This is another in the Zvezda Art of Tactic game piece range, so as usual the box only contains a single model, representative of the wider unit type. Here we find a BMW R-12, which dates from 1935 and was BMW’s most popular model of motorbike until the 1970s, with around 10,000 being produced for the German Army and many civilian models conscripted for military use. The Army replaced it with the R75 around 1942, but until that time it was in widespread use, so it is surprising that no one has made one in this scale before now, although several other bikes have been made. The model in this box is made up of nine pieces which go together very well to make a really appealing model with plenty of fine detail. Everything looks authentic and well produced. The two crew also come in several parts, which allows for the kind of realistic, complex pose that the subject demands but is rarely delivered in this hobby. Both men are in standard army uniform rather than bad-weather gear (and surprisingly neither even have goggles), but suffer a little from loss of detail on the chest as this is not directly facing the mould. The rider has his gasmask case behind his hip, which is OK here as there is no pillion passenger, but had there been one he would have worn this on the chest.

The complete game piece can be seen here, and as always makes a very nice model. Modellers will want to ignore the flag affair of course, but apart from the hole for this, the base is nicely done and makes a good mount for the bike. Another very nice product, and a type of bike not made before, but this is an expensive way of getting them if several are required.