(26 Oct 2016, 11:09 pm)G-CPTN wrote In my opinion, the B9TLs are ideal for the TEN.Don't worry, I'm not on about the TEN if you read carefully between the lines.
Those who think they are over-specified should consider that this makes them more durable and ensures that they will last longer than B5s, and the current vehicles are far from worn out.
I cannot imagine a better model of bus from any of the available current or new stock to fill this arduous role, so suggestions to cascade vehicles from other routes don't appeal (unless they are B9TLs of course).
It also helps a depot if they have identical vehicles for a route rather than a mixed fleet.
Leave the TEN alone (though maybe some additional correctly-liveried B9TLs would make the fleet complete).
'Competitor'
....and that certainly doesn't involve the TEN routes. Not saying that Streetdecks, Metro Deckers or Volvo B5TLs wouldn't cope either but the first one out if the three would be ideal for another route to allow a cascade for the Northerns plus extra B9s for the TEN to happen.
I also mentioned 'GKN' and the TENs have never been subject to being shortlisted for them.