I work as a transit operator and I drive through a city. You make it looks so easy and effortless. Love the coach. I am a good driver I am thinking about applying for work in the motor coach in my area.
Thank you so much. You should go for it. You might love it. Be sure to ask the company you are thinking about applying to all the questions you need answered before you commit
I would also recommend chatting up M.C. operators you see around town. They can give you insights into the job that you wouldn't get in an official interview. I also think that, operationally, driving a motor coach is a piece of cake for an experienced transit operator. I think the big difference between the two is that charter bus companies are much more customer service oriented than transit agencies.
City driving in a motor coach looks so fluid with you behind the wheel. I drive at Universal Studios Orlando and we use transit buses for all our moves. Once in awhile I get to use a coach but for what we are doing it's not as good as a transit bus. Thanks for sharing and look forward to the next video.
Hey Hank. I'm sorry we didn't get to meet each other when I was at Universal Studios this summer. Our schedule was so tight it was hard to plan for anything. My family and I really enjoyed the theme park. Next time im there Ill give you a heads up.
I was in London a few years back and loved to stand back and watch how the drivers drove their double beckers around the streets like they were sports cars, enjoyed watching your video, safe driving, bedt regards from Australia
I’m glad you opted to continue to do the video because it turned out to be really amazing!! Like a city bus driver going around and around. I know what that’s like.
Hay James, We're happy to see you back behind the wheel of a diesel coach once more even if it's not a brand new coach. At least your working. The trucking industry is going through hard times. I'm still considering getting my passenger endorsement and get back to driving, although I do enjoy driving my family around in our 40 foot Tiffin Motor coach. Safe travels my friend.
I started out with MCI's and the late 2000's early 2010's MCI E4500 will always be my nostalgic favorite, but there is just something about a Prevost H3 that feels right. That said I could never get used to the "Prevost mirror" as we called it, above my head and fortunately I am tall enough that I was always able to stand up on the brake and do a shoulder check at odd angle intersections. The only fault I will never forgive Prevost for (and maybe they have fixed it since the 2016 model I last drove) is the inexcusable drivers cup holder that pulls out under the radio stack. Bus drivers run on coffee and that always felt like a legacy bad design that said the driver did not matter to them.
Well said on everything. I've never driven the E but have ridden on a few. I miss the days of the Detroit Alison combo. Today's modern Prevost are the closest thing to that feeling.
Visited chicago for the first time Thursday. took the Blue line and first coach i see is a Peoria charter j series along side of us on the highway. had to get off next stop and get a pic
James, it is really good to ride along with you. Never looked like you had much of a crowd each loop. I admire how you (professional drivers) navigate through urban traffic: filled with four wheelers jockeying for advantage and trying to cut you off. Happy travels. Blessings from La Mesa, CA.
Hey Donald. Thank you sir. I don't think I ever filled every seat in my bus on any particular trip during the shuttle. But I did have some decent numbers on certain rounds and I think I had a round where nobody got on at all But yes it's always going to look like I don't have any passengers because I try to keep them out of the shots.
I used to tour and slept on an X3-45 for four months about 10 years ago. If the H3 is anything like the X3, that must be a fantastically smooth and fun to drive coach. The X3 gave me some of the best sleep I've ever had.
Oh wow that must have been awesome. Are you a performer or something? Ive always wanted to sleep in a proper bed in a closes bed room of a entertainer coach while it was moving.
I was a roadie for a band for a while. We had three high bunks on one side and two high bunks on the other, along with a front and rear lounge, and a pretty nice bathroom midship. I'm not exagerating when I say that bus was nicer than my house haha. If you ever get the chance to ride in one, I highly recommend!@@JWangvlogs
I love your content. Both here and on Motorcoach World. I don’t know how to describe it but your content on your personal channel feels more gritty and work-focused, for sure. You rock.
A new bus running in downtown Chicago? 😮 Most of my colleagues’ horror stories of damage sustained to a bus happens in Chicago, and most of the time it isn’t the bus driver’s fault! You however, put on a clinic! Well done and yes, a beautiful coach!
Great Vlog man! I live in Urbana and have been a CDL-A OTR truck driver for 8 years. I'm interested in the charter bus gig. I see you guys all the time on 57 and 55.
Thank you. Your comment means a lot to me. I wish you all the luck in the world in finding your dream job. Don't try to grow up too fast. Enjoy your youth along the way. Best wishes to you.
SmokedRice, interesting name….lol. James is right about not growing up fast. You are young, but nothing wrong with setting your dream job. You will be ahead of your peers, if you play it right. Spend about two hours out of a week to do your homework on the knowledge of the bus industry, whether it’s online or any bus magazines if available. When you get old enough depending on your state you live in, I suggest that you get your experiences by driving a school bus and learn how to deal with passengers, yes I said it, the “kids”. If you can handle them, you can handle anybody in the coach world. Once you are in the coach world, please just listen to the experienced bus operators. Just say yes and don’t talk back to them, or you’re loose their respect. Don’t hesitate to ask questions with the experienced drivers. And you will exceed!
After watching these city driving sequences, it brings back memories of how much more difficult it was maneuvering a 45 foot coach in NYC or hilly Quebec City traffic with a 4 speed Spicer double clutching gearbox. (MC-7's and GM 4905's in my small fleet) Especially to NOT "Bobble Head" the passengers with rough clutch work... bad for making good tips! I did appreciate that on Charters when you pulled into a Restaurant offloading 49 paying customers, the Driver's meal was usually comped.
Thank you. Ive learned that its just less stressful to just go with the flow rather than try and fight traffic LOL. No hurry to get anywhere. We'll get there when we get there. I can only control what I can control. Appreciate the comment.
Thank you so much. The camera and the editing let me choose what I want to show and what I don't lol 🤣. But I will say overall if you like the job even the toughest situations won't be that bad. If you hate the job that's a whole different story lol.
James I love your videos and it makes me miss driving. I’m smack in between Urbana and Peoria and spent years driving everything from dump trucks to box trucks to fire trucks. I’ve been out of it for 20 years or so and am a disabled vet. Unfortunately my current meds keep me out of the cdl game :( Maybe someday I’ll be able to join you 🤷♂️ we shall see how bad I want it.
