Blue Bird and Hendrickson Bring Comfort of Air Ride to Buses

Fleet Equipment, Dec 2003

Hendrickson and Blue Bird have collaborated to design the first conventional full air platform as an option on Blue Bird's groundbreaking Blue Bird Vision(TM) school bus.

When specified with Hendrickson's award-winning AIRTEK® front air-ride and COMFORT AIR(TM) rear air-ride suspension systems, the Blue Bird Vision brings exceptional ride comfort and handling of a full air-ride design coupled with reduced maintenance and enhanced vehicle protection.

According to Blue Bird officials, the Blue Bird Vision offers the greatest loading and unloading zone field of vision available on a conventional school bus with a one-of-a-kind chassis featuring unparalleled strength and durability.

Hendrickson's SOFTER(TM) integrated front leaf-spring suspension and axle comes standard on the Blue Bird Vision chassis. During the development phase the steering geometry was optimized to reduce "bump steer" and "wheel kick" over uneven terrain. In addition, with a full 50-degree wheel cut, vehicle mobility is enhanced.

"Both Hendrickson SOFTEK and AIRTEK suspensions incorporate the STEERTEK front axle with its unique two-piece knuckle design to reduce maintenance and improve serviceability," reports Edd Mozen of Hendrickson, Truck Suspension Systems.

Hendrickson's integrated axle and suspension designs successfully completed-extensive laboratory and proving ground testing before being released for commercial vehicle applications.

Specifically designed for buses, the optional COMFORT AIR rear suspension system provides outstanding passenger and driver comfort and enhanced handling while reducing body stress.

HENDRICKSON INTERNATIONAL, TRUCK SUSPENSION SYSTEMS

(630) 910-2800

BLUE BIRD

www.blue-bird.com