We purchased the Mercedes Tourrider. Love it or Hate it?

[@deeser]

Can't speak as a driver, but as a passenger I've found Mercedes coaches to be a very smooth and forgiving ride.

[@Halloweye]

Yeah,I agree. From personal experience,the buses run super smooth but some times they can be noisy(the air-based suspension system),or they begin shaking(happens at random,not sure why but maybe because of the engine being really powerful)

[@Rheilffordd]

Now to stop everything I was doing and to sit and enjoy this! 😁

[@johnwright3710]

James, everything you have stated I have known for years! Our Setra S417 Top class buses provide a very similar look and driver experience. The Setra is light years ahead of the MCI J. It appears this Mercedes is taking it to entire different level!

[@mafarnz]

I really liked hearing from some of the drivers and other employees there, maybe you should do a video to showcase other folks at the company.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Ha! I would love to but most of them dont like being on camera. Im very lucky when I can get someone to agree to be in my videos.

[@chaoszombie9995]

When I first saw your video about the launch of this coach I thought to myself “I wonder if Peoria Charter will buy these” and I even debated on making a comment about it 😂 hopefully more Tourriders will find a permanent home with PC!

[@chrisbeall9098]

Much more modern than the O303 and smaller O309 I cut my teeth on in Germany back in the early 80's. Here in Italy, I seldom see tour rigs with a tag axle. Thanx for taking the time to do these vids.

[@ivanaragon9032]

Incredible coach. I hope one day we see Marcopolo Paradisos in America. Great Video

[@randu_124]

It'll be interesting to see how successful the Tourrider will be. Looks very similar to the latest generation Tourismo that we have in Europe, which is an amazing coach in my opinion as a passenger.

[@Georg_O]

Most of the additional lighting on European coaches are linked to the low beams. If the low beams are not on, neither fog lights, luggage bay lights or side loading lights won't work. On European coaches there is usually a switch actuated by the luggage bay door that turns the luggage bay light on when the door is opened and low beams are switched on and turns the light off when the door closes. Most (if not all) of the German coach manufacturers are known for smooth and soft suspension offering a pleasant ride for the passengers, even compared to the rest of the European coach manufacturers. Mercedeses are much softer and smoother than Irizars with Scania chassis that I usually drive.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Thank you for this awesome insight. You are totally correct!

[@Qrail]

I had the privilege of driving the first Neoplan Citiliner that was imported to the USA in 1986. Compared to the offerings of the day, this was a good coach. The Setra’s were even better, since they had the series 60 motor instead of the Deutz air cooled engine.

[@greghuang2314]

This is super exciting! I've been in Europe over the last few months so I've seen and rode a lot of Mercedes-Benz buses lately. But it's amazing to see them now come to the US! Hoping they will be a sucess here :)

[@johnday3080]

James, I thoroughly enjoy Motorcoach World and your candor about PCC’s business decisions. I have some ideas for future episodes. 1. What is involved in selecting the coaches you add to your fleet. What prompted you to add yet another nameplate to your fleet. I recall in an earlier video, you mentioned that the more brands, the more spare parts and expense. 2. How about a serious history of PCC? The family has certainly accomplished a lot building a large coach operation and keeping it going wars, recessions, and Covid. 3. I lived in Springfield until about 15 years ago. I remember companies like Crown Transit, Illinois Highway Lines, Illini Swallow (named for a fraternity kegger?), Monticello, and Cavallo. It would be interesting to folks Central Illinois to learn something about the comings and goings of the other bus companies in the area.

[@joshuahill5271]

You should look into Volvo chassis' and seperate body work as New Zealand drivers fall in love with volvo chassis buses. The modern chassis have similar features to the Mercedes and have i-shifters also. New Zealand & Australia both have windy, challenging roads and the Volvos out perform (newer) Mercedes & Scania chassis as well as freight-liners.

[@Halloweye]

I was once on a Mercedes Benz Tourismo and it was making this horrendous whistling noise,even though the window was closed. The bus didn't even stop,which I am grateful for cause then I would have been late to school,and the second bus would overtake us(during the morning,there are 2 buses instead of 1).

[@rifkyfahrana1141]

Finally, an in-depth review from owner/operator perspective. Daimler absolutely should watch this. Wonderful coach indeed. I see it stlll has its European soul especially the console and high idle controls. About the display screen i think you can adjust the colors if you have trouble seeing the graphics. That's what i see in European mercedes intouro commuter coach

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Hey Rifky. Thats interesting. I will look for screen color options. Never thought of that.

