Bachmann E-Z Track vs. Atlas True-Track

[Anonymous]

I'm just getting started in the hobby. I'm trying to decide which way to go.
Any recommendations?

[Anonymous]

I've always used Bachmann E-Z Track and have had no problems to complain about, but I don't know much about the Atlas Track.

[nfmisso]

Both are fine products. Atlas is code 83 - closer to scale height, but also meaning that your locos an rolling stock must have RP25 flanges. Bachmann is code 100.

Bachmann has a greater variety of curve radii, Atlas is designed to be removed from the roadbed.

I don't think that it really matters which you choose at this stage, you will probably end up with a mixture later.

For my layout, I will be using E-Z track on the helix (35½", 33¼" & 28" radii curves), Atlas code 100 flex and Peco turnouts. The latter two on Woodland Scenics foambed.

[swknox]

Both are fine products but I have notice the atlas track is more proto - typical in apperance and the trains seem to move easier through the turnouts but then again all I mostly run is Atlas locos... Hope this helps

[Jetrock]

Both are hampered by the plastic fake roadbed underneath them, but at least with the Atlas you can snap the stuff off and make use of the nice Code 83 Atlas Snap-Track piece.

[Anonymous]

E-Z track. Best invention for begineres I've ever seen. I haven't had any experience with True-Track...........

[Roadtrp]

I'm a beginner, and I've been very happy with Bachmann N scale E-Z track except for the turnouts. The turnouts have given me occasional trouble. I've learned more about taking them apart and putting them back together than I really wanted to know.

[Anonymous]

I chose Bachmann for expediency. On balance it was a good choice. Because the product line does not include flex sections my pike design was constrained, in some locations, to the point of inconvenience. I could have inserted flex track sections but didn't want to have to build the equivalent of the Bachmann support section beneath it.

Re Bachmann switches; Ive had to reconfigure the curved point on many of mine to eliminate chronic derailments. A certain percentage of those you install will need this "tweeking". Once "tweeked, all have been reliable.

With the Bachmann, I've chosen to use KADEE couplers on all of my power and rolling stock and to use the Bachmann under-track uncoupling magnets vice KADEE's between the rails, on top of the ties magnets. With the magnets judiciously placed, operations have been most satisfactory and satisfying.

One "heads up": No matter how much mental opeating you invest in your track plan and magnet placemant before you install and operate, operating will humble you. You will make many operations reality driven adjustments to your track configuration and magnet placements early on. Don't nail things down until you learn and apply the lessons. The beauty of "snap track" is that reconfigurations take minutes not hours or days. After you apply the lessons, bury your wiring and permanitize your roadbed, NOT BEFORE.

Welcome aboard. Have fun.

George

[Jetrock]

I don't know, I can lay down flex track pretty quickly--one nice thing about track nails is that they provide a nice temporary way to lay out flex or Snap-Track. I usually uncouple with a little screwdriver.

[JeremyB]

Bachmann E-Z track I find is great, no matter which kind whether it be the Steel or the Nickel silver I have used them both and I can't say I have had too much problem with them.

[Anonymous]

What About Kato Unitrack

[Anonymous]

Bachmann is cheaper but isn't too realistic. Altas is better but more expensive.