Stroller Info

Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller 2008 - Review

Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller:  Known for its patented Quick-Fold technology, the Baby Jogger City Series attempts to incorporate active urban walking with easy car storage and mobility.  In theory, the Quick-Fold system is a great feature: easily lift the folding strap to allow the stroller to collapse on itself and place in the car with one hand (as seen in this video).  There are some logistical problems with this folding system: when the stroller is folded, the seat is completely exposed.  If it is raining outside and you are placing the stroller in the car, it will get wet.  If you place the stroller in a not-so-clean trunk or storage space, the seat will be directly exposed.  It is also not as easy to lift a 21 pound stroller with a small strap.  The weight of the entire stroller is transferred to the small carrying handle - transferring the weight directly to your hand and possibly crunching your four fingers - very uncomfortable.  As we usually recommend, always try and pick up a stroller using the frame structure if you can.  The weight is distributed more evenly and the stroller will feel lighter and more balanced - you will not be fighting the stroller to get it in your car.  Something else to think about - are you really going to be constantly folding the stroller and placing it in your car, or are you going to have a second, lighter durable stroller (see Maclaren Volo, Quest, and Triumph for durable, light travel and car strollers) to use in and out of your car for quick trips and travel?  Either way, a stroller's fold is important - surely - but a stroller's frame composition, durability, and strolling function is more important.

 

INNOVATIONS

The Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller is lighter and more durable than most of its competitors.  It does offer adjustable hood coverage, recline suitable for a newborn, pneumatic (air-filled) tires to absorb the shock and friction of rough terrain, and a quick folding system (though is not as logical as it seems - see above).  The innovations included are not as functional as they appear - the recline system is controlled by a string and plastic buckle, similar to the tightening system in a winter jacket's hood.  Anytime this pieces breaks or the buckle's tension system fails, it can be replaced but may cause much frustration.  There is also a significant amount of plastic on the stroller's frame (which reduces the stroller's overall weight) that may cause problems in the long run.  Anytime plastic fractures or breaks due to handling, heat and cold or storage and travel, the stroller is unusable.  A stroller's composition on a basic level should always be noted when thinking about any stroller.  The Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller has much more exposed plastic than most of its direct competitors (BOB Revolution, Mountain Buggy Urban Single, Phil & Ted's SPort).  The Baby Jogger is also missing a very important feature: a functional suspension system.  The only suspension absorption built into the stroller is through the pneumatic tires.  A better suspension system would make the stroller easier to push (as a suspension system absorbs the tension of a turn), and make it a smoother ride for your child.   The Baby Jogger City Classic Single stroller does have one great feature: a venting system built into the hood and the seat, cooling your child in the heat while proper shade is utilized. 

FEATURES

• Patented Quick-Fold technology making the fold easier (see above).
• Large, adjustable hood with ventilation system and peek hole.
• Swivel front wheel that can be locked easily for light jogging (Note: this stroller is not a technical jogger.  It is suitable for very slow jogging/fast walking) or maneuvering over rough terrain.
• Quick-release rear wheels can be detached for storage or travel.
• Padded, ventilated seat reclines enough for newborn.
• Tilting, adjustable handle.
• Included storage areas on seat back and under seat.
• Rear parking brake.
• Reflective accents on stroller's fabric.

COMPATIBILITY:  The Baby Jogger City Classic is adaptable with the following infant carriers with additional Infant Car Seat Adapter (sold separately):

• Graco Snugride
• Graco Safe Seat (Step 1)
• Most Evenflo car seats
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP
• Britax Companion
• Maxi Cosi Mico

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:  Baby Jogger brand specific and sold separately:

• Bug Canopy
• Rain/Wind Canopy
• Food Muff
• Child Tray
• Bassinet
• Belly Bar
• Belly Bar Console
• Liquid Holster
• Soft Pram
• Tire Pump
• Infant Car Seat Adapter

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight:  21 lbs
• Capacity:  75 lbs (Please note: most stroller companies include both child and storage weight restrictions when calculating total weight capacity)

DIMENSIONS

• Open:  47.5" L x 24.75" W x 32" - 48" H
• Folded:  32"L x 24.75" W x 17" H

THE PRICE:  $399.99

AVAILABLE COLORS

• Black / Silver
• Navy / Silver
• Red / Silver

ALSO CONSIDER

• BOB Revolution
• BOB Revolution 12" AW
• Mountain Buggy Urban Single

Something we missed?  Want a side-by-side comparison?  Email us!  strollerinfo@gmail.com

BOB Revolution Duallie - Recommended

The BOB Revolution Duallie: one of the most well-constructed, functional double strollers currently on the market.  BOB has been setting the standard in sturdy, durable stroller construction for a years now, perfecting their original designs with function rather than over-zealous features.