@@jaltigI like your name James. lol. Im sorry to hear about your situation. Thank you for your service James. Total respect to Veterans and those in Uniform. If you ever want to stop by for a tour of our facility I will gladly show you around for a bit since you dont live far away. Jwang@peoriacharter.com. Email me. Ill take you around the block in one of our coaches.
I haven't watched your channel(s) in a while but always enjoy the content. Seeing you maneuver around Chicago on what appear to be a beautiful day/evening/night is really cool. Chicago's downtown was looking good! I may have missed it but what's bad about driving the Prevost H35? I looked like a very clean, well-kept and nice handling bus.
Thank you for your kind words. Welcome back to the channel. I always have a good time out there. Love the prevost h345. I just thought I got the brand new one with the new dash and body style. But I didn't.
You mentioned traffic - I do commuter service from northern NJ into NYC, and I don't mind the morning but the afternoon traffic does bother me for some reason. I only do afternoon runs occasionally. Maybe it's just too late in the day and I know I'm not going to be finishing work and arriving home until late.
Well You Didn't get the bus your Hopeing for..You kept in the game With that lovely unit..So next time you do get the New H3.45. You will be surprised! WoW 🤗 Enjoy the way you Thread the needle 🪡 In down town Chicago..As always GodBless You & your Family...🙏🇺🇦
Hi James, 😊 Wow I didn`t see that the bus goes down when parked & up when your to drive!! I was amazed how much you like to drive in busy Chicago, last time we went to Chicago 2004 was to see Scotty for his graduation!! I was glad You continued to do the Vlog...seeing everything was Marvelous!! 💯 I Wish You the Best in your Work & Your Family!!❤ Take care & have a Wonderful Evening !!❤ Barb from Rantoul, IL❣
Back in my charter bus driving days in the early 1980s, while on furlough from Greyhound, I was asked by a potential employer if I had ever driven a “flat bottom.” At the time, I had no idea what a “flat bottom” was. I answered honestly but added that I was pretty sure that if it even closely resembled a bus, I could probably drive it (a standard that still applies today, by the way!). I got hired. It turns out that the company that hired me had low-bid a convention shuttle contract and planned on using their recently acquired 1950s-era GMC transit buses that they purchased from Salt Lake City. We’re talking basically, the same kinds of buses that Rosa Parks refused to sit in the back of! I actually have a sense of honor, having been able to drive the same kind of bus I rode on as a kid. A piece of history! Later, my employer acquired another load of 1960s-era GMC “fishbowl” transit buses for use on convention shuttles. These were the buses I rode on as a teenager, so again, I loved being able to drive them. I started driving for Greyhound in 1981, mostly on extra section runs in the MC-7. Occasionally, I would catch a first section run off of the extra board, being able to drive, at the time, a brand new MC-9. But because of the nature of Greyhound, low seniority drivers were mostly looking for work. I bounced from charter outfit to charter outfit, usually being hired for convention shuttles. I eventually did do more tours, Las Vegas and ski charters with our company’s MC-9s with 6V-92 turbos and 5-speed manual transmissions. We also had some old GMC “buffalo” coaches and even some Prevost Le Mirage buses. I drove them all! Our newest, most awesome bus was the MCI 102A3 with the Detroit Diesel 8V-92 turbo and 5-speed manual transmission that would climb the 6% grade to Cajon Pass on I-15 at 53 mph in 4th, without coming close to overheating! After usually having to climb that grade at 35 mph, being able to “fly” up the hill was awesome! Alas, my bus driving days are long over. I switched careers and I am getting ready to retire from 35 years with United Airlines as an aircraft mechanic. But I will never forget the good times I had driving buses. I will also never forget Greyhound’s Rule S-2: “It is the responsibility of the professional Greyhound driver to recognize accident producing situations soon enough to take reasonable and prudent action to avoid an accident.” To date, one accident prior to driving for Greyhound, one speeding ticket during the “55 mph scam” and one failure to make a complete stop at a stop sign. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I hope they’re paying better now. Between unstable employment, law enforcement hostility toward professional drivers and Southern California traffic, I had to move on. It’s still nice to see what the new equipment is like. Again, thanks.
Great video James. Loved seeing downtown Chicago and the Prevost bus. I found the video quite soothing and relaxing and entertaining as well. Sorry u could not squeeze in time for a trip to Tom's Original but I understand the clock rules. I traveled to Chicago a few years back on a business trip but had little time to see the city. Need to get back there and check it out. Thanks for taking us along.
My day today is like that too just going stupid and weird for me but im ok so far and om curious would drivers ever use a steering wheel spinner to help with turns and whatnot
You had me all excited to get a ride along with the new PREVOST!!! :-) Anyway....this Prevost will do. But I am glad you continued to VLOG this trip. Hope you get to VLOG in the new one soon. Would love to see it. Maybe you'll need to make another trip to Branson.
Hi James.... Just discovered your YT channel.... Very interesting , You do a fantastic job putting it all together. I have been watching the past ones and I am going to watch them all. I live in Rockford IL so it is fun to see all the familiar places you are at..............You seem like a great guy....God Bless You ! Jeff Thompson Rockford Illinois
Hey Thank you so much Jeff. Ive been through Rockford many times. if you ever find yourself crossing through Champaign Give me a shout. Ill give you the tour.
I love your content James! I was in the Chicago area yesterday in a Van Hool. Elgin IL. I smiled when I checked the bathroom on the pretrip and saw the moat!!! Not a fan of the small bathroom. That Prevost makes me drool. I would love to pilot that! I like to drive in downtown Chicago, I will be back next week. Then in Washington DC the week after. I love the challenge of big cities. Boston is the all time challenge for bus drivers. Thankfully it has been a year or so since I have been out there. I drive bus part time, it gets me out of the cubicle farm. Getting paid to travel is so cool. We have a beautiful country to explore! Keep up the great work!
