Stroller Info

Properly Inflating Your Stroller's Tires :: Maintenance Tips

If your stroller has pneumatic (or air-inflated) tires, it is important to remember to use a small hand pump to inflate them if they become flat. 

DO NOT USE AN ELECTRIC PUMP OR AN AIR COMPRESSOR.  Because your stroller's tires are small, they will pop and/or cause the wheel casing to warp or fracture.  Even if your compressor has options to preset the inflation rate, your tire's tube may still tear or pop.

Any hand pump will work.  You can even use a larger bike tire pump, just make sure not to over-inflate the tires - this may cause the tires to bubble or warp, impeding a smooth push while strolling.  Each wheel as a psi rating on the tire to let you know how much air the tire requires.  Consult a tire gauge if you have one to make sure you are not over-inflating the tube.

If you have any specific questions about stroller maintenance, feel free to ask us.  We are beginning a Maintenance Tips section to answer these questions.

strollerinfo@gmail.com

New Reviews - New Concepts

We have taken a little time away from  www.StrollerInfo.com to focus on the future of the site.  We plan to begin introducing new reviews very soon.  These reviews will be more extensive, including photos and other multimedia to better explain and compare different stroller brands.  We are also going to begin fluid updates on previous reviews/information pages, as many stroller companies have been increasing their prices mid-season.

NEW Reviews - Look for them this next week:

Bumbleride Indy Single
Valco Runabout Tri Mode Single
Baby Jogger City Double

If you would like to see a stroller reviewed, please do not hesitate to tell us!  You can email us at strollerinfo@gmail.com.

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

Valco Universal Cup Holder - Recommended

Many have been asking about the 'perfect' cup and bottle holder for their stroller.  All strollers are designed a little differently, but the cup holder that has worked on EVERY stroller system we have worked with is the Valco Universal Cup Holder.

The Valco Universal Cup Holder

When used properly, the Valco Cup Holder keeps your drink snugly attached to the stroller without the hassle of pesky Velcro strapping systems or loose hanging fabric cup holders.

Make sure that you read the instructions: the cup holder is secure when installed properly, but if it is not done per the instructions the cup holder will be loose fitting and could cause the drink to spill.

If you have any questions about this or any other accessory, please feel free to write us any time!  stollerinfo@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

Double stroller woes . . . a few tips

The market for durable, urban-friendly double strollers in the US seems to be larger than ever.  Unfortunately, manufacturers continue to focus on making the single stroller more streamlined and high tech (see the completed Orbit Baby System and the newly re-designed Bugaboo Cameleon). 

Many parents complain that there are not enough durable double strollers on the market to choose from.  We have recently reviewed the Phil & Ted's Vibe, which promised many upgrades to their SPort and e3 models, but seems to focus on aesthetics rather than more user friendly features (it is harder to fold the Vibe with the second seat attached than it is to fold it after the seat has been removed; the braking system is placed in an awkward place).   

Here are a few tips:

How will the stroller be utilized? 

Many parents that live in urban areas are most likely going to purchase two strollers.  It is hard to accept, but will most likely happen eventually.  The first will be lightweight - used in and out of the car for quick trips to the grocery or post office (etc) and for travel; the other needs to be more rugged - used while walking outside, maneuvering through the park, snow or sand, and (if the opportunity presents itself) out on a trail.  Each will serve important functions for their respective uses. 

How is the stroller composed? 

The composition of a stroller is extremely important, and is often overlooked.  A stroller's features are important, but can often lead to structural issues later.  The best strollers (double or single) include the features that you absolutely need - without the addition of features that add too many small parts and/or pieces easily fractured or broken.  There are few strollers out there that have every single feature that you want: make sure the stroller you choose performs well with the features you need.  Many double strollers with smaller plastic wheels are more likely to break-down if used outside:  especially when your children get larger and heavier. More weight on the frame structure means more stress on the frame and on the stroller's wheels.  It is always better to have larger, pneumatic (air-filled) tires if you are walking outside for longer periods of time.  The stroller will also be easier to push, offering a smoother ride for your little ones.

...more tips to come.  Questions?  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"

THE 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

JPMA Launches New Site: BPA is Safe ?!?

In response to the overwhelming evidence about Bisphenol-A and its long and short term effects on the human body, the Juvenile Products Manufacturing Association has launched a new website touting the safety of Bisphenol-A (BPA) laden baby bottles: babybottle.org. 

