Is LEGO Technic too hard for a first-time builder?

r/lego and r/legotechnic threads we read describe the Off-Road Race Buggy 42164 as a reasonable Technic on-ramp — small piece count, real suspension and steering, no electronics required. Reviewers note the build style (pins, axles, beams) feels very different from System LEGO, so expect a learning curve in the first hour.