Cat and Lego anyone?

Check out what made it to Lego Ideas...

Absolutely beautiful.  If you have a few minutes to get buried in something, check out his other designs and interviews.  Very creative...and cool of course!

New Lego Sets for 1H 2015.

Well, I know we have a lot of information already flying around about the new Technic sets for 1H 2015.  I don't need to duplicate all of their efforts, but I thought I would highlight them from the perspective of what my kids and I think about them and which ones we are excited to build.  So far there are ten that we know about. 

First up is the 42031 Cherry Picker with 155 pieces.

We think this will be an interesting addition to the smaller type sets, perhaps even to the 42023-1 Construction Crew set.  Low piece count means it will probably be rather cost effective.  Our only question is to how much playability it will have.  We look forward to finding out.

Second is the 42032 Compact Tracked Loader with 252 pieces.

We can't wait to check this on out.  It looks extremely realistic and has a great variety of pieces.  This will be one that we will enjoy for sure.  I am curious to see if it is a 2 in 1 and what the other half will be.  I like the color choice as well. 

Next is the 42033 Rocket Car.  We do not know the piece count yet.

Based on the look, it appears to have a lower piece count.  This should make it cost effective.  It does have a nice design and looks very realistic in comparison to the real thing.  Should make for a nice build.

Next is the 42034 Quad Bike with 148 pieces.

This is a very realistic looking set.   Compared to the 9392-1 set from two years ago, this one has the appearance down, although it looks as though this one is more cosmetic than durable.  I guess we will have to find out more when we can get our kids to play with it...the true test of durability.

The next is 42035 Mining Truck with 362 pieces.

I have waited a long time for a set like this.  One other that I still wish they would come out with is a good dirt grader.  My only concern is that this is not a full size vehicle that would go with such sets as the 42030 and the 8043.  This reminds me more of the size of the 8264 Hauler.  I am truly looking forward to this set to see what it has to offer.  Actually, now that I think about it, this is more like the size of the new 42028 from this year. 

Up next is the 42036 Street Motorcycle with 375 pieces.

We have enjoyed building the motorcycles in the past.  I expect this to be no different.  Again they are becoming better designed to look more like the actual on which it is based.  It seems that I am seeing a trend from back in 2010.  I will keep my eyes on that. 

Next is the 42037 Formula Off-Roader with 494 pieces.

I don't know what to expect on this one.  Very interesting suspension in the front and kind of reminds me of the off-roader from Mr and Mrs Smith.  Could be interesting to try and RC this one up a bit.  This should be fun to build. 

Next is the 42038 Arctic Truck with 913 pieces.

Ok, I am a sucker for tracks.  This is a really cool set.  Very nice version of the real thing.  I am totally got this on the first of my list to pick up.  Interested to see more about the suspension.

The next is 42039 24 Hours Race Car with 1219 pieces.

Again, I am not familiar with the real thing to know what to expect, but anytime there is a Lego car with 1000+ pieces...you know it is going to be good.  Nice green and white.  Looks like it could make for some great MOCs.  Very nice look. 

Finally, we have the 42041 Race Truck with 608 pieces.

Again, I am having flashbacks to 2010.  This appears to be the same set that was released under 8041.  The piece count and the stickers are even the same.  Either way, I had the previous version of this set and it is a fun build. 

All and all, a very nice selection for the first half of next year.  I know I am truly looking forward to some of them and as always, Lego continues to bring us new and different things.  Now, to be patient until they actually arrive.  Thanks Lego!  Keep up the great work...

Chex

LEGO Technic 2014 1H Official Set Images Released and more...

 A little while back we talked about the list of new Technic sets for 2014.  The pictures for those sets are now here and check them out! 

42020 Twin-Rotor Helicopter

42020 Twin-Rotor Helicopter

This appears to be one of the smaller sets to be released.  I can see using the Twin Rotor design to turn one of the larger helicopters like the 9396 into a larger version.  Family MOC time.

42021 Snowmobile

42021 Snowmobile

This is a smaller set as well.  It does have some noticeably new parts.  Should be neat to see how these are used in this as well as in future sets.

