When a veteran test driver like Sergei Kanunnikov revisits the LiAZ-677, memories of riding it as a child inevitably surface. One feature stands out above all: the exceptional smoothness of the ride. Those classic buses, built in an era with fewer suspension options, still set a benchmark for comfort on rough roads. The LiAZ-677 achieved that dream thanks to a suspension system that used air springs, sometimes simply called air springs in repair manuals. This setup helped cushion passengers from the jolt of potholes and built a calm, almost gliding feel on the road.
The same approach appeared in the American Greyhound fleet, though it wasn’t as widespread there. On LiAZ models, the air-filled suspension contributed to a ride that could feel like a ship on soft waves, even when the road surface was uneven. In corners, the bus could lean a touch, yet the interior remained composed, protecting passengers from the worst bumps and absorbing the effects of the asphalt beneath the wheels. That gentle, ship-like motion became a defining memory for many riders and a testament to thoughtful engineering in daily transport.
Three more remarkable insights about a beloved bus from many childhood years highlight its enduring appeal. First, the LiAZ-677’s suspension was designed to minimize vibrations, delivering a consistently smooth journey for most routes. Second, the air suspension allowed for a gentle adaptability to road conditions, smoothing out irregularities that older systems might have transmitted directly to riders. Third, the overall feel of the ride contributed to a sense of reliability and calm, making the bus a comforting constant during school days and family trips alike.
- Video coverage can be found on video platforms that host historic vehicle footage.
The LiAZ-677 remains a symbol of mid‑20th century transportation design, remembered by many for its quiet cabin and soft ride. In regions where road quality challenged ordinary suspensions, the air-spring setup stood out as a practical solution that kept passengers at ease, even when the pavement fought back. Modern readers can appreciate how a single engineering choice—air springs in the suspension—shaped everyday commuting and left a lasting impression on generations of travelers.