Difference in Atlas Code 83 and Atlas True-Track?

[Anonymous]

So people have been very nice so far answering my simple questions, [:p] so I'll keep going. Just for background info, I do have several introductory books on MR, I'm just slow to catch on to a few areas (well most areas).

What's the difference in Atlas Code 83 track and Atlas True-Track. It seems to me that Atlas True-Track is just code 83 with the molded roadbed included. Is it any more than that?

If you take the track out of the Atlas True-Track do you have the exact same track as if you had bought Atlas code 83 track in the first place? And I guess the collary question, can you get the Atlas molded roadbed seperately if you already have Atlas Code 83 track?

And lastly (I'm just full of track questions tonight), what is the 'recommened' or 'preferred way to do roadbed? is the Atlas True-Track any good, cork, wood, other ?

You didn't really think that was my last question, any comments on Atlas track vs. Bachman vs. Peco vs. whatever else is out there. It would seem to me that staying with the same track manufactuer would make building a layout much less prone to problems ?

As long as people tolerate my beginner questions, I'll probably keep asking them, so having me quit or continue asking is up to you. [:D]

Thanks in advance

[Anonymous]

Ok here we go.
1) Atlas True Track is the same as their Code 83 track, but with a plastic roadbed attached.

2)The True Track roadbed is not sold separatly that I know of.

3)In my opinion Atlas True Track is awesome for beginners to get started on. The more experience you gain from the hobby I say go for laying roadbed and track separately.

Hope this helps, and ask as many questions as you like.
Have Fun[:D]

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Heartland Flyer

[simon1966]

I started with True track and used it for 2 or 3 years to make temporary layouts that I could pack up as needed. it worked well. If you want to use flextrack for the layout rather than sectional track, then don't bother with it.

[Anonymous]

Last December I purchased an Athearn starter kit that included the Atlas True Track. After setting it up I decided to "start up" again in this hobby and felt that the True Track would give me a chance to experiment with various layouts and then allow me to use the underlying Code 83 track in future layouts. Also, Atlas has their free layout program, RTS, which enables you to "model" potential layouts on the computer before going realtime.
I'm satisfied with my choice. However, after using this product and reading the various forums, I'd take a look at Kato's Unitrack, before making a choice.
One problem with the Atlas TrueTrack is very few LHS carry the product so it's really an online purchase. Atlas will sell you the product (at list) but you've got shipping charges especially when you forget one piece. I've found the Kato Unitrack in at least one local LHS.
If you have a chance, get your hands on the latest Model Railroader News. There's an article on using the Kato Unitrack which could give you some good pointers.
If you do decide on the Atlas system, email me and I'll look up the online distributor that had the best deal I found.
George