Page "Light rail" Paragraph 35

Historically, the rail gauge has had considerable variations, with narrow gauge common in many early systems.

However, most light rail systems are now standard gauge.

Older standard gauge vehicles could not negotiate sharp turns as easily as narrow gauge ones, but modern light rail systems achieve tighter turning radii by using articulated cars.

An important advantage of standard gauge is that standard railway maintenance equipment can be used on it, rather than custom-built machinery.

Using standard gauge also allows light rail vehicles to be moved around conveniently using the same tracks as freight railways.

Another factor favoring standard gauge is that accessibility laws are making low-floor trams mandatory, and there is generally insufficient space for wheelchairs to move between the wheels in a narrow gauge layout.