BRAND-NEW GA Class 745 Stadler FLIRT - First Class Review (London to Norwich)

Hello, welcome back to another train trip report on this channel. For this week, I will be reviewing the First Class on the Greater Anglia Stadler FLIRT trains, the 12 car 'Intercity' Class 745.
I will be travelling from London Liverpool Street to Norwich on one of these brand-new units. As a massive fan of foreign railways, I was very interested to see the ubiquitous Stadler FLIRT units finally arrive in the UK, as they are already used in four continents across the world!
These trains replaced the outdated and worn down Class 90 + Mk3 loco-hauled sets, which were certainly popular to enthusiasts, but in dire need of replacement. So, how do they compare to the old trains? Watch this video and find out!
Hope you enjoy this video, if you did give it a like, and don't forget to subscribe for more weekly content.
#greateranglia #stadlerFLIRT #tripreport
---
Journey Details:
Origin: London Liverpool Street
Destination: Norwich
Company: Greater Anglia
Train: UK Class 745 'Stadler FLIRT'
Accommodation: First Class Seat (1st)
Distance: 114 miles / 183 kilometres
Price: £13.85
Time: 1h52m
---
Find me elsewhere:
superalbs.weebly.com/
/ superalbs

[@Euroduplex]

Stadler. All Stadler trains I've experience during my trip to Europe felt like they're solidly built machines. Ran rings around any comparable products from other respectable makers. Keep on with it, Swiss

[@SuperalbsTravels]

I love Stadler trains in all countries, very high-quality bits of kit, even if a bit dull.

[@Euroduplex]

@@SuperalbsTravels Yup a bit dull lol but that one for the UK looks rather nice, especially on the inside.

[@robtyman4281]

They're far better than the awful Azumas (class 800) trains. The GWR ones are the worst. Don't know why GWR, and LNER didn't just order a load of Javelin trains instead. They too are better than the Azumas. As are the Avanti Pendolinos.

[@Euroduplex]

@@robtyman4281 Separate procurement programme, maybe? And different specification requirement, etc etc... Wonder why Hitachi dropped the ball but I suspect ride quality of 395 might be equally bad as 800/802 when they are to run 125mph on legacy tracks.

[@robtyman4281]

@@Euroduplex both the Javelin, and the Pendolino trains have superior ride quality to the Azumas (class 800's). The Javelin is a very fast and smooth train which is designed to run on straight tracks (as is the Eurostar, on which it partially shares the same tracks out of London). The Pendolino is designed to operate on curvy track and tilts (hence it's name). Both trains are far smoother and quieter in the carriages than the class 800. The ride quality of the 800 is no better than the Class 91(introduced over 30 years ago)! And it's just as noisy in the carriages as the class 90 sets are.

[@jimmorey8252]

My wife and I also travelled to Norwich and back on these earlier this week. I wasn't actually expecting any new trains until ours pitched up at Stratford. To watch the step / ramp cantilever itself out to meet the platform was a pleasant surprise: You see, I do a lot of work around transport and travel accessibility and this really was a work of wonder! Combined with the low floor in the central section of each carriage (a feature common in continental but not on UK trains), this all but removes the horizontal and vertical step between the train and the platform. On other types of train, this step isn't just a problem for wheelchair users, but is also a MAJOR issue for other passengers with reduced mobility - as well as for those with luggage, pushchairs, etc. - and slows down boarding generally. The accessible toilets are very generously proportioned, with clear labelling of door controls, soap / water and emergency alarm. There are also manual door control over-rides for if you get stuck . The passenger information system displays are clear and easy to read . In standard class, some seats have tables. The table leg is aligned to be midway BETWEEN the window and aisle seat so is not in your way (on most other UK trains, the leg is aligned to the middle of the aisle seats, which is a pain in the bum - esp if you have big feet). So another plus! And the buffet was open on both of the trains we caught. My only criticism is the lack of handrails - and the rails which do exist have poor contrast against their surroundings - making them difficult for persons with vision impairments to see. But this is an issue with lots of other UK trains, too. Another slight criticism is the location of the door opening button (i.e. on the doors - like on many tram and metro services) which may not be suitable for all users (especially if in a wheelie) to operate. Overall, well done to GA to introducing these. Apparently they chose these trains after extensive consultations with their disabled users. It shows!