I drove past Jim's original on I90, wanted to stop, but had the group on the bus. They wanted to get to their destination. But I told them it was delicious and nutritious! it would be fun to meet you sometime! Stay safe! @@JWangvlogs
hi james wang my name is charlie h i love your videos with all of your videotape you have made my .heart happy i am very grateful and make me smile every time you talk about your buses in yourself i live in chicago illinois for about three years old my family thas always wanted a car for people like you thank very much for this video james bye
@@CharlieEd-f6c hi Charlie. Thank you for the kind words. Always nice to meet a fellow bus nut. If you are ever in the Urbana area let me know. I'll give you a tour of our facilities.
Great to see you picking up at my alma mater!! Also for future reference if you find your self there again at barns & noble there’s a sbarro and a couple other restaurants in there you can eat at
i now and then work in the wash bay and i really enjoy that, i also go out and drive when asked to do so. i love getting our coaches sparkling clean for the passengers and other drivers. enjoy every bus that you drive if it is new or old, that it is safe dependable and does the job is what counts. working cruise control is critical also. your attitude and procedures are really good,.
Nice video! I've actually never been inside of or seen the inside of a Prevost bus before (maybe during the fall break moves, I will see a few Prevost ones hopefully), so I'm glad this video shows that!
Been following both channels for a long time. Ive been doing motorcoach training with my company while Im driving school bus. Very different and challenging but exciting at the same time. I've also shared your channels with the other coach drivers in my company. You give me inspiration. I'll be on my first motorcoach trip in a few months (Most likely Boston or NYC, as my company is based in western MA)
So that makes sense on why there is such a good presence of PCC buses here in Champaign. Im at the parkland school of aviation, about to be done but I see the buses in front of my school when you drop off the players! We definatly will have to meet if you drop off the players sometime! Almost forgot to tell you I saw a Cavallo Bus!! I thought they went out of business but I saw it coming from STL!
Hey nice to meet a fellow local. Thats awesome. Email me some time. I'll give you a tour of our bus garage in Urbana. I used to fly as well. Good luck to you. My email is jwang@peoriacharter.com
I used to drive for Coach USA Madison to downtown union Station (and charter over the country). Even though we had top of the line coaches, id get mad when i didn't get a new one. I get the disappointment.
12:24 i used to hangout at that b&n. All the time in summer 2011 and McDonald's on state and Starbucks too and the other McDonald's close by and union station and all the carabu coffees and corner bakerys too i miss those days TBH
I for the record hate shuttles! They make a day just stretch out forever! Boring!!! A Prevost h345 is a great highway coach, it is also 12' 4" tall! A lot of bridges are 12 feet in Chicago, an example are the "L" bridges and Wacker drive. God help you if you have a satellite dish making it nearly 13' 4" tall! We bought 4 new H345 coaches last spring, and I always am watching clearances in Chicago! One of these days I will stop by, if I'm not driving people somewhere. I have to try the "bus way". BTW I just got back from California where I picked up a 1990 Crown Supercoach that my boss (My boss and I are huge bus nuts, and we love old busses) found for cheap in an auction in Oakland. It was an interesting (can you say HOT!) drive back with no AC or cruise control on I-40. So, you can completely go bus geek crazy on that!
Greetings from the South and the Trailways system...Former Chicagoan, still visit several times a year. Looked smooth on LaSalle and all over dntn. I did a shuttle last week on the Gulf Coast with a national group, let's say "Parrot heads". Probably a little more lively! Safe travels.
I am so homesick. I grew up in the northwest suburbs towards the Wisconsin border. We would go into Chicago for fun. I envy you. I taught for 25 years. I am now 59. Is that too old to learn how to drive a motorcoach? I have driven the biggest UHaul when we moved out to Pittsburgh. Trust me ...if I can drive through this crazy city I can drive anywhere lol. I have driven through D.C. during a Friday night rush hour. That was wicked.
Hey Theresa. Thank you for your comment. No that is the perfect age to start driving a motorcoach. Most of the drivers that drive for Peoria Charter are retired and they make this their 2nd career. In fact we have several retired teachers and even principals that drive for Peoria Charter. So definite not too late. Its a fun job.
@@user-TheresaMarie59 find a motor coach near you and call them. Ask if they will provide training for non CDL applicants. Some will and some won't. Just have to see what's around you.
Horrible I'm sorry you didn't get the coach. But it could be worse you could be stuck driving a school bus in circles. Manual transmission, manual door,no ac and no power brakes or power power steering. Nice to know you're out there take care.
I cringe at the very thought of stick shift especially in Chicago traffic. I would never own a vehicle with one but I digress. I’m not sure if PEORIA CHARTER has any of those buses built on van cutaway or HD pickup truck chassis or not. But they probably don’t have the durability other than airport/hotel shuttle for short distance.
Been in the Service Industry, if you have hot food you will get customers, if you have cold food you get no customers, and with hot it's as there fork is about to go in your mouth!
These are the kinds of videos that make me late for work lol. Love the track you used. I got a house in Chicago I'm gonna have to sell one day. Kinda not looking forward to it.
haha thanks for the kind words. I hope you dont get in trouble for being late for work. Chicago is a amazing city to visit however I don't think I could ever live there. But im very happy to live in Urbana where I can Visit Chicago with just a 2 hour drive.
I've driven a coach in New York many times. None that I've vlogged. But I would say they are comparable. I never found New York City driving to be significantly different nor more difficult than Chicago. I will say that New York is definitely larger when it comes to City areas. Parking is a lot harder to find too if you are doing a private charter.
Bus parking in NYC, at least Manhattan, is getting worse. They keep taking spots and areas away but either don’t replace it with spots somewhere else or only provide a few spots. I say this but haven’t been there since a few months pre covid shutdown. And I’ve retired. But it was to the point I was prepared to refuse NYC trips because of the parking and traffic; all the driving to find a spot goes against your 10 hours. Many times I headed down 11th toward the Lincoln Tunnel and if I didn’t see spot, I headed to the Lombardi Service Plaza on 95 in Jersey. But that’s if I had a long downtime. Honest, it’s best to take the group into the city and they walk or take city buses or the subway for the day. They can spend more time on the bus in traffic that it would to walk it. In Chicago, it’s tough sometimes but depending where you are. I’ve parked on Irving Park Road if I’m in that area, Kenzie if there, and Canal if at the museum areas. But in either city, I never guaranteed times, because of the traffic. Better to leave early.
