newbie2004 wrote:Which track is easier to put together by one person on the initial setup and subsequent setups?
I have a 42', four-lane BestTrack. It took me 3-4 hours to assemble the first time, taking my time to get the individual sections lined up properly. Now that it has been set up, I can take the track from its storage box and have it set up and ready to race in under 15 minutes, by myself and without a single tool.
newbie2004 wrote:Does the Best track need weights?
No, BestTrack does not need weights. The curve is a fixed curve rather than the gradual curve of the Freedom track.
Before I purchased my BestTrack I did extensive research online and contacted the manufacturers of both Freedom and BestTrack. While I have no direct experience with a Freedom track here are some of the points that I considered important in my decision.
1. I like curve of the Freedom track more than that of BestTrack, though only ever so slightly. Many people have cautioned about the aggressiveness of the BestTrack curve. While it is more agressive, I don't think it's too aggressive or even a drawback. I have raced on wooden tracks with a fixed curve, so with that said, the BestTrack curve is a perfectly fine curve. Cub Scouts will have fun regardless of the curve.
2. When it comes to storage, Freedom is much more compact than BestTrack. Both tracks weigh about the same, but Freedom comes in 8' sections, while BestTrack is in 7' sections. Storage options for 8' sections are considerably more limited than for 7' sections. When building a storage box using commonly available plywood, you aren't really allowed any wiggle room.
3. BestTrack comes from the manufacturer with everything you need to set up the track, while Freedom requires some extra parts (i.e. weights).
4. BestTrack has a really low-tech, but highly effective way to join track sections without tools using binder clips (those big, black paper clips), while Freedom uses screws and requires a screw driver. I planned to travel with my track so ease of setup was big for me.
5. I liked the leveling system available for BestTrack, which is engineered into the design. Freedom offered no such option.
6. Aluminum tracks can be noisy. The BestTrack channel design allows for foam or other sound dampening material to make the track a little quieter.
I am as pleased as can be with my BestTrack. I have found BestTrack's product and customer service to be first rate.
I don't think you could go wrong with either track. Both companies have sold thousands of tracks to organizations that are thrilled to use them. I recommend figuring out what your needs are and determine which track best fits those needs.