The scent of burnt plastic still clings to my fingers. That’s the legacy of an ambitious layout I attempted back in ‘88, featuring a fully automated, multi-train system. Let’s just say, the electrical arcing wasn’t exactly planned. Now, I’m gazing upon Percy, a much less volatile, and infinitely more charming, prospect.

My usual purview leans towards the complex, the meticulously crafted brass locomotives. N scale, however, holds a certain… allure. The sheer space-saving potential is undeniable. And, in this case, the Bachmann Thomas & Friends Percy Ready-to-Run set offers a solid entry point. The set itself is, frankly, aimed squarely at beginners, specifically young ones, and it nails the target audience with vibrant colours and a clear, simple track layout. The 45” circle, which is the standard size for these sets, will happily fit under the average coffee table.

The motor in Percy is surprisingly robust. It’s got enough power to handle a decent grade, even with the Troublesome Trucks in tow. Something that’s always been a concern with these RTR sets: reliability. Bachmann, to their credit, has vastly improved the quality of their locomotives over the past few years. Remember those flimsy, plastic gears that would strip after only a few hours of operation? Gone. The new drive mechanisms are much more durable.

I will admit, the included speed controller isn’t exactly the smoothest. The acceleration curve feels a touch… abrupt. A seasoned modeler would immediately notice this. But for a child? It’s perfectly adequate. Frankly, it’s half the fun. They’ll likely be more interested in watching Percy chug along rather than meticulously controlling the throttle. A small upgrade down the line – a DCC-ready system – is definitely an option for those wanting finer control.

Speaking of DCC (Digital Command Control), that’s where this set shines in terms of future expansion. It’s easily upgradable. You could, potentially, integrate this into a larger, more sophisticated layout as your child’s enthusiasm grows. Compare this with older Lionel sets, which were more of a self-contained unit. This is much more flexible.

Here’s the rub: if you’re looking for a museum-quality replica, this isn’t it. The detailing, while adequate, isn’t up to the standards of high-end brass models. But, consider what this set offers: a solid, reliable, and instantly accessible introduction to the hobby. If you’re looking for a fun gift that won’t break the bank and will actually work reliably? Then this set is a solid contender. Go for it.