Bavarian A II
The Bavarian A II was a class of 2-2-2 steam locomotives operated by the Royal Bavarian State Railways (Königlich Bayerische Staatsbahn). These locomotives were primarily used for passenger service, particularly on express trains.
The A II class represented an early attempt at achieving higher speeds and improved efficiency in passenger train operations. They were characterized by their elegant lines and relatively small size compared to later express locomotive designs.
Key features typically included a two-axle leading bogie for stable running at higher speeds, a single pair of large driving wheels, and a two-axle trailing truck to support the firebox. Specific dimensions and technical details varied slightly depending on the manufacturer and year of construction.
While the A II class played a role in the development of Bavarian railways, they were eventually superseded by more powerful and advanced locomotive types as train weights and speed requirements increased. Many were withdrawn from service and scrapped, although some may have been preserved in museums or private collections. Detailed historical records regarding individual locomotives and their operational lives are often maintained by railway historians and enthusiasts.