*Things I like about your posts* 1. Your pleasant voice and informative commentary 2. Map itinerary 3. Speeds and distance in km/h and mph 4. Ride quality 5. Food options 6. Town and station tour 7. Honest Reviews 8. Bi-weekly posts 9. Picture quality 10.Your sense of humor Thanks for sharing.
I do wish UK train companies would listen to passengers with regards to seat design. We don't want 'ironing boards', we don't want minimal padding, we want seats that we can feel comfortable sitting on for hours on end. I'm old enough to remember the days of comfortable sprung seating.
I was recently corrected when i had the same complaint about the seats. The reason these seats are the way they are is because of fire hazard regulations. Nothing on the seats in the 745 is flamable. And because the fluffy part of any seat is usually very very flamable :-) they don't get made like they used to anymore.
@@EpicShitForYou well maybe instead of compromising passenger experience having smoke alarms and fire extinguishers and sprinklers and if all else fails COMMON SENSE is a better idea…
I personally really like the seats. While they are firm, they are definitely not hard like some of the ironing board seats you get in Thameslink and others. While the lack of recline is a bit annoying, I didn't really notice it on my shorter route and I personally prefer it to the class 800s by GWR and LNER
Great video as always. I lived in Colchester for a while and I was a huge fan of the dining car on the old Mk3 stock. Afternoon tea for £6.95, which was cheaper than the difference between Standard and First! Yet to travel on the FLIRT but the level boarding is a fantastic development.
Hey Dyaln, there's another train that's being retired in May that you may want to check out. Southern is retiring it's Class 455/8's with the timetable change, the last services run on Saturday May 14th. 455's will still be in service with SWR for a while yet, but Southern is the last operator of the original camshaft units.
Great video. This is my local line and I made my first trip in one of these units last weekend in standard class. Very impressed. The acceleration was fantastic. As I have mobility issues it was so easy to board - no more climbing a mountain to get on the train. The return run was on a substituted Stansted set. The Train Manager was not impressed!
Great video Dylan! The Norwich line variant of the class 745 sometimes ends up on Stansted Express services. There is normally no first class on the Stansted Express so standard class passengers can travel in first class on that line without grief. One such service in the current timetable is the Monday to Friday 1940 Liverpool Street to Stansted Airport. This is where I experienced the rock-hard seats and lack of recline in first class. I was very disappointed even though it didn't cost me any extra. Looking forward to the next video.
The build quality, finish and general ambience on these just seems a tad better than any other new train in the UK. Shame we can't have some more Stadler products on our railways.
Have to disagree with you on the seats; while not the pinnacle of comfort (and I agree recline would have been preferred) they're at least a step up from what the IETs offer.
Thanks Dylan for bringing these units to the videos. Seating aside the Stadler FLIRT units do seem to have the edge on the other new trains now adorning the GB Rail Network. The cabin appears to have ambiance something lacking in all other trains and their harsh lighting. I was surprised that they are only rated for 100 MPH - in this day and age I would have thought 125 MPH would have been a minimum design requirement for journeys on the routes of these trains. Something I would be interested in is the wide plug doors, being in the passenger area do they 'plug' effectively and seal against draughts and water blowing in? (they did not seem to be as solid a plug as on the Hitachi units.) As for seats it's all the Dfts fault for focusing on cramming seats in to avoid annoyed letters to MPs about 'I can't get a seat on the train' and a no doubt over enthusiastic adherence to 'safety' requirements and anti vandalism requirements. Hopefully by the time refurbishment comes along a more enlightened approach to seating - adding comfort to the formula - will have developed. Sadly we will have to wait so long for that.
@@paulhollis8879Thanks, I did know that but thought that it would have been nice if they had some ambition given that the new trains will be around for 25+ years 😀😎
@@barrieshepherd7694 Sorry for late comment, but yeah I was surprise by that too especially considering the Class 90's were 110mbp capable?! But one thing you do get which is noticeable is the acceleration.
Ive spent a lifetime on this line. Ipswich station is great as an intermediate stop - a large, lively and homely cafe on the platform where you can basically set up camp waiting for your train to appear on the in-house board. Weve had it bad for years, always second best, so the new rolling stock is such a long overdue improvement. On board catering (if it condescends to open) is an expensive insult...no change there. I agree, standard class is more comfy, first class is more roomy. Nice review. Give Ely station a try, with its' main line duality to both Kings X and Liverpool Street. Its one of my favourites!
I have travelled on this train from London to Norwich and I liked it very much. The seat in the First Class were OK for me. My only criticism was that First Class passengers were not informed about their entitlement to a free coffee and snack. Eventually I got my free coffee but only by chance before the end of the journey.
I do believe it is possible to find out which will be a 745/0 (with First Class) and which a 745/1 - when booking online, the one *with* First Class tickets available will be a 745/0. I think Greater Anglia may even have a web page detailing which services use the Stansted trains.