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Wow, you know your stuff! Good to learn that they are ticking all of the accessibility boxes. ☑️

[@johnclayden1670]

Very nice. For a couple of months, I commuted from Norwich to London when they still used class 47's and at that time we knew the restaurant car waiters by name - and even a few of the other passengers! Splendid breakfast up and decent dinner down. Really comfortable seats. Happy days.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Ahh, I love a restaurant car. I always try and use them if available!

[@chumleywarner5412]

Passenger comfort is well down the list of priorities for all these new foreign built trains.

[@southerntransport466]

Finally someone’s done a trip report on the 745

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yessir! 👍

[@RocketJSykes]

yay

[@JustProps]

Significantly better than ‘new’ offerings from other operators and certainly shames the Hitachi models.

[@iman2341]

The Hitachis arent bad units, the DfT have just been allowed to spec the interior......

[@transportmanchester3299]

@@iman2341 Hitachi class 800's are very very good for intercity trains, they just are screwed up by the department for transport strict guidelines for them

[@soundseeker63]

@@transportmanchester3299 No they are not. They are noisy, hard riding with harsh, clinical interiors and unbearable seats. Yes the DaFT are probably to blame for some of that, but not all. There are refinement shortcomings as well as interior design fails.

[@seansands424]

@@iman2341 They got concrete seats

[@wewillrockyou1986]

I've been quite impressed by most Stadler trains I've used, the only ones I don't like are the GTWs which seem to have pretty bad oscillations for some reason with our tracks up in the north of the Netherlands...

[@baikamara1083]

Fantastic review, your best yet. I'm looking forward to boarding these unique looking trains. I love the look of them inside.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Glad you enjoyed the video, let me know what you think of the trains. :)

[@camjkerman]

Beautiful things. I've had the pleasure of a few rides on FLIRTs in East Anglia by now, always a wonderful experience, I really hope other TOCs catch on to how good the response has been to these as compared to other regional/intercity trains on the market.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

True, unlike any other order for stock, these things have nearly universal appeal with the passengers. It's great PR for all firms involved, and the region itself.

[@rayyan6515]

Massive acceleration, good job Stadler on fitting VTEC in the Engine

[@bfapple]

Sorry to ruin your joke but there are no engines on the 745s. Only motors!

[@williamhuang8309]

@@bfapple On the diesel units?

[@bfapple]

@@williamhuang8309 The diesels (bi-mode) are Class 755. This video is about Class 745.

[@itsthatenglishdriver]

Great video. Impressive that it arrived at Colchester and Norwich early. I've not been on a class 745 yet but they look good. Went on a class 90 just before they introduced the 745s. Although class 90s are good, I can't deny they're not the most modern train now. I'm sure they were fantastic when they were new but I feel it's time to move on.

[@soundseeker63]

As someone who is forced to endure the LNER IETs (GWR passengers also have my deepest sympathy) I must say this video is promising. These Stadler units, although odd in some design aspects, appear to be smooth, reasonably quiet, pleasant inside and with decent seats - all virtues that are sadly lacking on the IETs (and various other new offerings for that matter!). Due to where they operate I will not be using them regularly but I look forward to trying them out when I do. I will miss the 90s, but I'll admit those Mk3 sets were looking seriously outdated due to total lack of investment in them. Thankfully most of the 90s will live on with Freightliner, as they have plenty of life left in them.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, these are a real change to the 800s. Not perfect, but a lot better.

[@RocketJSykes]

IET's on GWR have poor build quality, as I've seen in Superlbs Travels' review. I don't live in the UK, so It might be incorrect. (I just enjoy reports and trainspotting) I've never trainspotted, only digitally. Goodbye! (looks like an essay)

[@Euroduplex]

@@RocketJSykes Probably due to the manufacturing site..? Looks like UK(and probably Japanese-made early production models) -made ones are assembled in a batter demeanour than Italian ones.

[@williamhuang8309]

Technically LNER calls them "Azuma" but they're essentially the same as GWR's IETs.

[@dgattenb]

those articulated trains are very nice ... would love them on the Cardiff / Paddington route as opposed to the 800s

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Exactly, the 800s are not nice. 🤮 Got a video of them coming soon though, on GWR.

[@cmdrquillon9398]

Yes, GWR offering Stadler Flirts between Swansea and London rather than the god-awful IETs would be wonderful.

