RAM Cycle (2008)
There’s irony in the fact that the relaunched 1980s GI Joe line, originally conceptualized as a vehicle toy line, became as much about action figures as it did their accessories. Once more colorful characters beyond the green garbed originals were introduced in 1983, the concept took off like a rocket. It’s no surprise then that when Hasbro commemorated the 25th Anniversary series, they focused (at first) on figures rather than vehicles. Once the initial effort was well received, it seems as if Hasbro decided to pull out the stops and revisit the rides of old.
Much like the 25th Anniversary figures themselves, you could consider the new versions “upgrades” of the originals. However, that’s not to say that these can replace the 1980s versions. There are just too many differences between toy production techniques of the two eras to really give you the same feel. That may sound like esoteric mumbo-jumbo considering we’re talking about toys, but much of the enjoyment I find in collecting as an adult comes from childhood memories as well as historical context. I can’t exactly recreate the feelings I had a a kid by collecting our old playthings a second time. In the end, that isn’t my goal.
A new RAM is a nice thing to have for display, especially one that finally features actual handlebars. We also get working saddlebags this time around, as well some added paint apps. The bike certainly looks the part of an improved version of the classic, even if it’s not a direct copy of the original mold. I’m glad to be able to break out all of the redone 25th Anniversary vehicles when my kids are about; I don’t have to worry about an errant drop or a little rough play snapping off part of a thirty-something year old toy. Thanks for the peace of mind, Hasbro.
While I have never been (and continue to not be) impressed by the modern figure construction style, I do have to admit that the updated vehicles were pretty nice. If only Hasbro had been willing to do that in 2001 and 2002. I think the vehicles would have been MUCH stronger sellers had they been retooled vintage designs rather than new things like the Strike Hiss or Desert Striker.
My only complaint is that these new vehicles are not compatible with vintage figures. They just don’t work well. That’s a real shame.
The handlebars are something that should have been on the original RAM. Having to sit a figure in the original RAM, while putting the figure’s arm inside the front compartments, is not so simple to do, at least for me is not, I don’t know if other people have had that same problem though. The one that I want to get is the desert color version, since I already have the original green RAM. I really wish that they had been reissued back in the early 2000’s, instead of 2008 for this one, and 2010 for the desert version.
You’re right about the 25th vehicles being great for young kid play. I was surprised at the time that they reworked the RAM so much to accommodate the new larger figures. The gun barrels are weak, but overall the bike looks good.
@ Mike T. I actually thought the new vehicles worked great with vintage due to the slightly bigger seats and cockpits.