How many pieces are in the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set?

Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set contains 396 pieces.

What age is the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set recommended for?

This set is recommended for ages 8+.

When was the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set released?

Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set was released in 2009.

LEGO Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set set 9686

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🏛 Educational and Dacta

Set #9686

Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set

The Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set is a fantastic introduction to the world of LEGO Technic.

Before you buy

Who it's for: Ages 8+ · Beginner build Ideal for children aged 8+ and educators introducing basic engineering concepts.
Build: 396 pieces · about 4.5 hours Build time is an estimate.
Price: $199.95 list price · 50.5¢ per piece
Availability: Retired at LEGO

★★★★☆ 4.0 AI-generated review score, not a customer rating

A well-regarded educational set, praised for its ability to introduce basic mechanics and motorization. Some users find the models basic but appreciate the structured learning activities and potential for creative expansion.

$199.95

Check price on eBay

📝 Our Take

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

The Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set is a fantastic introduction to the world of LEGO Technic. It combines classic LEGO building with basic motorized components, allowing builders to create dynamic and interactive models. This set is a great way to learn about gears, axles, and simple machines while still having fun.

This set is perfect for educators and parents looking to introduce STEM concepts to children. The included instructions and activity packs offer structured learning, while the open-ended building possibilities encourage creativity and problem-solving.

Skip this if you're seeking advanced Technic challenges or intricate display models. This set focuses on fundamental principles rather than complex builds; consider the LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron (42083-1) for a more advanced experience.

✨ New

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How can I use this set to teach basic engineering principles? What are some creative ways to expand the models included in the activity packs? How does this set compare to other LEGO Education sets in terms of value? What is the best way to store and maintain the motorized components?

🧱 Building Experience

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

🧩

396

Pieces

⏱

4.5h

Estimated Build Time

📊

Beginner

Difficulty

👤

Ages

Build Highlights:

Simple motorized functions bring models to life
Introduces fundamental Technic building techniques
Includes activity packs for structured learning
Encourages experimentation and problem-solving

📈 Investment Analysis

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

→ Price stable

B-

Investment Grade

⏳ Retired

The Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set, while not a typical display piece, holds some investment potential due to its educational focus and retirement status. As a specialized set aimed at schools and educational programs, it wasn't as widely available as mainstream LEGO sets, potentially creating scarcity in the long run. Its value will likely depend on its condition and whether it includes the original educational materials. However, the demand is niche, so don't expect explosive growth. Keep in mind that educational sets have less appeal to the general AFOL community, which may limit appreciation.

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

📖 About This Set

Students will build and explore machines and mechanisms, investigate motorized machines, calibrate and capture wind, and study gearing mechanisms with this core brick set. The set contains 396 LEGO Technic elements and full-color building instruction booklets for 10 principle models and 18 main models, all in a sturdy storage bin that includes a sorting tray. Combine the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Set with curricular-relevant activity packs and the Pneumatics Add-On Set to carry out a broad range of activities within design technology, science, and mathematics.

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This set is designed for educational purposes, setting it apart from most Technic sets focused on complex builds. If you're looking for a similar introduction to motorized LEGO models but with a broader appeal, consider LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox (17101-1). However, the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set offers a more focused curriculum for educators.

📦 Parts Inventory

Official piece count: 396
Parts cataloged in this inventory: 101 unique parts, 409 pieces

LEGO counts 396 pieces. This inventory comes from a separate parts catalog and lists 409; the two do not always count the same elements, so their totals differ. Spare parts are counted in neither figure.

Missing a piece? Check this set piece by piece, with look-alike colors flagged and element IDs for replacements.

String with End S...

Part #: 14226c41 2× Black

Tile 1 x 4 with G...

Part #: 2431 2× White

Technic Pin with ...

Part #: 2780 28× Black

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 2815 4× Black

Brick 2 x 4

Part #: 3001 2× White

Plate 1 x 2

Part #: 3023 8× Blue

Tyre 30.4 x 14 Of...

Part #: 30391 4× Black

Brick Sloped 45° ...

Part #: 3040b 4× White

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 32001 8× Blue

Technic Pin 3/4

Part #: 32002 6× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32009 2× Blue

Technic Reel 3 x 2

Part #: 32012 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32013 4× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32016 4× Black

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32034 4× Red

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 32039 10× Red

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 32054 14× Red

Technic Axle 2 No...

Part #: 32062 14× Red

Technic Brick 1 x...

Part #: 32064a 4× White

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 32068 2× Black

Technic Steering ...

Part #: 32069 2× Black

Technic Axle 5

Part #: 32073 4× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Bush 1/2 ...

Part #: 32123b 16× Yellow

Technic Beam 2 x ...

Part #: 32140 8× Blue

Part #: 32270 2× Black

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32278 8× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32316 2× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32523 2× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 32524 2× White

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 32556 4× Tan

Technic Beam 3 x ...

Part #: 33299b 4× Light Bluish Gray

Minifig Head Stan...

Part #: 3626cpr0001 2× Yellow

Technic Gear 8 Tooth

Part #: 3647 6× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3648b 4× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Gear 40 T...

Part #: 3649 2× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Gear 24 T...

Part #: 3650c 4× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin witho...

