07.31.07
Matchbox Armoured Cyclone
REVIEW (Updated): When a hovercycle just isn’t enough
Packaging & Extras: (2/5)
I miss styrofoam as an insert. Matchbox had a tendency to use cardboard instead to keep the item in place… but I can’t really say it didn’t work. There’s nothing in the way of extras here. The decals provided are absolutely necessary as, you will see in my pictures, the toy itself is very plain without them. Instructions? This thing doesn’t even transform, do you really need them? Don’t worry, they’re there so you’ll know where to put your decals.
Charm & Collectibility: (2/5)
Some may think I’m being generous here but anything labeled Robotech will automatically get one point and anything called a Cyclone or Ride Armor will automatically get another. Beyond fans of those two elements, this thing really has no charm or collectibility. For those of you that are Robotech or Ride Armor/Cyclone uber collectors, you might want to note that there are probably several variations of this toy. The one pictured, for example, was made in Macau as shown by the stamps pictured beneath the feet pegs (pictured below). There are likely other ones out there made in either Japan or China that could have some very minor differences as seen in Matchbox’s Battlepod toys.
Sculpt, Detail, and Paint: (7/10)
While I’m not too thrilled with the color of this thing it does a fair job of emulating the cartoon version. Details are a bit sparse out of the box but the decals help with that. However, the claims made on the box are almost humorous. Claiming this thing has “Super Design Detail” is more than a bit bold.
Design: (5/10)
It has wheels (rubber no less!) that move and it looks like a decent enough cycle but truth be known, I think I’m giving this thing at least one bonus point for being the only ride armor toy made (in that era) that actually seats a rider! Not only does it seat the rider, but the rider can be seated and hold on to the steering handles somewhat realistically. Sure, the Scott Bernard action figure is hideous but look at him, he’s actually riding! That’s something Gakken was never able to figure out (well, I guess they deserve some credit for their fixed rider 1/20 scale ride armor). Yes, the handle bars had to be pushed back of where they should be but I’m willing to make some allowances. Why isn’t the visor see-through?? The only other significant design part I’ll mention here is the vehicle’s kickstand. It moves to be less cumbersome but never really gets totally out of the way. The other areas that should have been incorporated in the design will be discussed further in the articulation section.
Durability & Build: (7/10)
This toy is all plastic but it feels neither frail nor sturdy when held in hand and certainly puts up with play. One thing some owners might want to be cautious about is the kickstand beneath the vehicle. Trying to get the bike to lean will cause a lot of pressure on this plastic part.
Articulation: (2/10)
How do you articulate a motorcyle? Working steering/handle bars, wheels that move, pedals/retractable kickstand/misc, clutch/handle mechanisms, and suspension. This toy has wheels that move so it meets 1 of the 5 possible criteria for a score of 2/10. A kickstand and adjustable steering would have been very nice touches (yes, I’m harping on the kickstand thing)
Total Score: (24/50)
This is a good toy only in that it is sturdy and an action figure can be made to ride it. Beyond that it’s really playing to the lowest common denominator. The design and the appearance of the toy are both exceedingly plain. It’s too bad they didn’t make this thing transform, that would have been a huge leap forward.
NOTE: This Review has been Updated
Original Post Date: May 24, 2006