42022 Hot Rod

42022 Hot Rod

For the car lovers, here is another to add to our collection.  Looks like they are going to be providing digital instructions for the tablet users.  Should be interesting to see how that is going to work going forward.

42023 Construction Crew

42023 Construction Crew

Now this is one set that really had a lot of us asking what that name represented.  I think that it is a very nice set.  Especially as a Technic starter kit for the younger ones.  No age is mentioned, but what kid doesn't want the 'complete' construction set that he can build with Dad or whomever.  Great playability with this one.  This would also be a great addition to the train sets or any city scene.  We are very excited for the release of this set.  

42024 Container Truck

42024 Container Truck

This is a very nice design and has some need functions.  This is different than what most of us see here in the US, but very cool concept and execution.  This set can be motorized and will be a nice addition to any collection.  I especially like the color contrasts. 

42026 Black Champion Racer

The Pull-Back models are continuing each year.  I have to think that it is because they are fun.  Hallways become race tracks and crash up derby courses...then rebuild and go again.  Tons of fun, at least in our house. 

42027 Desert Racer

42027 Desert Racer

As mentioned on the previous model, these are a lot of fun.  I know we really enjoy them for their simplicity yet playability. 

Now for the one set that does not have pictures of the box and probably the most anticipated set for the Dad in this family:

42025 Cargo Plane

42025 Cargo Plane

This is going to be the largest set of the 2014 1H releases.  This appears to have motorization and I can't wait to get my hands on this one. 

Again, Lego has got some great sets in store for this next year.  We are definitely looking forward to the fun and to stretching our imaginations with the new parts.  There is much discussion at some of our links that go beyond what we have.  Be sure to check them all out.  We will let you know how the kids like them as the year goes on.  We may not always be 100% Technic, but we love Lego as most readers would probably agree, so please keep visiting.  We will try to get better and enjoy sharing some more of our experiences with you.  

LEGO Technic 2014 Sets are being talked about!

It has begun.  The rumors about the Lego 1h2014 Technic sets are at full speed.  All about bricks has started the excitement with a list of possible 2014 Technic sets.  Check it out the list below.  We will be providing more information as soon as it becomes available.

42020 Twin-Rotor Helicopter
42021 Snowmobile
42022 Hot Rod
42023 Construction Crew
42024 Container Truck
42026 Black Champion Racer
42027 Desert Racer


This looks like another good year, although maybe not as large as last.  We are especially intrigued by the 42020 Helicopter and 42024 Container Truck.  It would be interesting to see if the 42026 is like the current model only in a different color.  42027 Desert Racer makes me think of the old 8284.

Thanks for reading, and leave your thoughts about the upcoming 2014 sets!

Update:  Brickipedia has the same list.  No other details as of yet. 

Review of Lego Technic 41999 4x4 Crawler Exclusive Edition "BOSS" Crawler by Egor himself - Must Read!

Egor Karshiev has released his own review of the model he designed.  Amazing up close look of the 1585 piece set of which only 20,000 will be made.  He has some incredible pictures of the opening of the box and how well this has been put together.  A lot of aspects have actually been done by hand which is even more amazing.  Ready for the best part?  Expected to cost $199 USD.  I am sure these are going to be difficult to get our hands on, but well worth the effort.  It is a beautiful model that is sure to impress anyone who lays eyes on it.  A photo or two to tease you...

 

Amazing details.  There are so many things to look at on his review, it is truly a joy to read and view.  Take the time to check out his blog here. Wow, I just can't thinking about this.  I want to call everyone I know and tell them to go read this.  Thanks for reading. 

Incredible Creator Build 10234 Sydney Opera House - Extreme Edition

Another non Technic set that I think qualifies because it is labeled 'Expert' and did I mention yet, it is HUGE!  It comes with 2989 pieces and is a much larger more complete version of the Sydney Opera House that was realized in the Architecture series under the number 21012.  This new version is truly a marvel to behold and is coming September 1 of 2013 for a modest 319.99.  I guess we will have to start saving now.  Check out the pics below and follow the link to the Lego page here for more details.

Some pieces that may be of interest are the rare 1x1x2/3 stud and 1x2x2/3 stud slopes in dark tan as well as a 48x48 stud baseplate in blue for the first time!  Curious note when you follow the link above:  One of the Tags for this product is 'Girls'.  I am now going to check all of the new sets and see if that is current tag....

