All of these are geared like "toy trains" (fast!) That little motor isn't very powerful. The longish wheelbase and rubber tires on both sides of the axle mean a rapid increase in friction when entering home layout-sized curves. You will notice binding and slowing on anything less than about O54, especially if you're running the loco alone without a train.
Bottom line- yes "cruise control" is a gimmick and a band-aid, but it's kind of necessary to give these locos smooth performance at slower speeds. Get the Cruise Commander. My $.02.