The BOB Revolution Duallie is our choice as the best side-by-side double stroller currently on the market.

The Revolution Duallie is becoming more and more popular as a dependable, easy-to-push double stroller in both urban areas and on dirt paths and trails.  Not only does the stroller boast pneumatic tires, but like all BOB strollers there is a suspension system built directly into the frame structure instead of being placed directly above the rear or front wheels (such suspension placement acts merely as an extension of the suspension absorption of the pneumatic - or air filled - tires).  The placement of the Revolution's suspension is important - not only does it absorb the shock and bumps of dilapidated sidewalks and larger objects in the park - it absorbs the force of a turn - making it one of the easiest and lightest strollers to maneuver.  Even with larger 35 lb children in each seat.  This suspension system is not found on any other side-by-side double stroller.  Other stroller systems are easier to push if pneumatic wheels are incorporated (see Mountain Buggy Urban Double and Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Twin ATS), but B.O.B.'s suspension system makes it even easier to navigate - especially on the wrists and back.

INNOVATIONS

The BOB Revolution Duallie has given each seat a canopy of its own - and a large one at that.  The Mountain Buggy Urban Double (or, MBUD) incorporates one hood to cover both seats, and it does not shield as much as the Revolution Duallie.  The Revolution's hood is fully adjustable, allowing for as much or as little coverage as desired.

The frame structure is lighter, making storage and travel a little more convenient than the competition. 

The stroller incorporates one swivel wheel in front instead of two.  This feature reduces the overall weight of the stroller, and makes maneuvering more convenient: there aren't two wheels that have to interact together while pushing.

There is an absence of exposed metal pieces in the stroller seat and on the footrest.  Many times exposed metal surfaces react to weather conditions, getting quite hot or cold.

Larger seats offer the most growth potential for older children.

High impact composite polymer wheel spokes make the wheels easier to clean and maintain.  Polymer also inhibits deterioration from rust.

FEATURES

• Front wheel swivels for supreme maneuverability and locks out for jogging or while navigating over rough terrain.  It is also helpful to lock out the front wheel while going up or down steep inclines as it prevents the stroller from veering.
• Seats independently recline to 70 degrees from the vertical position.  This allows for their use with an infant - 2 months old without added head or body support, from birth with with an added body support (JJ Cole Body Support is fantastic).  Note:  it is not recommended to jog with a child under 8-9 months.  Please consult with your pediatrician.
• Well padded 5-point height and girth adjustable harnessing system.
• Fully adjustable, dual canopies with individual peek holes.
• Two pockets located in each seat to store sippy cups, snacks and toys.
• Storage pockets located on the back of each seat.
• Adjustable (two position) suspension system built into the frame structure. 
• 16" quick-release rear wheels and a 12" front wheel - versatile enough for jogging, urban walking, or trailblazing.
• Low Boy Cargo Basket - note its height from the ground.  Many of the competitor's baskets are too close to the ground, allowing the basket to scrape when going up/down curbs or through snow.
• Fast, easy, compact folding system for storage or travel.
• Parking brake engages both rear wheels with one movement.
• Lightweight aluminum frame structure.
• Suitable from birth to 50 lbs in each seat.
• Includes wrist safety strap so you don't lose your stroller if it tries to get away.

COMPATIBILITY:

The BOB Revolution Duallie is adaptable with the following infant carriers with additional Infant Car Seat Adapter (sold separately):

• Britax Companion - 2003 and newer
• Graco Snug Ride - 2003 and newer
• Graco Safe Seat - 2006 and newer
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio - 2003 and newer
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP - 2006 and newer

The Infant Car Seat Adapter also includes two snack trays that can be easily attached the the Infant Car Seat Adapter's frame.  The prolongs the life the the adapter, transforming it into two trays for snacks, sippy cups and the attachment of toys.

