Kai - Pilot Suits
njo007 · Ninjago
Pilot Episodes / Skeleton Army · 2011 (The inaugural year of Ninjago)
Figure ID
njo007
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011 (The inaugural year of Ninjago)
Rarity
Uncommon. While common in 2011, it is now an aged figure that has been replaced by numerous redesigns.
Head
Yellow head with high-set black eyebrows, a determined expression, and a small band-aid/scar over the right eye.
Torso
Red torso with a black/brown sash belt and a central gold-flame crest logo representing the Element of Fire.
Legs
Red legs with a printed red-and-black belt knot and simple fabric fold lines; no side or back printing.
Accessories
Missing its original gold katana or elemental sword in this photo. The red wrap-around ninja scarf/mask is included.
Color Scheme
Primary red with gold, black, and yellow accents.
Printing Details
Classic pad printing. The lion/fire crest is well-centered; detail is lower compared to modern 'Legacy' versions.
Variants
The 'DX' version (Dragon Xtreme) has a dragon print; the 'Kendo' version adds armor; several 'Legacy' remakes exist.
Condition Notes
High susceptibility to torso cracks under the arms and neck. The red plastic often shows teeth marks or scratches easily.
Estimated Value
Used: $5 - $8 USD; New/Mint: $15 - $25 USD depending on accessories.
Price (New)
Included in sets ranging from $4.99 (Spinners) to $69.99 (Fire Temple).
Compatible Sets
2505 Garmadon's Dark Fortress, 2507 Fire Temple, 2254 Kai's Mountain Shrine, 2258 Ninja Ambush.
Character Background
Kai, the Master of Fire, debuted as the hot-headed protagonist searching for his sister Nya in the Pilot episodes.
Design Notes
First-generation Ninjago mold for the head wrap. The face print established his signature 'angry but heroic' look.
Similar Minifigures
njo001 Kai (DX), njo489 Kai (Legacy), njo005 Zane (Pilot), njo003 Cole (Pilot).
Collectibility
High for nostalgia. Collectors often seek the original Pilot team (Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane) in their original 2011 forms.
History
This figure launched the Ninjago franchise, which became one of LEGO's most successful and longest-running in-house themes.
Interesting Facts
The crest on his chest was originally designed to resemble both a flame and a stylized dragon face.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for a 2011-era Spinner display or a shadow box featuring the evolution of the Fire Ninja.
Modification Potential
The torso and legs are frequently used for custom classic-style ninjas or red-clad martial arts MOCs.
Overall Assessment
An iconic piece of LEGO history. While simple by modern standards, it is the definitive 'starting point' for Kai collectors.