As far as prototype speeds go, I have seen 4-8-4’s creep at a steady 0.5mph a number of times. In 1976 I watched the Freedom train with #4449 on the point creep out of Chicago on the line toward Crystal Lake, IL, for a mile or more at much less than 1MPH through a crowd of spectators, many of whom were being most unwise in seeing how close they could run across the tracks a few feet ahead of the pilot.
I watched MLW #261 couple up to a train in Kansas City’s Union Station so gently that not only did it not nudge the cars, but the pin in the coupler slid down so slowly that it made almost no sound when the knuckle finally engaged.
Our model layouts are so small that we rarely have enough room to realistically get to typical road speeds, so smooth, slow operating speeds on our models are a goal for which we all strive. No explanation was given because none should have been needed.
How heavy is the loco itself? Do you think some extra weight improve its traction? Brass engines are usually more spacious than plastic, and the electronics should be in the tender.
Not so… The Q2 in that shop is 498 euros, mine ordered in Pennsylvania has been billed to me 100 euros less (thanks to the weak US$)… That’s without the possible customs fee, which until now I never had to pay using straight USPS priority mail (with the true value declared on the customs formular). That is true for France, for other countries I don’t know.
My Q2 is currently over the pond, I can’t wait to get my hands on it…
… if you add shipping and customs (i.e. in Germany 19% on the total), you are already above the price ask by RD Hobby. I tried importing myself a couple of times, and it is not worth the trouble, unless you are able to get a real bargain.
If it’s over 1 1/2 lbs., it isn’t a lightweight. I guess Bullfrog Snot would be the best option, unless traction increases when the wheel treads wear in.