What do you think about the new set?  We are already counting down on the Calendar for this and the other new Technic sets that are yet to make it to our area....

Lego puts the power in our hands with the possible 21050-1: Architecture Studio.

This looks to be a very interesting release, granted not a Lego Technic set, but bear with me folks.  You know that as soon as the new Technic sets are out, we will be talking about them here.  There is a lot of speculation of what this will be, but on the Brickset forum, there is a small image and a lot of speculation.  It appears to be for 16+ and have about 1210 pieces.  There is a thought that this could be like a parts pack or expansion pack or even something related to Education.  According to Barnes and Noble website, it is targeted at teen and adult architecture enthusiasts.  "Take your designing talents to new heights!"  Oddly enough, I am not providing a link because multiple locations are hosting such an event and it has different titles at a lot of them.  Same event, just different descriptions.  This also does not appear to be happening in every state.  Most are listing it on July 27th and describe it as a discussion, Q&A and building event.  Below is a video from the Lego.com Architecture page referencing the LEGO World at Copenhagen from February 2013 in which some ideas of what this set might be about are shown.

I can't wait to see what Lego has in store for this set.  Might make for some highly educational play periods with the little ones.  Maybe if I get my kids started early I will have a couple of miniature Frank Lloyd Wright  designers in my house.  Wouldn't that be cool....

Bricklink has been SOLD! New management wants your ideas...

BrickLink is a name that any die-hard lover of Technic Lego knows and relies on.  It was via a community message that the current CEO of BrickLink, Eliska Jezkova, told us that she is stepping down and handing over the reigns to the new owner, Jung-Ju "Jay" Kim.  He is no slouch in the business world.  His family has been very successful in just about everything that they touch.  He is also the founder of Nexon, one of the world's largest online game companies. 

Since the original post this morning, there has been additional information provided.  Check it out here on BrickLink's website.  Based on thoughts from Jung-Ju Kim it looks like we may see some great changes coming sooner rather than later.  I just hope that it doesn't cost us more to enjoy this formerly family run business. 

He is wanting our help.  In his statement, he says: "In order to expedite the process of renovating BrickLink.com, I and Bricklink Limited will be asking users to e-mail us with their ideas for the improved functionality of the site, as well as any current issues that need to be addressed in order to provide users with the best possible selling and buying experience.  We'll establish those lines of communication very soon."  This is exciting...I am creating my list now.  We will be sure to share that contact information as soon as we become aware of it as well.  

I am wondering if anyone else caught something.  I was reading the original post that Eliska Jeskova wrote and I could have sworn that it said 'Eliska Jezkova, CEO of BrickLink.com'.  I kind of laughed to myself at the time and wondered why she signed it that way being that she was saying that she had handed over everything already.  When the page was updated with the Message from Jung-Ju "Jay" Kim, I saw that it was changed to 'former CEO'.  Now I could just be getting old and blind, but did I actually see that?

Thanks for reading and as always, I will try to keep my readers aware of the ever changing world of our Technic Lego and the like.

Lego Technic Exclusive CO-Creation Model 41999

I received an email the other day about why I hadn't posted anything about this particular model and I did no have a good answer.  I had followed the official LEGO "You Design it, we make it" challenge contest and voted for one.  I am apologetic in my slacking of late.  I will try to do better for my loyal readers.  In light of this, I think that a little highlight of the impressive model is due.  Check it out!

Truly an impressive model by the winner Egor Karshiev who is described on the Technic Lego page as a creative mastermind.  You should definitely check out the page here.  Not only will the license plate have the initials "EK" on it, but it will also have some additional motorized functions.  I am truly looking forward to trying to get my hands on one of these sets.  I say trying because there is going to be a limited run of only 20000 sets worldwide.  Thanks to my readers for keeping me on my toes and to Lego for keeping us busy with all the new models this year!

Lego Architecture 21015 - Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Lego Architecture 21015 is the Leaning Tower of Pisa.  This set has some nice features.  I look forward to seeing how they did the leaning.  I had posted a question about which set this would be, but that set has also been identified recently and we talk briefly about it here.  Below is a picture of the 21015 Set.  Being that there are several versions floating around such places as Cuusoo and other image sites, how do you think Lego did with this design?

