Hello,

Yesterday, I received my new Piko Stadler GTW 2/6 (Gelenktriebwagen) of the BLS (ex-RM). This trainset is a limited edition Switzerland only edition from Piko. I ordered it from Suter-Meggen in Switzerland and I was pleasantly surprised to see it arrive in only 6 days.

Upon arrival, I carefully removed the trainset from the package. I then removed the two protective pieces which are inserted between the coaches and the motor unit. The first thing that I noted is that the electrical connections on this model are much better than the Liliput Flirt. This model has no complicated screw-in parts, and simply clips in place. That being said, I would still not make a habit of connecting and disconnecting the elements over and over again.

I placed the trainset on the track and was pleasantly surprised by it's performance. It would have been nice to have illuminated destination signs. The three light white LED headlights and two red LED taillights are nice. I guess that there is internal lighting available for this model. I have not yet had the time to read the instructions in depth to see if the lighting also illuminates the destination signs.

I am not in a position to discuss the accuracy of details in precision. In comparison to the Hag model, I have only seen photos. As far as prototype, I did see one of the trainsets while they were still operated by the RM on a trip to Switzerland, but I have not been any closer than a few tracks away from either a RM/BLS or Thurbo unit.

That being said, this model looks very nice and complements the rest of my BLS material and is a welcome addition to my collection.

At the same time, I was able to pick up a special deal on a Mehano SBB Am 843. Unlike the Maerklin Am 842, this shunter/diesel is used for passenger and occasional freight operations. The model is very nice and I think better rendered than the Piko model. The Swiss distributor is liquidating their remaining inventory. More details at www.suter-meggen.ch and other Swiss dealer websites.

I will try to post photos of both models. In the interim, here is the direct link to photos on the Suter website:

http://www.suter-meggen....iment/frame_piko_gtw.htm

http://www.suter-meggen....frame_7021_aktion_ho.htm
as well as a close-up photo of the BLS version from www.bahnorama.ch: http://www.bahnorama.ch/..._image.php?pID=4998'

Regards

Mike C

Edited by user 23 November 2011 08:18:35(UTC)  | Reason: Not specified

Nice!

I wanted one, but wasn't fitting into the budget anytime soon. I'm grateful for the review though, as I may be able to pick the standard Thurbo scheme set down the road.