This has been on my 'list of trains to go to' for a while. Whilst I did travel on the Class 755, it's interesting to see what these trains has to offer. Great video again!
@Superalbs Travels they are just given a slightly different covering but design wise, no difference I have travelled on these units between Tottenham hale and Liverpool Street (when used on Stanstead express) and "illegally" between Liverpool Street and Stratford Enough to notice such matters may I add
I use these (and the smaller bi mode trains, which i use more often due to living in Felixstowe) All of these new trains have been a massive improvement on the trains we had before(minus the slammy doors... I miss them). In every aspect. Speed, quietness, the announcements and many more.(the screens helped out especially when i went on holiday last summer. Showed which carriages are full.. which I've never had in my local trains.) Yes the seats are a bit meh, haven't tried 1st class so this video shows me they're not much better. But they've been absolutely amazing. Despite original teething problems. I also liked the start when you showed Portman Road 😉 stadium of the team i support. #ITFC Brilliant video as always by the way.
@@Aidankiwi - The Class 90 units were limited to 100mph on this route anyway, so there is no difference. And the Flirt's acceleration is monumentally quicker than the Class 90s.
As a new Norwich to London weekly commuter (come from SW trains), these seat are rock hard. Sitting on them for 2 hours gave me back ache, the seat is at 90 degrees, you can't really slouch on these at all making sleeping impossible. In standard class, the flip out table is too close to watch a movie on a device. The trains are nicely kitted out but the seats - what a massive disappointment. I'll have to sit on an inflatable ring to be even remotely comfortable. I'm not sure what GA were thinking.
Thank you for your report. I have to disagree with you about the seats in 1st Class, for I use the Norwich line a lot, and find the seats firm,but still comfortable. The fact they don’t recline is very minor, and I have never heard anyone complain. However, passengers do complain when a Class745/1 turns up, for they are Standard Class only. They use them on the Norwich route to get them to Crown Point for servicing. The Class 520s in use on the slow services to Ipswich are dreadful, with 2+3 seating throughout, and poor legroom. The Stadler Flirts are wonderful trains, and are the yardstick for British EMUs ! None of the rest remotely compare.
I get really bad travel sickness and these are the first trains where I have not felt nauseous. Definitely the most comfortable trains I have ever been on.
Fair review. I miss the old inter City trains that used to go up to Norwich, I think these new ones are just the same as all the other trains nowadays. I'm not a fan of those seats either. Still, at least there is a buffet (hopefully)
You said it all in the title. That was a great looking train but seats like those would seem to be best for a city's train or underground service, not long distance travel.
These are my local trains, I love the trains as there modern and better than what we had before however I do agree with the seating isn’t comfortable and could do with more padding. But would take these over the class 700s. Great video 🤙🏻
Nice trains, great video. I wonder how long it will be before the first class coaches on these sets are converted to standard class? I guess the only reasons to buy a first class ticket now are to have more room and potentially a quieter journey?
I live in Norwich, the First class lounges really need to be improved on Greater Anglia lines. I don't think they even have one in Norwich? First class has in my opinion gone down hill since they've introduced these trains. Although, it could well be due to the pandemic. Great video though and it's nice to see East Anglia in the video.
Totally agree. My biggest peeve is currently the lack of tables and 1st class. The tables in standard class are pathetic and not sufficient to work on a laptop. And the free standing tables have mysteriously disappeared? Why???
They may not recline, but recline isn't necessary on excellent seats - standard Corail 1st class seats are best I've ever sat in on a train and they feature no recline. It's sad that this seat looks bad in pretty much every way. Excellent video! :)
Can confirm to get a stansted express uni is always a case of drawing the short straw. No table seats. The seats themselves feel lower. And as mentioned, no catering.
I recently learned that Lakenheath now only has weekend service and is a call stop at that. If tI ever get back over I intend to go to Lakenheath and i guess a day trip is out. I was at the Airbase there for almost 7 years. Great train certainly a huge improvement over what was running in the early 80's!
I'm a little behind with my review and comments on this clip as I've had several distractions causing me to have a RUclips binge this week. Thanks for covering a route that I didn't get to do during my 2018 visit and for reviewing the 745 Fleet. Obviously a smooth ride but I understand your consternation with the First Class Seats, perticularly when it appears from your comment that economy seats offered better comfort levels (for you anyway). First Class seats LOOK comfy but sounds like your derriere disapproved. It's a bit rich when economy class seats turn out to be more comfy AND line up with windows, not pillars such as the issue downunder with V/Line's Standard Gauge V/Locities (No First Class and only 3 bays of four with tables in the centre car actually lining up with windows. Bad luck if you booked first class with reservations to travel Melbourne to Albury on the service that has these units). Doesn't really faze me, being a former rail worker now enjoying free travel on my retirement pass, although I can understand customer outrage and the poor conductor trying to sort matters out.