@@jollygreen4639I can tell you have a lot of experience under your belt. Those are wise words from a knowledgeable driver. Congratulations on your retirement. This industry could gain from your knowledge. How long did you drive for before you retired?
I drove part time, as a second job, since 1985. When I retired from my FT job in 2015, after 32 years, I continued driving PT but was alway available. (Even when I worked my FT job, I was able to use accumulated time off and do 3 or 4 day outta town trips a lot.). I had to give up bus driving in 2021, couldn’t pass the DOT physical anymore due to restrictions from back problems I’ve had since major lower back surgery in ‘93, due to, big surprise, loading luggage on a trip. So I decided to give it up. I drove 36 years.
Lol when I was editing this. My phone went off every time I was working on that clip. I had to turn my phone off for a bit until I got past that point.
I love how Chicago drivers just flip on the hazard lights and park anywhere the f#$% they want to, like the hazards are some magical "I can park here for as long as I want" indicators.
I know right?!? I've said the same thing! It's so annoying sometimes especially when they make it so that you can't move until they leave... Then they give you a dirty look...
@@JWangvlogsChicago drivers are in a league of their own in that regard! Although maybe it's just a "big city' thing, IDK. Anyway, love the channel my man! I've been on a few motorcoach charter runs as a passenger over the years and I always appreciated my drivers! You guys put in long days behind the wheel and us in the back can't tell you how grateful we are for your service!
🤣😂😅😂😂😁😂😂😅🤣…….so you forgot your lunch, or is it your dinner. Yes, that part I didn’t see at the end…..lol. How did u forgot when u loved to eat?……………..…lol.
I retired from driving semi OTR as a independent for 41 year's, I've never had any accidents or tickets and that's the truth, i do hold a passenger endorsement but nobody will hire me because i never drove a motor coach which i totally understand but crazy as well, you would think they'd at least trained me thinking they'll have a driver with over 5 million miles accident free, i guess they rather hire a newbie with no experience, happy travels👍👍👍.
have you ever think about going to sainte claire ? Its a nice city and the prevost bus factory and museum visit is amazing. (the museum is the original house of eugene prevost) btw fun fact, prevost started 100 years ago in 1924
As a operations manager, when I drive I make sure that I am treated like any other driver. I let dispatch tell me what I'm doing and what i am driving. I don't like to do special treatment. I want to earn the respect of my drivers and let them see that i will do everything I expect them to do.
Love the tour around beautiful downtown Chicago, forget all the critics and haters out there, CHICAGO is a great city.
I work as a transit operator and I drive through a city. You make it looks so easy and effortless. Love the coach. I am a good driver I am thinking about applying for work in the motor coach in my area.
Thank you so much. You should go for it. You might love it. Be sure to ask the company you are thinking about applying to all the questions you need answered before you commit
I hope you succeed in getting the job
Good luck. And while cities are different I'm sure you'll do just fine
I would also recommend chatting up M.C. operators you see around town. They can give you insights into the job that you wouldn't get in an official interview.
I also think that, operationally, driving a motor coach is a piece of cake for an experienced transit operator. I think the big difference between the two is that charter bus companies are much more customer service oriented than transit agencies.
Dear friend,
How can I apply for this company, I'm from Morocco and I work as a bus driver in Poland.
City driving in a motor coach looks so fluid with you behind the wheel. I drive at Universal Studios Orlando and we use transit buses for all our moves. Once in awhile I get to use a coach but for what we are doing it's not as good as a transit bus. Thanks for sharing and look forward to the next video.
Hey Hank. I'm sorry we didn't get to meet each other when I was at Universal Studios this summer. Our schedule was so tight it was hard to plan for anything. My family and I really enjoyed the theme park. Next time im there Ill give you a heads up.
@@JWangvlogs That would be awesome, just let me know. Glad you and your family had a great time..
I was in London a few years back and loved to stand back and watch how the drivers drove their double beckers around the streets like they were sports cars, enjoyed watching your video, safe driving, bedt regards from Australia
James, things do happen for a reason, keep blogging, Brother, I can wait till you get your hands on a '23 H3-45 :😀 👍
Always with you James. I will be so happy in the day that you will drive a big Marcopolo. Bristol - England
That would be a dream come true for me 😊
Love it , from a bus driver uk 🇬🇧. I also have eight round trips tomorrow over ten hours , each trips takes one hour .
I’m glad you opted to continue to do the video because it turned out to be really amazing!! Like a city bus driver going around and around. I know what that’s like.
Hay James, We're happy to see you back behind the wheel of a diesel coach once more even if it's not a brand new coach. At least your working. The trucking industry is going through hard times. I'm still considering getting my passenger endorsement and get back to driving, although I do enjoy driving my family around in our 40 foot Tiffin Motor coach. Safe travels my friend.
I started out with MCI's and the late 2000's early 2010's MCI E4500 will always be my nostalgic favorite, but there is just something about a Prevost H3 that feels right. That said I could never get used to the "Prevost mirror" as we called it, above my head and fortunately I am tall enough that I was always able to stand up on the brake and do a shoulder check at odd angle intersections. The only fault I will never forgive Prevost for (and maybe they have fixed it since the 2016 model I last drove) is the inexcusable drivers cup holder that pulls out under the radio stack. Bus drivers run on coffee and that always felt like a legacy bad design that said the driver did not matter to them.
Well said on everything. I've never driven the E but have ridden on a few. I miss the days of the Detroit Alison combo. Today's modern Prevost are the closest thing to that feeling.
- I like this brother since we’re from Chicago and I respect his hustle. 💯 Subscribed
Visited chicago for the first time Thursday. took the Blue line and first coach i see is a Peoria charter j series along side of us on the highway. had to get off next stop and get a pic
Love the videos, its cool watching a professional at work.
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. 😊
9:23 It's a great way to support the driver. I love those moments.
That dashcam in the left corner wish I could get something like that for my van gives a birds eye view
James, it is really good to ride along with you. Never looked like you had much of a crowd each loop. I admire how you (professional drivers) navigate through urban traffic: filled with four wheelers jockeying for advantage and trying to cut you off. Happy travels. Blessings from La Mesa, CA.
Well he didn’t show his passengers to guard their privacy. Chicago can be crazy but James seems to roll with the punches.