[@hughmnyks]

When I last regularly travelled on this route - in 80s I have to admit, long story - the train (class 90 + Mk 3s, I think) was invariably late. Except on one occasion, when the train manager announced on arrival in Nch. : . "We regret to inform you that this service has arrived three minutes early" or words to that effect. Wonder what the Birmingham - Norwich service is like these days. In the late 70s the multiple units had all the windows open in summer because the engines always overheated. In winter they were just plain freezing.

[@Transpennine]

If Transpennine Express could get some of these to make their “Nova 4” It would be perfect! These trains are very solid machines!

[@davidhoulder56]

A wonderful video. I can’t wait to sample one of these!

[@LondonRiderAri]

Finally, a review on the Stadler FLIRT. But then again, there is 745/1 on the Stansted Express units and they do make a difference from the 745/0s (Sometimes they would use 745/1s on the London-Norwich route for capacity). To be honest, this train does fit the route rather well especially the extending step feature. Standard Class seats seem to offer quite a good amount of comfort but the First Class seats are pretty much the same. They do have some nice motors though.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, I agree that they're the right train for the job.

[@theobrattinga500]

Great video !!

[@kennethhume8628]

I’ve been waiting for you to try the 745’s , excellent video .

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Thank you very much, hope it was worth the wait? :)

[@kennethhume8628]

Superalbs Travels , I’m very impressed with your review .

[@JacobsTrainVideos]

Great video!! I really like your vids.

[@ITFNBiteBayKon]

I use these daily for my work commute between Ipswich and Colchester, a huge upgrade on the old class 91(I could be wrong) that use to service this route.

[@jamtart606]

I kinda miss the old MK3s, glad I was able to go on one before withdrawl

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, I made sure to have a few more rides before time was up. Glad I did that!

[@RocketJSykes]

Yes, the 43...

[@RocketJSykes]

90*

[@KanameGaming]

Loved Travelling on this train its fantastic

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Thanks for watching. :)

[@Pulsarnix]

Nice, I got on one of the 755 three car sets from Ely to Peterborough. They're great to travel on and not having the step down from the train to the platform will definitely improve the accessibility. They remind me a lot of trams.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Ah yeah, the 755s! Agree with that, the 'step-change' in accessibility is amazing too - pardon the pun.

[@thetd139]

Glad to see you mentioned the door height. It’s almost criminal that it took so long for a platform height train to be introduced on the network.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Just glad it's finally happened - on this route at least. Meanwhile on GWR and LNER, they have a massive brand-new fleet of horrible extra high-floor trains. 🙄

[@joshuahalla.k.a.controlla6333]

Great video. ☺️

[@LookingForLocos]

Hello! Quality video!

[@bagelcrisp]

Been here since 400 subs you've gotten far...

[@arthurvasey]

In some ways, the trolley service is better - I travel a lot on the line between Penzance and Aberdeen and back, from Taunton to Darlington (or sometimes York), going to Middlesbrough - going down to the buffet was simple enough - but coming back with tea, sandwiches and snacks was like playing Jeux Sans Frontières - it was touch and go if you got your hot beverage back to your seat without spilling half of it over someone’s knee or laptop - doesn’t help that they take bends like they are riding like Barry Sheen round bike tracks!

[@FromtheWindowSeat]

Great review. Really like this train. 👍 Are you using a gimbal? I’ve noticed your footage is a lot smoother than your earlier videos. 👌

[@jmsmilfajt]

😍 Yes, the acceleration and the traction motor sound is very familiar from our Leo Express Flirts in CZ.

[@JimbobsTransportVideos]

Lovely review

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Thank you, glad to hear that you liked it. 👍

[@dieseldragon6756]

I've had FLIRTS a few times, albeit only in Germany! Haven't had the pleasure of trying GAs out yet, but nice to *finally* see the UK getting articulated stock that *isn't* squarely confined to HS1! ;) Sadly; Being stuck in SWR land (With it's fleet of first-gen Desiros that never ever match their 350 counterparts for speed 😢) I fear it'll be another 20 years before we ever see anything this beautiful down my way... ...Not unless they get a move on with CrossRail 2 and through-trains Southampton to Norwich become a thing! 😀

[@mybidness349skytrainandlrt8]

Cool, thank you for the ride! cheers from Vancouver Island Canada.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@ItsAllAboutTheJourney]

I've never travelled on a Mk3 set myself, but the First Class seats on the 745 are a lot better than most nowadays. I do agree with you though that it doesn't feel much like an upgrade.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Hope you get a go on them soon, they're nice. :)

[@prof.hectorholbrook4692]

I venture to aver: it's a downgrade on comfort in real terms.

