24 Aug 2015, 4:30 pm
#998
(24 Aug 2015, 3:43 pm)Dan What makes you think that, Dan?
The withdrawal of DAF SB120/Wright Cadet 8253 (NK04 FOP) has been outstanding since May, and was actually replaced in the fleet at Washington by VDL SB120/Wright Merit 8265 (NK04 ZND). I believe its withdrawal was postponed due to various VDL SB120/Wright Merits being VOR following transfer from Riverside. I expect that it won't be too long before DAF SB120/Wright Cadet 8252 (NA52 BVJ) follows suit, although this must have been in a better condition than 8253 (NK04 FOP) given that the latter was withdrawn first despite being younger.
The MPDs and Cadets withdrawn to date (excluding 8253) were all new in 2002; as mini and midibuses, these would have been expected to have a shelf life of 12 years, which of course they have now surpassed. These vehicles will have a low book value, so makes sense to withdraw them now to maximise sale value.
It was because of the way it sounded and that 8252 is still seeing service on either the 82/A or 88/A.