Lego Architecture 21018 - United Nations Headquarters

It turns out that the 21015 was the Leaning Tower of Pisa.  Lego Architecture 21018 is showing up on the web as the United Nations Headquarters here!  This is a very interesting looking set with 597 pieces.  I know it will be on my list.  I think that Lego is creating some very interesting landmarks for us to build.  I look forward to what they will be providing next.  What do you think?

Lego Architecture set 21018 - Possibly the Leaning Tower of Pisa!

Again I am sharing my love of Architecture with my Technic readers.  Lego is only showing to release two Architecture sets this year.  The first of course is Frank Lloyd Wright's Imperial Hotel that once stood in Tokyo Japan that we spoke about here.  Well there are already some pics around the web of a new Lego Architecture Set possibly the 21018.  It is the Leaning Tower of Pisa and it has a very nice look to it.  Brickset has a post including a picture of the set behind what appears to be a glass case.  Check it out!

We will post as soon as more official photos are released.

Thanks for reading and we do have more Technic related content coming soon!

NEW 2013 2H Lego Technic sets - Early Blurry Images!

As with every new year, the new sets are what we want to know about.  As we posted earlier about, there are several already released and the end of 2012 has brought us information on the release of the 2H or Second Half of 2013 Technic Lego sets.  Very clear images are not yet available, but we will be sure to post them as soon as they do.  What we do have is a list and some really rough images to give you an idea of what will be coming soon. 

42001 - Mini Off-Roader

This set has been seen and talked about on multiple sites.  It is thought that this will cost around 10 Euros which today is about 13 dollars.  Based on the ages, I would say that it will be similar to the 8066 Off Roader set which sold for around 20 dollars.  This image is yet to come. 

42005 - Monster Truck

This looks to be a miniature version of the 9398 4x4 Crawler with what appears to have 4 wheel steering and hand of god steering.  Nice starter kit for younger Technic users. Imaged captured from the video clip from the Nuremberg Toy Fair.

42008 -Service Truck

This sets looks like it has a lot to offer.  My kids and I actually took a picture of one of these we saw in a parking lot to try and build a MOC (My Own Creation) version as one of our future projects.  I think this set will give us a nice starting point to work from.  Should be great fun.  Although some sources are saying that it does not have pneumatics, the picture has what appears to be something yellow like a pneumatic part towards the rear, but this could also be some type of shock absorber.  It does however use power functions with at least one motor.  Nice side view.  This will be a nice upgrade to the classic 8285 Tow Truck of 2006.  I do still prefer the longer truck design of the 8285, but if the functions work better in this one, it is going to be a close call as to which is my favorite.  

42009 - Mobile Crane MK II

This appears to be the flagship set of 2013.  There is a lot of speculation on what this will include, but no matter what, it will definitely be a set to enjoy.  I am curious to see what type of improvements have been made since the 8421 Mobile Crane of 2005.  That has been a favorite of ours to build many times.  It does have power functions and based on how it does not look like yellow but rather gray under the lift arm, it does look like LA's (Linear Actuators) instead of pneumatics.  Time will tell, and we will be sure to let you know when we find out for sure!

Looks like these particular models will not be available until sometime close to August based on the source of these photos.  Of course, these images are preliminary, there is a possibility that they could change between now and their official release.  The 2H is not as large a group of models as some of us would probably like, but with so many financial uncertainties for the coming year, I think the Lego Group has made some good choices to keep us satisfied and challenged for the year to come.  Again, thanks for reading and until next time, Play Well!

Lego Technic 2013 2H Sets seen in Nuremberg at Toy Fair

There is already a video on YouTube from the Toy Fair in Nuremberg.  It shows at least three of the 2H Lego Technic Sets for 2013.  It is about a two minute clip that shows the 42005 Monster Truck, the 42008 Service Truck, and the 42009 Mobile Crane MK II.  Check it out!

