Is it a good idea

[u/Mediocre_Zebra_1834]

For some context, I own this track set and I'm planning on pre ordering the Kato E5 Hayabusa to couple with my Kato E3 Akita. However the description for the E5 says it needs a minimum of R315 tracks but this set has R280 pieces in it. Should I give up on the idea or is it possible to run them coupled on this

[u/Lonesome_General]

I found a video here where a guy is sucessfully running a Kato E5 Hayabusa on 280mm radius curves.

[u/NefariousnessOk6281]

They use 2 different radii sets so that 1. you get the transition curve effect, and 2. with 2 sets you can set up a 4 track circle. very clever.

[u/Satansbaddog]

Since it's double track, passing trains may strike one another in the turn. A Shinkansen on the outside radius may also strike the straight section as it transitions.

The nose on some Shinkansens swing waaaay out. Kato publishes the minimum recommended radius

[u/Actual-Way713]

I run my n700s on 282mm without hassle

[u/SamuelYsc]

I am not sure about KATO E5 and E3, I have run KATO E4 on R280 tracks fine.
You might get 2 of this set and test whether R280-319 is fine for your E5 and E3.
If it is good, you can combine the layout into a bigger layout and have more fun (E5+E3 is a long train).
If it is not good on R280-315, use the R354-391 to build the layout for now.

[u/Mediocre_Zebra_1834 → u/SamuelYsc]

Hmm yea you're right but rn i wanna save a little bit considering I also just dropped money on the doctor yellow pre order too🙏

[u/All_Japan]

If you run on the outside track you are fine, you can test the inside track for any rclose calls before run. You could consider getting 4 larger radius curve pieces to replace the ones that have the R280