale, not in HO.  Basically making him the equivalent of the large scale Winston by being exclusive to N scale.  The funny thing about that is N scale is especially popular in Japan and making a model of the character who is a huge icon over there would basically have Bachmann sitting on a gold mine.

The popularity of N Scale in Japan actually didn't don on me at first, but now I'm thinking that may be the most appropriate scale to make Hiro in if he were considered anytime. I'm unsure how the side rods would be handled going by the sizes of Thomas & Percy's, but besides that, it may be less a general burden to make him in a smaller scale. By then, every major scale would have at least one CGI character (Winston for G, Paxton for HO and Hiro for N) except for Narrow Gauge if that's considered separate from HO.


But wouldn't having certain CGI characters exclusive to one of the three ranges being alienating? Winston I can understand but not paxton or a potential hiro.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on November 05, 2020, 09:50:25 PM
Quote from: HO scale Den-liner on November 05, 2020, 08:33:12 PM
Quote from: Falcon the 2nd on November 01, 2020, 02:59:34 PM


Quote from: Chaz on October 31, 2020, 02:15:59 AM
Speaking of N scale, I had a dream the other night that Bachmann announced Hiro... in N scale, not in HO.  Basically making him the equivalent of the large scale Winston by being exclusive to N scale.  The funny thing about that is N scale is especially popular in Japan and making a model of the character who is a huge icon over there would basically have Bachmann sitting on a gold mine.

The popularity of N Scale in Japan actually didn't don on me at first, but now I'm thinking that may be the most appropriate scale to make Hiro in if he were considered anytime. I'm unsure how the side rods would be handled going by the sizes of Thomas & Percy's, but besides that, it may be less a general burden to make him in a smaller scale. By then, every major scale would have at least one CGI character (Winston for G, Paxton for HO and Hiro for N) except for Narrow Gauge if that's considered separate from HO.


But wouldn't having certain CGI characters exclusive to one of the three ranges being alienating? Winston I can understand but not paxton or a potential hiro.

I never said that every GGI character should be exclusive to one scale. I was just pointing out a potential consistency across scales, being that they would have at least one unique character each.

Though I should say that it'd be smart to make certain characters in one line if it works in favor of their complexities:
Can't account for any other CGI characters besides them, but you get the idea.

Don't take everything I say as fact - this is all just some insight I have on the limitations that can apply to character manufacturing. It's important to proceed product ideas with caution, especially in this financially troubling day and age.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: MrNormalDraws on November 21, 2020, 04:36:32 PM
So the webstore updated the new wagons (I'm planning to buy them once they're released) and saw that Troublesome Truck had a red text instead of the image, which I'm kinda wondering if they're revamping or not.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: AJW98Productions on December 16, 2020, 07:23:34 AM
I recently realised how long it'd been since I posted in a topic, let alone logged in or read anything. Very briefly, I had an initial write-up on my thoughts on this years announcements written up. A rather long and in depth one, and I did tell Chaz that I would get it posted. Needless to say, that didn't happen, work and university have kept me mostly away from the hobby this year, but now that I'm slowly returning, I figured I should drop by and give my proverbial "two cents" about what I hope is yet to come.

Daisy, and Peter Sam are both in progress without photos having yet been released, plus Covid-19 has been delaying production in factories. Large Scale Diesel is still in progress too. So I'm not expecting much for next year. However, I'm happy to list off a few things I could think of that I think are feasible, followed by what I think we can maybe expect in the next few years, sort of like what I've seen a few others do in this thread. Then I'd like to summarise what I'd like to see the most, out of the suggested items from both lists. Let's kick things off with 2021!

HO Gauge:
Recolours. I expect with production delays, now will be the time for Bachmann to make some announcements that are easier to create, and don't require new tooling. I expect we'll see the explosives van (hopefully reusing the single vent van tooling), along with the toffee and chocolate syrup tankers.

I don't really foresee the return of the Red Express Coaches just yet, but I do think that they would be nice to see next year. If we do see the return of these express coaches though, I wouldn't expect to see either of the tankers come out, and the explosives van would also be questionable too. Maybe the tar tanker will be reintroduced? But given how frequently requested it is, and how easy it must be to produce, I can only assume that perhaps the licence holder doesn't want Bachmann to.

OO9 Gauge:
I'm not going to summarise why I don't expect much for every single one of these. Long story short, the brown brakevan has easily been the most fan-requested item, so at most, I'd expect this. And again, it's a recolour. Sir Handel is the next engine I expect, but not for next year's February announcements. Maybe we could expect another freight wagon of some kind. I particularly like the idea of narrow gauge troublesome trucks that I think was first suggested by Mulfred, and a lot of others have seemingly picked up on in a very positive way. I don't think it's super likely, as it'll still need a completely brand new tooling, and a face to be produced for it, but there clearly is demand for such an item within Bachmann's range.

N Gauge:
This one, I think is the trickiest. Given that the range is still new, I'd suggest that it may need the most investment to help it take off. I'd definitely say that Toby is possible as an announcement for February, or the mid-year announcements, but I wouldn't be surprised if he wasn't. Toby, at least, is a simplistic tooling, and a reusable chassis later down the line for Mavis. Given all the production delays that are going to occur because of the global pandemic, I think Toby is the most likely engine to be announced.

As for rolling stock - again, if there is the resources available for it - I would suggest S.C.Ruffey as a reasonable candidate, and/or a regular wagon recolour. Like the red or blue open wagons that exist in the HO scale range. Also, the milk tanker seems a bit like low-hanging fruit too. If they are to announce Toby, and have the resources available, we might be able to expect Henrietta too - which would also open up the possibility for a Hannah recolour down the line, so to speak.

G Gauge/Large Scale:
Given this range's...generally lacklustre announcements, and the fact that Diesel is still in the pipeline. I can't be sure of exactly what to expect. However, there seems to be some indication of what we can expect, from an apparent leak...
Quote from: ShadowMonk on August 27, 2020, 03:52:15 AM
Large Scale:
Paxton (He was listed on Bachmann UK's website with a similar product number to LS Diesel, however it was removed after I had made a topic about it here, which was also removed so to me Paxton is pretty much confirmed for 2021).
If Shadow Monk is onto the right trail, then it's likely we'll see Paxton announced, since Diesel seems to be coming along nicely.

Outside of that, I'd expect some kind of wagon recolour. I think if we are to see a new tooling, we can maybe expect Henrietta to appear on the announcements - goes perfectly with Toby, and can be recoloured for Hannah later down the line too. Though I'd say that it's just as, if not more likely that we could see the Red Coaches (composite and brake). I sincerely hope, and also don't think (given they seem to be seeing diminishing returns, to my knowledge) that we won't see a regular old recolour of an already existing item in the catalogue.

Resin Buildings:
I think these are a stretch, and if they do get announced, we probably wouldn't see them until the end of the year, maybe even 2021, but I do sincerely hope we see more back in the range at some point. If we do see a batch of them announced, I think I agree with the suggestions by TerrenceTheTractor525, suggested below:
Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on September 12, 2020, 04:35:48 PM
Ffarquhar Station
Retaining Wall
Narrow Gauge Double Engine Shed
Neptune Refreshments
Hopefully, we will see one more batch of new buildings down the line :).
Though I'd maybe switch out Neptune's Refreshments for another building, not sure what, though the Season 4 Castle Ruins proved popular a few years ago when the conversation came up, so we could maybe expect those, if we are to get any resin buildings. Alternatively, Toby's Shed would also be a suitable replacement.

Wrapping Up:
I don't expect much for next year, and if we are to see announcements, I expect the larger ones to come in the mid-year ones. Especially given the outstanding items from last year's announcements. If we do get some new announcements - outside of recolours - I think we'd most of them to be arriving in 2022, maybe one or two by the end of 2021.

