| KIT #: | 3632 |
| PRICE: | $15.00 MSRP |
| DECALS: | Three Options |
| REVIEWER: | Scott Van Aken |
| NOTES: |
| HISTORY |
Attempts at finding out anything specific about this motorcycle were not successful. About all that I can see is that it is probably a Zundapp and that judgment is reached by looking at the frame, which is not like that on the BMW. But I could be wrong. According to the Instructions "The R-12 became after 1938 the standard heavy motorcycle of the German Wehrmacht in its Solo configuration. The main use was for communications, liaison, reconnaissance and the Military Police. Its sturdy construction allowed a successful use under the difficult conditions of the Eastern Front. The R-12 had an 18 hp Boxer engine and could reach a maximum speed of 100 KPH.
| THE KIT |
Zvezda has been producting quality kits for the last few years and this one falls right into place in that regard. There are two sprues and the kit does not rely on photo etch or other exotic materials to build the kit. Detailing on the parts is really first rate. I found no flash, no misaligned parts, no sink areas and no nasty ejector pin marks on the small parts. The wheels are two piece with each side having spokes and neatly slotting
together.
As you'd expect, there are a lot of small parts with this one, though none so tiny as to b
e a chore to handle. I'd still recommend a razor saw to remove the more delicate bits. Two figures are provided with this kit. One is the rider and the other is an officer providing directions.
Directions are well drawn and clear so you 'll have not prblems building this one. There is a small decal sheet that provides three different license options and that is about it. The bike itself is overall Panzer Grey so painting won't be too difficult.
| CONCLUSIONS |
Of all the motorcycle kits I've previewed in the last few weeks, this one looks to be the simplest to build. Its lack of photo etch is a plus in many regards, especially for those of us who would rather not use the stuff if we can help it. As such, I'm sure it will turn into a fine model.
| REFERENCES |
Kit instructions.
March 2010 Thanks to www.dragonmodelsusa.com for the preview copy. Get yours today at your local shop or on-line retailer. If you would like your product reviewed fairly and fairly quickly, please contact the editor or see other details in the Note to Contributors.