Hippity Hoppity I LOVE my FROGGIE!

WARNING: This is VERY LONG - but VERY COMPREHENSIVE! You can feel free to skip down about a page to the review of the stroller itself... but there's some helpful information/tips before that part.
I have owned many strollers (the suv travel system type, an umbrella stroller, and a double stroller to name a few). I have an infant (6 months) and a toddler (21 months). Although my toddler LOVES strollers, now that she's a bit older and very independent she no longer will sit still in the double stroller. However, she does get tired from walking for extended periods of time and sometimes jealous of her little sister and wants to get in the single stroller but can't - and I refuse to go through the hassle of taking the double stroller only to end up pushing it with one baby the entire time!

Hence my search for another stroller that would best suit my family's needs. I needed/wanted:

1) Car seat compatible (for very short trips)
2) Comfortable seat (for longer trips without the car seat)
3) Seat big enough that it can accommodate a baby or toddler
4) Toddler foot board or something similar to allow my toddler to "hitch a ride"
5) Neutral color that could be used for boy or girl (especially since I plan on at least one or two more babies)
6) Excellent quality and sturdy (I wanted a stroller that was going to last for a few years)

Initially I researched the Peg Perego Pliko P3 per the request of a friend interested in purchasing the stroller. When I learned about it I thought this would really serve our needs. However, after test driving it in the store my toddler refused to stand on it and when she finally did it tipped over. Definitely not safe, especially since that was one of the main features I would be relying on. I'm thankful to have tested it before spending another $300 on a stroller!

It was on this visit to USA Baby (retailer with just about every make and model of strollers) that I looked into the Bugaboo. I have previously seen the Bugaboo online but when I had seen the price I thought it was absolutely ridiculous. My second response was that people only bought this stroller because it was the Mercedes of strollers (status symbol).

After examining it briefly in the store I fell in love with it. But I told myself and the sale associate, "There's no way I would ever spend that much money on a stroller." He tried to show me the Rock Star Baby version - which is slightly cheaper and includes the Graco car seat adapter (unlike Bugaboo all the accessories are extra). I wasn't as impressed with the quality of the fabric, the seat was smaller, and I don't own a Graco car seat (so that adapter feature would be useless for me).
I tried searching for other stroller options what would fit my needs and budget but everything fell short of what I needed. I researched the Bugaboo in-depth. It had options I didn't think I needed (but definitely could use for those future babies):

1) Optional bassinet... That would give me the flexibility with my future babies to go out for longer trips without my husband complaining that the baby needs to be at home sleeping... this way the baby could be out and about and sleep just as cozy!

NOTE: It is not recommended to keep a baby in their infant seat longer than 2 hours! It's not good for the development of their spine, neck and head. I've never heard this before now. This is just another great incentive to invest in the Bugaboo!

2) "Frog-like" suspension... Which allows for a smooth not-so jarring bumpy ride as with other strollers.
Convincing myself I needed a $730 stroller was hard. I focused on the overall value of the stroller and the fact that it did have everything I needed (and more). I read every review I could find online. With all the complaints fresh in my mind I went back to the store to thoroughly inspect this stroller (for about an hour) to be certain this would be a wise purchase. I took it apart, folded it, unfolded it, I helped the sales guy take off the bassinet fabric and attach the seat fabric to the frame. I watched as he attached the foot board accessory. I put my baby in the stroller, my toddler on the foot board and wheeled around the store. I adjusted the seat, took it apart again, practiced folding it... It was awesome!
To ensure I was getting the best deal possible I did a price comparison search online. I even looked into used Bugaboo stroller's on Craigslist and eBay.

NOTE: If you are contemplating a used Bugaboo on eBay I strongly advise against it. There is a HUGE scam going on right now and unless you're an eBay pro - you might not be able to recognize the false listings from the very few real ones).

Bugaboo offers a 2 year warranty - but the warranty is NOT transferable. So had I bought a used one and there turned out to be a problem with it, I would be 'out of luck.' Even if I saved $150 buying a used one - I might be losing money if I had to pay to replace something. My best bet was to buy a new one from an authorized retailer (if you buy from a non-authorized retailer the warranty is not valid - and Bugaboo requires proof of purchase for the warranty).

NOTE: This doesn't mean you can't buy a used one, just be advised the warranty won't transfer.If you're okay with that, save money and rock on.