I know I haven't addressed Sir Handel in much detail, or Stepney, but my reasons for desiring to see those two made, mirror most other people's desires - such as Chaz and Terrence's. I don't really see Bachmann in a rush to announce those two, with them already behind on a few other large announcements as it is. And with Covid production delays, I really wouldn't see those two being ready until the end of 2022, maybe even 2023 - especially Sir Handel, given the length of time Rheneas, Rusty, and Peter Sam have all taken. Stepney may be more likely for the end of 2021, or end of 2022.

I would really like to see in future, Stepney, along with the original 6 Narrow Gauge engines finished off. I'd love to see the red express coaches reintroduced for those who missed them the first time. The rolling stock suggestions in this thread for the Narrow Gauge range have also been absolutely on point. I'd be especially keen to see the Narrow Gauge coal wagons, D-Fusit van, Brown Brakevan, and Green open coach. Basically, almost all of what has been suggested...

The resin buildings kind of feel like wishful thinking to me at this point, but who knows, maybe a couple could at least be seen at the NMRA mid year announcements. If not, then I hope we could see something akin to the range listed, for the 2022 announcements. I don't expect any new engine for Large Scale, except maybe Paxton because of the leak Shadow Monk mentioned. But outside of that, any hopes for Edward, Mavis, or any other engine, would likely have to wait until 2022. Even though I don't collect that particular range, I would just like to mention that I really do hope we can see Edward and Mavis released for it. Hopefully even Bill and Ben down the line somewhere. Though I think Duck's wheelbase may be a bit prohibitive for us to see him join the line up, unfortunately.

And to briefly touch on the idea of further recolours in the HO range (and possibly LS range one day too), I find myself agreeing with the suggestions put forth by Terrence, I'd be interested to see all those, especially Toby's museum coach, and I'd most likely consider picking up some of the trucks too, if they had model era faces, like Chaz suggested. Somewhat related, if we are to see more troublesome trucks in future, I do hope Bachmann and the licence holder will take heed of the negative feedback to the most recent troublesome truck announcement, and hopefully produce ones more closely based off the model era, but any time before the BWBA era would really be okay with most of us, I feel. Even though model era would be preferred.

I realise I must sound like a broken record here, but I'm trying not to get myself too amped up for next year's announcements, especially when so many of this year's still sit unfulfilled. But there's a quick summary of what I expect for next year's announcements, which is different to what I hope for next year's announcements - I hope I made that distinction clear enough - combined with a bit of what I expect, but also a bit of what I hope, we can see in future.

Regardless, to anyone out there who may be reading this, if you've taken the time to read this all, thank you very much if you have, but even if you've just skimmed this, I thank you very much for the time you've taken to read what you could manage of this long post. Stay safe out there everybody, the pandemic isn't over yet, I hope you're all doing well.
~Alex
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: max.schmidt.99 on December 20, 2020, 01:12:30 PM
So, I am new to this forum.

But what I want to say is, I know that you already have some releases planned for next year.

It would be nice to see more releases in the future like 2022 and so on. I recently looked on some Fandom wiki page, and thought that more engines were in the process of being made. But it turns out it was false information and not actually confirmed.

Those HO scale engines were:
For standard gauge:
Boco,
Derek,
Stepney

For Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Duncan
Duke
Smudger

I wondered if it was true. But I realized you can't always trust a fandom page. But those list of engines for the future would be interesting to see. I understand that you can only do so much at a time.

I'm not sure if anyone else had suggested these for layer down the line. Maybe 2024 and so on.

All for HO and N scale:
Standard gauge engines:
Arthur,
Murdoch,
D261,
Harvey,
Fergus,
Molly,
Neville,
Dennis,
Whiff,
Billy,
Hank,
Flora,
Stanley

Narrow gauge engines:
Fearless Freddie,
Mighty Mac,
Bertram,

Miniature gauge engines:
Mike,
Rex,
Bert,

Standard gauge rolling stock:
Tan coaches,
Old coaches,
More troublesome trucks,
Breakdown crane,
Sodor unit coach,
Rocky

Narrow gauge rolling stock:
Red coaches with faces,
Blue coaches with faces,
White and green coaches with faces,
Flatbeds,
Narrow gauge breakdown crane,

Road vehicles:
Elizabeth,
Trevor,
Bulgy,
George,
Caroline,
Thumper,
Butch,
Madge,
Jack,
Alfie,

Air vehicles:
Tiger Moth,

Water vehicles:
Bulstrode

Cranes:
Colin

And overall, these are just suggestions. There's a lot of possibilities for the future. Really hoping some of these could be made.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Angelob6660 on December 21, 2020, 02:28:59 PM
My wishlist for future content.

Second release of James' coaches
Troublesome Truck 7 being a ventilation van
Recolor Mail van in brown
Recolor tank car in silver (far fetched)

Narrow Gauge

Flatcar
Truck
Recolor Brake van in brown
Recolor Ventilation Van in brown

Sir Handle or Duncan for 2022
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on January 01, 2021, 03:21:32 PM
2020... what a crazy year it's been.  The 2021 announcements should be interesting as we are not only still in a pandemic but we are still waiting on lots of previous engine announcements from 2019/2020.  I was debating on posting a new updated list, but my thoughts are mostly the same as earlier with some minor changes.

2020 was the first year with no new HO rolling stock announcements, and troublesome truck #6 is still not out yet.  I honestly wouldn't be surprised if the only announcements we got mostly consisted of rolling stock since Daisy and the Origin James are not out yet.  Looking back at Terence's post I really like the idea of Thomas and James' trucks getting announced if they came with new faces from the model era, or even Toby's museum coaches since it's one of the few pieces of non-classic rolling stock that doesn't look too wacky or over the top.  Hopefully a new engine will be announced either later this year or 2022.  Stepney is on top of the list for many (myself included), and it's unlikely that will change anytime soon.

Narrow gauge is a little hard to tell since both Peter Sam and the brake vans haven't received any updates yet.  I'm still very hopeful for Sir Handel though since there seems to be a really clear demand for him and he would be the best candidate after Peter Sam.

N Scale is probably the only range I really have the most hope for since James is the only thing not out yet.  I could definitely see some more rolling stock announcements for that range too, maybe even another new engine.  Toby seems to be the most likely based on Bachmann's track record with other ranges.  I can also see them introducing a Christmas set for the N scale range, but there isn't a lot of rolling stock options to choose from right now aside from redecorating Annie and Clarabel and making a snowplow for the N scale Thomas?  A little bit of a long shot but I would really like to see Thomas' snowplow made in N scale too.

As for large scale, Paxton seems to be the most likely choice for this year.  I do hope that range does get some more decent rolling stock though.  Maybe Henrietta or the red coaches?

Either way I'm curious to know if anyone else's thoughts have changed as we are getting closer to Toy Fair.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on January 02, 2021, 02:50:06 PM
Laying down my guesses on what we may see through the year.

HO Scale:
In terms of a new engine, it's a very fickle subject to undertake. Even for smaller engines like Stepney and Ryan, a new tooling would be too expensive all-around to undertake in 2021. Taking into account there's a lot that Bachmann has had to handle as a whole over the past year and that Daisy & Origins James still need to be handled, Bachmann is best off giving themselves a break from a new engine this year and sticking with reintroductions of past rolling stock.

Narrow Gauge:

N Scale:

Large Scale:
With Diesel still in production, I'm not expecting a whole lot from this category, but I'll still list what I hope to see in the future.

