Optare Metrorider

The Optare MetroRider is a midibus that was built by Optare between 1989 and 2000. Optare based the original design on the MCW Metrorider after Optare bought the rights following a decision by MCW to end bus production. This model also replaced the less successful StarRider and the replacement of this model is the low-floor Optare Solo.

The MetroRider is an integral bus, which means the chassis and body are constructed as a single structure. It had many options, and was available in three lengths and two widths. In addition, Optare offered the option of a protruding, more substantial, destination display (blind-box), as opposed to the flat on the body destination display.

In later years, the MetroRider could be ordered with a one-piece rather than a standard two-piece windscreenwhich, in turn, became standard. Among the most popular versions was the basic model, with short length, standard 1 door and no blind-box.