Hey Donald. Thank you sir. I don't think I ever filled every seat in my bus on any particular trip during the shuttle. But I did have some decent numbers on certain rounds and I think I had a round where nobody got on at all
But yes it's always going to look like I don't have any passengers because I try to keep them out of the shots.
I used to tour and slept on an X3-45 for four months about 10 years ago. If the H3 is anything like the X3, that must be a fantastically smooth and fun to drive coach. The X3 gave me some of the best sleep I've ever had.
Oh wow that must have been awesome. Are you a performer or something? Ive always wanted to sleep in a proper bed in a closes bed room of a entertainer coach while it was moving.
I was a roadie for a band for a while. We had three high bunks on one side and two high bunks on the other, along with a front and rear lounge, and a pretty nice bathroom midship. I'm not exagerating when I say that bus was nicer than my house haha. If you ever get the chance to ride in one, I highly recommend!@@JWangvlogs
I love your content. Both here and on Motorcoach World.
I don’t know how to describe it but your content on your personal channel feels more gritty and work-focused, for sure. You rock.
Hey Thank you so much for the compliment!
Sick transition at 14:18 🤌
Thank you for noticing. Only a Chicago native could recognize what I did there 😅.
Good eye @alblua
A new bus running in downtown Chicago? 😮 Most of my colleagues’ horror stories of damage sustained to a bus happens in Chicago, and most of the time it isn’t the bus driver’s fault! You however, put on a clinic! Well done and yes, a beautiful coach!
Nice job James! I'm still with you and yes lunch is dinner!
At 7:52 near the left lower corner, I see and like the reflection of James during his fast film speed…….lol.
I've always been a fan of the bi slide loading/unloading doors like you see on some of the older MCI''s. Probably a thing of the past though.
Great Vlog man! I live in Urbana and have been a CDL-A OTR truck driver for 8 years. I'm interested in the charter bus gig. I see you guys all the time on 57 and 55.
Come by and see us sometime. 1910 N Federal Drive Urbana IL.
As a 15 year old bus enthusiast who wants to someday drive for a bus company, you inspire me. Keep doing the good work you always do! 😃
Thank you. Your comment means a lot to me. I wish you all the luck in the world in finding your dream job. Don't try to grow up too fast. Enjoy your youth along the way. Best wishes to you.
SmokedRice, interesting name….lol. James is right about not growing up fast. You are young, but nothing wrong with setting your dream job. You will be ahead of your peers, if you play it right. Spend about two hours out of a week to do your homework on the knowledge of the bus industry, whether it’s online or any bus magazines if available. When you get old enough depending on your state you live in, I suggest that you get your experiences by driving a school bus and learn how to deal with passengers, yes I said it, the “kids”. If you can handle them, you can handle anybody in the coach world. Once you are in the coach world, please just listen to the experienced bus operators. Just say yes and don’t talk back to them, or you’re loose their respect. Don’t hesitate to ask questions with the experienced drivers. And you will exceed!
Thank you!@@falconseyeaerialservicesll8176
Go for it.
After watching these city driving sequences, it brings back memories of how much more difficult it was maneuvering a 45 foot coach in NYC or hilly Quebec City traffic with a 4 speed Spicer double clutching gearbox. (MC-7's and GM 4905's in my small fleet) Especially to NOT "Bobble Head" the passengers with rough clutch work... bad for making good tips!
I did appreciate that on Charters when you pulled into a Restaurant offloading 49 paying customers, the Driver's meal was usually comped.
You seem very courteous in your driving style.
Thank you. Ive learned that its just less stressful to just go with the flow rather than try and fight traffic LOL. No hurry to get anywhere. We'll get there when we get there. I can only control what I can control. Appreciate the comment.
Hey James. I work in downtown Chicago. I hope to cross paths with you just to say hello. Safe travels to you.
Hey hope we will meet one day. Im up there a lot. Don't be afraid to come up to me and say hi!
Love the busy downtown videos. I know that can be stressful, but you make it look easy, great content,
Thank you so much.
The camera and the editing let me choose what I want to show and what I don't lol 🤣. But I will say overall if you like the job even the toughest situations won't be that bad. If you hate the job that's a whole different story lol.
James I love your videos and it makes me miss driving. I’m smack in between Urbana and Peoria and spent years driving everything from dump trucks to box trucks to fire trucks. I’ve been out of it for 20 years or so and am a disabled vet. Unfortunately my current meds keep me out of the cdl game :( Maybe someday I’ll be able to join you 🤷♂️ we shall see how bad I want it.
Ps I’m also a James so extra points?
@@jaltigI like your name James. lol. Im sorry to hear about your situation. Thank you for your service James. Total respect to Veterans and those in Uniform. If you ever want to stop by for a tour of our facility I will gladly show you around for a bit since you dont live far away. Jwang@peoriacharter.com. Email me. Ill take you around the block in one of our coaches.
I haven't watched your channel(s) in a while but always enjoy the content. Seeing you maneuver around Chicago on what appear to be a beautiful day/evening/night is really cool. Chicago's downtown was looking good! I may have missed it but what's bad about driving the Prevost H35? I looked like a very clean, well-kept and nice handling bus.
Thank you for your kind words. Welcome back to the channel. I always have a good time out there. Love the prevost h345. I just thought I got the brand new one with the new dash and body style. But I didn't.
You mentioned traffic - I do commuter service from northern NJ into NYC, and I don't mind the morning but the afternoon traffic does bother me for some reason. I only do afternoon runs occasionally. Maybe it's just too late in the day and I know I'm not going to be finishing work and arriving home until late.
Most likely and the people who are in a rush to get home to and do the most
Well You Didn't get the bus your Hopeing for..You kept in the game With that lovely unit..So next time you do get the New H3.45. You will be surprised! WoW 🤗 Enjoy the way you Thread the needle 🪡 In down town Chicago..As always GodBless You & your Family...🙏🇺🇦
Thank you Bill. Much appreciated sir.
Hi James, 😊 Wow I didn`t see that the bus goes down when parked & up when your to drive!!
I was amazed how much you like to drive in busy Chicago, last time we went to Chicago 2004 was to see Scotty for his graduation!!