Other options I'm open to seeing:
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: plas man on January 02, 2021, 04:52:15 PM
I model both N and HO (not Thomas) my local shop (in UK) has a Thomas set (HO) in stock and its very tempting so when they open on Tuesday ......

happy modeling guy's for 2021
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on January 02, 2021, 05:22:09 PM
Happy New Year everyone! There is no doubt that 2020 was a hectic year for us, but I am optimistic for 2021 nonetheless. With that stated, it is hard to believe that we are only one month away from seeing what will be announced for this year. I agree that this year's batch will mostly consist of recolors. However, here's hoping that the announced products will still be exciting additions. My current predictions:

HO Scale
Stepney, Chocolate Covered Percy, or Jack Frost Percy (with moving eyes)
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach

Narrow Gauge
Brake Van- Brown

N Scale
Toby
S.C.Ruffey
Tidmouth Milk Tanker
Spiteful Brake Van (utilizing Graham Farish Tooling)

Large Scale
Paxton (with moving eyes)
Troublesome Van

There are many other rolling stock recolors for HO that have been previously mentioned that I would love to see such as the Circus Train and Toby's Museum Coach, but stating all of them in one list would be excessive.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Zekeism on January 04, 2021, 01:54:45 PM
If we got repaints, I would love to see scrapped Oliver and Toad.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: FfarquharStudios on January 05, 2021, 08:49:22 AM
Happy New Year Everyone I Hope Everyone Has A Wonderful 2021
Because Of The Pandemic Im Not Sure What Bachmann Plans Will Be So Instead I'll List A Wish List Of What I Would Like To See In BachMann 2021

HO Scale > Stepney
                 Re-Release Of Salty

Also Since The Magic Railroad Made 20 Years Last Year It Would Be Cool
To See "Splatter & Dodge" Especially Since They Already Have The Tooling
For It And Alot Of People Would Buy Them

Narrow Gauge > Sir Handel or Duncan
                         Red Coaches
                         The Refreshment Lady Stand Coach
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: clrp5150 on January 05, 2021, 08:15:11 PM
I don't know if they will make Stepney. On one hand, it would be extremely pleasing to the fans, given how much the Hornby one sells for on eBay. However, they probably wouldn't be able to get permission from Mattel, because of how much they seem to want to erase the history of the series, just like schools want to erase the US Civil War. On the other hand, it was a big surprise when they reintroduced Duck into the series, and we got a Bachmann model of him right before then, and I'm very glad they did it then because it would be weird to see him in his CGI form instead of model series. I remember someone else saying this somewhere else, but I just want to state it again. Also, they have their hands full at the moment, just having released 2 new versions of James, LBSC Thomas, and the upcoming Daisy, so if we were to see him, it would probably be in a couple years.

I'm pretty split on them rereleasing Salty. I already have one in pretty good condition, so if I ever decided to sell him, I could make quite a bit of money. On the other hand, if mine breaks, it would be pretty hard to get a new one.

I'm 100% sure they won't make Splatter and Dodge for a couple reasons.
1) T&TMRR came out 21 years ago now so there would be no significance whatsoever for them making them
2) IMO they would sell terribly. T&TMRR marks their only appearance to date, making them very insignificant. Also, they don't have much of a personality, making them non-fan favorites, so they wouldn't make much money.
3) Their design is actually somewhat different to the other Class 08s (no handrails) so Bachmann would just need to make minor adjustments to them, but still, it would be a waste of money.

I feel like Sir Handel will be the next HoN30 character they make, but we'll likely have to wait until Peter Sam is released. I'm not looking forward to Duncan, because as much as I love his character and would want a model of him, his CGI render looks hideous and if they do make him I would probably not get him (I haven't gotten any of the other Skarloey Railway products yet, but I'm planning to get some within the next year or two). The Red Coaches have already been made, albeit in their CGI form, so I'm pretty sure they won't make pre-CGI versions. The refreshment stand lady coach was in about 5 episodes and I wouldn't expect them to make it until the make other one-off coaches such as Toby's Museum Coach, which will probably not happen in the next 5 years.

Scrap repaints of Oliver and Toad would be nice but not likely, and I don't have the normal versions of either characters yet so I would probably hold off on getting those editions for quite a while. Even so, I wouldn't expect them to sell very well.

I wouldn't be surprised at Chocolate Covered or Jack Frost Percy at this point because of Busy Bee James. Maybe Bee James could be a test to see if random recolors of engines like that will sell very well, but if I were Bachmann I probably would have gone with pre-Crewe or Blue Henry first.

New Red Express Coaches would be great and would probably sell very well, and if they did get rereleased, I would get them ASAP. I can't think of any reason for Bachmann to not do that.

I would probably expect them to make either more or less NG rolling stock than just a brown brake van, but it's possible.

In normal N scale, I would expect 1 or 2 of the following: Henry, Gordon, Toby, Emily and Diesel. As for rolling stock, I would expect a Tidmouth Milk Tanker, Scruffey, and maybe a couple other items, such as some open wagons or more tankers.

In Large Scale I don't know if they would do Paxton or not. They just released him in HO scale like 2 years ago, and to my knowledge, he hasn't been selling the best. However, it would be pretty easy to just recolor Diesel's moulding and make a new face like they did in HO. Mavis is also possible, and although I don't collect G scale Edward would be nice to see, but they completely missed out on the timing and now it's impossible due to his recent absence in the show. Henry and Gordon will probably not get made either, Gordon due to being too big and Henry for the same reasons as both Edward and Gordon.

I would be very happy with a tar tanker reintroduction, and again, I can't think of any reason for Bachmann not to do it.

Green carriages would be fun for the NG line, but I really don't know if they would make them or not.

Normal N scale Ventilated and Brake Vans would be possible, but no likely IMO. The normal Brake Van is discontinued in both Ho and G scales, so they might not do it at all and make the Spiteful Brake Van or Toad instead. I also have this gut feeling that the Ventilated Van will be discontinued in HO pretty soon, especially since they still haven't updated the picture of it in the catalog or released in G scale.

Bill & Ben in G scale wouldn't be too terribly hard for them, and if they made them they would probably also do Duck for the same reasons. I'm kinda surprised they haven't made the Red Coaches or Troublesome Trucks 3 and 4 yet, and I would expect them to make them pretty soon.


Man, I spent a lot of time on that. Happy belated New Years!
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on January 06, 2021, 01:21:39 PM
Quote from: cp5150 on January 05, 2021, 08:15:11 PM
I'm 100% sure they won't make Splatter and Dodge for a couple reasons.
1) T&TMRR came out 21 years ago now so there would be no significance whatsoever for them making them
2) IMO they would sell terribly. T&TMRR marks their only appearance to date, making them very insignificant. Also, they don't have much of a personality, making them non-fan favorites, so they wouldn't make much money.
3) Their design is actually somewhat different to the other Class 08s (no handrails) so Bachmann would just need to make minor adjustments to them, but still, it would be a waste of money.
I agree on that notion. I like Magic Railroad as much as the next guy, but even I think it would be a bad idea for Bachmann to make anything from that since it wouldn't pay off for the long run. The mentioned duo never appeared again at all after the movie and the last time Bachmann made a diesel duo (Arry & Bert) didn't end well, so there isn't much of a reason to make them in the first place.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on January 06, 2021, 10:42:18 PM
We're just over a month away from the Toy Fair. Good chance this year's announcements will be underwhelming. Origin James was supposed to get released in December, but must have been delayed likely due to COVID. Will HO Scale Daisy, HOn30 Scale Peter Sam, N Scale James, and Large Scale Diesel (fully painted) finally get revealed this Toy Fair? Only time will tell. Anyway, here are my predictions and hopes:

HO Scale:
Stepney (unlikely, but will be amazing if he's announced)
Sidney
Ventilated Van - Explosives
Toffee Tanker
Chocolate Syrup Tanker
Red Express Coach
Red Express Brake Coach
Oil Tanker Troublesome Truck #6 - Sodor (unlikely, but after how this truck was received, a Sodor version should happen in the near future)

