Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Upon receiving the LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy, the box displays a simple yet eye-catching image of the vehicle in action. Nothing particularly stands out at first glance. Turning the box around reveals another angle of the buggy, while below it are a few brief details about its features. Intrigued, I eagerly opened the box to see what awaited inside.
Inside the box, I found 4 numbered bags, 2 separate thin manuals, a sticker sheet, and 4 tires. With a total of 219 pieces, this set is rated 8, indicating a slightly more complex build compared to other Technic sets like the McLaren Extreme E Race Car. The price is also reasonable, retailing at 16 EUR or 20 USD. To check the local prices, you can simply click on the link located at the top right corner or in the description.
Building Process
Starting with the rear axle and crankshaft, the building instructions guide you through each step. It is important to pay close attention to the gears and connections to ensure everything turns smoothly. It is worth noting that there is no differential at the back, meaning only one wheel drives the engine, while the other rolls freely. While this compromise is not uncommon in small Technic sets, it is still unusual to find a minifigure neck bracket being utilized in such a build. In this case, the bracket comes into play to secure the small V4 engine in place. Although it may not be the sturdiest solution, it appears to work well.
Exploring the Functionality
As the build progresses, you will notice the buggy taking shape. The suspension system is quite impressive, allowing for smooth movement over various terrains. The front wheels have a nice turning radius, enhancing maneuverability during play or display.
Additionally, the steering mechanism incorporates a gear rack and a pinion gear, enabling precise control over the vehicle’s direction. This attention to detail adds an extra level of realism to the overall experience.
Suspension and Geometry
The LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy certainly offers a unique building experience. One of the intriguing aspects of this set is the suspension system, which includes shock absorbers. Assembling the suspension requires careful alignment of the pieces and securing them with the L-shaped half beam. The resulting geometry is not only cool-looking but also plays a crucial role in providing stability to the buggy.
Dense Build with Attention to Detail
Moving on to the overall construction of the buggy, it becomes evident that the designer invested considerable time and effort into making it a dense build. Every component is meticulously placed to fit together seamlessly. It is quite fascinating to see how all the different parts come together to form a cohesive structure.
Engine and Wobbliness
The engine of the Off-Road Race Buggy functions smoothly, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the model. However, it is worth noting that the buggy can feel a bit wobbly during operation. Yet, this slight instability only adds to the overall experience of driving a buggy, as it mirrors the real-world handling characteristics of such vehicles.
Rear Suspension and Steering
To ensure proper suspension and steering, it is necessary to utilize the aligned holes from an earlier step to fit a cross axle in the rear section. This clever design choice allows for the suspension to come into play, contributing to the buggy’s maneuverability. Additionally, the vibrant yellow beam used in this section adds a visually striking element to the overall appearance, reminiscent of its appearance in the App Controlled Transformation Vehicle.
Rear Wing and Phase 1 Completion
After carefully following the building instructions, the time arrives to apply the first stickers on the model, one of which includes the rear wing. Placing it in its designated spot adds a touch of finishing detail and marks the end of Phase 1 of the building process. This milestone signifies progress and prepares us for what lies ahead in Phase 2.
Front Assembly and Steerable Axle
Phase 2 introduces the front assembly, which includes a steerable axle. Attaching the cross axle and observing how the steering mechanism works is a fascinating part of the building journey. By manipulating the upper part of the axle, the front wheels can be turned left and right. This compact and clever solution showcases the ingenuity of the design.
Headlights and Attention to Aesthetics
The incorporation of headlights further enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Off-Road Race Buggy. The use of white half pins adds a visually pleasing contrast to the overall appearance. This attention to detail highlights the meticulous nature of the design process, where various different angles are utilized to create a cohesive and visually captivating end result.
Building the LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy
Combined, a few more bright yellow panels have been added and now comes the assembly of the two main sections. Its a small vehicle, but it still fits 2 of the classic blue Technic seats.
Tricky Connections and Transformations
We’re almost done, and here’s a tricky connection that obviously only works if you have the parts in the right position. But don’t worry, once you figure it out, it becomes satisfying to see everything come together.