I was glad You continued to do the Vlog...seeing everything was Marvelous!! 💯
I Wish You the Best in your Work & Your Family!!❤ Take care & have a Wonderful Evening !!❤ Barb from Rantoul, IL❣
Back in my charter bus driving days in the early 1980s, while on furlough from Greyhound, I was asked by a potential employer if I had ever driven a “flat bottom.” At the time, I had no idea what a “flat bottom” was. I answered honestly but added that I was pretty sure that if it even closely resembled a bus, I could probably drive it (a standard that still applies today, by the way!). I got hired.
It turns out that the company that hired me had low-bid a convention shuttle contract and planned on using their recently acquired 1950s-era GMC transit buses that they purchased from Salt Lake City. We’re talking basically, the same kinds of buses that Rosa Parks refused to sit in the back of! I actually have a sense of honor, having been able to drive the same kind of bus I rode on as a kid. A piece of history!
Later, my employer acquired another load of 1960s-era GMC “fishbowl” transit buses for use on convention shuttles. These were the buses I rode on as a teenager, so again, I loved being able to drive them.
I started driving for Greyhound in 1981, mostly on extra section runs in the MC-7. Occasionally, I would catch a first section run off of the extra board, being able to drive, at the time, a brand new MC-9. But because of the nature of Greyhound, low seniority drivers were mostly looking for work. I bounced from charter outfit to charter outfit, usually being hired for convention shuttles. I eventually did do more tours, Las Vegas and ski charters with our company’s MC-9s with 6V-92 turbos and 5-speed manual transmissions. We also had some old GMC “buffalo” coaches and even some Prevost Le Mirage buses. I drove them all! Our newest, most awesome bus was the MCI 102A3 with the Detroit Diesel 8V-92 turbo and 5-speed manual transmission that would climb the 6% grade to Cajon Pass on I-15 at 53 mph in 4th, without coming close to overheating! After usually having to climb that grade at 35 mph, being able to “fly” up the hill was awesome!
Alas, my bus driving days are long over. I switched careers and I am getting ready to retire from 35 years with United Airlines as an aircraft mechanic. But I will never forget the good times I had driving buses. I will also never forget Greyhound’s Rule S-2: “It is the responsibility of the professional Greyhound driver to recognize accident producing situations soon enough to take reasonable and prudent action to avoid an accident.” To date, one accident prior to driving for Greyhound, one speeding ticket during the “55 mph scam” and one failure to make a complete stop at a stop sign.
Thanks for sharing your experiences. I hope they’re paying better now. Between unstable employment, law enforcement hostility toward professional drivers and Southern California traffic, I had to move on. It’s still nice to see what the new equipment is like. Again, thanks.
Great video James. Loved seeing downtown Chicago and the Prevost bus. I found the video quite soothing and relaxing and entertaining as well. Sorry u could not squeeze in time for a trip to Tom's Original but I understand the clock rules. I traveled to Chicago a few years back on a business trip but had little time to see the city. Need to get back there and check it out. Thanks for taking us along.
Thank you. I always say I love visiting Chicago but I would never want to live there.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
My day today is like that too just going stupid and weird for me but im ok so far and om curious would drivers ever use a steering wheel spinner to help with turns and whatnot
You had me all excited to get a ride along with the new PREVOST!!! :-) Anyway....this Prevost will do. But I am glad you continued to VLOG this trip. Hope you get to VLOG in the new one soon. Would love to see it. Maybe you'll need to make another trip to Branson.
Haha now you know how disappointed I was. I thought I was going to get the drive and spend the day in one. It was crushing to see that I was wrong
Very entertaining and fun to watch. Thanks for posting this.
Thank you so much!
Hi James.... Just discovered your YT channel.... Very interesting , You do a fantastic job putting it all together. I have been watching the past ones and I am going to watch them all. I live in Rockford IL so it is fun to see all the familiar places you are at..............You seem like a great guy....God Bless You ! Jeff Thompson Rockford Illinois
Hey Thank you so much Jeff. Ive been through Rockford many times. if you ever find yourself crossing through Champaign Give me a shout. Ill give you the tour.
🎉 THANKS FOR THE VIDEO
James, so nice to see you again my friend but so sorry for your disappointment. Another great video as always. Stay healthy and safe.
I love your content James! I was in the Chicago area yesterday in a Van Hool. Elgin IL. I smiled when I checked the bathroom on the pretrip and saw the moat!!! Not a fan of the small bathroom. That Prevost makes me drool. I would love to pilot that! I like to drive in downtown Chicago, I will be back next week. Then in Washington DC the week after. I love the challenge of big cities. Boston is the all time challenge for bus drivers. Thankfully it has been a year or so since I have been out there. I drive bus part time, it gets me out of the cubicle farm. Getting paid to travel is so cool. We have a beautiful country to explore! Keep up the great work!
Oh nice! Safe travels sir.
I wish our paths would have crossed.
Yes the Prevost is one smooth ride. Always a treat when I get to drive one.
I drove past Jim's original on I90, wanted to stop, but had the group on the bus. They wanted to get to their destination. But I told them it was delicious and nutritious! it would be fun to meet you sometime! Stay safe! @@JWangvlogs
@@dutchbrad8695 If you ever find yourself driving through Champaign IL Let me know. We will go grab some lunch or something,
hi james wang my name is charlie h i love your videos with all of your videotape you have made my .heart happy i am very grateful and make me smile every time you talk about your buses in yourself i live in chicago illinois for about three years old my family thas always wanted a car for people like you thank very much for this video james bye
@@CharlieEd-f6c hi Charlie. Thank you for the kind words. Always nice to meet a fellow bus nut.
If you are ever in the Urbana area let me know. I'll give you a tour of our facilities.
Great to see you picking up at my alma mater!! Also for future reference if you find your self there again at barns & noble there’s a sbarro and a couple other restaurants in there you can eat at
Oh man I love Sbarro! I had no idea there are restaurants in there. I would have totally gone inside if I'd known that. Thanks for letting me know
i now and then work in the wash bay and i really enjoy that, i also go out and drive when asked to do so. i love getting our coaches sparkling clean for the passengers and other drivers. enjoy every bus that you drive if it is new or old, that it is safe dependable and does the job is what counts. working cruise control is critical also. your attitude and procedures are really good,.
