The Decline of Bendy Buses: Navigating the Reasons

Bendy buses, also known as articulated buses, have been phased out in many cities around the world for various reasons. These buses have their advantages, such as increased passenger capacity, but they also come with their unique challenges. This article explores the reasons why cities have started to move away from bendy buses and towards alternative solutions.

Maneuverability

One of the primary reasons for the decline of bendy buses is their maneuverability. The long and articulated design of these buses makes them less suitable for navigating tight urban environments with narrow streets and sharp turns.

Urban Environments and Street Design

Urban centers often have a mix of wide and narrow streets, which can pose a challenge for large buses. Articulated buses can be difficult to control in tight spaces because their length and design require more space to turn and maneuver safely. This can lead to increased traffic congestion and accidents, especially in residential areas or during peak travel times.

Passenger Safety

There are also concerns about passenger safety, particularly when the rear section of the bus swings out during turns. This can create an unstable condition for passengers and increase the risk of accidents. Critics argue that standard buses, which are shorter and more stable, provide a safer travel experience for passengers.

Practical Examples and Safety Concerns

A specific concern is with the London bendies, which were known for their “tailswing” issue. When the rear section of the bus swung out during turns, it could lead to instability, especially when the bus needed to make sharp turns. This behavior was often unpredictable and could startle passengers, leading to potential safety hazards.

Operational Costs

Another factor in the decline of bendy buses is the higher operational and maintenance costs. While these buses can carry more passengers, they are also more expensive to run and maintain compared to standard buses. This includes higher costs for repairs and fuel consumption, which can add up over time.

Cost Analyses and Benefits Comparison

For instance, the fuel efficiency of a bendy bus is often lower than that of a standard bus because of its larger size and higher weight. Additionally, the maintenance of these buses is more complex due to their articulated design, which can lead to higher repair costs and ongoing expenses.

Infrastructure Limitations

Some cities do not have the necessary infrastructure to support bendy buses, such as adequate bus lanes or stops that can accommodate their size. This lack of infrastructure limits the practicality and efficiency of these buses in certain urban environments.

Urban Infrastructure and Bus Stops

Without the appropriate infrastructure, bendy buses can experience challenges in accessing bus stops, which can lead to longer travel times and reduced service reliability. Cities that have developed a robust bus network with dedicated lanes and well-placed stops are better suited for standard buses rather than bendy ones.

Public Preference

In some cases, the shift back to standard buses has been driven by public preference. Riders may find standard buses more comfortable and easier to board and alight. Public feedback from surveys and community engagement can play a significant role in the decision-making process for urban transportation systems.

Public Perception and Feedback

Surveys and feedback from commuters often highlight the convenience and comfort of standard buses. These vehicles are generally easier to navigate through crowded areas and provide a smoother ride due to their design. As a result, cities have started to prioritize these buses in their urban transit systems.

Comparative Driving Experience

Donald claims that bendy buses are not necessarily more difficult to drive than standard buses. From his personal experience driving bendies for a few years in Southampton, UK, he argues that the extra skill required is marginal. The unique configuration of the bus, including the positioning of the wheels and the length, allows for better maneuverability around tight corners.

Driving Experience and Safety

Donald’s experience highlights that, with proper training and familiarity, driving a bendy bus can be just as manageable as driving a standard bus. He also mentions that the risk of catching fire, while present in some models, is not unique to bendy buses. Rear-engine buses, including the front half of bendy buses, often generate more heat due to their design and the work of rear brakes.

Conclusion

The phased-out of bendy buses in many cities can be attributed to a combination of technical, operational, and public factors. While these buses have their advantages, cities like London and others have opted for alternative solutions such as double-decker buses or standard buses. This shift towards standard buses has been influenced by public preference and the desire for a safer, more efficient, and more comfortable urban transit system.

Ultimately, the choice of bus type depends on the specific needs and challenges of each urban environment. As cities continue to evolve, so will their transportation systems, balancing efficiency, safety, and public convenience.