UGears Mini Buggy

This model's smaller size makes it more accessible to first-time builders, but even veteran model-builders can enjoy the elegant simplicity of the UGears Mini Buggy. Don't worry about buying special glue or clamps, the kit comes with all the tools you'll need. The instructions are included, easy-to-follow, and printed in color. Just take them one step at a time, and you'll have the buggy assembled in no time.

The Mini Buggy model kit only has 80 parts and is less than five inches tall, making it one of UGears' most basic models. You can easily finish assembly within an hour without prior experience. As a result, this model works well for children who have help from their parents, but it is designed for those who are 14 and older.

Even though the UGears Mini Buggy is made of wood, it still has a motor. This one isn't powered by batteries or gas, though it uses rubber bands. Wind up the motor, which tightens the rubber bands, and then flip the switch at the back of the model. As the switch releases the rubber bands' tension, your model moves, and you can watch the gears work together to propel your buggy. Despite the simplicity of the Mini Buggy's design, it doesn't just move in a straight line. Adjust the front wheels' direction as you would in a real car, and it can turn corners or, if you don't move the wheels again, drive in circles. Don't try to adjust the buggy's direction with the back wheels, since these are for stabilization, not steering.

Not only is the Mini Buggy easy to assemble and fun to use, but it's also eco-friendly. Rather than using plastic, the model is made of wood, which is a renewable resource when sustainably produced. Also, you don't need any electricity to assemble or experiment with the buggy. If you have a friend who loves engineering but also cares about the environment, this is the perfect present.

To take your assembly experience to the next level, consider painting your model. The silver-white wood looks attractive on its own, but painting it allows you to make a model that's truly unique. Don't use acrylics or other thick paints, since they make it hard for the gears to move. Watercolors are a better option as long as you let them dry completely. Once you've assembled your first UGears Mini Buggy, you'll be back for more. Buy multiple models to extend the fun of assembly, and then use your fleet to hold races.

• model size: 4.13" x 3.43" x 3.46"
• package size: 3.9" x 10.8" x 0.3"
• number of parts: 80
• level: easy
• assembly time: 20 minutes
• ages 14+

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