I personally really like the 745s, they look fantastic and feel very modern and welcoming. Personally I don't find the standard seats that comfortable but think that the first class seats are great. Ultimately though that's just personal preference. One thing I do really like about first class though is the sheer choice of seating layouts available. Personally I love the higher up tables for two. My only real gripe is the comically small tray tables.
Very nice and sharp looking train set. Shame about those 1st Class seats. Perhaps the person that chose them had a well padded backside. 😁 I agree about the fare. Rather reasonable for the high speed service and the length of the journey. Keep 'em coming!
Great video ….but you describe the class number and max speed but then “stuff to do with the train’s power or what not ?!!” 😂 nonetheless 2 suggestions for future videos; stations with great breakfast options ! And lines with motorways adjacent. I’m very familiar with M1 and WCML south of Rugby. In days gone by the odd Mercedes’ would try and match the train. Overseas option could be line out of Paris Montparnasse with motorway not long out of Paris…… Trying to match a TGV ? Don’t bother trying !!
Dylan you should do a review on Paris to Calais etc regional trains if you haven’t already. Went on it yesterday and think it would make a great review.
3:46 It looks like a bus seat 10:51 UK trains' prices are very expensive. A 80 kilometres or 50 miles trip from my hometown to Córdoba,Spain costs a fixed price of €9.65 for a 50 minutes journey
@@RocketJSykes It might be a low-cost service, because this service from my hometown to Córdoba is operated by Renfe's Media Distancia (Regional) Trains
Really liked the step free access on the train, pity the 800 fleet doesn’t have the same. I’m not a fan on these hard seats, especially on the Metro here in Birmingham, sitting on a rock is more comfortable.
The fact you said the seats of the Class 745 being uncomfortable but you're preferring the 80x seats which is worse in terms of comfort makes me laughing
Awesome video! I've been on these beautiful class 745 between London Liverpool Street and Norwich.I really like seats definitely not like ironing board seat which are really uncomfortable.The only thing that I did not like which is First class seats nothing special and different comparing to standard class.GA should have removed first class like 720s or at least with better and really first class seat instead.
You are quite right Greater Anglia Do not appear to worry about refreshments on trains the other day 12 trains had no catering or at seat they are a disgrace
Afraid to say the Stansted Express units still in use on this route, I belive these being the early morning out of Norwich and late afternoon / evening from London .this is to allow the Stansted units to visit Crown Point for servicing where required sure someone will know more on this
Pedantry point...Roman Colchester was established very soon after the invasion of 43AD. Certainly well before 79, as Boudicca burnt it to the ground in 60AD!
Railway Magazine out today (04/04/22) have a big article on the recommendations following the crash at Carmont. It seems the ageing HST fleet is being deemed unsuitable. Furthermore the railway unions also calling for their withdrawal....
That's true in the bi-mode trains. But some (I believe this unit) are AC only, and the power car houses the converters, which in turn power the traction motors in the bogies.
Got a question for you: Do you have to stay on the train for the duration of your trip or can you stop over at a station say for that buffet you mentioned?
Excellent trains. But the funny thing is... These are quite common regional sets in Germany. Would you consider the standard in Germany higher than in UK? Or is there a difference (in the details?)
If you get the chance to ride the old class 90 hauling mk3 coaches on the route. Would you consider riding it? And personally, I don’t like any of the new stocks at all. They are more like simply commuter trains than actually a intercity train. They should’ve ordered some class 800s to be honest.
Seriously? It only takes an Hour and 15 minutes between Ipswich and London on that service? That's pretty damn good! Almost makes the uncomfortable seats worth it. By the way, Dylan, what do you normally class as a 'relatively short journey' time for your videos? I would say anything up to an hour is a 'short' journey to me.
It's not that quick. For at least the last four year, the train operating company have been bandying around the slogan "Ipswich in 60 and Norwich in 90" so this is someway short of that.
As an American watching the video the train reminds me of a combination between a commuter rail car combined with inner city travel 🧳. Also this train featured in the video removes one of life's enjoyment of kicking the door plate to open the door between cars as per on superliner trains prayed by Amtrak, hearing the door wish open-close and rattle. I also like luggage compartments above seats on Intercity trains. Commuter trains are known to not have overhead luggage compartments. Or at least that's how it is here in the USA
You should of started at Norwich instead of started in Ipswich. And yeah the Stadler Flirt Class 745 are very nice long trains that replaced the Class 90 Mk3 stocks. And the Stadler Flirt Class 755 Bi-Mode and Class 720 Aventra are also very nice trains which I have been on the Class 720 trains. But I haven’t been on the Class 745 and Class 755 yet.
I do enjoy these little hops around Britain. These attractive modern trains look like they belong in the tube. It is a shame that first class seating is that uncomfortable. Lesson learned. Second class it is next time. I would hate to see that catering service when it's open. Why do they give that such a narrow area? If in use, no passengers may pass by it. Seems like poor planning in my opinion. Maybe I'm wrong. See you on Friday.