HOn30 Scale/Narrow Gauge:
Sir Handel
Green Carriage
Brake Van - Brown

N Scale:
Toby
Henrietta
Milk Tanker
S.C. Ruffey
Ventilated Van
Brake Van

Large Scale:
Bill
Ben
Paxton (more likely than previous two)
Red Coach
Red Brake Coach

May get updated again close to the time the announcements do get posted. I wouldn't expect an N Scale Christmas Thomas set until more rolling stock options are available there.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on January 07, 2021, 01:21:31 PM
Just seen this on my news feed earlier. The Toy Fair 2021 has indeed been cancelled. I'm guessing any new products will now be in the 2021 catalogue and possibly trainworld might do another live stream showing new products
https://comicbook.com/irl/amp/news/toy-fair-new-york-2021-cancelled/?__twitter_impression=true (https://comicbook.com/irl/amp/news/toy-fair-new-york-2021-cancelled/?__twitter_impression=true)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: JLK2707 on January 07, 2021, 06:05:53 PM
I just hope that the tar tanker wagon will be brought back to HO scale as troublesome truck #7. Also cp5150, why is Mattel just so desperate to erase the history of Thomas and friends from season 1-24? Also, what do you think of the season 25 reboot? Will you be watching any episodes or do they sound just too corny for your enjoyment?
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: clrp5150 on January 08, 2021, 06:59:21 PM
I totally forgot about Sidney. He's a possibility, but not likely, as Arry and Bert were discontinued quite early and I'm betting on Paxton getting discontinued in the next 3 years or so.

Mattel just wants to delete the model series. I don't know why, however.

As for your question, I will likely watch the first episode and decide if I want to watch the rest, just like I did with BWBA.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on January 08, 2021, 09:19:07 PM
Quote from: Mulfred100 on January 07, 2021, 01:21:31 PM
Just seen this on my news feed earlier. The Toy Fair 2021 has indeed been cancelled. I'm guessing any new products will now be in the 2021 catalogue and possibly trainworld might do another live stream showing new products
https://comicbook.com/irl/amp/news/toy-fair-new-york-2021-cancelled/?__twitter_impression=true (https://comicbook.com/irl/amp/news/toy-fair-new-york-2021-cancelled/?__twitter_impression=true)

Most likely the case.  The catalog always comes out roughly around the time of Toy Fair, so I imagine we will probably know the announcements this year around late February.  Any earlier than that would either be if InsideTrack decides to post announcement threads again (which he didn't last year understandably since the catalog was "leaked" on Twitter), or if we get a Trainworld stream showcasing the new announcements then. 

Hopefully it's the latter since those are a more fun way to learn about the new announcements since we would more likely get pictures/illustrations of the newly announced products in the stream in addition to potential photo updates for previously released products.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: JLK2707 on January 09, 2021, 08:19:50 AM
Hey cp5051, does Mattel want to delete the history of both the model and CGI series?
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: RailwayRoundhouse on January 10, 2021, 09:09:20 AM
Here's my predictions for the 2021 announcements:

HO Scale:
Another Engine Varient (Chocolate Crunch Percy, Tar Covered James, etc)
Reintroduced Red Express Coaches
Troublesome Truck 7

Narrow Gauge:
Brown Brakevan

N Scale:
Scruffy
Tidmouth Milk Tanker

Large Scale:
Paxton

That's really it from me. Unfortunately with the ongoing problem that is the coronavirus, I find it unlikely that there will be any new toolings like Stepney or Sir Handel. Fingers crossed that those two engines are made in the future. Despite some not particularly liking the Busy Bee James model, I feel the different engine varients can really sell well if done right. There's many that can be done such as a Silver Spencer or a Dirty Percy or even a Old Shape Henry one day. I also hope we get an update on Daisy and Peter Sam sooner rather then later. It would be great to see some pictures of them, even if they aren't painted yet.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: liljakejake250 on January 10, 2021, 11:07:38 PM
I don't really dabble in N or G Scale stuff, and I don't plan on getting any narrow gauge stuff until after more stuff comes out for it, so I'll skip those and go straight to the HO. For me, Stepney would definitely be cool! However, I'm most interested in the classic series engines that would be seen working on the island everyday as part of the main branchlines: Ffarquhar, Brendam, and Little Western. So, again, while some of the other classic series characters, such as Arthur, Harvey, Murdoch etc., would be cool, I'm not really chomping at the bit for those as much. Although, Murdoch would be insanely cool!!! Anyway, I'm just looking for them to fill out the rest of the main classic series characters, after which the afore mentioned would definitely be of great interest to me.

Locos:

BoCo, my #1 hope FOR ME

As for rolling stock, I think some more variety in van toolings would be great, so not just repaints of the ventilated van, but more like fish vans or others seen in the yard or in goods trains like the Flying Kipper. Also, I'd love for them to bring the well wagon back, and maybe begin a line of loads for the rolling stock sold separately, like oil drums, stacks of lumber, pipe loads, and other stuff like that as seen in the series. I know some of these are available elsewhere, but its just a thought. The Old Branchline Coaches as seen in Edward and Gordon would be nice, although I highly doubt that one. And as I have seen many others say, the red express coaches would be very nice as well. Also, the china clay wagons from the classic series would be very nice as well!
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: clrp5150 on January 11, 2021, 04:05:25 PM
I totally forgot about BoCo. He is probably about as likely as Stepney IMO, which isn't very much. Each character Bachmann has made has appeared in the TV show at least 4 years before their model was released, but Stepney hasn't been featured in an episode since 2009 and BoCo hasn't appeared since season 5. I wouldn't expect them soon, but it's possible because it would be extremely pleasing to fans.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Angelob6660 on January 11, 2021, 08:07:23 PM
Quote from: JLK2707 on January 07, 2021, 06:05:53 PM
I just hope that the tar tanker wagon will be brought back to HO scale as troublesome truck #7. Also cp5150, why is Mattel just so desperate to erase the history of Thomas and friends from season 1-24? Also, what do you think of the season 25 reboot? Will you be watching any episodes or do they sound just too corny for your enjoyment?

Since I returned in season 16 during the Shannon Miller era. I been struggling watching the newer episodes from season 12 and newer current BWBA ones.

I'll try but Thomas seems watered down for my taste. I'll wait and see.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Spaceman224456 on January 11, 2021, 11:09:17 PM
I might be a little late on this but here's what I would want to be revealed this year

HO/OO engines
Stepney
Salty reintroduction

Rolling stock
Red express coaches reintroduction
Orange coaches
Explosives Vans
Scrap Trucks

Non-rail vehicles
Trevor
Bulgy

Resin buildings??
Great Waterton Station, pedestrian bridges, and water tower
Tidmouth hault/ the seaside station

Narrow gauge engine
Sir Handel

Narrow gauge rolling stock
Red Narrow Gauge coaches (with face)
Green and cream narrow gauge coaches
Troublesome slate trucks

N scale engines
Mavis
Toby
Edward?

N scale rolling stock
Idk red branch line coaches
Express coaches?
Troublesome trucks 3-5

Others
Snowplows (Donald and Douglas)

That's about it really.  It's more of a wish list than a prediction list...
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: BGM Reviews on January 12, 2021, 04:38:08 PM
Since we are probably getting close to the reveal (hopefully in the Trainworld stream on the 27th) I thought I'd give my predictions for 2021.

HO/OO Scale
Sidney
Stepney or Ryan

Rolling Stock
Explosive Van
Toby's Museum Coach
BMQ Wagon

I'm not sure what else they could release but I would like to see some other resin buildings, my biggest home is Ffarquhar Station.