Part #: 3673 8× Light Bluish Gray

Part #: 3705 8× Black

Technic Axle 6

Part #: 3706 2× Black

Technic Axle 8

Part #: 3707 2× Black

Technic Axle 12

Part #: 3708 6× Black

Part #: 3713 16× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle 10

Part #: 3737 2× Black

Technic Plate 2 x...

Part #: 3738 2× Blue

Technic Gear Rack...

Part #: 3743 2× Light Bluish Gray

Part #: 3941 2× White

Technic Beam 1 x ...

Part #: 40490 4× White

Technic Wedge Bel...

Part #: 4185 4× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle and ...

Part #: 42003 4× Red

Tyre 43.2 x 22 ZR

Part #: 44309 4× Black

Technic Axle 3

Part #: 4519 8× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Worm Gear

Part #: 4716 2× Light Bluish Gray

Storage Bin, Dact...

Part #: 54187 1× Blue

Storage Bin Lid, ...

Part #: 54190 1× Trans-Clear

Storage / Sorting...

Part #: 54358 1× White

Storage / Sorting...

Part #: 54572 1× White

Wheel 18mm x 14mm...

Part #: 55982 4× Light Bluish Gray

Wheel 30.4 x 20 w...

Part #: 56145 4× Light Bluish Gray

String Cord Thin ...

Part #: 56823c200 1× Black

Science & Technol...

Part #: 57046a 1× Trans-Dark Blue

Science & Technol...

Part #: 57046b 2× Trans-Dark Blue

Science & Technol...

Part #: 57046c 1× Trans-Dark Blue

Science & Technol...

Part #: 57046d 1× Trans-Dark Blue

Science & Technol...

Part #: 57046e 1× Trans-Dark Blue

Science & Technol...

Part #: 57046f 4× Trans-Dark Blue

Battery Box, Powe...

Part #: 58119 1× Light Bluish Gray

Motor, Medium, Po...

Part #: 58120 1× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Axle Conn...

Part #: 59443 8× Light Bluish Gray

Wire with Brick 2...

Part #: 60656 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Hair Ponytail

Part #: 6093 1× Black

Technic Universal...

Part #: 61903 1× Light Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Conne...

Part #: 62462 2× Red

Technic Gear Diff...

Part #: 62821a 1× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Pin Long ...

Part #: 6558 10× Blue

Technic Cam

Part #: 6575 4× Dark Bluish Gray

Technic Axle 3 wi...

Part #: 6587 4× Dark Bluish Gray

Part #: 6630 1× Black

Brick Special 2 x...

Part #: 73090b 1× Black

Rubber Belt Small...

Part #: 85543 2× White

Technic Rubber Be...

Part #: 85544 2× Red

Technic Rubber Be...

Part #: 85546 2× Yellow

Hat / Cap Short C...

Part #: 86035 1× Red

Technic Gear 16 T...

Part #: 94925 2× Light Bluish Gray

Hips and Green Legs

Part #: 970c31 1× Green

Hips and Orange Legs

Part #: 970c34 1× Orange

Torso, Shirt 3 Fl...

Part #: 973c01h01pr0805 1× White

Torso, Sailboat w...

Part #: 973c01h01pr1204 1× White

Technic Beam Tria...

Part #: 99773 2× Dark Bluish Gray

This set offers a solid selection of Technic pins, axles, and gears in common colors, making it a useful resource for builders looking to expand their collection of functional elements.

🛒 Where to Buy

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💎 Notable Parts

Light Bluish Gray Technic Bush (16x) $0.80

Red Technic Pin Long with Friction Ridges Lengthwise and Stop Bush [3 Lateral Holes, Big Pin Hole] (14x) $1.40

Tan Technic Axle Pin without Friction Ridges Lengthwise (12x) $0.60

Dark Bluish Gray Technic Gear 8 Tooth (6x) $0.90

Tan Technic Gear 12 Tooth Bevel (6x) $1.20

Est. BrickLink Part Value

$4.90

💡 MOC Potential

🚗 Simple motorized vehicles like cars and trucks

🤖 Basic walking or moving robots

🌳 Animated models of animals or plants

🏙 Moving parts for LEGO City layouts (e.g., conveyor belts)

Community Insights

Real opinions from Reddit and YouTube

What Reddit Says

No Reddit discussions found for this set.

What YouTubers Say

Based on 4 videos

3.0 /5

Mixed

0% positive

BlockTalk AI

YouTube content related to the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Base Set (9686-1) primarily showcases its capabilities in constructing various machines and mechanisms, such as paper shredders and vehicle designs, highlighting its potential for experimentation and learning. While reviews are generally neutral, they demonstrate the set's versatility in building complex gear systems and exploring mechanical principles.

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Dam_3 • 3.2K views Review

Community Sentiment

Based on 4 YouTube reviews

Not enough Reddit data

YouTube

3.0 /5

Mixed

0% positive

Positive

Mixed

Critical

BlockTalk AI Analysis

What the Community Says

2 YouTube reviews

BlockTalk AI Summary

Brick Experiment Channel demonstrates advanced applications like paper shredders and universal joint testing, showcasing the set's potential for engineering projects. Lucas-Dynamics provides introductory content for those starting with LEGO Technic, suggesting the set's suitability for beginners interested in learning about motorized mechanisms.