How could they possibly replace 54 buses with less than 10 double deckers - just check the fleet list http://fleetlists.busaustralia.com/vic.php?search=SKY

They'll have enough to run most city services most of the time.

I imagine the MAN artics will still appear in peak times. And of course the Optares and Rosas will continue to run the hotel shuttle services.

And they operate aircrew shuttle contracts and a bit of charter with the other buses.
It's probably the only route service in Melbourne that has the consistent patronage to justify double deckers and artics.
All done without government subsidy.An absolute credit to the Cowen and Pascoe families.It just concentrates on getting the basics right.On time,reasonably fast ,reliable and clean.

And expensive?

But that is what monopolies are all about.

Yes granted,but it isn't a complete monopoly.You have multiple operators doing City-Hotels shuttles and suburban route and on demand shuttles,taxis and the PTV contract route services there.There are alternatives.
Expensive it is,but it is very much a quality service in all areas.The standards are so much higher than the average suburban route service.You get what you pay for.I guess the massive growth in patronage on the service shows the public are willing to pay for a quality service.

Skybus has indicated via its Facebook page that it is to receive an additional 6 double deckers this winter apparently.

those 6 are they for Melbourne or Auckland?

They'll be destined for Melbourne. Auckland are importing Gemilangs.

Thanks,
Mitch


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Because NSW has to date failed to update the axle loadings for two axle vehicles. Doubtless they will get around to it sometime this century.

It is interesting to note that an article in this week's ABC on-line newsletter about the forthcoming NSW budget talks about 80 seater double deckers for Sydney - detail regarding the numbers of buses to be purchased and operators etc. will appear later. Within the NSW section is a topic regarding new buses and new bus routes (I think), which quotes the ABC article - it is worth a read.
But, to me, what this does say, is that they will be going for conventional 3 axle deckers (Volvo's or Enviro's) and not the Bustech CDI which is a 96 seater!! The subject of "Double Deckers" has been on the agenda of industry forums etc., so it may be that common sense is happening, rather than blind regulatory application. However, my comments regarding the types of deckers for NSW are only my assumptions, not facts!!

1whoknows wrote:Because NSW has to date failed to update the axle loadings for two axle vehicles. Doubtless they will get around to it sometime this century.

Hang on, what are you saying here. That two axle deckers are normal in the rest of the world?

Hopefully, he means for 3 axle buses - because the problem is there for DD's in NSW

Simonl the bus industry confederation sought an increase from 16 to 18 tonnes in 2007. Victoria did it in 2012 as have several other states. But not the retards of nsw. Thats why the CDC decker is running in Vic but not nsw.

The CDi decker is running in NSW with CDC. Still confused by your comments. And isn't the two axle weight irrelevant for a 3 axle bus?

He was referring to the Volgren-bodied Volvo decker, which was built for CDC in Sydney, but ended up going to CDC in Melbourne instead.

1whoknows wrote:Simonl the bus industry confederation sought an increase from 16 to 18 tonnes in 2007. Victoria did it in 2012 as have several other states. But not the retards of nsw. Thats why the CDC decker is running in Vic but not nsw.

It might pay to get your story straight. The weight limit for two axle buses in NSW was increased in 2013. Refer to the link below: http://www.busnsw.com.au/Portals/15/Mem ... 2013_2.pdf

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator sets the dimension and weight provisions to be implemented by the states.

The single CDC Volgren three axle decker in Vic is operating under a limited permit arrangement, which is irrelevant for discussion to the increase of two axle weight limits. The other units built and shipped here last year continue to sit about unused by either state. Think about your own retarded comments before blindly attacking another state.

To return to topic, the 7th Skybus Bustech CDi is presently making its way down to Melbourne.

also another delivery of the 8th Bustech CDi is on way down.

9th arrived Melbourne & in service very soon.

Skybus #110 on its way to delivery.

11th as #111 are on the way down, last one 12th is due to arrive by the first week of september.

Is there any chance we may see some of these double decks on the St Kilda and/or Frankston routes?

Nope.

A couple of Bustech Skybus deckers at the Sydney bus show: The RT is plastered with Bustech signage inside, sort of spoils the restoration

news today, another 1 more CDi to come as no 113, look out for it .

4 more new DD, first one is now in Melbourne as 114 is for Avalon airport runs, look out for it.