Why the Knight Bus?

[Susan Miller]

No: HPFGUIDX 45750

I don't understand the WW appeal of the Knight Bus. Other than a plot 
device, what is the purpose?

Presumably, all adult wizards can apparate. Or is this something that 
is only available to those who can prove skill and qualify for a 
license? Well, that is maybe the subject of another post.  Anyway, 
assuming that all adults can apparate, you would think that they 
could apparate to any destination that the bus could go, even if it 
might take several hops. And it would seem to me that apparating to a 
destination would be quicker than going by bus. Otherwise, there is 
Floo powder, broomsticks, and even magic motorcycles, not to mention 
the train.

If the purpose of the Knight bus is to rescue stranded non-apparating 
wizards, such as underage ones, then it would seem that there would 
not be enough business to justify such a service. But then, Harry was 
apparently the only underage passenger on the bus that night.

So, really - why would those adult passengers on the bus choose that 
mode of transportation? What service does it provide that cannot be 
got cheaper, easier, (and safer!) another way? Any ideas?


~ Constance Vigilance