Class 450 - My thoughts after a recent journey

[Joshapple23]

Recently went on a 450 from CLJ-BSK, soo smooth and quiet, not to mention spotless.

I think they are some of the most comfortable EMU's, don't know about the 701

 

[satisnek]

Yes, I can only speak for the related Class 350 on the southern WCML, and it has been a while since I've travelled on one. Never been impressed with seats, windows etc but when it comes to 'quiet', 'smooth' and 'nippy' they take a lot of beating!

 

[DelW]

Recently went on a 450 from CLJ-BSK, soo smooth and quiet, not to mention spotless.

I think they are some of the most comfortable EMU's, don't know about the 701

It probably helps that Clapham to Basingstoke is almost straight throughout. My main problem with the 450s is that the 3+2 layout dictates narrow seats without armrests. That makes them quite wearing on twistier routes, as you have to brace yourself against lateral movements, particularly if you want to avoid bumping against a passenger in the next seat.

 

[3rd rail land]

The 450s were more comfortable in the SWT days. I find the material SWR upholstered the seats with feels rough in comparison. Generally though the 450s are decent.

The 3+2 layout needs to go though, not just on 450s but all UK rolling stock. Had the displeasure of sitting in the middle of the 3 seats on a 450 once. I was really squashed in. Standing would have been a better experience I expect.

 

[boiledbeans2]

Recently went on a 450 from CLJ-BSK, soo smooth and quiet, not to mention spotless.

[...]

The SWR blue moquette is very bad at hiding dirt. Almost all 450s have filthy seats. Even the 701s have filthy seats.

 

[davews]

Agree about the 3+2, people tend to avoid using the middle seats which means their carrying capacity is much lower than the headline figures. But not noticed the issues with the blue moquette. Travelled on 701043 yesterday which must be one of the ones with the highest mileage and it struck me as still looking as pristine.

 

[Sun Chariot]

The SWR blue moquette is very bad at hiding dirt. Almost all 450s have filthy seats. Even the 701s have filthy seats.

I rode a 444 three weeks ago, for the first time in more than a decade. I really was highly impressed at its interior condition, really presentable - looked and smelled clean.

Re: seating upholstery - I still remember the absolutely horrid state the Mk3s became, when they still had their latter-1970s blue fabric. Countless stains (MaxPax coffee / tea + pen ink), ground-in dirt, rips; and a curious unpleasant odour on some!