[@orenkipnis7058]

Watched the video again. This coach is based on the Mercedes Benz Tourismo, a very popular coach in Europe. It will be very interesting to compare them.

[@FoxFaderWorld]

Man good review. I don't even drive but I know more about this MB tour rider than I would ever need. Love it 😊

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Lol thanks Fox!

[@MrSashquatch2.0]

Love the honest review and quite enjoyed it. The switch and button placement is common in European coaches and trucks. My truck has the same type of fog lights switch and heated seat. Nice to see how different county manufacturers do things slightly differently with the same results. Thank you for the videos 😊

[@vincenthprice2260]

Once again I’m enjoying your videos on the Mercedes-Benz tour rider interesting technology love the driver, side window and 360 camera view. Thanks again keep the videos coming.

[@thomasmcmanus6575]

Awesome video !Keep them coming. Thx James for your time in making the this video. Bye for now from New Jersey. 🇺🇸👍👍👍I'm new to your channel.

[@KISSFanDan1995]

I’d love to see these as RV’s too.

[@markostruszka1845]

I used to drive a 45 pax Mercedes bus when I was in the USAF stationed at Spangdahlem AB Germany and I thought that they were a dream to drive as they had a manual transmission and Had an incredible turning radius as they had about a 45 degree cramp angle and they were very smooth riding

[@markostruszka1845]

and very good visability

[@markostruszka1845]

also forgot this was in the mid 80's

[@raymondcheung4693]

All I can say about this Mercedes coach is the design and drivers friendly and typical European manufactured coach for the comfortabilties for all human beings including the operators !

[@chrisdawson4896]

Hey James, Cracking video as always. We have the Tourismo in the UK, which is pretty much the same as the Tourider you guys have. I drive the slightly earlier model here in the UK, and I can honestly say they're a great machine. In the UK we have a 6 speed ZF automatic or an 8 speed automated gearbox or Powershift as it known for the drivetrain options. Same problems here too with them being warm in the drivers area but I love the extra button for the luggage locker doors by the entrance door, the amount of times I've got to a hotel or airport and forgotten to press the one before leaving the drivers seat......... Doh! Only major issue we've had with 2 of ours, and we run 8 out of our depot has been injector failure after about 200,000 Kms. Starts to run unsmootly when asking for power, then evens itself out. Did take a few weeks for parts earlier this year, but that was mainly due to Ukrainian War and Brexit here in the UK. Apart from that, excellent machine, good ride, a comfortable drive and most of all the customers like them, especially with the bigger seats and sideways movement in the seats to give them a little more bottom space. Keep up the excellent work as always James Chris Coach driver UK

[@thembones1895]

Great review James. Was about to be surprised about the bay doors, especially for a Mercedes product, but then recalled customers snapping off the plastic levers on our E350 fleet all the time haha.

[@MrE228]

Hey James, Nice video. I have a tip on how you can close the windows while moving on this new buses as well on the Setras S 417 TC: just push the recyclable air button on the climate control unit and the window will close properly. Also if you entrance door has a lot of wind noise, this trick will make the noise less noticeable or completely disappear. (This is on a timer, it works for 20-30 minutes only)

[@williamring1947]

James I love your content you put it in a very professional but easy-to-understand manner for a layman, who is not in the business everyday to understand my hat's off to you for that. I'm sending you this message because I want to hear your opinion as professional driver of a Motorcoach, my grandmother has been going to DC in January for years on end, Jesus St Louis, living in the st. Louis area for years on end. One year she was going in the March for Life and I think she was passing by Indianapolis, or through Ohio, and her bus lost everything staring lights everything and they were in rush hour traffic, the driver was somehow able to manage to get that bus on the side of the road without a scratch

[@MotorcoachWorld]

That's a well trained driver. Sounds like he or she was able to keep a level calm head during a sudden emergency.

[@Nuhaantje]

Many of the things you say are pretty standard on European coaches and actually benefits comfort and safety. Now, those baggage buttons at the door were actually 'stolen' from Van Hool, but are implemented much better. Where Van Hool relocated the baggage buttons from the dash to the door, Mercedes actually kept the dash buttons, and added buttons at the door. What does strike me is the similarities between the American Tourrider and European Tourismo. It looks like both coaches are build on the same platform, thus sharing many features. On many Isri heated driver's seats, there often is an option for ventilation, which is really nice during warm weather.

[@thomasmcmanus6575]

Hey James. Cool video !Keep them coming. Btw, for the smell in restroom,I use Downy. Bye for now from New Jersey .

[@richcibelli1445]

Thanks JAMES, very informative. See you agaain soon!