What is the difference in price for First class vs Standard? What with the buffet closed,it doesn't make sense to pay extra,especially with the seating you describe--are these trains diesel or electric? For a journey of only about 70 miles,would think this is more of a 'commuter' train for some. Is Liverpool Street underground or simply built over?
one question: Why are britain's Bi-Modes so unreliable? I know this isn't a Bi-mode but the 755 which was built around the same time and is bassicly the same as the 745 spent most of it's first year in service behind a class 37. The 769 is very underpowered on diesel mode and the class 800/802 have had so many problems and cracks and all of that. I wonder if there is a Bi-Mode virus! Anyways, great video. I would like to see a 455 next as they are soon being retired 😢
It looks all European EMU trains look the same: a lightweight shell over electric motors. I visited the UK in 2005 and took the train from Ilford to Liverpool ST. I assume the train was on that line -anyway I was sitting on the right side. We passed a big stadium. Did that belong to Chelsea?
No, that was the Olympic stadium from 2012, now used by West Ham as their home stadium - Chelsea is the other side of London, south west of the city near "Fulham Broadway" underground station. I was a London 2012 volunteer, it was the best time every to be in London!
I rode on one of the Class 755 shorter trains in 2nd class and I agree with the seats. They aren’t bad but I found the seats to be a bit uncomfortable compared to other trains I’ve been on. Not too bad though.
7:54 2Mbps download, I'd say that's not bad to be honest. It's not fast, as you say, but as for train wi-fi, well it's a heck of a lot better than some other providers' wi-fi, that's for sure. Now I've got back to commuting again, I either find myself with little to no 4G, or wi-fi that hardly loads webpages (this is with EMR of course) - so based on that, I'd gladly have 2Mbps as it would at least allow me to browse the internet - and possible listen to the radio, too.
i went on these trains from stansted airport, standard one way and first the other, i was kinda disappointed (at the difference between standard and first) but i really liked it, even in standard
*Things I like about your posts*
1. Your pleasant voice and informative commentary
2. Map itinerary
3. Speeds and distance in km/h and mph
4. Ride quality
5. Food options
6. Town and station tour
7. Honest Reviews
8. Bi-weekly posts
9. Picture quality
10.Your sense of humor
Thanks for sharing.
Thanks a lot 😁
I do wish UK train companies would listen to passengers with regards to seat design. We don't want 'ironing boards', we don't want minimal padding, we want seats that we can feel comfortable sitting on for hours on end. I'm old enough to remember the days of comfortable sprung seating.
I was recently corrected when i had the same complaint about the seats. The reason these seats are the way they are is because of fire hazard regulations. Nothing on the seats in the 745 is flamable. And because the fluffy part of any seat is usually very very flamable :-) they don't get made like they used to anymore.
@@EpicShitForYou well maybe instead of compromising passenger experience having smoke alarms and fire extinguishers and sprinklers and if all else fails COMMON SENSE is a better idea…
The trains in the mainland gave this yet they have amazing seats@@EpicShitForYou
@@EpicShitForYou the fire regulation excuse was just nonsense anyway
the ironing boards are fine. even a plastic chair. better than those of the HST
I personally really like the seats. While they are firm, they are definitely not hard like some of the ironing board seats you get in Thameslink and others. While the lack of recline is a bit annoying, I didn't really notice it on my shorter route and I personally prefer it to the class 800s by GWR and LNER
Northern ex Scott rail 156 are terrible
@@Melvyn46100 haven't had the pleasure yet but I have seen some pictures 😂
Yeah I use these all the time and the seats are great as far as I'm concerned. No Mk3 coach of course, but leagues ahead of the 700's or IET's
Completely agree. Thameslink are dreadful seats. Cambridge to Brighton is pure torture!
@@paulrope769 I find it bad enough from London bridge to farringdon. That must be painful 😂
These trains are magnificent and so futuristic the ambience on them is so nice
thats your opinion, ! try mk2 coaches and open plan mk1s which will bring u down to earth
Great video as always. I lived in Colchester for a while and I was a huge fan of the dining car on the old Mk3 stock. Afternoon tea for £6.95, which was cheaper than the difference between Standard and First! Yet to travel on the FLIRT but the level boarding is a fantastic development.
Thanks!
Level Boarding Trains should have been a thing a long time ago but it´s great seeing it implemented even when a bit late
@@DylansTravelReports i cdan confirm for u the stansted trains dont have first class nor a buffet ca
Hey Dyaln, there's another train that's being retired in May that you may want to check out. Southern is retiring it's Class 455/8's with the timetable change, the last services run on Saturday May 14th. 455's will still be in service with SWR for a while yet, but Southern is the last operator of the original camshaft units.
The remaining HST's won't be far behind.
@@BibtheBoulder GWR & ScotRail will be using theirs for a while yet after extensively refurbing them
XC however will probably replace them with 222s
Great video. This is my local line and I made my first trip in one of these units last weekend in standard class. Very impressed. The acceleration was fantastic. As I have mobility issues it was so easy to board - no more climbing a mountain to get on the train. The return run was on a substituted Stansted set. The Train Manager was not impressed!
