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this set was announced shortly before my most recent trip to Japan this past February, but didn't release until the month after my trip.
The set was on display at the Tamashii Nations store in Akihabara, but you could only preorder it.
so, anyway, while it took me a while to actually acquire it, it is now in my hot little hands, and I am very pleased with it overall.
this being a Chogokin, immediately, diecast comes to mind. And since Gavan is a Metal Hero it is almost expected.
And while the figure definitely features diecast, it is less than some might expect. Most of the chrome parts are metal, and there is metal in the feet. The figure is a hefty weight in the hand, but there is mostly plastic in the figure's overall construction.
let's get this out of the way: This is not a SH Figuarts release. The scale is closer to 1/18 scale, which puts it at 3.75-4"
The figure scales well with Bandai's Shodo series of figures. He includes multiple hands, three sword accessories (a regular sword, a sword with a translucent blade, and one with a slashing effect).
the big star of the show is the Saibarian motorcycle. It features a spring loaded sidecar (press the button and it transforms). It also has an electronic feature that plays sound effects and the show's theme.
The sidecar section has magnets integrated so the figure will be able to stand on it, and he holds to it very tightly.
the figure has extra feet and hands to allow him a more natural riding pose. While he has gripping hands, he also includes a pair of hands with handlebars molded in, that plug in when he's in a riding pose.
For the price, a lot of fans may pass. It's a $90 set. But if you're a Tokusatsu fan, a fan of the scale, or have a huge collection of Shodo, adding this one to the collection will make a fun addition.
I love Tokusatsu motorcycles, and they've already teased that the next release will be Shaider, so I'm excited.