[@dougwoodie6675]

Great honest review. This is the kind of feedback the OEM needs to hear for North American adaptation. Bay door latches will definitely not work long term. Other import OEMs learned these lessons a long time ago which begs the question as to why the homework on these kind of items seem to be an afterthought. Engine door and overhead rack redesign should be immediate. As a technician the use of the icebox in the dash seems ridiculous. Especially if you ever have to work on wiper motors. Not to mention the fact that no one should be forward of the white line while the coach is in motion.

[@SvdB4]

As a experienced Mercedes/ Setra driver, the bay door latches work perfectly even on 10 year old coaches. Mercedes has made special tray under the fridge for windshield wiper fluid and a front door for the spare tire in th front from where you can service the wipers and motors. I do agree that the engine door is a lil lackluster.

[@scooter812]

I somehow got a video of yours in my suggested list about a month ago. I am from Cham-Bana and ride the MTD as well. You present well and do your research. Thank you for your content, it's great! I hope that I could get a ride in one of these big Benzos someday!

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Hey Scott. Always nice to meet another Champaign Urbana person. Thank you for your kind words. Maybe some day I will give you a ride on one around the block.

[@rafaelalmonte8212]

I'm a little surprised not to see the side view mirrors on the top side like the Setra. At least the one on the passenger side since I notice that the glass does not go that high on the driver side. If I ever hit the lottery I would demand high mirrors on my bus. If not, no deal. In my opinion high mirrors offer better views and therefore is safer and in some cases you can drive it through a tighter place. I will definitely be playing the lotto tomorrow. Will be traveling with all my family, friends and neighbors the whole USA. Jazz, Latin Jazz, Jazz Flamenco, Country instrumental..Oh, and that too

[@rb810810]

Cool video. Just saw one in full Yankee (Boston) livery on 10th Ave in NYC and was curious about it.

[@rmpll]

Interesting Video, I operate commuter Busses in Germany and own some of them myself but have also driven some coachbusses here. I was shoked how much was not standard in the USA, alot of these things have been the bare minumum standard here in Germany (for example the big driver window or a 3rd steered Axle.) . I hope these busses will bring you much joy in the future and lets hope its not hard to get replacementparts if needed.

[@davidjeanfreau399]

James you know I want to see Gray Line TN get Tourriders but not likely. I told you I was a Setra 417 fan after driving them and the 215/217 at Arrow Stage Lines for 20 years. Great video….as always !

[@pertjarnstrom1330]

Great channel,m I always been a bus geek, maybe one day I will be licenced to drive one to....

[@MotorcoachWorld]

I wish you the best of luck! Im glad you are following your dreams! Thank you for leaving a comment. Send me a picture when you are next to your bus and I will give you a shout out in the beginning of one of my videos!

[@richardwilliams6990]

As a Long Haul truck driver, I am aware that Daimler Benz ownes the US made truck Freightliner and Western Star and looking at the dash of either a Mercedes truck or bus the steering wheels gauge cluster and center screen and menu layout are exactly the same. The reason I kind of like this, is due to when I retire from driving truck I'd like to switch to Motor Coaches and seeing that Mercedes I know with out a doubt i get behind the wheel today and go and and not miss a beat. Although I would need to take some time leaning the rest of the ins and outs of the this Coach.

[@railvlogger1439]

Currently I am driving a Mercedes Citaro articulated bus, and I have noticed that many of the switches, for example activating the fog lights are the same as the Tourrider.

[@TransitCentral]

Hey James! I'm a Driver for GO Transit we use MCIs and Alexander Dennis buses, It must be a European thing because our ADLs sound very similar to those Mercedes brakes giving it that carish type of feel compared to the heavy mci brakes. Pretty interesting!

[@ewelmo3921]

Hi James - I haven't driven one yet, but since I drive for a "mom and pop" company I probably won't in the near future. They remind me of the Setra (which I know is made by Mercedes), but without the headaches like the window issue. Hopefully the blind spot issue has been resolved. No good stories today about Setras, but perhaps another day! I do like Setra handling, that steering tag is a great thing. I've done a lot of mountain driving in a Setra, they handle like a Volkswagen! It will be interesting to try one of those newfangled Mercedes out.

