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Post by mgatdog on Oct 29, 2017 10:45:17 GMT -5
Rokuhan shorty not much info on it.
1. Price if it's right from what I seen is great.
2. Power source I guess is 10 volts max.
3. Is there going to be any US couplers made for it ? Beside MTL body mount coupler
Can't wait to get my hands on one .
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Post by rshimada on Oct 29, 2017 20:09:06 GMT -5
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Post by fulingyu on Oct 29, 2017 20:43:35 GMT -5
For those who aren't sure what this is. It is the Z Scale version of the B Shorty trains for N Scale. B Shorty is a "sub" set of N Scale Japanese trains where ALL the engines and cars are shortened to only about two inches in length, yet still N Scale in size and detail. This is different from the Japanese "super deformed" concept of miniaturized versions being "deformed" to fit a smaller size. This allows trains to run on much tighter curve radiuses and also reduces the size of layouts immensely. If you are short on space, this lets you make intricate layouts in a smaller area, yet all your accessories, scenery, etc. are still the same scale. You could also run these shorty trains on a full size N scale layout. However, since the engine bodies are limited to two inches, you need shortened power chassis to fit these shorty bodies. I don't believe they have DCC for these yet. So Z Shorty is the Z Scale equivalent of the N Scale. See Rokuhan's announcement here: www.rokuhan.com/english/news/2017/10/introduction-of-z-shorty-from-rokuhan.htmlRokuhan's tentative price for the power chassis is 1480 yen. About $15 US. Since these were designed to run on Rokuhan track and controllers, all Rokuhan controllers are rated at 10V DC at 800mA Looking at the picture of the chassis (see below) It looks like it will fit the Rokuhan changeable couplers Since AZL is the US Distributor for Rokuhan, you should be able to get them here or from Anthony at Monster. Or you could do Japanese pre-order. www.amiami.com/top/detail/detail?scode=RAIL-24367&rank=EDIT: Anthony now has advance reservations on Monster Attachments:
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Post by fulingyu on Oct 29, 2017 21:06:07 GMT -5
I agree that they do look "toy train" from the pictures. However, remember that these are the very first prototypes of z scale shorty. Think of the future possibilities to not replace Z scale but to enhance and expand the boundaries of Z Scale. If this catches on, it will be interesting to see what might develop. Plus, the shortened power chassis opens the possibilities for smaller engines (think switcher). This might even help people become more creative on Shapeways to take advantage of the shorter power chassis. Yes, there are other smaller power units like Searails, but if you can get a power chassis for $15-20; you can start thinking even more creatively. And somebody might think of a way to make these tiny chassis DCC. Hmm. the possibilities. |
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Post by mgatdog on Oct 29, 2017 21:29:47 GMT -5
For those who aren't sure what this is. It is the Z Scale version of the B Shorty trains for N Scale. B Shorty is a "sub" set of N Scale Japanese trains where ALL the engines and cars are shortened to only about two inches in length, yet still N Scale in size and detail. This is different from the Japanese "super deformed" concept of miniaturized versions being "deformed" to fit a smaller size. This allows trains to run on much tighter curve radiuses and also reduces the size of layouts immensely. If you are short on space, this lets you make intricate layouts in a smaller area, yet all your accessories, scenery, etc. are still the same scale. You could also run these shorty trains on a full size N scale layout. However, since the engine bodies are limited to two inches, you need shortened power chassis to fit these shorty bodies. I don't believe they have DCC for these yet. So Z Shorty is the Z Scale equivalent of the N Scale. See Rokuhan's announcement here: www.rokuhan.com/english/news/2017/10/introduction-of-z-shorty-from-rokuhan.htmlRokuhan's tentative price for the power chassis is 1480 yen. About $15 US. Since these were designed to run on Rokuhan track and controllers, all Rokuhan controllers are rated at 10V DC at 800mA Looking at the picture of the chassis (see below) It looks like it will fit the Rokuhan changeable couplers Since AZL is the US Distributor for Rokuhan, you should be able to get them here or from Anthony at Monster. Or you could do Japanese pre-order. www.amiami.com/top/detail/detail?scode=RAIL-24367&rank=EDIT: Anthony now has advance reservations on Monster Thanks for info |
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Post by mgatdog on Oct 29, 2017 21:35:37 GMT -5
I agree that they do look "toy train" from the pictures. However, remember that these are the very first prototypes of z scale shorty. Think of the future possibilities to not replace Z scale but to enhance and expand the boundaries of Z Scale. If this catches on, it will be interesting to see what might develop. Plus, the shortened power chassis opens the possibilities for smaller engines (think switcher). This might even help people become more creative on Shapeways to take advantage of the shorter power chassis. Yes, there are other smaller power units like Searails, but if you can get a power chassis for $15-20; you can start thinking even more creatively. And somebody might think of a way to make these tiny chassis DCC. Hmm. the possibilities. My same thoughts what may develop . Again can't wait to get my hands on one |
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Post by cwrr on Oct 29, 2017 22:35:52 GMT -5
Wow, nice coupler-easy and quick, I like it!!
BTW, you wanna part with that Milwaukee Road SD40-2??
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Post by Tommy on Oct 30, 2017 10:49:51 GMT -5
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Post by Tommy on Oct 30, 2017 10:54:48 GMT -5
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Post by ztrack on Oct 30, 2017 16:45:03 GMT -5
Hey some clarification on the topic. AZL is NOT the distributor for Rokuhan. Ztrack Distribution is the distributor for Rokuhan as well as AZL. Ztrack is a completely separate company from AZL.
As for the Shorty's Ztrack Distribution is taking reservations for the Shorty line. We are anticipating they will be available around the end of November which is when we expect our next shipment from Rokuhan. You can order them direct through the Ztrack sites, or through any of our authorized dealers such as those mentioned on this thread.
The Shorty's are Rokuhan's 'toy' line. The details will be limited. The powered chassis are very straight forward. I do see a lot of potential with the Shorty chassis. I am sure we will see aftermarket shells pop up for them.
As for the coupler, Rokuhan's A019 couplers will work with AZL and MTL products. I expect the couplers on the Shorty to be easily swapped out with the A019s.
Rob K (The Ztrack Rob)
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Post by fulingyu on Oct 31, 2017 19:03:34 GMT -5
Just got an email reply from Rokuhan.
All of their coupler sets both European (fish hook) and Knuckle (AZL, MTL) will work with the Shorty chassis. That includes both short and long versions of their couplers. This will allow even more flexibility in body shell styles.
Hmmm. Switchers, trams, trolley cars, ......
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Post by ztrack on Nov 9, 2017 7:57:30 GMT -5
Just a quick update on these. Rokuhan has informed us they are delayed until January. We already have our order in. Shipping will begin as soon as they arrive.
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Post by mgatdog on Nov 9, 2017 11:45:17 GMT -5
Bummer
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Post by rvn2001 on Nov 9, 2017 12:45:19 GMT -5
I agree....... big bummer!!!
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Post by ztrack on Nov 9, 2017 21:16:20 GMT -5
I agree as well....
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