I found you channel and a like so much thanks for posting a videos like this
Nice video! I've actually never been inside of or seen the inside of a Prevost bus before (maybe during the fall break moves, I will see a few Prevost ones hopefully), so I'm glad this video shows that!
Been following both channels for a long time. Ive been doing motorcoach training with my company while Im driving school bus. Very different and challenging but exciting at the same time. I've also shared your channels with the other coach drivers in my company. You give me inspiration. I'll be on my first motorcoach trip in a few months (Most likely Boston or NYC, as my company is based in western MA)
NYC or Boston? That’s baptism by fire…
Would that be, “Peterpan?”
6:30 - "A rock band so great that they named a city after them."
(Fast Fact: A couple of the original band members attended DePaul University, lol.)
So that makes sense on why there is such a good presence of PCC buses here in Champaign. Im at the parkland school of aviation, about to be done but I see the buses in front of my school when you drop off the players! We definatly will have to meet if you drop off the players sometime! Almost forgot to tell you I saw a Cavallo Bus!! I thought they went out of business but I saw it coming from STL!
Hey nice to meet a fellow local. Thats awesome. Email me some time. I'll give you a tour of our bus garage in Urbana. I used to fly as well. Good luck to you.
My email is jwang@peoriacharter.com
Good on ya, Reg!
I used to drive for Coach USA Madison to downtown union Station (and charter over the country).
Even though we had top of the line coaches, id get mad when i didn't get a new one. I get the disappointment.
Yes exactly. No one who doesn't work in our industry will understand that feeling. 😆
Hi my name is Andrew I love motor coaches they are fun to ride on
Hi! yes I totally agree1
12:24 i used to hangout at that b&n. All the time in summer 2011 and McDonald's on state and Starbucks too and the other McDonald's close by and union station and all the carabu coffees and corner bakerys too i miss those days TBH
My terminal is in Chicago. I feel your pain.. driving my semi through the city, it's anoing but at least the food is good in Chicago. ;)
I for the record hate shuttles! They make a day just stretch out forever! Boring!!! A Prevost h345 is a great highway coach, it is also 12' 4" tall! A lot of bridges are 12 feet in Chicago, an example are the "L" bridges and Wacker drive. God help you if you have a satellite dish making it nearly 13' 4" tall! We bought 4 new H345 coaches last spring, and I always am watching clearances in Chicago! One of these days I will stop by, if I'm not driving people somewhere. I have to try the "bus way". BTW I just got back from California where I picked up a 1990 Crown Supercoach that my boss (My boss and I are huge bus nuts, and we love old busses) found for cheap in an auction in Oakland. It was an interesting (can you say HOT!) drive back with no AC or cruise control on I-40. So, you can completely go bus geek crazy on that!
I like how your 'hey google' triggered my Google assistant 😆
Hello James. You should consider this, you won't have to look for charging stations today. ;-)
Thanks for the video
Good point! 😂
Man, the new Prevost front glass is tilted back very aggressively and the body shape is somewhat rounded, like a Volvo 9700 from the rear.
Currently Sittin in my motor coach in San Francisco watching your videos lol. Wish my company’s Prevost H3’s were as nice as the one your driving 🤣
Greetings from the South and the Trailways system...Former Chicagoan, still visit several times a year. Looked smooth on LaSalle and all over dntn. I did a shuttle last week on the Gulf Coast with a national group, let's say "Parrot heads". Probably a little more lively! Safe travels.
Huh. I just realized that you have two channels and both pop up in my feed
Great video james. Had a snort amd giggle when you realized you weren't driving what you thought 😂
I am so homesick. I grew up in the northwest suburbs towards the Wisconsin border. We would go into Chicago for fun. I envy you. I taught for 25 years. I am now 59. Is that too old to learn how to drive a motorcoach? I have driven the biggest UHaul when we moved out to Pittsburgh. Trust me ...if I can drive through this crazy city I can drive anywhere lol. I have driven through D.C. during a Friday night rush hour. That was wicked.
Hey Theresa. Thank you for your comment. No that is the perfect age to start driving a motorcoach. Most of the drivers that drive for Peoria Charter are retired and they make this their 2nd career. In fact we have several retired teachers and even principals that drive for Peoria Charter. So definite not too late. Its a fun job.
What is the first step?
@@user-TheresaMarie59 find a motor coach near you and call them. Ask if they will provide training for non CDL applicants.
Some will and some won't. Just have to see what's around you.
I love driving around all day, I drive a 2014 VanHool Tourist Coach for my assigned bus now.
Horrible I'm sorry you didn't get the coach. But it could be worse you could be stuck driving a school bus in circles. Manual transmission, manual door,no ac and no power brakes or power power steering. Nice to know you're out there take care.
Very true Michael. Thank you sir. I believe I owe you a phone call. Sorry been on the road a lot.
I cringe at the very thought of stick shift especially in Chicago traffic. I would never own a vehicle with one but I digress. I’m not sure if PEORIA CHARTER has any of those buses built on van cutaway or HD pickup truck chassis or not. But they probably don’t have the durability other than airport/hotel shuttle for short distance.
Been in the Service Industry, if you have hot food you will get customers, if you have cold food you get no customers, and with hot it's as there fork is about to go in your mouth!
Those cameras cpd run are part of the clear system really awesome system too
😂 you're driving the bus with no pants that's wild!
love your vlogs!
Thank you so much 😊
I'm in the Philippines through at least late January, can't wait for Chipotle when I get back.
Oh that's awesome. I'm always wanted to visit the Philippines. I love their food. I would say you have a better food scene than I did at chipotle 😄
James, what is that bus next to the Prévost H3-45 with the big window in the rear?
Van Hool CX 45
@@JWangvlogs would you mind driving that when you do the shuttle in Chicago?
I did in my last video I released a week ago
Nice video as always. Make a video when you get behind the wheel of the new 2024 H3-45
I most definitely will.
These are the kinds of videos that make me late for work lol. Love the track you used. I got a house in Chicago I'm gonna have to sell one day. Kinda not looking forward to it.
haha thanks for the kind words. I hope you dont get in trouble for being late for work. Chicago is a amazing city to visit however I don't think I could ever live there. But im very happy to live in Urbana where I can Visit Chicago with just a 2 hour drive.
