Optare StarRider
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]
| Optare StarRider | |
|---|---|
 Central Travel StarRider in 2008 | |
| 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 |
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.[1]
Former Dutch operator Midnet also operated 6 StarRiders.[2]
Replacement
The StarRider was replaced in 1994 by the similar MetroRider, which was based on an MCW design.
