We ran the Kato USA N scale Chicago Metra passenger set with the firm’s M1 Unitrack set (sold separately). The M1 track set includes a 2 x 4.5 foot loop of N scale Kato Unitrack and a power pack. Learn how to set up and operate this model train set. For more N scale product reviews, track plans, and videos visit the Model Railroader N scale page.
Video: Kato N scale Chicago Metra model train set
By Angela Cotey | February 8, 2012
| Last updated on November 3, 2020
Learn how to set up and operate this Kato N scale model train set with the M1 Unitrack set
Excellent review. I have bought several Japanese outline Kato track and train sets and find them of high quality and extremely reliable. The only downside is that running Japanese profile rail layouts is not popular here in the UK and odering locos and rolling stock can can mean wating anything between 3 and 6 months for items to arrive.
Nice, good looking set…
very interesting a great way to get started
EXCELLENT SET.
Good and concise. Also shows Kato quality.
I just started back in model railroading and am building a small N scale layout using Atlas flex track on cork. Next time it will be much larger and all Kato. I'm not sure exactly the shape it will take, so I am buying up lots of Kato Unitrack, locomotives and cars including the SF Super Chief and California Zephyr. I would recommend http://www.nhshobbies.com – the prices are great and if he doesn't have it, he can get it for you at a good discounted price.
That was a good presentation and showed how foolproof Kato is.
If I were into newer trains, I would get this set.
as usual, excellent show.
i would really like to know what radius turn this could handle before i spend the money. i take this train every week to get to work, and would love to add it to my layout.
Good presentation with a great product. I use Kato only on my N scale (wip) layout.
Good, precise and clear presentation
Really good looking product. Curious, though as to the minimum curve radius that can be used when expanding from the basic oval.
I like Kato mechanisms, they're very smooth, my Katos are the smoothest running and they allow very slow movement too. I like this set, but I'll probably buy the Amtrak four-piece set instead.
I don't like their track, the joiners are distracting looking, and the rail height is pretty tall too. Code 80 is akin to code 125 or so on HO track. The tie size and spacing doesn't look right to me either.
Very nice video very well explane. I am ho scale guy but the more i see "n" scale i am starting to like it.
Their products are getting better and better. Worth every penny.
I totally agree with Charles . Once you use Kato track you are hooked. Thats all I use and have never had a problem.
Another very nice set from Kato. I have a Kato Cali Zephyr, a Tsubame passenger train and a Type 0 Shinkansen and they are all beautiful models.
Someone needs to do a sound and lights decoder set for the loco and cab car that changes lights to the appropriate direction and has a horn for the cab car.
When is Kato going to come out with an MBTA version?
Nice job on the presentation. I am currently collecting Untrack for a future layout.
Nice & clear for all us old fogies trying to make sense of things.
Then great thing about both sizes of track is they come apart as easy as they go together incase your change your mind or you move.
After building an HO layout with cork roadbed and partial flex ,I switched to Kato HO for a good sized layout and just finished a small N gauge Kato.
Will not go back to other manufacturers.
The trains run great on both layouts.
Kato products are excellent. I have several of their locomotives and they all run beautifully. The paint schemes, details and lights are all exquisite.
I am using Peco track and the Kato and other makes of locos (e.g. Atlas) work fine. A friend of mine is using Kato Unitrack and he finds it very reliable although he has had to replace one turnout (switch) on his layout. The Kato control system is also very good. He especially likes the capability of stopping a locomotive quickly in case of an emergency.
Good presentation, and clear enough to hear 'gallery cars' (shouldn't it be 'galley'?); and to wish that the presenter had blown his nose before he started. Another segment for the 'blooper reel'…
Very good presentation. I have Unitrack and had good luck with it. I am looking forward to building a layout with this track. By the way does anyone out there have any new and creative track plans for Unitrack?