Return to Mata Nui!
With Turaga Matau

Revisit the origins of Bionicle with this classic 2001 set. A great starter set or gift for collectors!

Breaking News

LEGO Retiring Soon List – October 2026 Update

The Brick Fan • about 3 hours ago
🏛 Bionicle
Set #8541

Matau

Matau is a charming entry point into the world of Bionicle.

Before you buy

Who it's for
Beginner build Ideal for younger Bionicle fans or collectors looking for a quick and nostalgic build.
Build
25 pieces · about 0.3 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price
$2.99 list price · 12.0¢ per piece
Availability
Likely retired
★★★☆☆ 3.8 AI-generated review score, not a customer rating

Fans appreciate this set as a nostalgic piece of Bionicle history and its simple, accessible build. Some find the limited poseability and basic design underwhelming compared to later Bionicle figures.

MSRP
$2.99
Best Price
$2.69
You Save
10% OFF
View on

📝 Our Take

AI-assisted editorial summary, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI

Matau is a charming entry point into the world of Bionicle. This set, released in 2001, introduces the character Matau, one of the Turaga, in a small, collectible form. Its simple construction and vibrant colors make it a nostalgic piece for long-time Bionicle fans.

This set is perfect for Bionicle enthusiasts and collectors of early 2000s LEGO. The small piece count makes it a quick and easy build, ideal for displaying alongside other Bionicle sets.

Skip this if you're looking for a complex or challenging building experience. Consider larger Bionicle sets or Technic models for a more involved build.

✨ New
BlockTalk

Ask BlockTalk about this set

AI assistant with full set data

Powered by AI
BlockTalk
BlockTalk
Hi! I'm BlockTalk, your LEGO expert. Ask me anything about the Matau - building tips, investment potential, comparisons, or anything else!
Try asking:
How does this set compare to other Turaga figures in terms of collectibility? What are the key differences between the Turaga and Toa Bionicle figures? How has the value of this set changed over time, and what factors influence its price? What are some creative ways to display this set alongside other Bionicle figures?

🧱 Building Experience

AI-assisted build estimate, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI
🧩
25
Pieces
⏱
0.25h
Estimated Build Time
📊
Beginner
Difficulty
Build Highlights:
  • Simple and straightforward construction
  • Uses basic Technic elements to create a poseable figure
  • Introduces the character Matau in a small-scale format
  • Features vibrant lime green and black color scheme

📈 Investment Analysis

AI-assisted investment analysis, grounded in our LEGO database and public community discussions. How we use AI
↑ Trending up since release
B
Investment Grade
⏳ Retired
Matau, being one of the earlier Bionicle sets, has seen a steady increase in value over the years, particularly in sealed condition. Its low piece count and initial retail price make it an accessible entry point for collectors. However, the Bionicle theme's fluctuating popularity means that investment potential is tied to the resurgence of interest in the theme. While it's not a guaranteed high-return investment, its nostalgic appeal and relative rarity contribute to its potential for appreciation.

Not Financial Advice: Content is for educational purposes only. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Full disclaimer

⚖ Compare Similar Sets

Compared to larger Bionicle sets, Matau offers a more accessible and affordable entry point into the theme. While lacking the complexity of Toa or Titan sets, its simplicity and nostalgic appeal make it a unique collectible. Consider sets like Vakama (8542-1) or Whenua (8540-1) for completing the Turaga collection.

📦 Parts Inventory

Piece count
25
Parts cataloged in this inventory
13 unique parts, 25 pieces
The set includes a selection of Technic pieces and connectors, providing a good introduction to the building system. The lime green elements are particularly notable for their vibrant color and use in Bionicle sets.

🛒 Where to Buy

eBay
✓ In Stock
$2.69 →
Walmart
✓ In Stock
Compare on eBay →
$2.84
Target
✓ In Stock
Compare on eBay →
$2.99

💎 Notable Parts

Green Large Figure Head Connector Block 3 x 4 x 1 2/3 (3x) $0.75
Lime Technic Axle 1.5 with Perpendicular Axle Connector (Technic Pole Reverser Handle) (2x) $0.50
Lime Large Figure Mask Mahiki (Turaga) (1x) $2.00
Est. BrickLink Part Value
$3.25

💡 MOC Potential

🤖 Combine with other Turaga sets to create larger Bionicle creations.
🌳 Modify into a small rahi creature.
🚗 Convert into a miniature airship or glider, reflecting Matau's element of air.

Community Insights

Real opinions from Reddit and YouTube

What Reddit Says

No Reddit discussions found for this set.

What YouTubers Say

Searching for YouTube reviews...

This may take a moment

Charts Inventory Statistics

13
Unique Parts
25
Piece Count
25
Cataloged Inventory Pieces
0
Minifigures
1
Spare Parts
Inventory Version: 1

Missing a piece? Use the Missing Piece Checker.