[@hughmnyks]

I'd forgotten the noise of going over Trowse Bridge, but the memory returned to me in an instant. No good video without good sound. Tahnk-you very much! I'd like to continue to Cromer, please.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Glad you enjoyed, will see if I can show the units that go to Cromer at one point in the future. :)

[@nathanwaters1078]

This is my favourite train ever.

[@alexn643]

Ok, I really want to go on these trains , they look so much better than most of the new stuff like the Hitachi stuff. Overall, fantastic video!

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it. You've not used the FLIRT sets then? 😳

[@alexn643]

@@SuperalbsTravels Unfortunately not yet, but I have been on other FLIRTs abroad

[@mindgap6797]

Nice video I'm getting it soon aswell

[@davidallinson7810]

lovely video yr so lucky to be able to get cheap train tickets!

[@gabrielstravels-discoverin7368]

Well, thanks to you (for this great idea of new content for my channel) I have also started filming trip reports! I will be uploading three train trip reports over the next few weeks, which are as follows: GWR Class 165 "Networker Turbo" between Dorking Deepdene and Reading GWR Class 800 "IET" between Reading and Oxford Cross Country Class 221 "Super Voyager" between Oxford and Reading All in Standard Class, with a slight sneak into First Class (except the Cross Country one) just for review purposes.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Oh nice, you'll have to let me know about it!

[@prof.hectorholbrook4692]

Oh God. Comfort??? Yes, I can indeed, "See something that doesn't look right".

[@markswishereatsstuff2500]

Very smart looking interior.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, it was nice!

[@FarmYardGaming]

I've been on 755s a handful of times and definitely prefer them to the Class 720 GA love to use. Even down to having 'Stadler' printed on the side of the driving carriage is cool.

[@naturallyherb]

Really awesome!

[@SuperalbsTravels]

They sure are, hope you enjoyed the video! 😁

[@spongebot64]

Jeez they take off like whippets!

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Indeed, certainly no hanging about.

[@subwayexpress465]

I prefer the retro atmosphere on the 90 sets but the 745s have awesome acceleration and performance.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

I'd say that's a fair judgment.

[@kenagar8884]

Being lighter than the Mk3 coaches, they tend to rattle around a bit. Be careful with a cup of coffee!

[@davebirch1976]

I've used the class 90 a couple of times in the past from Liverpool Street to Norwich and I always found they were never really that busy,but I guess that would be different during the peak hours. I might have to try this new one out on my next trip to Norwich

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Definitely give these a go when you can, they are very swish!

[@northeasterntransport3289]

Looking forward to some Stadler units for Tyne and Wear metro, they seem a solid build.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

I'm always impressed by Stadler products. 😃

[@gabrieljennings5255]

8:40 to 9:05 Love the sound of the wheels

[@bigm4njl]

I go from Norwich to great Yarmouth on holidays so it's great that they have these new trains instead of the old 37

[@drdewott9154]

Weird how seat reservations are cancelled on Greater Anglia due to Covid, when in Denmark, seat reservations were made mandatory due to Covid. Very odd. But anyways this was certainly a very nice report for sure and it really does feel like the Stadler Flirt is a great product! My country's state railways (DSB) is in the middle of a tender right now to replace almost their entire intercity and regional fleet with a modern, low floor 200km/h capable EMU. And hearing the good stuff about these Flirts makes me hope they become the trains to win the bid.

[@jimmenycricket4598]

LNER (who operate trains between London, Leeds, Newcastle and Scotland) also have compulsory seat reservations

[@markoobid2005]

@DrDewott you are Danish? So you will change the "Gumminase" trains? Hopefully the new ones will be as comfortable as current fleet. And DSB already ordered Talgo trains for Hamburg ECs - can't wait to try :)

[@drdewott9154]

@@markoobid2005 Yup that's true. They're the most reliable part of the fleet though so majority of them will likely keep running until about 2029, despite them already being past their intended expiration date. I mean DSB just recently put out a tender to refoliage their entire IR4 fleet (the electric Rubber nose) in their new red black and silver livery. And we should expect a result from their EMU tender some point in Spring 2021 so things seem to be going alright.

