(16 Jul 2014, 12:28 pm)G-CPTN wrote The X84 replaced the former 687 (which was operated by an MPD) and that was well-used and frequently had standing passengers (especially when the 685 broke down or ran late).
The current 687 shuttles between Hexham and Corbridge.
"Tynedalexpress" service X85 was mainly introduced to compete with Arriva North East/Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancs on their 685 service. At the time, the Stagecoach side was still being operated by high floor vehicles. Arriva had only introduced low-floor vehicles about two months beforehand - this is why Go North East heavily advertised the service as being 'low floor, with no difficult steps to climb'.
"Tynedalexpress" service X84 was introduced to replace "Tynedale Links" service 684, which at the time was operated by an MPD. It was thought that the service was performing well and could justify an upgrade - which is exactly what has happened, and the service has continued to grow.
"Tynedale Links" service 687 was also introduced at this time, running hourly between Highford Park, Wydon Park, Hexham, Beaufront and Corbridge. This in part also replaced "Tynedale Links" service 684.
Of the two, I do think that "Tynedalexpress" service X84 is still the better performer, but that is mainly down to the lack of competition on the route. In addition, it was not a new service - simply re-numbered - and its market was already established. "Tynedalexpress" service X85 has obviously had a more difficult time, what with competition from service 685. Customers have left service 685 in favour of Go North East's X85; whether that's down to the reliability (or lack thereof) of service 685 or the lack of customer perks such as free Wi-Fi, I do not know.
I do think that both services have proven themselves worthy of an upgrade, when the time is right. I don't think it'll happen this year, but should any Mercedes Citaro vehicles become available next year, I think we can put money on five being earmarked for this purpose.