I knew I would save money by purchasing the stroller online and through a retailer who didn't charge sales tax. You can save about $60-80 alone by not paying for tax. I went through the ENTIRElist of authorized online retailers on Bugaboo.com. Nearly all offered free shipping. However, I couldn't find a retailer that had all the accessories I needed in-stock - or the retailer was in my state and charged sales tax. The next to last one on the list was TinyRide.com. Not only did they have the stroller in stock, but the had all the accessories I needed/wanted. They DO NOT charge sales tax for ALL states! AND - here's was cinched the deal on my purchase from them. TinyRide.com will DOUBLE THE WARRANTY on PARTS (not frames). So, in addition to the 2 year warranty Bugaboo offers - I would get another 2 years warranty (for a total of 4 years)!

Finally, the review of the stroller itself!

I decided on the Frog instead of the Cameleon and the Gecko. The Cameleon is about $880 ($150 more than the Frog). Although the Cameleon allows you to customize the colors I wasn't too fond of the fleece fabric (honestly fleece is just too warm for Southern CA... even though fleece breathes it's still a very warm fabric). The only other major differences between the Cameleon and the Frog is the Cameleon has a telescopic handlebar and front swivel wheels with adjustable suspension. My husband and I are both average height so we don't have a tremendous need for a telescopic handlebar. As for the adjustable suspension - I honestly don't feel that it's a necessity here in the States - perhaps in Europe it's a great feature, but not here. With that said - the Cameleon is probably more for someone interested in being able to customize their own color choices or wanting the top of the line model.

The Bugaboo Gecko is a slightly cheaper model ($50 cheaper than the Frog). It doesn't come with the carry handle/stability bar (which can be used to carry the bassinet/seat and truly makes taking the seat/bassinet off the frame easier! The Gecko has rubber grips built into the side of the frame instead). The MAIN reason I wouldn't advise going with the Gecko is because the seat adjustment is down below the seat and not at the sides of the seat like the Frog/Cameleon AND it doesn't come with the carry handle/stability bar. It's not only harder to access the adjustment down below the seat but it would require a bit more effort in keeping the seat stable while adjusting the seat position. So for a $50 difference you might as well get the Frog.

Setting up the stroller It took me less than 20 minutes to take the stroller from the box and set it up. Granted I had an idea of how to do it from my hands on experience in the store prior to ordering it - but it's not rocket science. You can use the manual (great illustrations help avoid having to actually read the little print - although you probably should anyway) or you can use the DVD instruction disc. The only slight difficulty I believe worth noting (because others complained about it as well) is securing the seat fabric to the frame where the rivets are... it just requires a bit of strength and using your feet to stabilize the frame on the ground while you pull the strap up and over the metal peg.

The fold Yes, unfortunately it's not a super speedy one-part fold and does require removing the seat/bassinet and then folding the stroller... but it doesn't take too much time, only a couple moments longer. In Southern CA it doesn't rain too often. When it does rain we typically stay indoors. But if you live in a place where you have four seasons then it might be cumbersome having to put it together or take it apart in a hurry when it's raining or snowing.

When I tested the stroller in the store I was able to take it apart and collapse it relatively quickly my first time trying. The store model has more than likely been "broken in" so most of the parts weren't as stiff as my new Bugaboo. At first it was a little difficult to pull up the pegs for collapsing the stroller but after using the stroller a few times I have no problems with it anymore.

The bassinet/seat comes off the frame very quickly and easily (without a baby in it). Taking off and putting on the seat handle/stability bar is a bit challenging because it's very stiff and tight. However, I think that's a good thing because if you use it to carry the bassinet and/or seat (with your baby in it) you will feel secure knowing that it's not going to fall off or come loose.

The frame is not difficult to fold at all just a little awkward at first. I have a Maclaren Twin Techno and it takes me more time to fold and unfold that stroller than it does the Bugaboo. It's just a matter of getting accustomed to the stroller.

Wheeled foot board attachment is a big pain in the neck! If you buy the wheeled foot board attachment for your toddler then be prepared for a more complicated fold/unfold process as well as other annoying aspects! It takes a longer to fold the stroller because you have to make sure the board is flat prior to collapsing. You also have to push the front bar with the swivel wheels in order to ensure it snaps into place because the board sometimes doesn't let the bar snap properly. Not really a big deal to me - but if you're in a hurry, it can be annoying. Unfolding the stroller with the board is when I get really frustrated. Typically you can use your foot to push/kick out the front bar but you can't do that when the board is attached. I usually end up bending over to pull the front bar out by hand.