[@averagedev7768]

It could be that i am from Europe and that i am used to Setras and Mercedes buses. None of the things you mentioned make me supprised. The fuel door works the same as on passanger Mercedes cars for decades as well. Everything is always the same. I like the new seats, literally same comfort as in a Maybach

[@dth2brny121]

I can attest the fact, there's a 2001 S500 in my family, and the fuel door works exactly the same way as the Tourrider here

[@smada36]

We have the Tourismo here in the UK. I've been driving them since 2011. Every years models from brand new and lived with them them being up to ten years old. They have ironed out many of their problems in the later versions, although I think the 2017 build year was the worst for Mercedes. They are an impressive looking coach and most passengers seem to like them as long as they are not on them for too long. Some find the seats here uncomfortable. I do like them over many of the other options here in Europe, but I find them to be an opportunity missed. The build quality is terrible with them aging rapidly and parts falling off, they develop rattles pretty quickly, they are dogged with electrical faults, they go through light bulbs light a 50's flash photographer, and they flatten batteries in minutes. Plus, the second there it a sensor fault, you can't get the parking brake off and it's game over for the passengers. I had a smoke detector warning come up once. No one had been smoking. Somehow water had got in the sensor, but the warning switches on the four way turn signals. Why this needs to be a thing I have no idea. But it couldn't be switched off or reset so, just to get the passengers home, down the road we went with the lights flashing. They have since put in an override, but you have to pay for a retrofit. Plus, you can't buy the old sensors anymore as they were a bad design and you can't just unplug them as that too sets off the alarm. So paying out for the new system is the only option. I had a brand new 2019 that wouldn't go into gear because it didn't like the ignition key. Why the transmission needs its own ignition key sensor is beyond me. Surely if the flywheel is spinning, it was the right key. 🤷‍♂ That was an issue that took Mercedes way too long to figure out because the onboard computer reported that nothing was wrong even though the bus wouldn't move. Also we have the automated manual transmission here which are horrendous, but the fully automatics are nice. However, they are more expensive so a bit rarer. I have a long list of things that I don't like, but short of a Volvo 9700, they would be my second choice. However, it's not my money so for that, I am thankful 🤣🤣

[@yuri_on_youtube]

This was an enjoyable watch, even for a non-bus driver like me. What I'd look forward to is a follow up on how this bus handles US road conditions and mid-US weather because they can be pretty harsh, especially in the winter. If Mercedes wants a real durability test, they should send one to Greyhound because a lot of the buses I've been on from the Seattle to Stanfield route are in really, really bad shape.

[@crabbymilton390]

Well GREYHOUND likely will stay with lower cost MCI D series. They buy them in large numbers so a premium coach like this may prove too costly in large numbers. They would likely upgrade to the J4500 if anything before considering MERCEDES BENZ.

[@yuri_on_youtube]

@@crabbymilton390 Easy now, I meant that in jest.

[@crabbymilton390]

@@yuri_on_youtube I kind of figured. But perhaps a demonstrator or 2 just to gauge reactions.

[@daku911]

​@crabbymilton390 aren't most of Greyhound's newer busses Prevosts

[@crabbymilton390]

@@daku911 I’ll have to look it up. In the past they went back and forth with PREVOST and MCI.

[@rescueteam6706]

Thanks for the tour, James!

[@axelrajr]

that headlight switch seems to be the same idea that my ford used. the fog lamp markings are on the far side of the knob form the normal light controls and its kind of hard to come up with a pictorial explanation of 'pull to turn on'. if it is the same, ford has a deten't that pulls the knob in for 'off', it can only be pulled out for 'auto',' parking lamps', and 'on', was slightly annoying that the knob had to go in and then back out again to run the knob from 'auto' to 'on'. i can see that luggage rack being a long term annoyance, especially if occasionally people are catching a fingernail, on the ones you buy, you might consider a sticker up front on both sides saying 'not a handrail'. it might help.

[@primoroy]

I retired to Southern Mexico from Texas and am surprised by the sheer number of Mercedes busses on the roads, but none of them look this good, probably local builds.

[@donalddodson7365]

Bold move to purchase them now. I like the sound of the ride improvements. I missed any comments about support and parts availability in North America. As a retired risk manager, I think I would want our maintenance people to come up with a 'finger saver' spacer to install on the overhead rail. Some rushing person wanting that special seat in the back of the bus may be speeding along the isle and get that big fraternity/sorority ring jammed in the gap. ;-) Great report, thank you James.

[@Heimbasteln]

Thats interesting, my (european) VW work van has an almost identical light switch, which you also have to pull to turn on fog lights. I bet the switch in the tourrider is taken straight from a mercedes car, maybe one of their vans as well.

[@roryrobinson4947]

Awesome job James

[@dfwrider3830]

i expected a more peachy review considering how much access theyve given you with a factory tour and a couple demo busses. glad to see you are still welcome to critique them. could you do a a video about the most common mechanical issues busses have, what are some things a new bus mechanic should know before starting that career etc?