Narrow Gauge
Sir Handel

Narrow Gauge Rolling Stock
BMQ Open Wagon
Green and Cream Coaches

I think having a Blue Mountain Quarry open wagon in both HO and Narrow Gauge would make sense to me.

Large Scale
Mavis

Rolling Stock
Henrietta
Red Coaches

N Scale
Gordon/Henry

Rolling Stock
Troublesome Truck #3
Express Coaches (Red or Green)

Although I don't collect either Large or N scale I though I'd give my thoughts on what we might see.

I still would like to see an HO/OO BoCo or Derek but those seem quite unlikely.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TerencetheTractor525 on January 17, 2021, 12:07:51 PM
It seems that the Thomas motorized line just revealed a new troublesome tanker that will be part of a new Percy Takes the Plunge pack:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net//ttte/images/3/34/MotorizedPercyTakesthePlunge.png/revision/latest?cb=20210117142558)

Ironically, Percy and the troublesome wagon have CGI faces, but the face of the troublesome tanker is based on one of the faces from Toad Stands By, a model series episode, and it looks absolutely stunning!

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/8f/ToadStandsBy75.png/revision/latest?cb=20150402005107)

Fans have already suggested it for a future Troublesome Truck #7: https://twitter.com/SodorRyModeler/status/1350846386359726083

I'm all for it!
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on January 17, 2021, 06:30:44 PM
Now THAT I would buy in a heartbeat!  I wouldn't be wild about the color but that would be an easy fix. 
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Rodimus Supreme on January 17, 2021, 07:18:13 PM
Quote from: TerencetheTractor525 on January 17, 2021, 12:07:51 PM
It seems that the Thomas motorized line just revealed a new troublesome tanker that will be part of a new Percy Takes the Plunge pack:

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net//ttte/images/3/34/MotorizedPercyTakesthePlunge.png/revision/latest?cb=20210117142558)

Ironically, Percy and the troublesome wagon have CGI faces, but the face of the troublesome tanker is based on one of the faces from Toad Stands By, a model series episode, and it looks absolutely stunning!

(https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/8/8f/ToadStandsBy75.png/revision/latest?cb=20150402005107)

Fans have already suggested it for a future Troublesome Truck #7: https://twitter.com/SodorRyModeler/status/1350846386359726083

I'm all for it!
I am SHOCKED! A Model Series face. I might actually buy that. Also, a well-known fan that makes fan content who goes by "TurtlesAndThomas" seems to have indicated on Twitter that he's been working on something that might be involving Mattel themselves and be something great for fan relations. Take that with a grain of salt, though.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Rodimus Supreme on January 17, 2021, 07:24:15 PM
Another thought. A number of people have asked for an HO/OO Scale Toffee Tanker, which is orange, just like this truck. Perhaps Bachmann will do the Toffee Tanker design as a Troublesome Tanker using this face?
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Rodimus Supreme on January 17, 2021, 08:57:31 PM
Just saw that Bachmann responded to some fan speculation of a Troublesome Tanker based on that Trackmaster one from them in a cheeky way. Looks like it might be on the table.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Toad139 on January 18, 2021, 12:26:53 AM
The face on the motorized line wagon looks absolutely great! It is more in line with what I was hoping for when Bachmann announced Troublesome Truck #6, and I think tanker with a face like that would be great for a future troublesome truck model. I've suggested in the past that making a tanker with a classic face would be the perfect way to bring the TAR tanker back into the range, and I still stand by that, but the face is definitely the most important aspect. As long as it has a proper classic series face, the livery doesn't matter all to much to me.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: plas man on January 21, 2021, 12:11:57 PM
not into Thomas but looking thru' Hornby (UK) new loco for 2021 - as they used to manufacture Thomas (you know the rest  ;D )

I notice they have used both the 4 and 6 wheel Thomas loco as industrial loco's and Percy also been used as a industrial loco

that's manufacturers - get rid of existing stock ,

happy modeling guy's
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Spaceman224456 on January 21, 2021, 12:22:38 PM
Alright bois, there is a Thomas specific Bachmann presentation with trainworld on February 16th at 6:00pm! This begs the question, is there going to be Bachmann Thomas stuff in the presentation on Wednesday...
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on January 21, 2021, 01:08:38 PM
The event actually takes place on the 18th. Official announcement below:
https://twitter.com/Trainworld/status/1352303098446962691

Regardless, I'm fairly excited it. We've been needing updates on certain products for a while now, and this event serves a good opportunity to make the forum active again after some time of frequent inactivity. Anyone who wants to reiterate their expectations before the event are welcome.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Spaceman224456 on January 21, 2021, 04:34:40 PM
Quote from: Falcon the 2nd on January 21, 2021, 01:08:38 PM
The event actually takes place on the 18th. Official announcement below:
https://twitter.com/Trainworld/status/1352303098446962691

Regardless, I'm fairly excited it. We've been needing updates on certain products for a while now, and this event serves a good opportunity to make the forum active again after some time of frequent inactivity. Anyone who wants to reiterate their expectations before the event are welcome.

I just realized the screw up on the date of the event, but yes I am excited too!!
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: clrp5150 on January 21, 2021, 06:40:29 PM
Seriously though, does anyone know if there will be anything Thomas-related revealed in their livestream at the end of January? I was really hoping so. I'll watch it regardless, but I'll be a bit disappointed if there isn't any Thomas stuff.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Spaceman224456 on January 21, 2021, 06:43:44 PM
So I'll go first for what I expect from the feb 18th presentation.

HO/OO scale
A reveal of Daisy's physical model, plus a reveal of a new tooling and red express coaches reintroduction.  The new tooling is a bit up in the air but will be Stepney, Ryan, Stanley, or maybe BoCo (keyword Maybe).  I also feel that they might reintroduce salty but only time will tell.  I also think we will be getting some new rolling stock like toffee tanker or the explosives van, IDK just a a a piece of rolling stock that is in g scale but not HO scale.

Narrow Gauge
Like HO/OO, a reveal of Peter Sam's physical model, plus a new tooling, and some new rolling stock.  I think that Sir Handel is an almost guarantee pick at this point since he is the only one missing from 1-5.  For rolling stock, the troublesome slate trucks and the Green and Cream Coaches would be fitting.

N scale
I am not the person when it comes to other scales besides HO/OO so bear with me,
I think they would reveal, N scale James and the green express coaches and that's about it really.

Large Scale
Same deal like with HO/OO.  A full reveal of LS Diesel, a new tooling, and some rolling stock.  I think the new tooling would be either Paxton or Mavis.  The rolling stock would be the red branch line coaches and troublesome truck #5.

Longshots/wants
Here's where we get into my wants that I don't see happening but want regardless.

I'd want some new resin buildings like, great waterton station, great waterton pedestrian bridge, great waterton tower, the seaside station/tidmouth hault, and Farquhar sheds.

I think that some new accessories would be good like some snowplows for the other engines, name boards, etc.

So that's what I predict/want for the Feb 18th presentation.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Hilux5972 on January 22, 2021, 06:07:34 PM
I'll be happy if we see an EP of Daisy. Don't care about seeing anything else really lol.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Metal on January 23, 2021, 09:06:27 PM
OK I guess I'll post my thoughts after some time.

For the HO/OO Engines.

Stepney

A well-loved classic for fans such as myself, and by railfans. with his character, RWS, TV show, and real life basis. Even when Hornby released a fleet of Terriers a couple years ago with Stepney's real life counterpart, it was fastest seller compared to Fenchruch or Brighton.  So, he's the obvious choice for a classic character.

Ryan
A character that perhaps is the most normal looking engine seen in a while. He feels like a character that would fit in the classic series. Also given they brought Daisy back into the show, they paired her up with Ryan, and brought out perhaps a great character dynamic in the show. There's a reason why he has quite an appeal, and with Daisy being officially a Bachmann model it was given quite a demand. A unique but very subtle livery that would bring color contrast.  If you have Duck then you need Oliver, it's pretty the same case with Ryan to Daisy.