Great video Dylan! The Norwich line variant of the class 745 sometimes ends up on Stansted Express services. There is normally no first class on the Stansted Express so standard class passengers can travel in first class on that line without grief. One such service in the current timetable is the Monday to Friday 1940 Liverpool Street to Stansted Airport. This is where I experienced the rock-hard seats and lack of recline in first class. I was very disappointed even though it didn't cost me any extra. Looking forward to the next video.
Thanks 😁
I like that you post a map of your itinerary so I can follow along with my World Atlas.
The build quality, finish and general ambience on these just seems a tad better than any other new train in the UK. Shame we can't have some more Stadler products on our railways.
Have to disagree with you on the seats; while not the pinnacle of comfort (and I agree recline would have been preferred) they're at least a step up from what the IETs offer.
Thanks Dylan for bringing these units to the videos. Seating aside the Stadler FLIRT units do seem to have the edge on the other new trains now adorning the GB Rail Network. The cabin appears to have ambiance something lacking in all other trains and their harsh lighting. I was surprised that they are only rated for 100 MPH - in this day and age I would have thought 125 MPH would have been a minimum design requirement for journeys on the routes of these trains.
Something I would be interested in is the wide plug doors, being in the passenger area do they 'plug' effectively and seal against draughts and water blowing in? (they did not seem to be as solid a plug as on the Hitachi units.)
As for seats it's all the Dfts fault for focusing on cramming seats in to avoid annoyed letters to MPs about 'I can't get a seat on the train' and a no doubt over enthusiastic adherence to 'safety' requirements and anti vandalism requirements. Hopefully by the time refurbishment comes along a more enlightened approach to seating - adding comfort to the formula - will have developed. Sadly we will have to wait so long for that.
Great Eastern’s maximum line speed anywhere is 100 mph, Barrie.
@@paulhollis8879Thanks, I did know that but thought that it would have been nice if they had some ambition given that the new trains will be around for 25+ years 😀😎
@@barrieshepherd7694 Sorry for late comment, but yeah I was surprise by that too especially considering the Class 90's were 110mbp capable?! But one thing you do get which is noticeable is the acceleration.
I believe some of the stansted express variants are serviced at Norwich depot so some of them end up on the Intercity route
They all are.
Well Ive just learnt something new, i didnt realise the intercity units had a buffet and thought it had been removed from all GA services.
Ive spent a lifetime on this line. Ipswich station is great as an intermediate stop - a large, lively and homely cafe on the platform where you can basically set up camp waiting for your train to appear on the in-house board.
Weve had it bad for years, always second best, so the new rolling stock is such a long overdue improvement. On board catering (if it condescends to open) is an expensive insult...no change there.
I agree, standard class is more comfy, first class is more roomy.
Nice review. Give Ely station a try, with its' main line duality to both Kings X and Liverpool Street. Its one of my favourites!
I have travelled on this train from London to Norwich and I liked it very much. The seat in the First Class were OK for me. My only criticism was that First Class passengers were not informed about their entitlement to a free coffee and snack. Eventually I got my free coffee but only by chance before the end of the journey.
I do believe it is possible to find out which will be a 745/0 (with First Class) and which a 745/1 - when booking online, the one *with* First Class tickets available will be a 745/0. I think Greater Anglia may even have a web page detailing which services use the Stansted trains.
Right now, I'm on a 745 on greater anglia IN FIRST CLASS thinking: "It's fine here."
This has been on my 'list of trains to go to' for a while. Whilst I did travel on the Class 755, it's interesting to see what these trains has to offer. Great video again!
I think that inadvertently you have given Geoff a new series. “All the buffet breakfasts.”
The *ONLY* difference is the first-class/standard class is the first class seats are spaced further apart
@Superalbs Travels they are just given a slightly different covering but design wise, no difference
I have travelled on these units between Tottenham hale and Liverpool Street (when used on Stanstead express) and "illegally" between Liverpool Street and Stratford
Enough to notice such matters may I add
I use these (and the smaller bi mode trains, which i use more often due to living in Felixstowe)
All of these new trains have been a massive improvement on the trains we had before(minus the slammy doors... I miss them). In every aspect. Speed, quietness, the announcements and many more.(the screens helped out especially when i went on holiday last summer. Showed which carriages are full.. which I've never had in my local trains.)
Yes the seats are a bit meh, haven't tried 1st class so this video shows me they're not much better. But they've been absolutely amazing. Despite original teething problems.
I also liked the start when you showed Portman Road 😉 stadium of the team i support. #ITFC
Brilliant video as always by the way.
Speed? At 100mph they are 10mph slower than the Class 90 Mk3 combination that used to be found on this route.
@@Aidankiwi - The Class 90 units were limited to 100mph on this route anyway, so there is no difference. And the Flirt's acceleration is monumentally quicker than the Class 90s.