[@falconseyeaerialservicesll8176]

I was just thinking about that. A bus company can not survive without mechanics. There is a bus company in Connecticut, but I believe the garage is still in NY. To them the mechanic is the number one employees, u take care of the mechanics and the drivers will stay. Knowing safety is paramount and the trust with the mechanics. So how about a video on the importance of mechanics will be appreciated.

[@dfwrider3830]

@falconseyeaerialservicesll8176 absolutely, well maintained busses are essential to any bus companies reputation. I'm about halfway through the hiring process to become a bus mechanic myself. I'm scraping the web for any information I can use to continue aceing every test and question they send my way.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

My reviews are honest and I aim to help new drivers and operators. Mercedes has reached out to me and they enjoyed the video.. so I don't think they found it not peachy😊. I won't sugar coat anything but I won't go out of my way to hurt anyone's reputation.its a fine balance but sometimes I still manage to offend someone. But that's part of doing anything that involves critical thinking. Someone will always be offended these days lol. 😊

[@dfwrider3830]

@MotorcoachWorld good to hear. A lot of content creators are not doing so and it leads to their content just feeling like an ad.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

@@dfwrider3830 yeah I know exactly what you mean. I try not to do that but sometimes it's hard ... Especially when a company has wined and dined and treated me to so much cool stuff. I feel like I'm being rude sometimes by not saying just the good things. I have to over come that guilt to make sure that my content is still sincere. And then I have a few orginazions in the motorcoach industry that just flat out doesn't like what I do lol... Not sure why. Maybe they think I'm a threat to them? I try to stay in my lane but again, no matter what you do in this world you will always step on someone's toes...

[@JohnWagnerVideos]

Saw one of your Tourriders on Michigan Ave in Chicago today. Looks like a great ride! First time seeing your busses in person and each one I saw looked so clean.

[@man_on_wheelz]

I've never driven a motorcoach, but I have driven a Penske truck with air brakes which feels like I'm stepping on a rock that somehow slows the vehicle with my applied pressure. I'd imagine motorcoaches are typically the same way, so yeah... I got second-hand fright listening to all the drivers describe how the brakes feel on this Mercedes lol, I could only imagine trying to slow down and the pedal goes damn near to the floor with little deceleration immediately, after being used to the rock-hard brake pedal of the other busses.

[@fession-beatz1122]

Hey love your videos and I'm watching all the way from Jamaica 🇯🇲 much love to you

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Thank you Fession!

[@protector22222]

i equate some of the quirks to the fact that mercedes is technically a german company. So things are designed to make sense for their more common market oversea's. I have had german built vehicles before and they had just as many strange quirks that at least to an american driver seemed odd or even annoying but to the german driver was more of, " Oh yeah this is how this feature has always been and should be" type thing...

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Very true. It's a matter of what people are used to. Well said.

[@timsprandelg5]

Once again, Mr. James Wang gives us an in depth view of the new Tourrider from Mercedes. I can't divine which is more impressive. Mr. Wang's inimitable rendering of a new motor coach, or, the motor coach itself. My father owns 2 Mercedes-Benz vehicles and the build quality, ride quality, and the performance is exceptional. I own a Daimler Chrysler Jeep Cherokee. We won't comment on the engine overheating problems. I appreciate the gung ho attitude of the good people at Peoria Charter Coach. Having worked for 2 different companies, Greyhound and a small Chicago based motor coach company, I see a lot of hard work and care in their operation. (Show us your scar now, Mr. Wang.) I own a 1973 GMC P8-M 4905A #463. My mind is reeling as I consider the vast differences between the two coaches. Ok, my GMC is EMP proof. ZZeerrooo electronic controls that I'm aware of. It's powered by an 8V-71 Detroit Diesel that is still recognized as one of the finest ways to convert Dr. Rudolph Diesel fuel into glorious sound. My coach has an Allison VS 2 transmission. The predecessor to the Allison V-730. The New Tourrider must be a whole bunch to consider in the business sense of ownership, maintenance, operation, and just plain getting used to it. Hopefully, the Mercedes engineers have done their good work on the new coach as it should be and the reliability should be excellent. Thanks Again, Mr. Wang for building a Driving Force of Extraordinary Magnitude.

[@waXsurf]

The engine is not the european version of an Detroit. The Detroit is the american Version of the german Mercedes Engine. It is a complete german development. The lineup is called "Weltmotor" -> "Worldengine", it is also sold under many other brands. And Detroit is owned by Daimler Trucks (Mercedes Benz)

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Employees of Diamler coach says it's the same engine as the dd13. Just a European version. I consider them a credible source.

