Not even the rigors of the ractrack could shake the 2009 J4500's steady, confident handling. MCI put the J4500's new wide-ride suspension and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) through the paces at Lowe's Motor Speedway during the American Bus Association show earlier this month, and the results were roundly applauded. About 65 ABA members attended the special event, with 40 taking the wheel at the racecourse. Beside traversing the track, which also included a slalom course, participants got to experience the J4500 as it transitioned at high speeds from slight corner banking to a flat track surface, something that can really upset the handling on a typical motor coach.

DeYoung says it was especially eye opening, "actually amazing," to put the coach through a series of controlled hazardous situations and experience the ESC doing what it was designed to do: help the driver retain control under severe circumstances. Says DeYoung, "Judging by the comments and excitement, I believe everybody was impressed."

Of course, MCI customers can get a feel for the new J4500's handling without hitting a speedway. MCI will offer test drives during its Customer First events throughout 2009, and demo rides are always readily available to those who visit one of MCI's sales and service centers.

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