As a new Norwich to London weekly commuter (come from SW trains), these seat are rock hard. Sitting on them for 2 hours gave me back ache, the seat is at 90 degrees, you can't really slouch on these at all making sleeping impossible. In standard class, the flip out table is too close to watch a movie on a device. The trains are nicely kitted out but the seats - what a massive disappointment. I'll have to sit on an inflatable ring to be even remotely comfortable. I'm not sure what GA were thinking.
Thank you for your report. I have to disagree with you about the seats in 1st Class, for I use the Norwich line a lot, and find the seats firm,but still comfortable. The fact they don’t recline is very minor, and I have never heard anyone complain. However, passengers do complain when a Class745/1 turns up, for they are Standard Class only. They use them on the Norwich route to get them to Crown Point for servicing. The Class 520s in use on the slow services to Ipswich are dreadful, with 2+3 seating throughout, and poor legroom. The Stadler Flirts are wonderful trains, and are the yardstick for British EMUs ! None of the rest remotely compare.
I get really bad travel sickness and these are the first trains where I have not felt nauseous. Definitely the most comfortable trains I have ever been on.
Fair review. I miss the old inter City trains that used to go up to Norwich, I think these new ones are just the same as all the other trains nowadays. I'm not a fan of those seats either. Still, at least there is a buffet (hopefully)
You said it all in the title. That was a great looking train but seats like those would seem to be best for a city's train or underground service, not long distance travel.
These are my local trains, I love the trains as there modern and better than what we had before however I do agree with the seating isn’t comfortable and could do with more padding. But would take these over the class 700s. Great video 🤙🏻
Nice trains, great video. I wonder how long it will be before the first class coaches on these sets are converted to standard class? I guess the only reasons to buy a first class ticket now are to have more room and potentially a quieter journey?
I live in Norwich, the First class lounges really need to be improved on Greater Anglia lines. I don't think they even have one in Norwich?
First class has in my opinion gone down hill since they've introduced these trains. Although, it could well be due to the pandemic.
Great video though and it's nice to see East Anglia in the video.
When was this filmed as everything was open when was in Ipswich last summer and last week
Totally agree. My biggest peeve is currently the lack of tables and 1st class. The tables in standard class are pathetic and not sufficient to work on a laptop. And the free standing tables have mysteriously disappeared? Why???
They may not recline, but recline isn't necessary on excellent seats - standard Corail 1st class seats are best I've ever sat in on a train and they feature no recline. It's sad that this seat looks bad in pretty much every way. Excellent video! :)
@@SuperalbsTravels the original Corail seats do not recline. Some coaches feature newer seats like the ones implemented for Teoz and those do recline
Thanks! Tbf, those old Corail seats (and indeed the newer ones) are amazing!
I wish I could teleport you over to Australia to look at the trains of NSW and Victoria.
As usual another great video Dylan. Thank you. Not a part of the UK I know at all but does look quite interesting. Cheers, Bob
Can confirm to get a stansted express uni is always a case of drawing the short straw. No table seats. The seats themselves feel lower. And as mentioned, no catering.
I recently learned that Lakenheath now only has weekend service and is a call stop at that. If tI ever get back over I intend to go to Lakenheath and i guess a day trip is out. I was at the Airbase there for almost 7 years. Great train certainly a huge improvement over what was running in the early 80's!
I'm a little behind with my review and comments on this clip as I've had several distractions causing me to have a RUclips binge this week.
Thanks for covering a route that I didn't get to do during my 2018 visit and for reviewing the 745 Fleet. Obviously a smooth ride but I understand your consternation with the First Class Seats, perticularly when it appears from your comment that economy seats offered better comfort levels (for you anyway).
First Class seats LOOK comfy but sounds like your derriere disapproved. It's a bit rich when economy class seats turn out to be more comfy AND line up with windows, not pillars such as the issue downunder with V/Line's Standard Gauge V/Locities (No First Class and only 3 bays of four with tables in the centre car actually lining up with windows. Bad luck if you booked first class with reservations to travel Melbourne to Albury on the service that has these units).
Doesn't really faze me, being a former rail worker now enjoying free travel on my retirement pass, although I can understand customer outrage and the poor conductor trying to sort matters out.
could you possibly try the newcastle tyne and wear metro trains? they are retiring soon (im sure next year) and i would love to see a review!
I personally really like the 745s, they look fantastic and feel very modern and welcoming. Personally I don't find the standard seats that comfortable but think that the first class seats are great. Ultimately though that's just personal preference. One thing I do really like about first class though is the sheer choice of seating layouts available. Personally I love the higher up tables for two. My only real gripe is the comically small tray tables.
Very smart trains these Dylan. I liked the interior layout, and the flat entry from platform. Shame about the seats..!
Still have fond memories of the class 86 AC electrics.....great video again......
Very nice and sharp looking train set. Shame about those 1st Class seats. Perhaps the person that chose them had a well padded backside. 😁 I agree about the fare. Rather reasonable for the high speed service and the length of the journey. Keep 'em coming!
