Arriva have honestly made the best decision ordering B9TL'S for the X18. They'll get a good 7 year use out of them on the X18. It has been mentioned that the low gear ratios have caused the GNE B9's on the TTX to have a bit of trouble on the A19 but they haven't done too badly and have done way better than what any other 'modern' bus would do. As long as the oil is regularly topped up and they're well looked after, they'll do as well as what the DB250'S have done on the X18.
On another note, how did the VDL DB300 trial go on the X93? I haven't heard any opinions yet but in my opinion, they probably would've coped OK despite having the same engine as the E400 due to the lighter bodyweight of the Gemini 2. I strongly suspect that winth the imminent order of B9's for the X18, the 4 VDL DB250's will either operate the X20 or they will make up the 4 vehicles at Whitby to operate the X93.
RE: Arriva North East - Latest