(30 Jan 2016, 12:16 pm)Andreos1 wrote My thoughts on the condition of the purple Solars have been well documented for the last few years - there was another breakdown on the 20 yesterday coincidently.
However, I mentioned not too long ago that recently I have ended up on the 49xx batch more or less every time I have ridden the 20.
These seem (to me anyway) to be in better nick internally, than the 52xx branded vehicles.
Mechanically, I have no idea which of the batches are better.
I have ridden the X35 quite regularly (not as often as the 20's) and in my opinion, they're in a similar condition internally to their purple cousins.
If a handful of the 52xx purple Solars were repainted black, I am not sure they would last too long on the X35/X36.
It certainly wouldn't be much of an upgrade for passengers.
Saying all of that, whilst it could be said the X35 needs newer vehicles - a cascade from elsewhere may be the more cost effective option.
Mercs?
Hmm aye, i think it would just be a good idea have them all 54 reg and euro 5 - makes the brand look better when they have the same age buses, well to me it does.
The X35 is a funny route for new buses though..... sometimes the route can be packed but then some passenger numbers can be so low.