Optare StarRider

Optare StarRider
An Optare StarRider
Overview
Manufacturer	Optare
Production	1987–1994
Assembly	Leeds, England
Body and chassis
Doors	1 door
Floor type	Step entrance
Chassis	Mercedes-Benz T2 811D
Powertrain
Engine	Mercedes-Benz
Capacity	19–31 seated
Dimensions
Length	7.0–8.0 metres
Width	2.35 metres
Height	2.9 metres
Chronology
Successor	Optare MetroRider

The Optare StarRider was a minibus and minicoach body that was produced by Optare between 1987 and 1994. It was based on the Mercedes-Benz T2 811D chassis, with its body made from a steel frame with aluminium alloy and GPR exterior panels. 157 StarRiders were produced before the type was replaced by the Optare MetroRider in 1994.^[1]

Operators

London Buses were the largest operator of the StarRider, ordering 123 examples designated as the SR-class. Badgerline were the second-largest customer, ordering 24; the remainder of StarRiders ordered were largely split in small numbers between smaller private operators.^[2]

Replacement

The StarRider was replaced in 1994 by the similar MetroRider, which was based on an MCW design.

Preservation

At least one StarRider has been preserved. This is 1988 Badgerline example E809 MOU, Optare body number 468 and Badgerline fleet number 3809.

Preserved Optare StarRider in Penzance in 2013

See also

• List of buses

References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Optare StarRider.