Hiro

A character with depth, a very elegant design, a subtle livery that helps him naturally integrate into the Thomas universe. Japan which is a high market for Thomas, and they even have a life sized Hiro for their DOWT events.  Also add that his basis is the most iconic locomotive. An international engine that is very well received by fans, both young and old. If they're going to consider another tender engine, Hiro would be a far more reasonable choice than let's say Rebecca. He's also an international character that is better received than Nia.


Ryan and Hiro are perhaps the most appealing CGI characters for the Bachmann range. Since Paxton has proven to tick with older fans


There are a few characters I like such as Merlin, Frankie and Hurricane, decent characters with interesting designs, but they haven't made enough prominence in the show to earn their candidacy.


Even great characters such as Stephen or Marion that are well received, but too gimmicky in design for Bachmann. Maybe, Stephen as a Large Scale Engine?


While, I do have personal preference for characters such as Charlie and Rebecca, solely because they have great designs and basis. Especially Rebecca because I'm really a fan of Bulleid Pacifics. However, they obviously won't fare well in the Bachmann Range, mostly due to being highly unpopular characters. (even though Rebecca is supposedly a main character).  


A Great Basis and Design Doesn't Save a Bad Character


Narrow Gauge

Sir Handel

Even though Duncan is my favorite NG character the proportions of his CGI model throw me off a bit. Sir Handel had no personality in the CGI Era, his classic episodes make up for it. It would make up the first 4.

Maybe after the 6 NG Engines.......Victor?? A diversity character that's well received just like Hiro.
Perhaps be a tossup between Duke, Victor, or Luke?

N Scale

Emily

I honestly think that is the inevitable choice. After Thomas, Percy, and James, I feel that the most essential character would be Emily. Obviously the most prominent female character in the whole franchise. I feel that including Emily in the range is something mandatory.

After Emily, maybe.....Gordon?

Overall there are my thoughts.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Hilux5972 on January 24, 2021, 08:50:31 PM
I really don't see Rebecca coming out any time soon. Given how new she is, and that she effectively kicked out one of the original characters, I don't think she would be popular with fans of the original series. Plenty of other more important characters to do first, Boco for one!
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on January 25, 2021, 10:52:44 AM
I'm hopeful that at the least we'll have an update on Daisy and Peter Sam, hopefully some final painted prototypes if not at the least the EPs. Same for the NG brakevans, hopefully get a look at what they'll actually look like at the least.
New announcement wise?
Not really sure, for the main range Ryan is a pretty likely choice for the next new tooled engine, has a lot going for him. Otherwise, maybe the red express coaches also being reintroduced, almost certainly some "new" rolling stock(either new variants or a new ex-Mainline tooling being introduced). And throwing Sidney out there cause cheap and easy reuse of the 08 tooling.
Now the narrow gauge range: As mentioned before, updates on Peter Sam and the brakevans are expected but otherwise? It's a bit up in the air. Now I hope and pray for Sir Handel but Bachmann don't tend to announce new NG engines until the previously announced one has been released, so we'll have to wait and see. Now i do think there'll likely be some sort of new NG rolling stock, what'll be i can't even begin to guess cause there's a wealth of options from both the show and the Talyllyn(+Corris).
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Plow_Bender on January 25, 2021, 08:06:27 PM
Seeing as we are still waiting for several announcements from 2020 and even 2019 for that matter, I don't really expect to see any new tooling's announced this year.  I'm also doubtful that we'll see a lot of new items announced for the same reasons.  That being said, I honestly think Bachmann should take advantage of recolors they could do, and recolors that people would actually want unlike some of the mediocre ideas Mattel has pushed for.  Now I don't see everything on my list happening, but I do think there are a few ideas here that should be considered as I know some have requested them in the past.  I'll begin with suggestions for HO.

HO:

Sidney:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b7/Sidneypromo.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20160428004942)

I remember several people brought up that when Paxton came out in 2018, that Bachmann should hold off making Sidney for another time.  Not only was it too early for another Class 08 character, but Sidney seemed better for a time when Bachmann couldn't make a new tooling.  Well, now is about as good a time as any I think.  While an easy model to produce with a tooling already being there, I'm not sure how popular Sidney would be.  He really hasn't seen a lot of screen time as of late, and the last time (at least to my knowledge) he was really in the spotlight was back in Season 20.  Another issue I can foresee is that many people were critical over how Bachmann did the face for Paxton, and granted the same may happen with Sidney.  I still have to laugh at how some people whined about how bad the model supposedly was, yet still went out and bought it though.  Clearly if Bachmann does Sidney there would be issues with the face in terms of scaling, but would it really be that bad?  Overall I think that given the current circumstances and the fact that Sidney would still probably do well in terms of sales, it's a model Bachmann should consider for 2021.

Chocolate Covered Percy:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/9/98/Percy%27sChocolateCrunch59.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/840?cb=20190430015958)

Since we've seen various engine recolors over the last 5 years, I think a variation of Percy would be a good choice for the next one.  Percy's Chocolate Crunch has been a favorite of mine from the classic series and when also considering this is a theme Mattel has continued  to released in various merchandise to this day, it just makes the most sense in my opinion.  It would be easy for Bachmann just to add some chocolate brown paint to the existing Percy with no need to do anything else.  I know some have suggested the Jack Frost Percy, but the only downside with that is the ice would require additional tooling.  I think a Chocolate Covered Percy would be a simpler model to produce and take less time.  I was also going to suggest for Bachmann to make the sugar cars, but then again I myself don't really see where they would be a desirable piece of rolling stock.  Then again, maybe these would be a great idea to release alongside a Chocolate Covered Percy, but I'm getting off topic.

Blue Henry:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/4e/Edward%2CGordon%26HenryRS8.PNG/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/926?cb=20100812051623)

Now while this is one I think has a very slim chance, at the same time it's also one I have seen requested in the past and I'm sure many wouldn't mind seeing become reality.  It's easy just to take Henry's tooling and paint it blue, maybe even correct some of the color errors on the model while doing so.  I know some want to throw up the argument that Henry was in his old shape when he was blue and Bachmann would have to make a new tooling to compensate for that fact, but we've gone over the old shape Henry topic before.  There has been no merchandise of Henry in his old shape from any range, so there's no need for Bachmann to bother with it either.  The only thing I will say in regards to Bachmann making a blue Henry is that maybe this should have been announced back during the 75th Anniversary, but at the same time Black James isn't going to be available till later this year.  That being said, releasing a blue Henry alongside him would just be another positive.

Toby's Museum Coaches:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/b/b6/TobyFeelsLeftOut89.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20200429194309)

Moving on to rolling stock, I'll begin with Toby's Museum Coach.  This is clearly just a repainted red brake coach from the model era, so again sticking with recolors, it's another simple model for Bachmann to produce.  I'd take things a step further though and also make a normal coach to go along with the brake coach.  As we've seen in the past, rolling stock like this doesn't just sell one of each and most of the time people will buy multiple coaches to make a larger train.  Despite these being referred to as "Toby's" Museum Coaches, these would definitely look great behind another older engine such as Edward.  Some may even say these would be a great substitute for the Old Coaches from Season 1.  Still it may be asking a little much suggesting rolling stock from the model era, but we've seen in the past that Bachmann isn't afraid to go back in time for ideas.