Using the wheeled foot board is fun for my little one. She likes standing on it and looking at her sister (face-to-face). She even sits on the board too and tucks her feet behind the basket. NOTE: If you do allow your little one to sit on the board - make sure they don't put their little hands/fingers on the rear tires.

You cannot walk directly behind the stroller with the foot board down because it gets in the way as you walk. You're forced to walk on one side or the other. Fortunately, since this stroller can be pushed effortlessly with one hand (or even a couple fingers) it's not difficult to push the stroller standing off to the side.

For the times when you aren't using the board it can be clipped up out of the way. However, if the seat is in the rear-facing position you can only keep the seat in a full recline position. The board prevents the seat from being adjusted to any other position. If the seat is in the forward-facing position then you can use all the seat positions.

The seat adjustment is awesome! There are only 3 positions - upright, semi-recline and full recline. The seat and seat back are NOT independent of one another - so the entire seat changes position. An umbrella stroller with full recline still leaves a child with their legs dangling from the stroller... the Bugaboo keeps the child's feet from dangling when you recline the seat - so although they're laying in a seated position - they're still comfortable (and you don't disturb their sleep when trying to adjust the seat unlike other strollers I've had)! You can easily change the recline in only a matter of seconds and you don't have to bend down behind the stroller to do it!!! However, when I tried changing the direction of the seat while my daughter was in it (from rear facing to forward facing) it took a few minutes because my daughter's weight made it quite cumbersome to detach the seat. Although it's a bit difficult - I'm grateful for the option! Keep in mind - you wouldn't have the option of using the seat independently with any other stroller or be able to change the seat position from front facing to rear facing!

Stroller lacks cup holders and/or a snack tray This is not a negative in my opinion. Even some of your most expensive umbrella strollers don't have cup holders or snack trays! If it does have a cup holder they are incredibly small and don't hold average size drinks (only the small skinny water bottles and slim handle-less sippy cups). The only strollers I've seen with decent size cup holders are the bulky SUV travel system strollers.

If you feel you have a great need for a cup holder you can buy one for $5 at Babies r Us or any other baby retailer. Maclaren makes an soft stroller organizer with pockets and cup holders that velcros to the back of umbrella strollers. Although I haven't been able to test it I'm almost certain that it would fit the back of the Bugaboo. If you want something to hold your keys, cell phone, cups, etc you can consider that option.

As for the snack tray, I don't have one with my twin stroller and we got along fine without it. My toddler would just hold her cup or put it next to her in the seat. If she didn't need it anymore I would be it in the basket. Most of her snacks are graham crackers or granola bars which she happily hangs onto until she is finished. Unless you always give your baby Cheerios then you can survive without the snack tray. However, as a means of improvising I have used the bottom ledge of the seat on the Bugaboo to hold my toddlers sippy cup.

Tires/Wheels Please ensure to properly inflate the tires. Under inflating can cause an uncomfortable and bumpy ride and over inflating can cause excessive wear and risk of popping/exploding. Bugaboo now includes a tire pressure gauge to check the tire pressure. The tires should only be inflated to 1 bar (15 psi). When a tire is properly inflated you should be able to press your thumb into the tire - the tire shouldn't feel hard! Check them occasionally! Here's a friendly reminder - when was the last time you checked the tire pressure on your car???

The front swivel wheels in combination with the rear bike-style tires make this stroller easy to push and maneuver. It can get around tight bends, twists, and turns with ease. I have been able to walk into offices and get out without bumping into every piece of furniture!

You can use the "2 wheel drive" (swivel wheels in the front) for your everyday average walking/strolling for
average everyday walking) or you can use the "4 wheel drive" (big tires in the front) for navigating over terrain. The stroller also features the ability to go through sand or snow - simply readjust the stroller frame, remove the front swivel wheels, attach the bassinet/seat and voila - you can pull the stroller along with ease. No need to to carry your little one and all your belongings onto the beach - instead you can pull them along! If you enjoyed walking on the beach before having your little one now you can continue to enjoy those walks with your little one in tote!

NOTE: When using the "4 wheel drive" - it's not 'as easy' to maneuver the stroller with the big tires in the front. However, I was able to push the stroller single-handed through bumpy grass at the park! I've never been able to push any stroller one handed through grass - especially with my baby in it!

The canopy provides excellent protective coverage from the sun. Most stroller canopies fall short when it comes to properly protecting little ones. I also purchased the parasol (umbrella) - which is fantastic (and cute) because it adjusts to various angles to provide added sun protection. Great for those extended outdoor activities! (This is one of my husband's favorite features believe it or not - because he would always complain about the sun being on the baby in our other strollers). Also included it a rain cover and a mosquito cover which I doubt I will ever use - but a nice option if you live in rainy weather or areas with a ton of bugs.

