The RTWs were London's first 8 feet wide buses - RTs and RTLs were 7 feet 6 inches wide.  Although originally confined to outer areas, after tests for suitability, they were allowed to operate in central London.  Unusually, the bodies were constructed by Leyland also.  The extra six inches were taken up by a one-inch wall spacer on each seat, and four inches extra on the central isle. The first batch were manufactured in 1949 with the remainder coming in 1950-1.  They were allocated to specific central London routes being 6, 6A, 8, 8A, 11, 15, 22, 34B, 46 and 76.  They were withdrawn from passenger service during 1964-1966, but remained as trainers for the 8-feet wide Routemasters until 1969.  The final RTW was sold in 1971.

RTW 185 entered service in 1949 at Putney Bridge garage for route 85.  1950-1952 she was at Tottenham garage, 1953-7 back at Putney Bridge, 1958-1961 at Willesdon, finishing public service at Bow until 1962.  During the years 1963 to 1970 she was a trainer, mostly based at Muswell Hill.  She was purchased by F Clayton in 1971, restored, and shown at rallies until present.  She appears below in original livery, with cream upper window surrounds and reduced destination blind display.