It makes sense to start the Track Geometry Series with LGB, as they are of course the pioneer for G scale. And LGB also invented – love it or hate it – the famous ‘R1’ curves.
LGB has four curve radii in their track program. Next to the smallest R1 curves, there is a slightly larger ‘R2’ radius that is intended to form a parallel track together with R1 to run two trains at once. However, this is only possible with shorter locomotives and rolling stock, as larger stock will hit each other due to inside and outside overhang.
When space is less of an issue, LGB offers ‘R3’, which already is more visually pleasing with larger rolling stock. For layouts where space it not an issue, LGB also offers ‘R5’.
Image Source: Large Scale Insider
For any other radius curve, LGB suggests the use of flex track. LGB also offers switches in the different radii, except R2.
LGB Curved Track Radius Overview:
| Radius (mm) | Radius (ft)* | Diameter (mm) | Diameter (ft)* | Name | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600 mm | 1.97 ft | 1200 mm | 3.94 ft | R1 | curves + switches |
| 780 mm | 2.56 ft | 1560 mm | 5.12 ft | R2 | curves only |
| 1195 mm | 3.92 ft | 2390 mm | 7.84 ft | R3 | curves + switches |
| 2320 mm | 7.61 ft | 4640 mm | 15.22 ft | R5 | curves + switches |
*converted from mm, rounded to two digits
LGB offers a variety of straight tracks in different lengths, where the most popular lengths are 30 cm or 60 cm. Also offered are a range of shorter pieces to fill gaps. If you start combining different radii, and some special switches like LGB’s three-way switch or double-slip switch, you will definitely need of bunch of gap fillers. Then it’s probably better to go for flex track, or to cut 30 cm or 60 cm straights to the desired size.
Link: LGB Track Geometry (PDF – EN/DE – 1 MB)
Summary: while LGB’s R1 and R3 are well known radii in the G scale universe, LGB’s track geometry is definitely not the most intuitive.
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