Yes it is possible to get a Stanstead Express unit on the Norwich services and it's even possible to get a regional 755 on this service
Great video ….but you describe the class number and max speed but then “stuff to do with the train’s power or what not ?!!” 😂 nonetheless 2 suggestions for future videos; stations with great breakfast options ! And lines with motorways adjacent. I’m very familiar with M1 and WCML south of Rugby. In days gone by the odd Mercedes’ would try and match the train. Overseas option could be line out of Paris Montparnasse with motorway not long out of Paris…… Trying to match a TGV ? Don’t bother trying !!
Dylan you should do a review on Paris to Calais etc regional trains if you haven’t already. Went on it yesterday and think it would make a great review.
3:46 It looks like a bus seat
10:51 UK trains' prices are very expensive. A 80 kilometres or 50 miles trip from my hometown to Córdoba,Spain costs a fixed price of €9.65 for a 50 minutes journey
I think this journey is rly good value especially for what ur getting...
@@RocketJSykes It might be a low-cost service, because this service from my hometown to Córdoba is operated by Renfe's Media Distancia (Regional) Trains
@Sleeper Train Fan I can agree.
@@pedrorubiotejero_aka_prt live in eastern europe so...
@Sleeper Train Fan i was just trying to show how cheap that is, so that's why i used provocative language
Colchester, the town replacing Pompei and Herculaneum? You said it was founded in year 79...
Where do you buy your train tickets from?
Direct from the operator usually.
@@DylansTravelReports oh okay
Really liked the step free access on the train, pity the 800 fleet doesn’t have the same. I’m not a fan on these hard seats, especially on the Metro here in Birmingham, sitting on a rock is more comfortable.
I last went on a 745 in December 2021, one was a SE /1 variant, the other was an IC /0 variant. Glad the IC standard class bay seats have tables
The fact you said the seats of the Class 745 being uncomfortable but you're preferring the 80x seats which is worse in terms of comfort makes me laughing
Awesome video! I've been on these beautiful class 745 between London Liverpool Street and Norwich.I really like seats definitely not like ironing board seat which are really uncomfortable.The only thing that I did not like which is First class seats nothing special and different comparing to standard class.GA should have removed first class like 720s or at least with better and really first class seat instead.
You are quite right Greater Anglia Do not appear to worry about refreshments on trains the other day 12 trains had no catering or at seat they are a disgrace
Are class 720 has comfortable seats?
I’d second the buffet at Manningtree Station. It also has some decent beer on tap as well as the great breakfasts.
Dylan you are true they don't have a buffet of first class on the stansteadtrains
The seats on the new Welsh 231 units are comfortable better than a 800 units
These passenger displays are much better than the dot matrix ones, as they give much more details imo
The breakfast on the previous Mk3 sets was brilliant
Whats the app you measure the mph on, called?
Handsome exterior and interior. For some reason, the interior reminded me of the Starship Enterprise.
Beautiful looking trains. :)
Doesn’t the Stansted Express not have tables too?
Afraid to say the Stansted Express units still in use on this route, I belive these being the early morning out of Norwich and late afternoon / evening from London .this is to allow the Stansted units to visit Crown Point for servicing where required sure someone will know more on this
Pedantry point...Roman Colchester was established very soon after the invasion of 43AD. Certainly well before 79, as Boudicca burnt it to the ground in 60AD!
Anything worth seeing in Ipswich?
745/0 - first class and buffet (built for NRW-LST services)
745/1 - standard class only and no buffet (built for SSD-LST services)
Railway Magazine out today (04/04/22) have a big article on the recommendations following the crash at Carmont. It seems the ageing HST fleet is being deemed unsuitable. Furthermore the railway unions also calling for their withdrawal....
Now if I'm not mistaken but the middle small car houses some diesel generators allowing the train to use non-electrified track.
That's true in the bi-mode trains. But some (I believe this unit) are AC only, and the power car houses the converters, which in turn power the traction motors in the bogies.
Yes, on the Class 755s, but the Class 745s are electric only.
You should compare them to the seats GA put in their 720s. 745s are luxury in comparison.
Got a question for you: Do you have to stay on the train for the duration of your trip or can you stop over at a station say for that buffet you mentioned?
I did this trip not long ago and I have to agree the seats are like rock. Also Ipswich Town are the best football team.
Excellent trains. But the funny thing is... These are quite common regional sets in Germany. Would you consider the standard in Germany higher than in UK? Or is there a difference (in the details?)
If you get the chance to ride the old class 90 hauling mk3 coaches on the route. Would you consider riding it?
And personally, I don’t like any of the new stocks at all. They are more like simply commuter trains than actually a intercity train. They should’ve ordered some class 800s to be honest.
Excellent 👍👍👍 bro
Seriously?
It only takes an Hour and 15 minutes between Ipswich and London on that service?
That's pretty damn good!