The basket ARGH! I cringe and get annoyed when I read complaints about the basket being small and not holding a lot of stuff on ANY stroller. Strollers and stroller baskets were NOT designed to be shopping carts!!! Strollers were designed to be a means of transport/mobility for your little one without requiring you to carry them around everywhere! It's time some people faced this reality. I will admit I'm guilty of using my previous SUV travel system stroller like a shopping cart... and if you deeply want that feature/ability - you will be disappointed with the Bugaboo. Although the basket is a fairly good size - it can only hold so much. You can choose to use the drawstring feature on the basket to ensure your contents don't fall out - or you can fold the "flaps" in and use it more like a bucket and don't have to bother with the drawstrings... it's up to you.

The basket is nearly impossible to access if you use the bassinet feature on this stroller. However, with your average stroller you would never be able to access the basket if the seat is fully reclined - so don't consider it a drawback - especially when every stroller is guilty of the same thing.

If you're using the seat option the basket is surprisingly easy to access, especially when the seat is reclined. You can also access the basket from either the front or the back of the stroller (depending on the seat position). I have never been able to do this with any of my other strollers!

Does this stroller take a lot of space? It is a bit bulky. Fortunately I have a minivan so trunk space isn't a big issue. If you have a sedan, you may expect it to take up a good majority of your trunk (unless you take off the tires... which will take more time). I have seen pictures of the stroller collapsed and put in the back of a mid-size sedan with half the trunk left - but I would venture to say it was probably fully collapsed (the tires removed, etc in which case it is quite compact).

If you're interested in this stroller and you're concerned of how/whether it will fit in your car I strongly advise going to a local retailer and asking them if you can see how it will fit in your vehicle. I'm certain they will be more than happy to help you and show you - afterall, it's a big purchase! Note: Those bulky travel system strollers take up a LOT of space too. Before I got my van I had a Camry and my "suv stroller" took more than half the trunk - and those who have seen the trunk of a Camry know how big it is!

Is it quick and easy to use? If you run several 5 - 10 minute errands where you have to get in and out of your car quickly and you're looking for the speediness of coming and going - this will not be the most appropriate "fitting" stroller for your needs (unless you use the infant car seat attachment only and don't bother with the bassinet/seat). But, I can tell you having gone through 3 strollers myself - this will definitely work for your baby from infancy to toddlerhood (about 2 1/2 - 3 years old)! Although Bugaboo claims this stroller is suitable from age 0-4 years I really don't see a late 3 year old or a 4 year old in this stroller!

With all the above said this is an excellent high-quality and sturdy versatile (all-in-one) stroller! For the short 'going to the post office' sort of errands you can attach the infant car seat to the frame and voila you're on your way without disturbing baby. For your longer excursions you can use the bassinet so your precious little baby can lay down (just like in the bassinet at home - which is roomy enough to double as a place to change baby's diaper when out and about without having to take them out and find a bathroom with a changing table). When baby is a bit older and can sit up on their own you can graduate them to the seat and the baby can now face you OR face the world. If you have an older toddler you can purchased the wheeled foot board accessory and they can hitch a ride.

THIS IS NOT A JOGGING STROLLER! I've read other reviews stating it's a jogging stroller and they have used it as such. This stroller was designed for strolling NOT jogging. Although the bigger tires resemble jogging stroller tires, they are not!

YES THIS STROLLER IS EXPENSIVE! Especially if you're interested in purchasing the accessories! I purchased online with no tax, free shipping and still paid $900 for the stroller, umbrella, car seat adaptor, and wheeled foot board. If you're looking for a deal - you're not going to find one! Believe me, I searched everywhere online and unless it's used or an unauthorized retailer (in which the warranty won't be valid) you're going to have to break down and pay full price. However, look at it in terms of what features you're getting with this stroller that you wouldn't get with the any other single stroller (car seat compatible, separate bassinet, separate seat, etc...) Appreciate the stroller for it's over all value.

Last but not least - when you no longer need the stroller you can easily sell it and get a fair amount of money back (granted you keep it in good condition). I've seen a couple listed on Craigslist with only a year of use selling for $600 and more (depending on how old, the condition, and the supply/demand in your area). These strollers will maintain a high resale value because not only is the Bugaboo popular - it's an awesome stroller!