Since 2017 Carrera has been offering new track supports with red elements that are fixed under the rails. While 3 sizes were offered, there are only 2 sizes in this year’s boxes.
The large size used for loops and the highest part of the bridge is now black. The size and shape remain unchanged. For the black color, I think it’s a good idea, because we could only see the red color from afar. I found this red a bit flashy, and on the other hand it made it easy to find the support in the box.
Concerning the small size for the start of the slope for the bridges, the color changes to light gray. The size and shape also remain unchanged. More discreet than red, gray is more easily drowned on the circuit.
The medium size has disappeared from the box, and it’s a shame because it allowed to add a support under the track and we had better stability when the cars pass.
In terms of quantity, two of each is a bit tight, it’s the minimum quantity. That leaves one on the uphill side and one on the downhill side. I prefer to put 2 for the uphill (or downhill) with one on each side because otherwise the track tends to twist, the track is much more stable.
It should be noted that the 2024 catalog did not refer to the possibility of acquiring these supports as accessories, whereas for versions before 2017, this was possible. Well, at the beginning of 2025, the Carrera website shows 2 references.
Ref: 88414 Pillar or Support for Looping 80mm red (2) at €1.50
Ref: 88815 Support for Bridge 58mm red (x2) at €2
The reference will probably appear in the paper catalog in 2025, for once it is an early release.