Almost makes the uncomfortable seats worth it.
By the way, Dylan, what do you normally class as a 'relatively short journey' time for your videos?
I would say anything up to an hour is a 'short' journey to me.
It's not that quick. For at least the last four year, the train operating company have been bandying around the slogan "Ipswich in 60 and Norwich in 90" so this is someway short of that.
I like the seats on the FLIRTS. Better than some of the newer stock on the UK network.
As an American watching the video the train reminds me of a combination between a commuter rail car combined with inner city travel 🧳. Also this train featured in the video removes one of life's enjoyment of kicking the door plate to open the door between cars as per on superliner trains prayed by Amtrak, hearing the door wish open-close and rattle. I also like luggage compartments above seats on Intercity trains. Commuter trains are known to not have overhead luggage compartments. Or at least that's how it is here in the USA
Travelled recently between London and Norwich in 1st class and although firm I found the seats pretty comfortable
You should of started at Norwich instead of started in Ipswich. And yeah the Stadler Flirt Class 745 are very nice long trains that replaced the Class 90 Mk3 stocks.
And the Stadler Flirt Class 755 Bi-Mode and Class 720 Aventra are also very nice trains which I have been on the Class 720 trains. But I haven’t been on the Class 745 and Class 755 yet.
Why? Presumably he was already in Ipswich. Why 'should' he have started at Norwich?
Fair enough. 🙄
Ipswich is such a beautiful station. Small but big. Like a mini termi
I do enjoy these little hops around Britain. These attractive modern trains look like they belong in the tube. It is a shame that first class seating is that uncomfortable. Lesson learned. Second class it is next time. I would hate to see that catering service when it's open. Why do they give that such a narrow area? If in use, no passengers may pass by it. Seems like poor planning in my opinion. Maybe I'm wrong. See you on Friday.
What is the difference in price for First class vs Standard? What with the buffet closed,it doesn't make sense to pay extra,especially with the seating you describe--are these trains diesel or electric? For a journey of only about 70 miles,would think this is more of a 'commuter' train for some. Is Liverpool Street underground or simply built over?
The lounge at LST is permanently closed and is now used for storage
Really? Goodness, the loss of standards in this country is abysmal. The TOCs are all in a race to the bottom.
Yet to try them... Oh, at the 3:37 mark: coat hooks!
one question: Why are britain's Bi-Modes so unreliable?
I know this isn't a Bi-mode but the 755 which was built around the same time and is bassicly the same as the 745 spent most of it's first year in service behind a class 37.
The 769 is very underpowered on diesel mode and the class 800/802 have had so many problems and cracks and all of that. I wonder if there is a Bi-Mode virus!
Anyways, great video. I would like to see a 455 next as they are soon being retired 😢
In my opinion, when I travelled on these trains from Colchester the seats were actually comfy for me
Probably cos i travel on the class 321’s with ironing board style seats a lot lol
avanti west coast trains are really nice to ride on. it use to be the virgin pendolino ages ago 😀
It looks all European EMU trains look the same: a lightweight shell over electric motors. I visited the UK in 2005 and took the train from Ilford to Liverpool ST. I assume the train was on that line -anyway I was sitting on the right side. We passed a big stadium. Did that belong to Chelsea?
No, that was the Olympic stadium from 2012, now used by West Ham as their home stadium - Chelsea is the other side of London, south west of the city near "Fulham Broadway" underground station. I was a London 2012 volunteer, it was the best time every to be in London!
Have you done a run from Cambridge or Cambridge North to Liverpool Street on a 720?
No, not yet.
@@DylansTravelReports Don't rush, you're not missing anything...
Quite nice trains by the look of them but what was the point of replacing the old stock which was good for another 15 years?
The doors and toilets weren't compliant with regulations.
@@silenthunteruk That is a a very bad reason for scrapping the stock. Both shortcomings have been fixed at a small fraction of the cost of new trains.
Do these trains have bike racks?
Great video Dylan, can't understand why anyone would travel first class on them flirts, oh and another thing... Where's your other half gone,?
Think this one was filmed before we were a thing in all fairness 😅
I rode on one of the Class 755 shorter trains in 2nd class and I agree with the seats. They aren’t bad but I found the seats to be a bit uncomfortable compared to other trains I’ve been on. Not too bad though.
7:54 2Mbps download, I'd say that's not bad to be honest. It's not fast, as you say, but as for train wi-fi, well it's a heck of a lot better than some other providers' wi-fi, that's for sure. Now I've got back to commuting again, I either find myself with little to no 4G, or wi-fi that hardly loads webpages (this is with EMR of course) - so based on that, I'd gladly have 2Mbps as it would at least allow me to browse the internet - and possible listen to the radio, too.
Thanks for the short ride ...
Great trip. Nice train, but you deserve better seating at First Class
i went on these trains from stansted airport, standard one way and first the other, i was kinda disappointed (at the difference between standard and first) but i really liked it, even in standard
Like how you pronounce river stour.