TOMIX Tram Track Set | 90099
As you can see here on our YouTube channel, and of course here on our website, I’m a big fan of the small trains. From trams and streetcars to boxcab locos to the Rokuhan Shorty, I think small is terrific. I plan on making a video on why I feel this way but for now, let’s have a look a small N scale tram package. This is produced by Tomix, a Japanese model railway brand managed by TomyTec (a subsidiary of Takara Tomy), established in 1976.
While I’d previously heard of Tomix, I’m still not all that familiar with their products as they don’t seem to be commonly available here in the US.
On a recent online shopping trip to Osaka, Japan with the online retailer Plaza Japan, I grabbed a few N scale items I’d never seen before, from interesting little powered chassis to this tram track set. Priced reasonably at just around $45, I thought I’d give it a try and I’m glad I did. Included is a small loop of wide tram track and a basic controller. The track uses 140mm curves (5.5″) and the overall oval dimensions are 12.5″ x 18″. Surprisingly it’s doesn’t feel cramped, I’d guess this is due to the wide roadbed.
In this video I take a close look at the track construction, fit and finish and more importantly, how well my new N scale trains run on this small loop. My first experience with Tomix was very good and based on this, I’m now curious to see about their other products!
Of course too, being a fan of the small layouts, I wonder what kind of scene could be created with just this set.
A detail I came across not too long ago the the actual naming of these beauties: streetcars, trams, trolleys. I’ve read where the variations in names depend heavily on geography and history. Still so much to learn about this hobby and the trains themselves!
Category: Useful Tools