Please note: the adapter is for one infant carrier, it cannot be used for two at a time. 

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: 

BOB brand specific and sold separately:

• Infant Car Seat Adapter
• Duallie Handlebar Console
• Weathershield
• Sun Shield
• Warm Fuzzy
• Stroller Diaper Bag
• Stroller Strides Fitness Kit

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 33.2 lbs
• Capacity: 100 lbs. or 50 lbs in each seat

DIMENSIONS

• Seat dimensions: 13.5" wide x 21" high x 10" deep (one of the widest and tallest seats available)
• Open 51.4" L x 30.8" W x 40.7" H
• Folded w/ wheels:  38.8" L x 30.8" W x 18" H
• Folded w/o wheels:  33.7" L x 13.2" H

THE PRICE: $569 [Updated for the July 2008 price increase]

COLORS

• Navy / Cool Grey
• Mesa Orange / Chocolate

ALSO CONSIDER

• Mountain Buggy Urban Double
• Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Twin ATS
• Baby Jogger City Series Double

Something we missed?  Want more information? Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

Baby Jogger City Mini Single 2008

The Baby Jogger City Mini Single: becoming more popular in cities and suburbs as an easy to fold stroller for quick shopping trips and travel.   Like all of the Baby Jogger strollers, the City Mini uses a one-handed folding system making it easier to fold and stow while holding a child.

There are some logistical problems with this folding system: when the stroller is folded, the seat is completely exposed.  If it is raining outside and you are placing the stroller in the car, it will get wet.  If you place the stroller in a not-so-clean trunk or storage space, the seat will be directly exposed.  It is also not as easy to lift a 16.8 pound stroller with a small strap.  The weight of the entire stroller is transferred to the small carrying handle - transferring the weight directly to your hand and possibly crunching your four fingers - very uncomfortable.  As we usually recommend, always try and pick up a stroller using the frame structure if you can.  The weight is distributed more evenly and the stroller will feel lighter and more balanced - you will not be fighting the stroller to get it in your car.

The wheels are also large in size: 8" plastic wheels instead of 5"-7" wheels found on most umbrella-like strollers.

Though the City Mini is becoming more popular, the stroller still weighs a heavy 16.8 lbs, far more than the Maclaren Volo (8.6 lbs.), Maclaren Triumph (11 lbs.) and Maclaren Quest (12.2 lbs.).  The weight capacity in the seat is only 33 lbs, far less than all of its competitors (typically between 40-70 lbs.).  The wheels are larger, so the ride tends to be a little more smooth (as more of the wheel is touching the ground enabling a smoother glide over bumps and cracks), but they add weight and are still a spoked plastic that can crack in extreme conditions.  The stroller also folds in half for storage, unlike traditional umbrella strollers, so tends to take up a little more room in your car. 

The City Mini does have a great recline for younger children, offering the opportunity to use the stroller when your child is newly born, which is a great plus.  The canopy also has great coverage, which has been a main complaint of the Maclaren models.  This stroller is adaptable for infant car seats, which is very convenient (adapter sold separately).  Baby Jogger strollers tends to last longer than the cheaper equivalents in terms of frame durability, but they use far more plastics than Maclaren and less aluminum: giving the stroller extra weight and less durability.

This stroller seems to exist somewhere between lightweight umbrella stroller (something only used for quick trips and travel), and deluxe umbrella stroller (used as a primary stroller for suburban parents that need something reliable and convenient for mostly indoor, minimal outdoor use). 

FEATURES:

• Uses Baby Jogger's Quick-Fold Technology
• Nicely vented seat with padded 5-point safety harness
• Seat reclines to near flat position for infants
• Slight suspension on the front wheel
• Quick release, 8" rear wheels enables easy storage
• Large, adjustable sun canopy with peek hole
• Rear wheel parking brake
• Seat back storage pouch and underseat storage basket included
• Adaptable to infant car seats (adapter sold separately) and other attachable accessories
• Weather shield included

COMPATIBILITY:  The Baby Jogger City Mini is compatible with the following infant car seats (individual adapters sold separately):

• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 30/30
• Graco Snugride
• Britax Companion
• Evenflo (most infant car seat models)

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: Baby Jogger brand specific and sold separately:

