I guess mileage varies here as with any other. My bachmann turnouts are a hit/miss. Those that work fine out the box havent lasted long enough. Not sure if thats just my luck with them. I was hoping to have a much better experience with Kato's track system but now so sure about that anymore reading these experiences.
I will echo Mark5, the Kato track system is a very good product. Compared to Bachmann's offering, Kato offers a much wider selection of track pieces (straights, curves, double-track. etc.) and accessories that will allow you greater expansion capabilities in the future. My previous layout used it and i was very satisfied with the robustness of it.
Ron