New buses brought to the Island to replace ten of the oldest members of Bermuda's fleet of 106 provide easier access for seniors and the physically challenged.

Seniors treated to a test drive yesterday when the new models were introduced to the public at City Hall praised the kneeling capability of the buses, which can be lowered to curbside.

"It is much easier now getting on," said Helene Paynter as she boarded one of the two Goppell model buses the Ministry of Transport is testing.

The bulk of the Public Transport Board's (PTB) fleet is made by a company called Berkhof, including eight of the new arrivals.

Mrs. Paynter and nine other members of the Senior Islanders Club took test spins on both the Goppell and Berkhof versions yesterday.

The Goppel model features a one-step entry to the bus as well as the kneeling capability, PTB maintenance manager Daniel Moore told The Royal Gazette.

"This is lovely," Mrs. Paynter said of riding on the fleet replacements. "There is no rock and roll."

Taking the test spin with the seniors, Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown agreed that the ride was "wonderful".

"For the well being of our bus drivers and the bus riding public, we at the Ministry of Transport felt the time was right to bring in these new vehicles, which will be a marked improvement in terms of safety and efficiency," Dr. Brown said.

Dr. Brown pointed out that the buses being taken out of service were almost 20 years old.

He added: "While the Berkhof vehicles are similar with what we currently have, in terms of engines, transmissions, running gear and body style, the two new Goppell buses are different because of their shape and I am very excited about that.

"These new state of the art vehicles allow for easier access, with a single step entry and are air-conditioned and cushioned throughout, allowing for maximum comfort during the rider's journey."

Both the Goppell and Berkhof models seat 38 passengers and allow for 12 standing riders.

PTB driving instructor Charles Harvey told The Royal Gazette he had a slight preference for the Goppell model over the Berkhof. "The easier access makes a big difference," he said.

Alternatively, senior Estella Minors praised the appearance of the new buses. "The colours in this bus are very nice, with the blue and white," she said.

While senior Winston Minors added: "I hope the kids don't mark them all up."