Bugaboo Cameleon - Expensive But May Actually Be Worth It.

On my stroller quest I have finally given in and purchased the Bugaboo Cameleon. I figured if I was going to purchase something so expensive I might as well go all the way. So, I not only bought a Bugaboo Cameleon - I bought the Neiman Marcus Special Edition 100th anniversary Silver Metallic Bugaboo Cameleon. My parents thought I was crazy to spend so much, my husband thought I was crazy - I even thought I had lost it - until I began to use this stroller. I have now formed the opinion that “You Get What You Pay For”. And this is what I got when I paid for it:

The Stroller Chassis - an impressive piece - it practically lays flat when folded (35.4 x 23.6 x 12 including everything) - even more so without the wheels. It is light weight (about 20lbs including everything), a dream to push, spins on a dime, the handle can be moved forward or backward over the seat, and is height adjustable - a big plus for parents of varying heights! There is some give in the handle - it can be moved up and down at least a couple of inches . At first I thought this was a defect, but was assured this is part of the suspension by Bugaboo. I have since found that I agree with them - this extra movement in the handle makes it more smooth to push the stroller - akin to shock absorbers. Also located on the handle is the parking break. Just pull it down to set it, and press a button on the side to release it. Super convenient and easy to reach no matter where you are. I really appreciate it when I am in a restaurant and pull the stroller up to the table next to me so my son can eat in lieu of a highchair (and the seat is the perfect height for this). A foot break would be unreachable, but the break on the handle is easy to reach, set, and release!

The Wheels - Two large back wheels measuring in at 12". They have black large molded plastic spokes and the 2008 model (which I have) is foam filled and does not require airing up. They click onto the back axle with an easy push, and remove just as easily by pinching two small tension wires together and sliding them off. There are also two smaller front wheels. They measure about 6" and have adjustable suspension. The springs can be pushed down and slide into four different slots to adjust the suspension depending on the weight of your child. These front wheels can swivel free for urban terrain or lock in place for off road travel. Either way the suspension is impressive - and the ride is smooth. My son doesn’t stir while sleeping - even on rough terrain like cobble stones, or gravel and dirt. The front tires are easily attached with a push into the front slots, and removed just as easily with a pinch on the top and slid them out. I have also found that they can be replaced with larger snow tires!

The Seat Frame - It is really large - larger than any other stroller I have come across. It is also very versatile. It can convert from a pram bassinet to a toddler, and both the bassinet (with mattress and cover), and toddler seat are included. The bassinet is a very generous size and fits infants up to six months or 30 inches and 19.8 lbs. The inside measurements of the bassinet are about 30.3in x 13.4 x 6.7. It can be removed and replaced with the toddler seat very easily in less than 5 minutes. The toddler seat is roomy and has a five point fully adjustable harness. It can sit straight up, recline half way or recline fully with the push of the large round white buttons on each side of the seat. Both buttons do have to be pushed at the same time to recline the seat. The seat can also face front or back. However it is nearly impossible to change the direction your baby is facing while he is still in the stroller, since it is the seat that locks the chassis in the open position.

Also included is a tailored fabric set with a sun canopy, seat cover, and bassinet apron in your choice of colors and fabrics. You can buy additional sets to change the color and look of your stroller, a mosquito net, and rain cover also tailored fitted, a carry handle, an under seat bag, and a “how to” DVD.

Although it seems to have everything and can do anything - there are some things that are missing that would make this stroller perfect - there is no parent tray and the cup holders are lousy and must be purchased separately. Also no child tray and cup holder - just a bar. I have found a lot of after market trays that can be purchased and work just as well, but you would think such a high end stroller would come with them. Also the 2008 Bugaboo does not come with the maintenance kit. Bugaboo customer service claims it isn’t necessary since the tires are now foam filled. And speaking of Customer Service - I have had to call them, and was quite impressed with the level of service I did receive. A small plastic button on the carry handle broke, and an entirely new carry handle was immediately sent to me free of charge.

Finally to address what everyone seems to be complaining about - the fold on this stroller. It isn’t that bad - and doesn’t take anymore time to fold than any of the other strollers I have tried in this class. It is a two part - two handed fold that really can’t be done with an infant in your arms. It is however very easy, and takes only seconds. Just remove the seat/bassinet from the chassis, then press down on the two white buttons on each side of the handle, and lower the handle to the ground. Letting go of the handle just pick up the entire frame by the top bar between the back wheels. The entire frame will fold up and lock. The seat/bassinet will fit right into the frame and store it in the trunk. I have found that if you place the toddler seat upside down it fits better, and you don’t have to remove the carry handle to fit it in the trunk. It does fit nicely in my mid sized sedan trunk, and the back of the Suburban with ample room left over. The wheels can be removed to make it even smaller if necessary.

Over all I believe I have found a winner in a stroller - Even though the price is steep, you will get a sturdy, dependable stroller with lots of versatility.