Enjoyed the video 🎉🎉
Chicago driving looks tough, but compared to New York City driving looks like a walk in the park.😮
I've driven a coach in New York many times. None that I've vlogged. But I would say they are comparable. I never found New York City driving to be significantly different nor more difficult than Chicago. I will say that New York is definitely larger when it comes to City areas. Parking is a lot harder to find too if you are doing a private charter.
Bus parking in NYC, at least Manhattan, is getting worse. They keep taking spots and areas away but either don’t replace it with spots somewhere else or only provide a few spots. I say this but haven’t been there since a few months pre covid shutdown. And I’ve retired. But it was to the point I was prepared to refuse NYC trips because of the parking and traffic; all the driving to find a spot goes against your 10 hours. Many times I headed down 11th toward the Lincoln Tunnel and if I didn’t see spot, I headed to the Lombardi Service Plaza on 95 in Jersey. But that’s if I had a long downtime. Honest, it’s best to take the group into the city and they walk or take city buses or the subway for the day. They can spend more time on the bus in traffic that it would to walk it. In Chicago, it’s tough sometimes but depending where you are. I’ve parked on Irving Park Road if I’m in that area, Kenzie if there, and Canal if at the museum areas. But in either city, I never guaranteed times, because of the traffic. Better to leave early.
@@jollygreen4639I can tell you have a lot of experience under your belt. Those are wise words from a knowledgeable driver. Congratulations on your retirement. This industry could gain from your knowledge. How long did you drive for before you retired?
I drove part time, as a second job, since 1985. When I retired from my FT job in 2015, after 32 years, I continued driving PT but was alway available. (Even when I worked my FT job, I was able to use accumulated time off and do 3 or 4 day outta town trips a lot.). I had to give up bus driving in 2021, couldn’t pass the DOT physical anymore due to restrictions from back problems I’ve had since major lower back surgery in ‘93, due to, big surprise, loading luggage on a trip. So I decided to give it up. I drove 36 years.
I really enjoy the video very much hope you continue uploading thank you for uploading as well
Neat footage! I wouldn't mind if the driver is eating while i board too. He's gotta eat too!
Your amazing.
Thank you Scott! Wow what high praise! I appreciate that.
You set off my google speaker!!!!
LOL sorry. mine too. LOL
Were you picking up from a church in Princeville, IL maybe a week or two ago?
I wasn't personally. But I think one of our buses had a trip there.
Ur content is good love the stuff u put out love the channel
I found you on the website wow
Nice bus, I see it does not have your favorite snack shelf at the front as the classic ones do 😊
Lol 🤣 none of them do anymore. Everything is computer cad designed now to be futuristic and angled and curved...
@@JWangvlogs could a portable tray be designed to fit there ?
Beautiful montage
Thank you ☺️😊
You made my Google go off asking about monotony. Lol.
Lol when I was editing this. My phone went off every time I was working on that clip. I had to turn my phone off for a bit until I got past that point.
@@JWangvlogslol I keep my ok google disabled
I drive 2023 kenworth tractor i drive all over the country from. East coast to west coast
James how have you been I miss the videos
I love how Chicago drivers just flip on the hazard lights and park anywhere the f#$% they want to, like the hazards are some magical "I can park here for as long as I want" indicators.
I know right?!? I've said the same thing! It's so annoying sometimes especially when they make it so that you can't move until they leave... Then they give you a dirty look...
@@JWangvlogsChicago drivers are in a league of their own in that regard! Although maybe it's just a "big city' thing, IDK. Anyway, love the channel my man! I've been on a few motorcoach charter runs as a passenger over the years and I always appreciated my drivers! You guys put in long days behind the wheel and us in the back can't tell you how grateful we are for your service!
Nice video did you do shuttle work for the Union League Club or DePaul university. It looks like you stopped on Jackson Street head east bound.
I miss the loop
I am surprised you don't have a base up in the Chicago area so you. Chicago traffic isn't that bad compared to Atlanta Traffic
I think i saw you yesterday driving when you was getting on LSD around 12pm
Almost made Chipotle look appealing...almost! 😂
Great vid as usual, thanks!
haha Almost LOL. Thank you for taking the time to write a comment.
@@JWangvlogs, when were you able to finished your Chipotle? Or did you had to take it back to the hotel with u? (cold)
@@falconseyeaerialservicesll8176 I added a little Easter egg clip at the very end of the video. Past the outro. 😉
@@JWangvlogs you telling me that I miss something……..😖😬🫣………..lol. Really?
🤣😂😅😂😂😁😂😂😅🤣…….so you forgot your lunch, or is it your dinner. Yes, that part I didn’t see at the end…..lol. How did u forgot when u loved to eat?……………..…lol.
I retired from driving semi OTR as a independent for 41 year's, I've never had any accidents or tickets and that's the truth, i do hold a passenger endorsement but nobody will hire me because i never drove a motor coach which i totally understand but crazy as well, you would think they'd at least trained me thinking they'll have a driver with over 5 million miles accident free, i guess they rather hire a newbie with no experience, happy travels👍👍👍.
well if you live in the area come and apply. We will interview you and see if you are a good fit.
@@JWangvlogs unfortunately I live in Florida, or else I'd love to come.
City buses and cars be like: “Why is there a coach bus in the city so long?
James you are driving me crazy with the one hand driving. But i love your videos!
have you ever think about going to sainte claire ?
Its a nice city and the prevost bus factory and museum visit is amazing. (the museum is the original house of eugene prevost)
btw fun fact, prevost started 100 years ago in 1924
Actually I did a video on the history of Prevost. ua-cam.com/video/J8UMC3Y1rcE/v-deo.html
What do you mean "you were assigned" that bus? As the operations manager, don't you get to decide what bus you get to work with?
As a operations manager, when I drive I make sure that I am treated like any other driver. I let dispatch tell me what I'm doing and what i am driving. I don't like to do special treatment. I want to earn the respect of my drivers and let them see that i will do everything I expect them to do.
i hope the mta should get the prevost bus