[@mdniteeagl1647]

I did ride the Setra S407 at LAX Flyaway. If the Tourrider is anything similar, it should get some sales. Despite its recent update, the Prevost H3-45 is still very much like its first incarnation, and still has many feature from the original H5-60. The MCI J4500 is even more like its first issue, and the body is still mostly the E4500. The Van Hool CX-45 is a flat box from almost every angle. The Tourrider has some Mercedes class to its design, even with the quirks pointed out in the video.

[@robertneblett4477]

James, what have you done to me? I have zero interest in busses (or so I thought) but I can’t stop watching your videos. 😂

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Lol I'm sorry Robert. I've given you the bug. Lol thanks for your kind words.

[@HankSnowgrandslamfishing]

Very interesting. My question is do the quirks outweigh the perks to this coach? Or is it the other way around. I'm interested to hear your opinion.. Thanks for sharing and remember if your in Orlando again look me up.

[@Garagedwella]

Hi James, big fan of your bus videos, I have a request for you though. As much as I like how throughly you the drivers perspective of things, I noticed you didn’t touch much on the passenger’s view point of things like seat positions, armrests, foot rests, restroom, any other additional passenger amenities like Wi-Fi, or AV capabilities this bus (especially the premium trim you mentioned) aside from the PA system (which you covered pretty well in this video), can this model be configured to have an attendant for a premium service route where drinks and snacks could be offered, or perhaps lie flats seats to allow for a overnight services? I know you covered some of these on your Istanbul trip, but I’d still like to hear more about these amenities. Any chances these items could be covered in the follow video you mentioned, please? Looking forwards to whatever content you have in store for us fellow bus nuts!

[@yunuskarayigit]

hello, it is very nice to see the vehicles produced in Turkey in your country. What is the sales price of the vehicle in your country?

[@agentile1996]

Hey there! Saw some Peoria Charter busses rolling though Champain IL a few days ago and thought of you and your channel. I have been a bus fan since early high school. All the best for safe trips and maybe we meet sometime out on the open road…. Until then.

[@Andy_Novosad]

Congratulations! Ukraine is watching!

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Slava Ukraine!!!!! 🇺🇦

[@Andy_Novosad]

@@MotorcoachWorld Geroyam Slava! Thanks mate!

[@TDD-uk8pf]

Out of the topic, you really look like the friend of BaldandBankrupt, two drops of water. Im flabbergasted. Nice vid btw😃

[@uliwehner]

very nice report, good, bad and ugly. the fog light switch has been a benz standard since the 70s at least, maybe longer. I would likely never find that heated seat button. The operation of the cargo doors seems to be a real problem compared to the say Prevost doors. the engine hatch was a surprise, i would have expected a vertical lift operation. I noticed the driver window being heated. that is a nice feature in inclement weather. I wonder if there is going to be a power upgrade available? Prevost have 500 horse engines, may make a difference in the hills. Anyway, a slick looking bus.

[@UNDERTAKER2621]

Great video, awesome bus

[@stevecasey1037]

Loved the years I spent in the S417...

[@thegodblogger3812]

Fantastic car review. Salute!

[@phbuss]

That driver seat from ISRI doesn't have all the options and is also an older model. The mic on the seat is optional and could easily be changed with another seat. The heating button is very easy if you know its there, we have those seats with either one level of heating, three levels of heating or three levels of cooling and three levels of heating. I also saw that there where only two buttons above the heating button, we have three buttons there. Maybe you were missing the button for side bolstering.

[@theKhumbaguy]

Amazing video. Great insights about the bus. I wonder what the equivalent of the Tourrider would be here in the Africa region.

[@novaerense]

I just found your channel and watched a video about buses in US and Europe. Please check buses in South America, specially from Brazil, you will be surprised.

[@jamesdukes597]

Congrats on the bus

[@grasscutter1963]

One more thing that boggles my mind with these buses are the cupholders. So many busses I get into are made hold a 12 ounce can of soda, but do they not know these drivers, many of them live in these buses, and we require big mugs of drink to drink out of hence need bigger cupholders. Times have changed since the 1960s we actually have bigger drinking mugs to drink from. And when we’re on long trips, we need that hydration.

[@TonyLasagna]

another bus vidya I didn’t know i needed.