[@markoobid2005]

@@drdewott9154 I keep fingers crossed that you will choose Stadler. In Slovenia, we are now getting 52 brand new ones: 42 Flirts in diesel (21) and electric (21) version and 10 double-decked Kiss. However, the most anticipated DSB train for me is the Talgo. I love this genial short-coach design. FInally the end of "diesel under the wires" runs of IC 3 all the way to Hamburg.

[@JFinney]

The tray tables are rediculously small in standard but first is good if you can get a cheap fare on them, I only paid £2 extra from the standard fare (£4) one way for my trip from Southend to Ipswich and back and by far the first class is excellent on them, however with saying that the standard is good if you can get a table seat. Also as of the 21st August the buffets were open serving hot/cold drinks and biscuits and light snacks, and also it'd be great to have you come to Southend maybe I could even be your local guide lmao

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Good to hear about the catering again.

[@shaneD7378]

I travelled on these units at the beginning of September i was impressed with the regional and intercity variants funny enough i was on that exact same unit up to Norwich and on the return trip to London i was on a Stansted express variant what obviously had a lot more luggage space and i believe it was also all standard class seating with no cafe bar but i wasn't very impressed with the selection of food and drink

[@SuperalbsTravels]

As the bistro was shut for me, I'd be interested to know what was on offer?

[@droge192]

Wow, great frame rates for the GEML Line! :o)

[@ben.taylor]

7:24 As well as trains outside the London and Anglia region. I've seen WMR 172s and even voyagers head down there.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

That's true, basically, anything can and will show up! 😃

[@stanley3647]

Few thighs about this trains: - 1st class windows doesn't match seats - So You can find Yourself sitting next to the "wall" look at 3:13 seat in far end to the left. - I'ts still regional train for short journey (calling it Intercity is a bit too much) - top speed is OK, but less than 125MPH ;) But what i like: - spacious interior - one wide door design at centre of carriage. - boogies inbeetween cariages (less shake, more stable ride) - nice acceleration (only for electric one) Overall not bad design, but not for long journey, they great as commuter trains.

[@brianeynon5406]

Yes they are a winner and well built better than the Hitachi 800 series 10 out of ten certainly .

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Much better than them, yup!

[@philrabe910]

So...Twenty-first century! I remember when I moved to the San Francisco Bay area in the mid 80's, they were debating whether the bART trains ought to stop INSIDE the airport, or elsewhere with a intermediate mode of transit. I had just moved here from Chicago where they had just opened the airport line that had been debated the whole time I was in high school...

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Infrastructure can always take a long time to be approved... 🙄

[@polishstick0609]

This EMU looks good! Reminds me of ed160 on PKP Intercity that operates in poland

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah! The ED160 is even better though, I think. :)

[@albertvicic1816]

Greate train, and nice railway station 👍👍

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, have you had a ride? :)

[@HaakonHestness]

Nice video Superalbs 🤣🤣🤣

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Thanks. 😂😂😂

[@Farleigh1050]

2 years, and I havent been on a stadler yet, and you’re sayibg ‘finally’

[@AndrewG1989]

I like the acceleration of the Class 745s. They are very quick trains as Stadler have built them. Plus Stansted Express are now using the Class 745/1s. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Class_745 en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stansted_Express

[@michaeljackson2838]

Sadly I remember the comfort of original seating in Mk3 coaches. I want that back!

[@prof.hectorholbrook4692]

So do I.

[@lamborghinihexagons5502]

mk3 coaches were uncomfy

[@prof.hectorholbrook4692]

@@lamborghinihexagons5502 The Mk3 coach had some of the best upholstery in a normal passenger coach throughout the past 75 years. As a technical advisor to the RTC, when it was part of BR Board, I am privileged to state that.

[@lamborghinihexagons5502]

@@prof.hectorholbrook4692 86s and mk2s were better!

[@arnoldspottingvideos5269]

Great video. I really love the new Greater Anglia 745s. They're so fast when they depart. The 745/0s have first class but I don't think 745/1s have first class but only standard class I'm not too sure about that. The 745/1s will replace the 379s on Stansted Express so I can't wait for you to do a journey with them towards Stansted Airport. The first class is quiet because people don't use first class but only standard class is better. I prefer the new flint units, they're better than the Intercity sets with the 90s 😉.

[@Keithbarber]

I can confirm the 745 units on stanstead express are standard class only

[@arnoldspottingvideos5269]

@@Keithbarber The 379s have first class but not the 745/1s but thanks for that.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

You're right. I think they should have just ordered them all to the same specification personally. Micro-fleets never help anyone...

