At 18 meters (nearly 60 feet) long, bendy buses look like two single-decker buses linked together by a bendy rubber middle. They can carry up to 140 people, which is 60 more than a double-decker bus.
Three-door Entry
Passengers can board bendy buses at three sets of doors: at the front by the driver (where you're used to getting on), towards the back of the first half of the bus, and in the middle of the rear half of the bus.
Passengers with travelcards can board at any door and don't have to show the driver their ticket. An inspector may get on the bus so always hold on to your ticket.
Cash-free - Pay Before You Board
Bendy buses are 'cash-free' which means you must have a valid ticket or travelcard before boarding. At every bus stop for the bendy buses there are roadside ticket machines so it's not a problem. Keeping the bus 'cash-free' means the buses move off quicker and you reach your destination in less time.
The roadside ticket machines sell single Adult and Child tickets, as well as One-Day bus passes. Be aware, the machines do not give change so keep some coins in your pocket for these journeys. The machines take the following coins: £2, £1, 50p, 20p, 10p and 5p.
Accessible For All
As all bendy buses are low-floor buses they also offer improved access for all. Wheelchair users can board at the central doors where there is a bell on the outside of the bus to alert the driver, who then activates the automatic ramp. This then folds away (automatically) once the disabled passenger is safely onboard.
Greater Comfort
Bendy buses are climate-controlled to ensure passengers travel in greater comfort. All bendy buses are fitted with CCTV (security cameras) so they offer a greater level of security.
Which Routes?
Obviously, double-decker buses have not been phased out completely so bendy buses are only on a few routes. You are likely to come across them on your travels as they do go along Oxford Street, our busiest shopping street. Check the bendy bus routes on the Transport for London website.
What Do Londoners Think About Bendy Buses?
There has been mixed opinions from Londoners. I know some commuters appreciate the faster service, but others have been vehemently against them from the start.
I must admit I was a bit concerned when a few bendy buses caught on fire near the start of their introduction, but the fault was found and that hasn't happened in a long time. My gripe with bendy buses is the size of the seats, as they seem to have made the two-seats into one-and-a-half-seats so it can be a bit of a squash to sit down. But if you can manage standing for your journey, bendy buses are great as there's a lot more space for you and your bags.