[@berylwhite2983]

Another great video

[@douglasengle2704]

The Tourrider's ride is impressive to out do a Prevost and and an MCI!. The very ridged stainless steel monocoupe is doing its job well. The bus' mannerisms were also top notch from the previous obstacle course that was demonstrated in Turkey. Otherwise, it appears the Tourrider has some upgrades to go before it is at the level of a Prevost or MCI. A good over-the-road test or something similar would be taking the Tourrider over the mountain grades of I70 west of Denver through the Eisenhower Tunnel with a full load. Issues: 1) The restroom was bottom level like a Van Hool in the Turkey demo bus. Has it or can it be brought up to the level of an MCI? 2) The luggage doors / hatches and engine door lack the ease of use and vault like mechanisms of Prevost, MCI, etc. 3 ) Does the Tourrider have the heating and air conditioning at the level of Prevost? How will it survive in 115°F New Mexico or -40°F Alberta? 4) The Tourrider frame is stainless steel, but how suitable is the rest of the bus to the salt treated roads of Illinois? Will this chassis hold up as well as a Prevost to corrosion? A wireless microphone might be best adopted from the OEM of an MCI or Prevost that has demonstrated in works long term without interference in a bus environment. The engine compartment looked cramped. Emission controls are much stricter on USA heavy duty diesels than in Europe. Volvo does a poor job on its USA HD Diesels compared to Cummins and Detroit Diesel. Even though the Mercedes engine has a similar bottom end as the DD13 Detroit Diesel does the engine have the same emission controls as a DD13? Can it be serviced by Detroit Diesel service equipment? Having an obscure engine emissions code fault come up with that Mercedes engine that restricts engine output that is taking place because the system is not well vetted for USA emissions is a nightmare. It might have to be towed and left someplace for weeks before Mercedes figures it out and that is under warranty. Out of warranty Mercedes might walk away from it with only a hand full of these engines in the USA. Thank you for the video! The Tourrider appears to be the top bus chassis and is stainless steel for decades of durability.

[@actemple3282]

Gorgeous bus

[@elcheapo5302]

It's a good looking bus, for sure. But those exterior doors don't seem easy to use and I cant help but wonder how they're hold up after hundreds of thousands of miles.

[@Qrail]

Interesting and comprehensive review of the coach. I was always a GM fan, and felt that no bus could ever measure up to the 4106. That is until the company bought Setra’s. If I recall the turning radius on the 40 footer was 37 feet, with the steerable tag axle. I hope this Mercedes unit is competitively priced. The color will be difficult to keep clean, and might make it warmer in the summer. Is the roof white? And maybe an explanation about why not a Setra?

[@crabbymilton390]

I could be wrong but I think the TOURRIDER replaced the SETRA in this market.

[@elijahharris2723]

I love the Mercedes coach bus!

[@businjay]

Thanks James, I am very curious about the tourider. being a setra fan boy I am amazed they didnt use some of the similar features like the luggage rack handles and a setra 417 never had the problems of 2 handed opening. even the 217's the baggage doors opened with ease. Still curious. if you could find out for me, Is this coach supplanting the setra in north america? i hope not but I am curious. always another good video by you. I am out of the bus biz at this point in my life but I still pay attention. Thank you James.

[@johnp139]

Quirk: The a/c condensation drain pours a bunch of water that spills out right at the entry door.

[@Eric-hq2yj]

Great video as usual, James! This may even be a future video topic, but what are your thoughts on a Jake/Engine Brake vs an Allison Hydraulic Tranny Retarder or a Telma Electromagnetic Retarder? I have always been partial to a classic Jake/Engine Brake myself.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Hey Eric. That's a great idea. Thanks I'll add it to my list

[@RSanjay-tk2sj]

A few weeks ago, I actually saw one of these (the demo bus) being used. I looked inside and it has great interior! I would love to ride in one of these one day. What colors will these be painted?

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Not sure yet..maybe Fighting illini colors

[@jacobrajlich]

@@MotorcoachWorld That would be sharp! 😁

[@RSanjay-tk2sj]

@@MotorcoachWorld Oh that's nice! Those are my favorite liveries for PCC buses. Also it was great to hear Gary's thoughts at the end (I rode with him one time recently).

[@Dil650]

I work in vehicle glazing in the UK and have a quick question. why do bus and coaches in North America always have half screens at the front and never seam to be bonded but in a rubber gasket? Great video BTW.

[@Qrail]

I will take a shot at this one. A single piece windshield on some of the early imports to America were problematic. On the Neoplans, there was body flexing that would crack the glass. In the mid 80’s, paying $1200 for a windshield made us use smaller pieces. Also, if you take a rock, changing out one side is more economical.