[@arnoldspottingvideos5269]

@@SuperalbsTravels I agree

[@Ben-xe8ps]

A very nice train but looking at that small buffet reminded me of the days when this route offered both a full size buffet car and a full restaurant car service.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

It's a real shame isn't it... 😭

[@paulwhitear4983]

Interesting video. I travel on Thameslink occasionally from 7oaks to Denmark Hill. The seats are so hard. It long enough to travel. Can you tell me how I get the sped app?

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Download DigiHUD for the speedometer. :) Glad you enjoyed.

[@hcjkruse]

The Stadler maintenance shed just outside LiverPool Street station looks very similar to the one in Hengelo the Netherlands. I traveled to HarwichLondon for over 2 years on a 3 weekly basis. The station looks very quiet!! The Stadler looks familiar. Is it also as fast as an HST? No longer old benches or opening the doors via the window on the outside. I really liked beating the tourists by taking the 6.57 to Manningtree and then change to the one from Norwich that only stops in Colchester. Also the small bar at Manningtree and old waiting area with books is nice.

[@AlexEwan1]

Those FLIRTS look like awesome bits of kit. I say we should make all new trains FLIRTs. 755s for commuter/regional routes and 745s for the more intercity routes. I just need an excuse to go to Suffolk/Norfolk so I can try out these trains.

[@markusstudeli2997]

Flirts are indeed pretty versatile, covering all sorts of roles from commuter trains to lower density long distance. They are not high speed trains, however, and perform best with frequent stops or on curvey and hilly tracks where accelleration is a major criterion. Due to their low floor design and wide doors, they are particularly well adapted to passengers requiring barrier free access, like bike riders, mothers of dads with prams or wheelchair users.

[@that1niceguy246]

@@markusstudeli2997 Maybe they could try the Stadler SMILEs for High speed routes then, those are actually high speed trains!

[@tristanmurray6949]

Being my local units, I have ridden a good few of these and whilst I miss the class 90s, these are certainly a worthy replacement

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, they are rather good. :)

[@josephrailfan3349]

I like the Class 90

[@DanielsUKT]

Very nice trip report on the new intercity trains defiently à good replacement for those old 90s and carriage units The acceleration is fast 😎 imagine if stadler made a high speed version that could go 150 to 200 mph (250 to 320kmh) would be awesome and greater anglia chose very well buying trains from the Swiss

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Stadler do offer a high-speed train, capable of 155mph, but it is not a FLIRT. Thanks for watching!

[@markusstudeli2997]

@@SuperalbsTravels It's a SMILE (speedy multi-system innovative lightweight express train)!

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Which apparently they offered to the UK, but sadly we didn't invest.

[@markusstudeli2997]

@@SuperalbsTravels I wonder what the price difference is. The SMILE, as opposed to the FLIRT, isn't selling like hot buns.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

High-speed trains in general have a much smaller audience.

[@sandyneedham6499]

Lack of recline is a real bummer - I love to sleep in trains and so this is real factor for me.

[@prof.hectorholbrook4692]

Agree.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah it's very strange. Thankfully the journeys on these trains aren't so long, but still, you really so expect that. Especially in first class.

[@ollie-t7862]

We have tri-mode FLIRTS coming to South Wales soon to replace old class 150s. The electric motor will either be powered by a Diesel engine, overhead AC or battery

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Yeah, I'm looking forward to those!

[@craiglogistics2092]

I prefer the Class 90 loco + Mk3 carriages on this journey but these Stadler's are a good train and certainly stack up against the Hitachi IET's

[@SuperalbsTravels]

I will miss them too, but love the new ones. :)

[@trainsimproductions_]

Definitely Southend Victoria in the future.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Will see what I can do. Never remember if that's the GA or c2c route...

[@alanashley1]

"Fun fact" Colchester Town was originally called "St Botolphs" there are three stations in Colchester "Colchester North" "Colchester Town" and "Hythe Station"

[@Pesmog]

Didn't Colchester North used to have the longest station platform in the uk at nearly 2000 feet? I was told that it was to handle long trooping trains during the wars for the local garrison.

[@alanashley1]

@@Pesmog yes it has but now it's used as two platforms 3 and 4

[@Transport-UK]

The 'Shenfield Shark' brake van at 7:49 - still there.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Ahh yes, what's the story behind that one?

