I've never owned one of these before, but I've always been impressed by this combiner. I've heard that there are some differences between the Japanese and RID versions (and maybe the Korean Car Robots version too), but I don't know what they are.

I'm just curious to hear which version people think is better. Any known issues associated with either one?

zmog

 

JRX all the way.

 

Assuming you don't mind getting him in a Korean box, it may actually be cheaper and easier to get a JRX set than the 3 individual US release trains.

 

the gun from railspike was modded when brought over to the USA, the tip was extended and rounded off. not much of a big deal except it no longer fits inbetween his legs in train mode. easy fix though a quick file down of the weapons tip makes it all better

 

Doesn't JRX include more clear plastic? Wouldn't that mean that he's got more painted parts?

I'm a little nervous about clear plastic being more brittle than solid plastics, though maybe I'm worrying too much about that.

zmog

 

JRX has lovely clear windows all over him, and greater paint aps.

 

Yeah, JRX has TONS of clear plastic. Some on vital joints. I've had mine for nigh on 7 years now and it's not shown a sign of wear at all. So I wouldn't be too worried about it breaking.

 

I would say whatever is cheaper as this guy runs up pretty high, though if cost is no object ya the JRX is the way to go.

 

Just buy all 3 versons, You can never have too many choo chooo's! lol....

 

I only have Rail Racer but I've never had any problems with it. No matter what version you get, it's awesome. Best Combiner ever IMO.

 

Mine's a mix. I have Japanese Rail Spike but American Rapid Run and Midnight Express. They fit together fine, but I think Japanese Rail Spike has more clear parts (with a green tint) and he forms the head so if you only get one Japanese toy of the three go for Rail Spike (he's the indigo and white one). I'm not sure about Rapid Run and Midnight Express but it looks like in the American versions, clear windows might have been colored over with gray paint. The Japanese instructions are eaiser to follow too. More detailed pictures with more steps shown. Easily my favorite combiner too.

 

Go with JRX.

 

Based on the helpful responses here, I've picked up a Japanese JRX!

Has that "new" feeling (or close to it), in it's original Japanese packaging, with all the paperwork. Total cost, $38.

You guys are right... this is a DAMN nice figure. My only complaint would be that the ratchet joints in his hips (combined form) don't seem to have enough tension to hold more dynamic poses.

But bearing in mind that I'm talking about achieving dynamic poses in a combiner that's almost 10 years old, that's already impressive.  

Thanks guys!

zmog

 

unfortunately, the american one also has this. but the american one doesnt have clear pretty windows

 

I absolutely love JRX; without a doubt my favorite combiner, period. Compared to Railracer, I vastly prefer the look of the clear plastic and the total lack of vehicle-mode Autobot insignia that was so rampant in RiD. However, one of the clear pieces that swivels out to change J-5's hips into JRX's shoulders has broken irreparably on mine. It still holds together, but it's wobbly and it just plain looks bad. I don't know if it's from material choice or what, but I figured I'd bring it up.

I need to get a replacement JRX one of these days.

 

I would say JRX too...one of my favorite combiners if not my favorite.

 

38 FOR JRX IS GOOD! i WOULD LOVE TO HAVE ONE.

 

I'm against the grain on this one having seen the JRX up close for the first time over the weekend.

Yea, the clear windows are nice, but I find the painted clear plastic to look crummy from any angle but front on. Railracer just seems more solid especially the leg portions as you never catch a bad view where the paint ends.

But yea... I suppose I'm in the minority here.