[@uliwehner]

it is generally understood that half a screen is cheaper than a full screen. It would be tricky to bond half a screen i think. with the interstate driving distances in the US i think chipped windshields are a thing. We travel regularly at 70+ miles per hour.

[@garyjoynes2125]

Great video as always James. Being that your company and a few other companies have gotten these buses is kind of a test run. Maybe by next year the company may change things on the bus? One thing that needs to be changed in my opinion is that brake pedal. I think that can be dangerous. Good luck with your new buses.

[@uliwehner]

huh? there are a lot of these buses in europe, this is not a safety issue.

[@BenLomonRail]

Hey, I made the intro! 🙂 Very nice coach. I'd love to see some of these up here in Canada.

[@chrissymessytransit]

The BLB made it too lol.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Hey Ben. I was hoping you would see this lol. Thanks for sending me your picture. 😊

[@BenLomonRail]

@@MotorcoachWorld My pleasure! I’ve had a couple of fellow bus enthusiasts notice as well. 😛

[@RipRoaringGarage]

The brake issue might be a Euro thing. My bus has Wabco brakes, which are more old school in feel (similar to the MC9s) but after that there was a shift to more car like braking, and it tried to simulate it, so they have this spongy feeling. They're still air brakes after all. Now, thats the standard over there and theyre kind of stuck with drivers used to that. Here, I think this might be an issue with drivers used to the older feel of air brakes. Its probably going tobe changed after an "incident". I havent driven a new Tourrider. I only drove the 303S (also Turkish, the Ottomarsan) the O340 Connecto, and the 404 and they are so different from the MCI. What I still dont get, is why dont they make turning lights? The D4500s had these luggage lights, in the rear overhang, pointing forward and down. Not all Ds had them, but some that I drove did. They turn on when you open the door and would turn off after a while. (They probably were just puddle lights since they dont stay on more than what...10s?). Anyway. I would open the door to see the curb in dark areas, or when a light pole was burned out. They were awesome for turning in tight areas. Why not put that on a button? Or make it on both sides, since NYC has many one way streets, and lots of the street lights dont work. It might be a pattent (I was thinking of filing for it lol), and hes not selling it or whatever reason. But that was my unicorn feature....

[@flh5959]

James, it would good if you can do a video on how much each bus model costs here in North America, if it's something that can be divulged. Maybe a ball park? I would be interested to know how prices come into play in the popularity and decision making when purchasing. Back when I drove, I was told VanHools were like $350k. Are Prevost the most expensive? Setras were high end I think. How are these Tourriders priced? MB cars are premium cars but wonder if their buses are. But I know, maybe mfrs don't want these info disclosed so publicly.

[@MotorcoachWorld]

You know I really want to touch on that subject but prices and change and vary so much I would be causing issues for the dealerships if I gave out a price one day and they changed it the next. I don't want to create false expectations for the dealerships or make their jobs harder. So I figured I would leave the prices for them to divulge.

[@daku911]

Was wondering what is the seat pitch and seat width on 56 passenger models? Also, if they are equipped with seat belts where is the latch located? Just wondering if it is in a place thats pokey every time one moves. Very nice looking busses. Best of luck on your purchase

[@RDC_Autosports]

ahhh yes MTU 😎👍 love their engines 14:17 😂😂😂 oh that’s funny

[@BenjiBus1]

You need to drive a European Mercedes Tourismo, it's perfect.

[@westerlywinds5684]

I find that when driving with the side drivers window open, you create a suction and the interior air will be sucked from the rear to the front. I don’t think you want the passengers stale air and the washroom scent being drawn to the front.

[@mistero4]

The question is going to be…. How do your mechanics like it? They’ll need to change where they’re getting their parts, and very different systems to do the same things. And yes, the brakes are weird in the 0500 series.

[@matthewb9824]

James, with regard to the luggage bay lights and then illuminating in low light conditions, are they coming on when the headlights are on? I was wondering if the luggage bay lights are linked to the headlights in some way.

[@polaarj]

in Europe we have the Tourismo and it's okay, Irizar is definently better. also first

[@JaakkoIsWatching]

The Tourrider seems to have a lot more European wibes than most coaches in the US. But still seems quite different than our coaches here in Europe.

[@rickyalcoser6052]

Nothing beats the look of A Scania Irizar i6,i8 and pb.

[@charlescorey184]

James, great video. Could u tell us the cost of these models vs. the other brands. Are they more expensive, competitive?

[@r_s_l]

A 'button' tour once you get your own busses pleasee

[@MotorcoachWorld]

Will do

[@r_s_l]

@@MotorcoachWorld thanksss