Brown Mail Car (utility van):
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/e/e3/ThomasandtheTrucks32.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20180914230255) (https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/c/c0/UtilityVansModel.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/668?cb=20190104052936)

I can honestly say I don't know why this hasn't been done sooner considering the number of people that have asked for it.  Not many people were impressed with (much less even asked for) the Green Mail Car or the Live Lobsters Car, so I think it's time to announce something that has been requested and that is in demand.  A simple recolor doesn't seem like much, especially considering this has been Bachmann's choice for new rolling stock the last few years, but again this is something people have requested.  If they want to take it a step further, I think Bachmann should also consider the 4 wheel variant of the utility van, although a new tooling for the chassis would probably be required.  Whether they can squeeze that into the budget for 2021, I don't know.  Either way, both of these pieces would prove to be popular sellers.

Narrow Gauge:

Brown Brakevan:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/6/61/ABadDayForSirHandel44.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/995?cb=20170530174019)

Going back to 2020, I was a little surprised Bachmann didn't announce a brown brakevan alongside the red and blue ones.  When looking at the fact that the tooling was already in production, again I'm not sure why this 3rd brakevan was overlooked.  That being the case, I think Bachmann should consider making this for 2021.  There really isn't anything else I can say in regards to this model, but in regards to the Narrow Gauge range itself, I wouldn't expect to see anything such as a new engine being announced considering we've heard nothing on the current status of Peter Sam.  Just a single brakevan recolor may not be much for announcements, but it's something at least.

N Scale:

Toby:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/2/2c/TobyCGIPromo2.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20111113223433)

This is the only new tooling I'll suggest, but I think Toby for N scale would be the best option if Bachmann wants to make another engine character this year.  Despite being a new tooling, Toby is smaller and would not present the same complexity or production cost as characters like Edward, Gordon, Henry, etc.  Toby is also more of a basic shape rather than a combination of multiple shapes and doesn't possess an elaborate valve gear.  In future Toby's chassis can also be reused for Mavis if Bachmann were to make her, so I feel that is another positive to him being announced.  Personally I wouldn't get hopes up for Henrietta in N scale, (at least not anytime soon) considering I feel she may pose the same issue as a Large Scale model of her.  One concern with Toby however is that with still no word on James, Bachmann may pass on announcing a new engine character for 2021, even if Toby would be an easy option.

LBSC Thomas:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/47/LBSCThomaspromo.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20200228094046)

Considering how ecstatic people were over the HO models announcement, this is another one I could see people getting excited about as well.  LBSC Thomas has proved to be a popular seller and the reviews I've seen on the model praise it for being one of Bachmann's best releases for the Thomas line to date.  It's an easy recolor for Bachmann which is sure to pay off in the long run.  When also considering that the N scale line is already CGI era based, it makes even more sense.  The Adventure Beings is by far my favorite Thomas & Friends special of all time as it is for many others, and this along with the 75th Anniversary makes it a desirable model.  Just like I mentioned with the HO Blue Henry though, an N scale LBSC Thomas maybe should have been announced last year, but we didn't even get the normal models of Thomas and Percy till November.  Still I feel this is something for Bachmann to take into consideration for 2021, even if it's a little overdue.  Better late than never, right?

Open Wagons/Trucks:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/3/3e/Main7PlankTrucksCGI.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/867?cb=20181026130145)

Because we already have the Troublesome Trucks in the range, I think it makes sense for Bachmann to do recolors with the existing wagon tooling.  Some announcements I can see are models like the red and blue open wagons, the cargo car, the coal wagon, and basically anything else that is an open wagon.  I can also see Bachmann making S.C. Ruffey basically for the same reasons he was made in all the other ranges out there.  I'm not exactly sure what to say when it comes to other stock like vans and/or other wagons.  Considering Bachmann reused the Graham Farish tooling for the N scale tankers last year, it does have me and many others curious if they will use those tooling's again for other rolling stock.  Anyways, I think if Bachmann can at least announce 3 open wagons for the range this year, I'd say that's a win.

Large Scale:

Paxton:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/4a/Paxtonpromo2.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/588?cb=20201120014348)

I'm not going to say too much on this, other than the fact Paxton seems like a given in my opinion.  His tooling is already there and Large Scale itself is limited on what it can do when it comes to engine characters.  The range has also pushed mostly for recolors over the last 5 years, and when also considering that Diesel (a new tooling) was announced last year, I wouldn't really expect to see another new tooling till 2025.  I will say that if Bachmann does announce Paxton, I would be all for it.  He is a more popular character and his HO model has done well in terms of sales, despite the negative response from some.  Plus with the Class 08 tooling available right now, it would make more sense for Bachmann to do Paxton rather than Arry and Bert considering they were not good sellers in HO, nor did they do well in OO and O for Bachmann's competitors.  Paxton is the best bet hands down.

LBSC Thomas:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/4/47/LBSCThomaspromo.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20200228094046)

This model in particular honestly should have been announced last year during the 75th Anniversary.  Given that an LBSC Thomas is just a simple recolor, releasing it alongside Diesel would have been a good idea, but the model just never appeared.  Still if Bachmann were to do Paxton for 2021, they could easily release an LBSC Thomas alongside him.  Two engine recolors in the same year may be a disappointment in some cases, but I think models such as these would be an exception if released in tandem.  Just like the HO model there was a lot of hype for the LBSC Thomas when it was announced, and I'm sure many Large Scale modelers would go crazy for one as well.  I pretty much said I wasn't getting anymore models after Diesel, but I would definitely make an exception if Bachmann were to announce this for 2021.

Red Coaches:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/1/1d/RedBranchLineCoaches.jpeg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20200809174648)

Over the last half decade or so I've seen many people mention that the red coaches are long overdue in Large Scale.  This is understandable considering they have been one of the most requested rolling stock choices for the range and are relatively simple for Bachmann to do.  All these models would require is reusing the existing Annie/Clarabel tooling and making slight alterations, mainly in regards to the brake coach.  When it comes to the sales on these models, rest assured that they "WILL" sell and in large numbers at that.  Just like their HO counterparts, it's very likely that people would go out and buy more than just one of each, considering they've been seen on trains of up to 4 coaches in some cases.  These would also be great to have behind James, considering chances of Bachmann ever doing the express coaches doesn't seem very likely.  If Bachmann could only do 1 choice of rolling stock for Large Scale this year, the Red Coaches should definitely take priority.

Troublesome Truck #3:
(https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/ttte/images/5/58/MainTroublesomeTankerCGI.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20190730192259)

I brought this idea up a couple years back, but rather than a troublesome tanker, we got 3 boring tankers.  Many people have requested another Troublesome Truck for Large Scale over the years, and while it was a pleasant surprise to see the Spiteful Brakevan in 2017, we need an another actual Troublesome Truck.  As much as I think a van with a face from the model era would be a good idea for Troublesome Truck #3, I'm starting to lean towards a tanker like one ones from Journey Beyond Sodor because I feel this would kill 2 birds with one stone.  There really isn't much that needs to be done here considering these are essentially oil tankers with faces, and Bachmann has already produced the Oil Tanker in the past.  Basically all they would have to do is bring it back and add a face.  This choice not only offers people another Troublesome Truck, but also offers those who missed out on the Oil Tanker (which was only in the range for 3 years...) another chance to add it to their railroad.  I think a troublesome tanker would be a great choice if Bachmann were to do another piece of Large Scale rolling stock.  Just please don't make that awful one from Big World Big Adventures which isn't even seen on Sodor...

So in summary, I think these are all idea's Bachmann should take into consideration for the 2021 announcements.  Again, I don't have high hopes for a lot of new items this year considering we're still waiting on several announcements 2019 and 2020, but I think Bachmann should take advantage of recolors that they could do which are in demand right now.  Another advantage to sticking with simple recolors is that everything that is currently delayed or gets announced this year could potentially be out by Christmas, thus allowing Bachmann to start with a clean slate for the 2022 announcements.  Hopefully by then all the current on goings in the world have ended and we can all get back to our normal lives.  If that's the case, I'm sure we can expect some new tooling's by then, but that's a discussion for another time.