[@Transport-UK]

@@SuperalbsTravels Not too sure, only I know its been there for years and years.

[@rayyan6515]

5:08 VTEC KICKED IN

[@russiandrivers9986]

How much time do you think they'll cut from the schedule when they change the timetable? Can they do London-Norwich in 1h30m?

[@SuperalbsTravels]

I've done the route in 90 minutes, so it's definitely possible!

[@joelbirrer8677]

I'm from Switzerland and travel with FLIRTs almost everyday, and i have to say, if you're working on a Notebook the Blinds are actually useful

[@SuperalbsTravels]

The blinds are good to have, but I don't think they are very effective on this example! :)

[@michaelnunnery6394]

Which do I prefer? The class 90 and rake of coaches from the days of ONE Meant that I could enjoy a cooked breakfast on the way down to Norwich and a nice lunch or dinner on the way back to London I would imagine that with their far superior breaks and suspension that the new Flirts can easily exceed the current line speed and achieve a faster smoother ride

[@clarkneil1980]

11:22 Fun fact: Its always been North Station not Colchester North even when Colchester Town station was called St Botolphs.

[@im_cool_i_guess]

This may be a random question but What is the gender of the announcement for class 745? (sometimes I find automated visual announcements irritating)

[@millercool21]

Male

[@western_alex]

Excellent one. When you said the Class 86’s didn’t have long left, they could be getting refurbished and reenter service

[@SuperalbsTravels]

That would be cool, I like them!

[@JohnLeeming23]

I've used them quite a lot recently. They are better than the 800 series by a long way, but the seats (too upright), the noise and the smoothness of the ride don't come up to the standards of the old Mark 3s. They do have a classy feel, though, and have a definite Continental atmosphere. Pre-Covid the trains on this line were often pretty full even in off-peak times. That's the case again now, though part of the reason is that the service is mostly hourly, rather than the half-hourly pre-Covid schedule.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Suppose the crowdbusting ability will be quite useful with a normal timetable.

[@FranekTransport0607]

2:23 may I just point out the Class 390 Pendolino's also have the step's

[@joefifield3285]

4:40 - Don't mean to be picky but the DLR train you can see there would have been starting there and running to Canary Wharf and Lewisham. The through platforms for trains to Stratford International would have been below you.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Oh, I didn't know! Thanks.

[@thhomm]

As someone who isn't from Norwich, I always read it as nor-which

[@dtvfan24]

what app did you use to measure the train speed

[@SuperalbsTravels]

DigiHUD

[@marcinklimas2670]

Trzeci od prawej strony. Polacy są wszędzie 😃

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Love the PKP FLIRT, they're very nice indeed.

[@Adamadam-tc1qg]

Ehhh will miss the class 90 / mk3 sets :'(

[@kennethbell54]

At 06.45 there is a bicycle in the carriage. Is this a designated place for bikes please?

[@aceeeed]

Yes there is. Opposite the accessible toilets.

[@MartinBrez]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't Norwich the only station that has services to Liverpool Street Station and Liverpool Lime Street station? Two major stations with Liverpool in the name, but one actually in Merseyside 😂

[@theextremeanimator4721]

Flirtatious

[@SuperalbsTravels]

😉

[@abdulyonbuses6803]

Will the class 720/5 go to the Liverpool Street to Cambridge North and Hertford east line

[@AndrewG1989]

The Class 720/5 5-Car and Class 720/1 10-Car will be used on West Anglia, Hertford East and Great Eastern routes. So yes they will also go to Cambridge and Cambridge North. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Rail_Class_720

[@SuperalbsTravels]

That's hoped to be the plan!

[@tutts999]

Miss the shaky 90 Class trains, but these 745 look very slick.

[@SuperalbsTravels]

I enjoyed both, but these are nice. :)

[@oliverstemp9132]

Very good, nicer than the 800s inside

[@SuperalbsTravels]

Much better!

[@nantsu2048]

OMG I LOVE LONDONN🥰🥰

[@Adamadam-tc1qg]

Don't know why, it's a shit hole 😂🕳️

[@arnoldspottingvideos5269]

@@Adamadam-tc1qg dude language

[@Adamadam-tc1qg]

@@arnoldspottingvideos5269 ❄️❄️❄️❄️ 🙄

[@robbiemorrison7085]

C2C run some peak time trains into Liverpool Street

[@AndrewG1989]

I presume they do.