• Bug Canopy
• Rain/Wind Canopy (Included)
• Foot muff
• Child Tray
• Liquid Holster
• Parent Console
• Belly Bar
• Belly Bar Console
• Car Seat Adapter (see above)

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Weight: 16.8 lbs.
• Capacity: 33 lbs. (seat), 17 lbs. (storage)

DIMENSIONS:

• Open: 42" L x 24" W x 29.5" H
• Closed: 30.5" x 24.25" x 9"
• Seat Width: 10.5"
• Seat Height: 20"

THE PRICE:  $229.99 [PRICE INCREASED JUNE08; ORIGINAL PRICE $199.99]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

• Blue / Grey
• Black / Black
• Green / Grey
• Orange / Grey
• Red / Black

ALSO CONSIDER:

• Maclaren Quest
• Maclaren Triumph
• Maclaren Techno XT
• Inglesina Zippy
• Bugaboo Bee

Something we missed?  Want to see a specific stroller reviewed?  Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

BOB Revolution 12" AW (Aluminum Wheel) 2008 - Recommended

The B.O.B. Revolution 12" AW (Aluminum Wheel):  Introduced with the 2007 BOB line, the BOB Revolution 12" AW offers the best in quality and suspension for active urban parents and active walkers alike.  Answering the calls for a slightly lighter and more urban friendly stroller, the engineers at BOB have fine tuned some of the features on the original BOB Revolution:  instead of having two 16" rear wheels, most suitable for a smooth jog, they reduced the size to 12" decreasing the overall weight of the stroller and offering a more compact fold for storage and travel.

*Not to be confused with the original BOB Revolution.

FEATURES:

• Suitable from 2 months to 70 lbs.
• Reclines up to 70 degrees from the vertical position
• Incorporates a built-in suspension system - offering the smoothest ride possible
• Large adjustable canopy with a peek hole
• Lockable swivel front wheel with direction gauge
• Padded 5-point harness with sternum strap and easy adjustment straps
• Fully padded seat back
• Large Low Boy Cargo Basket
• Pocket on back of seat for added storage
• 2 interior seat pockets for sippy cups, snacks, or toys
• All wheels quick-release for storage and travel
• Safety wrist strap included
• Extremely fast, compact folding system with Velcro locking system
• Safety strap included

COMPATIBILITY:  Compatible with the following Infant Car Seats (adapter sold separately)

• Graco Snugride
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
• Britax Companion

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Weight: 21.9 lbs.
• Capacity:  70 lbs.

DIMENSIONS:

• Swivel Mode: 45" L x 23" W x 4.6" H
• Folded w/ Wheels:  37.6" L x 23" W x 16.9" H 
• Folded w/o Wheels:  32.8" L x 11.1" H

THE PRICE:  $399 [Price updated to reflect increase in July 2008]  [Note: BOB products are a fixed price unless otherwise authorized by BOB]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

• Black / Camel
• Coffee / Chocolate
• Navy

Something we missed?  Want to add a review?  Contact us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

Orbit Infant System - Recommended

Introduced almost 2 years ago, the Orbit Infant System has become increasingly popular with urban parents.  Offering a deluxe version of the standard "Travel System" (meaning both a stroller and a car seat combination), the Orbit has set a new standard in stroller/car seat compatibility:  the Orbit travel system accommodates the Orbit infant car seat (included standard), the Orbit toddler car seat (additional accessory), and the Orbit toddler stroller seat (additional accessory) for the stroller system.  It is the ONLY complete system currently available on the market. 

Included Standard: MSRP $899.99

• Stroller
• Infant Car Seat
• Universal Car Seat Base (for both the infant car seat and the toddler car seat)

Additional Accessories Available:

• Toddler Stroller Seat - MSRP $180.99
• Toddler Car Seat - MSRP:  $300.00

More accsesories are available for the home.

COMPATABILITY:

The Orbit Baby Infant system is only compatible with the Orbit Baby Infant and Toddler car seats. 

The concept has taken a little while to sink in, as the toddler car seat was just recently released (finally) and the system has been harder for retailers to sell without all of the anticipated accessories.

Now that the toddler car seat has been released, we predict this system to be one of the hottest gets in the stroller world for years to come. 

Color Shown: Black

Click the above links for specific information and specifications for each component to learn more.

Was there something we missed?  Want to share a review, or request a free consultation?  Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com