Not all of them need a Slomo to achieve nice slow speed running. A proper load being pulled helps, as does the driver paying attention and learning to run his or her engine properly. Just like the real ones they are modeled after, each one has its own personality and quirks to learn. And THAT is the fun of live steam. Its the closest most of us will get to running or owned a live steam locomotive. To get into live steam in the larger scales like ride on, takes a very healthy bank account or many years of tedious machining and boiler work. Is it for everybody, no, but to most that try it with some proper guidance in selecting their first locomotive, become hooked on live steam. I have both live steam and various engines that used to be track powered that I converted to onboard battery power. For those looking to get into live steam, I would recommend attending a steam up in person, see how various brands and styles of engines run, chat with their owners and learn as much as you can. As one posted, these are not cheap models by any means, so careful selection is important and key to enjoyment. Mike the Aspie