This is one of four ROKR kits I have. They are quality-made precision cut parts that can be assembled without glue or tools, however I found that glue in some places and some tools make the assembly easier (see photo). Assemble on a hard surface to ensure the base is completely flat. A small flashlight, magnetic screw driver, needle nose files, seam ripper, etc. are helpful. A magnifying glass is needed to see the orientation of some parts in the instructions. It is VERY important to lubricate moving parts, especially those that slide. I used the wax provided and added Sewer's Aid (silicone oil). The oil enhances the wax lube and the oil is able to reach places that are difficult to wax - such as gear teeth. Check for proper assembly and free movement of moving parts during each step of assembly.
I built this in about 2 days, and it works great! It’s very fun to look at and the instructions are clear. Being as how the pieces are made out of wood, the pieces CAN break. As long as you follow the directions carefully and don’t force pieces into place then you’ll be fine. I would not recommend this to younger kids unless you are doing it with them because some pieces can be hard to places and the pieces can break. The smaller pieces come with extra parts so it’s fine if one of them breaks. Overall I really enjoyed making this and if you can follow instructions then it’s the thing for you!
TOOK ABOUT 10 HOURS. TAKE YOUR TIME, IT’S NOT A RACE. THESE ARE HIGHLY ACCURATE LASER CUT PIECES. THE PIECES COME OUT OF THE SHEET EASLY. THE WOOD IS 1/8″ PLYWOOD THAT IS VERY STRONG. I GLUED MANY OF THE PIECES TOGETHER TO ADD A LITTLE WEIGHT AND RIGIDITY ALTHOUGH IT’S NOT REQUIRED. IF YOU GLUE, MAKE SURE YOU YOU DON’T GLUE PARTS THAT NEED TO ROTATE. ALSO MAKE SURE YOU FULLY ENGAGE THE SLOTS COMPLETELY. TWEEZERS AND EXACTO KNIFE ALL COME IN HANDY.
This is one of four ROKR kits I have. They are quality-made precision cut parts that can be assembled without glue or tools, however I found that glue in some places and some tools make the assembly easier (see photo). Assemble on a hard surface to ensure the base is completely flat. A small flashlight, magnetic screw driver, needle nose files, seam ripper, etc. are helpful. A magnifying glass is needed to see the orientation of some parts in the instructions. It is VERY important to lubricate moving parts, especially those that slide. I used the wax provided and added Sewer’s Aid (silicone oil). The oil enhances the wax lube and the oil is able to reach places that are difficult to wax – such as gear teeth. Check for proper assembly and free movement of moving parts during each step of assembly.
This is a very cool product. Myself (33 year machinist) and my 14 year old son. Assembled the devise. Not if you have limited mechanical abilities. This may not be for you. BUT if you follow the directions and pay attention to the images you should be fine. Took us about 8 hours to assemble.
Sturdy material, clear instructions. Take your time, be patient. Fun to build and it works well. Not easy to build, but be systematic and methodical. My wife likes it too. I’ll build more.