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Size is everything in a model. We largely collect our treasures based on scale. Let’s face it; it is as ageless a consideration as the collectible itself. In the automotive realm, 1:43rd scale offers a size which lends itself to large collections due to the capacity of replicas we can legitimately collect. But they do not offer, in general terms, as much detail content as a larger model is capable of holding. The 1:18th scale takes up more room than does a 1:24th diecast. Recently there has been a spate of 1:12th scale cars coming to us at an alarming rate. So when I tried to envision FM’s new 1:5th bike I gasped. Even a two wheeler, at THIS size, is huge! So then I opened the package. I had delusions on a GRAND scale! There’s just NO disappointment in this monster.
This is one heavy Harley. No, I mean REALLY; this model Harley is HEAVY! TFM built a very substantial model here. It is tight, agile and robust. The finish on the big ’86 Heritage Softail Classic is astonishingly smooth, glossy and even. The striping and lettering is awesome. The usual features of FM’s previous bikes are all here but a whole new cast of characters to go with them. First, a word about that; this marks but only the fourth offering of motorcycles from The Franklin Mint in this scale. Two have been pewter models and the first of which was a version of this very cycle issued in 2001. This model adds a more vibrant color combo and a windscreen that is removable.
Aside from the standard operating features are a set of buckles that actually work on the removable saddle bags, a removable genuine leather seat, removable oil filter and a removable air cleaner revealing the air filter and carburetor assembly. You can twist the throttle, pull in the clutch and brake levers and activate the horn switch. Take off the twin gas caps, counter-clockwise on left and clockwise on the right (keep the caps separate for return) and you can remove the gas tank. Doing so allows you to position three batteries inside. Once done switch on the main power switch, located on the inside left front fork. This will permit operation of the electrical features.
Turn signals, headlight, passing lights, brake and lane change indicators and speedometer all light up. Just be sure to turn the main power switch back off when you are finished being totally impressed! The bike takes on completely different looks when displayed with or without the windshield fairing and saddlebag complement. FM even supplies you with a rather heavy diecast helmet for display purposes as well. Of course it is paint specific and matches the bike’s ensemble. At this size and commanding presence, this can be one forceful display. Switch on the lights and you add a dose of ‘dazzling’ to the mix. FM did everything right on this little goodie. Harley fan or not, this is a GRAND ‘must-have’! Issue price $495.
(02/27/2008)
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