The take of the JPMA (rather, the collection of manufacturers that make the bottles) is that, contrary to experts in the field and their work to combat the notion that BPA is safe, these polycarbonate bottles are in fact safe.

Interesting...?!?

New Report on BPA in Baby Bottles

Yesterday, the National Toxicology Program released a draft report outlining possible risks involved with using shatterproof polycarbonate baby bottles and plastic containers.

The results are serious and should be considered when making decisions about which baby bottle systems to use, or which plastic bottles are safe for your child.

Always remember, it is better to hand wash bottles and polycarbonate plastics by hand, as heating them releases the BPA that can leech into the fluids and solids placed into the plastic - then ingested by humans.  They have found that BPA is possibly linked to early puberty in girls, prostate cancer and breast cancer.  And to think - that is only what is known now.

There was a great article in the Chicago Tribune  posted yesterday by Julie Deardroff: check it out!

We at StrollerInfo.com have found an informative online website selling ONLY BPA-free products - from bottles to sippy cups and feeding items to toys - www.thesoftlanding.com.  They also have a fantastic blog with great information about BPA and related safety concerns.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us: strollerinfo@gmail.com.

Phil & Ted's Vibe - Review

The Phil & Ted's Vibe: marketed as a streamlined upgrade to the Phil & Ted's SPort all-terrain walking stroller.  The Vibe has been eagerly anticipated for quite some time, being one of the only stroller types that conveniently allows for the addition of a second seat - converting it from a single to a double stroller.  The look of the Vibe is definitely more streamlined than that of the Phil & Ted's SPort and the now discontinued e3. 

The Vibe has been upgraded to accommodate a one piece fold with the In-line Doubles Kit (sold separately) attached.  Unfortunately, we have found the Vibe more difficult to fold with the Doubles Kit attached.  The parking brake has also been moved to the handlebar for easier access - but in an impractical position, leading to accidental engagement while strolling.  Initial handling has also revealed that the Vibe is not as easy to maneuver as the SPort: the front wheel seems to be positioned a little differently.  The tires are pneumatic, offering more fluid maneuverability than the plastic wheels - but Phil and Ted have yet to add any suspension to their stroller's basic frame structure, making the handling more difficult as weight is added.

The underseat basket has been increased in size over earlier models, but some have observed that it is still far to close the the ground, especially when trying to tip the stroller up a curb or while maneuvering through any amount of snow.  Like the SPort, the all-terrain wrist strap is still attached to the handle, creating a possible tipping hazard if the stroller loses control: all of the stopping force is applied to the handle and could cause the stroller to tip back.

There are a few features that Phil & Ted have not included with the Vibe that are available on the SPort: there is no integrated locking system to hold the stroller together while folded, and there is no carrying handle to use when the stroller is folded for easy transport. 

The padding and support added to the Vibe is much more comfortable for younger children than the padding on the SPort, and the hood has been increased in size to offer more shade than the SPort - both great additions.    

The differences between the Vibe and SPort seem only to be aesthetic - there is only a 1 pound difference in weight between the Vibe and SPort.  Conclusion:  It is not practical to get a Phil & Vibe over the SPort unless one prefers the Vibe's Bugaboo and Quinny-esque appearance.

FEATURES:

• Added ergonomic, contoured padding for additional comfort and support.
• Aluminum tubing used to provide a sleek appearance and reduce weight.
• All tires are pneumatic, making pushing the stroller easier and lighter feeling.
• Larger, more secure storage basket.
• Stroller seat fully reclines into a bassinet for an infant.
• The seat is now adjustable using a strapping system, offering more recline positions.
• Parking brake located on handle, making its implementation more accessible.
• Larger hood shades child from the elements.
• Quick-release wheels for storage and/or travel.
• Wheel guards located on both rear wheels.
• Folds with the second seat attached (In-line Doubles Kit sold separately).

COMPATIBILITY:  The Phil & Ted's Vibe is compatible with the following infant car seats (individual adapter sold separately) Corrected :

• Phil & Ted's Vibe Infant Carrier (not yet released)

*Adapters cannot be used while In-line Doubles Kit is attached

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:

• In-line Doubles Kit (MSRP: $109.99)

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Weight: 22 lbs (without In-line Doubles Kit)
• Capacity: 55 lbs (88 lbs total with In-line Doubles Kit)

DIMENSIONS:

• Width: 29"
• Folded without wheels: 29.9" L x 22" W x 8.6" H

THE PRICE: $599.99 [Note: Price does not include In-line Doubles kit, which is an additional $109.99]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

• Black
• Red

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