Test results
Page 35
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BERLIET 1R280 TRACTIVE UNIT AT 32 TONS gtw
The Berliet cab is one of the most attractive fitted to any top-weight truck, and I formed a very high opinion of it during the test. My overall impression was, however, tempered by some small features which, were perhaps amplified by the correctness of all else. Engine noise in the cab is so unobtrusive that it is sometimes difficult to believe that there is a diesel engine throbbing away beneath you-but this tranquillity was disturbed by an almost continuous jangling from the gear linkage somewhere beneath the cab floor. Nevertheless, across-cab conversation could be clearly heard at all times and it was pleasant to listen to the radio without having to adjust the volume control as engine noise waxed or waned.
The driver has a suspension seat as standard but the cushion slopes gently downward towards the front, so it is occasionally necessary to readjust one's position to remain comfortable.
Excellent vision
All the minor and driving controls are nicely positioned relative to the driver, though the throttle treadle seemed stiff. I preferred to rest my foot at the top of the treadle to reduce the pressure required to depress it.
Berliet fits a smaller rearview mirror to the offside of the truck than to the nearside, apparently to avoid obscuring side vision during turning. However, I prefer a large mirror, especially for motorway driving. Otherwise an round vision is excellent.
Summing up, the Berliet produced an excellent all-round performance with high average speeds and a moderate thirst for fuel. From the driver's viewpoint the cab is very comfortable and quiet and the high-torque-rise engine makes for easy, relaxed driving.
On the negative side the tractive unit, which is available without bunks, is relatively heavy, the anti-roll bars and 13-tonne rear axle pushing the unladen weight up to 7.0 tonnes (6.9 tons). Also, for the unit plus 12.2m (40ft) trailer to fall within the legal 15m (49.2ft) overall length the trailer must have a 1.52m (5ft) kingpin.
As tested the Berliet TR280, with twin bunks, fog lights, twin fuel tanks, third seat and York fifth-wheel is £12,541. The standard, non-sleeper version -the same cab but without bunks-costs £11,874. The trailer costs £2,787.