Here are the doors that can be turned to create an open or closed look. And then comes the rear, larger wheel with a black rim and, finally, the front wheels with a narrower rim and tire combination. It’s interesting to note that this is the first appearance of this rim in blue. And with that, our buggy is finished.
Design and Aesthetics
I think it looks great. The blue and vibrant yellow accents really fit well together. This set follows the trend of the app-controlled transformation vehicles and the Airbus helicopter, but what sets it apart is the use of Technic elements in this color. This is already the third set with such elements, adding a refreshing touch to the Technic line.
Comparisons with Other Models
The 42124 Off Road Buggy has many similarities with the 42164. Not only do they share a similar name, but both are off-road buggies with eye-catching designs. However, there are some key differences between the two.
The main difference lies in the colors used, but both models have their unique charm. The smaller buggy, like the 42164, is designed for off-road adventures. However, its wheels are less capable for this purpose. Nonetheless, I’m sure it’ll mainly be driven indoors, probably on a table.
Functionality and Performance
The suspension on the 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy sort of works, but it’s mainly there for show and to enhance the building experience. It adds an extra layer of detail to the set and makes it feel more sophisticated.
The tiny V4 engine runs quite well and is a delight to watch with its little pistons moving. But the highlight of the set is the tilt steering, which works flawlessly. However, it takes a bit of practice to get the hang of getting the buggy back to a straight position after making a tight turn.
In conclusion, the LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy is a well-designed set with its unique color scheme and attention to detail. While it may not have the most capable wheels for off-road adventures, it still offers a fun and engaging building experience. Whether you’re a LEGO Technic enthusiast or simply enjoy building intricate models, this buggy is definitely worth considering for your collection.
The Design of LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy
The LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy boasts an impressive design that allows for a kind of pendular suspension at the rear. This unique feature works independently of the front axle or the steering, providing a smoother and more controlled experience during off-road races.
Performance on Uneven Ground
However, the suspension setup does come with a drawback when it comes to driving on uneven ground. Due to the independent suspension at the rear, bumps and obstacles can cause the buggy to turn unexpectedly. This requires the driver to compensate for these imperfections and actively make adjustments to prevent the buggy from veering off course.
A Comparison with the McLaren Extreme E Race Car
Comparing the LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy to the McLaren Extreme E Race Car, we find that they share some similarities and differences. Both models have the same wheelbase, providing a stable and balanced structure. The width is also similar, but the Off-Road Race Buggy boasts additional parts and a pull back motor. In contrast, the McLaren model offers suspension, steering, and a slightly higher price point.
Preference and Playability
Personally, I have a strong preference for the Off-Road Race Buggy. The building experience and the working functions of this model are more intricate and captivating. The inclusion of suspension and steering adds an extra layer of realism and enjoyment to the overall play experience. However, from a playability perspective, I can see how some kids might find the pullback car more entertaining.
A Highly Recommended Technic Set
In conclusion, the LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy is a highly recommended small-scale Technic set. It offers a multitude of great building techniques and provides a fun and engaging building experience. Whether you’re an avid LEGO enthusiast or a casual builder, this set is definitely worth adding to your collection. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to dive into the world of Technic with this exciting Off-Road Race Buggy.
Your Thoughts and Final Remarks
I would love to hear your thoughts on this review. Feel free to share your opinions and experiences in the comment section below. If you enjoyed this detailed building review, don’t forget to give it a thumbs up and subscribe with notifications to stay updated with more exciting LEGO videos coming soon. Until next time, happy building!
Conclusion
As I completed the construction of the LEGO Technic 42164 Off-Road Race Buggy, I couldn’t help but appreciate the level of engineering that went into its design. Despite its smaller scale, the set offers a satisfying building experience with its intricate features. The inclusion of the minifigure neck bracket and the functioning V4 engine add a touch of uniqueness to this set.
Overall, the Off-Road Race Buggy would be a great addition to any Technic enthusiast’s collection. Its combination of sturdy construction, impressive suspension, and detailed functionality make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you enjoy the building process or unleashing the buggy’s capabilities during play, this set is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