-Rusty
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: clrp5150 on January 27, 2021, 07:16:39 PM
Well, that stream was incredibly disappointing
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Chaz on January 27, 2021, 07:32:31 PM
The highlight of the stream for me without a doubt was the large scale Diesel.  It was really nice seeing him fully painted and he will in no doubt look very sharp once he is released.  A bit bummed the engineering sample for the N scale James was mentioned but not shown, but hopefully it won't be too long until we get a good look at it.

While there was no update on Daisy and/or Peter Sam, Bachmann will be participating in another stream on Saturday and we have the Thomas stream from Trainworld coming in a few weeks, so we at least have those to look forward to. :)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on January 27, 2021, 08:48:49 PM
Could you show a link to the stream, or an image of Large Scale Diesel fully painted?
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on January 27, 2021, 09:51:24 PM
Quote from: TrainFan97 on January 27, 2021, 08:48:49 PM
Could you show a link to the stream, or an image of Large Scale Diesel fully painted?

Here is the stream. Thomas info is shared at the 55-minute mark. It mainly recaps existing products that were recently released, but there is some new information as well.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E6MQvNemZU

Like Chaz, I'm happy to see Diesel coming along nicely. He'll certainly be well worth the wait for any Large Scale modeller. I'm also getting excited for the N Scale James now that its production sample has been mentioned. :)
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Hilux5972 on January 27, 2021, 11:23:52 PM
Gutted nothing about Daisy!
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: plas man on January 28, 2021, 06:40:55 AM
Bachmann get new models out quickly and stop causing confusion and delay  ;D
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TrainFan97 on January 28, 2021, 05:21:54 PM
At least we finally got a glimpse of Large Scale Diesel fully painted. He is likely to be available this spring. Coincidentally, his Large Scale model is releasing 10 years after his HO Scale model.

Hopefully, we'll see N Scale James, HO Scale Daisy, and HOn30 Scale Peter Sam soon enough. Origin James, Troublesome Truck #6, and the 75th Anniversary set are also likely to be available this spring.

Also hopefully, even when we're well into the atrocious upcoming reboot, Bachmann will still keep making models based on the designs we're more familiar with. There have been nothing but bad things said about the reboot, and nothing based on the reboot will sell. In order for the Bachmann models to keep selling, they have to stick with the designs we know and love. In other words, they must stick with models based on the show's original form. Plus, the reboot designs would be much too cartoony for professionally-made model trains.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on January 28, 2021, 07:52:32 PM
Quote from: cp5150 on January 27, 2021, 07:16:39 PM
Well, that stream was incredibly disappointing
I mean, we already knew about the dedicated stream for the TTTE ranges on the 18th next month. So no real updates or announcements was kinda expected, truth be told I was surprised there was even going to be a section, less so that it really only consisted of updates on stock we know and have seen already. I mean really, the most "important", for lack of a better word, information revealed in that regard was that the Thomas sets with the 75th branding on the box are limited and to pick them up quickly if you really want to have that sticker.
Of course, the reveal of the painted LS Diesel sample was a surprise and he looks good. That was definitely the stream highlight. And an update(ish) on the N scale James, the description of "development going well" makes me think that we may be a bit away from seeing an EP, so I'm not expecting much in that regard on the 18th.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Zekeism on January 29, 2021, 01:29:24 PM
Apparently we are getting HO Ryan, Toby's Museum coach and break coach.

Narrow Gauge Yellow Rheneas, red and blue breakvans and red and blue box vans.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: steakandcake on January 29, 2021, 02:01:29 PM
I don't know about you all, but I think most of the announcements from tootallythomas are not gonna happen. Bachmann has said that anything announced that wasn't from them was nothing more than rumors. But I don't know. Maybe it is real.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Zekeism on January 29, 2021, 02:14:41 PM
Ryan: 58823
Toby's Museum Coach: 76032
Toby's Museum  Break Coach: 76033
Yellow Rheneas: 58605
Blue Brake Van: 77206
Red Brake Van: 77207
Blue Box Van: 77208
Red Box Van: 77209





https://www.trainworld.com/manufacturers/bachmann/bachmann-ho-scale/bachmann-thomas-friends-1/

https://www.trainworld.com/manufacturers/bachmann/bachmann-n-scale/thomas-and-friends/
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: TTL on January 29, 2021, 03:01:38 PM
As someone who models RWS stuff and mainly is here for the NG and N stock, this is disappointing thus far. I'm hoping the Yellow Rheneas is just a quick recolor, which it is anyway, to tide over while they work on Sir Handel, which sort of adds up given they haven't tended to announce new NG engines until the previous one is out.
But really, who asked for Yellow Rheneas over any of the yet-unmade engines?
Also, no clue what the box vans could be or are based on, I suppose we'll find out when the catalog comes out and they use some show stock images.
Truth be told, hoping this isn't the entire thing and that they may have some more that won't be in the catalog this year, or that may have just not been leaked as unlikely as that is.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Mulfred100 on January 29, 2021, 03:41:17 PM
I'm pretty happy with Ryan. I think he will be an excellent addition to the HO range along side Daisy and if they had to make any CGI character I wanted him. I'm not overly familiar with Toby's museum coaches but I'm sure there was only one in the show however I'm probably wrong. Yellow Rheneas is a bit of a dud one for me personally. I'm not a fan of the whole recolour trend and I'm a bit shocked they chose Yellow Rheneas over Smudger. Yeah sumdger only appeared once years ago but he still had alot of merchandise and I hope Smudger is something that Bachmann will consider in the future. Narrow Gauge box vans also threw me abit. I mean we have box vans. Sure they aren't massive sellers but how will these vans be different but theres not image to go off yet so. But thank you Bachmann for another year of announcements. I'm sure there will be some new n scale items soon and maybe a large scale item or two possibly.
Title: Re: Bachmann Thomas & Friends in 2021
Post by: Falcon the 2nd on January 29, 2021, 03:53:34 PM
Well, looks like we're suddenly getting an early peak of things to come-

Ryan is a character I'm not too familiar with since he was introduced past my initial time with Thomas. Regardless, I'm still happy to see him join the lineup! He'll certainly be a worthy addition to the HO engine selection and many fans will be eager to buy him. As the range's second GCI character and an engine without an existing fixed eye mechanism to conform to, the team will hopefully have it a little easier making him than Paxton.

'Toby Feels Left Out' is an episode I've only seen once, so I'm just a little more familiar with the Museum Coach. It looks nice going by pictures on the wiki and both coaches will be welcomed in the growing group of HO rolling stock.

Yellow Rheneas was a left-field announcement, but I'm guessing the Narrow Gauge lineup has gotten old enough to the point where recolors are now viable. I'm also more familiar with this choice having also seen Blue Mountain Mystery once, but I don't even have the original Rheneas yet, so I'm not sure if I would want it. We'll most likely have to wait for a new character after Peter Sam is finished (preferably Sir Handel).

The Narrow Gauge Break Vans and Box Vans are both items I would see myself buying the soonest in this list. Not much else to say about them.

Strangely, nothing new for Large or N Scale so far. Both might get new content after the releases of Large Scale Diesel and N Scale James later this year. Still hoping for another new character in Large Scale and Toby in N Scale.

This is a decent list of new products to start the year, all things considered. I certainly wasn't expecting most of the choices and many people were collectively expecting other options (HO Sidney, N Toby, etc). Time will tell if there is more to the catalogue, but what we've got for the moment is a good even ground that fulfills both fan demand (Ryan, Narrow Gauge Break Vans) and traditional recolors (Museum Coaches, Yellow Rheneas) in small doses.