We can see a little of the functions for both the Service Truck and the Mobile Crane.  It is shaping up to be a nice year in Technic Sets.  I have to ask though, does the Mobile Crane look stable enough to put any load on it at all?  Perhaps some MOC strengthening will be required to make the most of it.  Just looks a little flimsy in this video.  The Service Truck looks great, having both Linear Actuators and Pneumatics.  Very nice how they work together when they are lowering the boom.  I am sure as the week progresses we will be getting more insights into the new sets as well as some clearer pictures.  Till then...play well!

Lego restores the New Imperial Hotel by Frank Lloyd Wright for 2013

You might say, this is not Technic, but I just had to.  Some may know that I am a huge Frank Lloyd Wright fan and aside from the Technic line, the Architecture series is my second favorite.  Being that I don't have a blog for that series, I thought I would share it here.  I found out today that Lego is restoring a long lost architectural icon from the past.  This will be the first time that they have brought back a building from the past to be recreated as part of this series.  The Imperial Hotel of Tokyo (1923-1968) is the first of the Architecture series to be released as number 21017 Imperial Hotel for 2013 and it looks amazing.  It will make a very nice addition to the other creations that include the likes of Fallingwater, the Robie House, and the Guggenheim Museum. 

Although this is not a Lego Technic set, it was a technical marvel for it's time.  Built in 1923 it survived both the Great Kantō Earthquake of 1923 and the American bombing of Tokyo during World War II.  The images below are from Wikipedia but show, even in black and white, how amazing the entire complex really was. 

The front entrance of the Hotel as is depicted in the New Lego 21017 Architecture Set.  

As can be seen in this image, the part of the Hotel referenced by this set is just the center entrance part....I can see an incredible MOC coming that would recreate the entire site.  Being that this new set consists of almost 1900 pieces, imagine how many pieces would be needed for the entire site....  Hopefully everyone will enjoy this as much as I will.  Who knows, perhaps other amazing structures of the past will be in line to be built again....Brick by Lego Brick.

NEW 2013 Lego Technic sets - Images released!

The new 2013 Lego Technic sets are being talked about everywhere.  So let's run through them:

42000 - Grand Prix Racer

This set has been seen and talked about on multiple sites.  We shared a link to one of those sources here where they had some great pics and comments about the new parts coming out.

42002 - Hovercraft

This looks to be a more simple model for the Technic line this next year.  The image gives the impression that the pistons on the side are connected to the fan on the back.  Will be interesting to see how it actually will operate.

 42004 - Mini Backhoe Loader

Simple version of the very nice one from back in 2011 - 8069 Backhoe Loader.  That was a fun model.  This appears to be a mix of the 2009 set - 8265 Front Loader with the 8069.  Notice the movements in the image indicating it hinges in front of the cab.  Nicely done!

 42006 - Excavator

Ok, I agree with TB that this should be called a Material Handler.  As such, this could have replacement ends (like a giant electromagnet).  This will be a fun set to motorize.  Also according to TB, this has 4 new parts.  We look forward to learning more about these.

 42007 - Moto Cross Bike

For those motorcycle lovers, this will be a nice addition.  Realistic looking and nice tires. 

42010 - Off-road Racer

 This and the following are the ones my kids and their cousins are all waiting for.  Who as a kid didn't love crashing cars and the old pull back racers that still seem popular today.  Way to go Lego, keeping our childhood memories alive!  Our kids will thank you too...

42011 - Race Car

Like the one above, very similar but appears to have a new part as well that is also found on the 42000.  I have to admit, these are fun for us AFOL as well.  I love getting down and playing with the kids with these.  They are a nice addition to the line-up and I am glad to see more of them continuing to be added.



So can you buy them yet?  No.  But they are on a shopping site called WOG.ch.  Interesting, they have listed that they will be available February of 2013.  I guess we will have to start saving now because I think the 2H of the lineup is going to be just as good!  Again, thanks for reading.  I hope to get started on a couple of builds that we have going and let everyone know how much we enjoyed them.  Btw, all images are from BrickSet.  They have a great way to look at everything for the year in an easy to view grid.  Yet to come is the 42003....till then, Play Well!

About to build a 8052-1: Container Truck

I just came across one of these to build.  The 8052 Container Truck from 2010 is one that I had not had the chance to build yet.  I am looking forward to trying it out.  I think the second model is one that we will have more fun with.  I will let everyone know how it goes...

- ChrisD