Finally a tandem that works!
Pros:
Easy to steer, smooth ride, easy to store/transport, premier model holds two infant carriers
Cons:
no "Cons", really, but there are some "cons"iderations (see review body)
The Bottom Line:
After trying out several tandems (including Graco), I finally found one that is convenient and a pleasure to use. Let me tell you why...
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
Maneuverability: Before you buy a tandem, make sure you try them out -- with children inside. I found that some models worked well until weight was added, especially in the front seat where the wheels have a tough time turning. They can be quite difficult to steer at that point. Add to that the length factor (or extreme width in a side-by-side) and you've got a problem. This model was the one exception. It is like a limousine with the maneuverability of a VW bug (relatively speaking!) It certainly is long but due to the extra wide handles and the distribution of weight, it steers without requiring brute strength.
Convenient to Transport: This stroller folds up easily and "smaller than other tandem strollers" making it easier to transport and store. We have a Geo Prizm and it actually fits in our trunk and leaves a little space for groceries too. It is big, don't get me wrong, but it does fold up fairly nicely.
Easy Access: The greatest feature of this stroller, aside from being most maneuverable of any tandems, is the "My Step" feature, providing a step for side entry so toddlers can get in and out independently. This was the only tandem I found that had a step to allow such easy access.
Fit for two: The stadium seating provides both children with a view of something more than the other's back side, so both children are entertained. In addition, the back child has a fold-down snack tray, which is rather handy. The seating arrangement is especially nice when the front child is in an infant seat, since the two then can face each other and entertain each other. In a way, it might be nice if the two seats could face each other. Also, while the back/larger seat fully reclines, the front seat barely reclines and if you don't want to put the heavier child in the front seat (which is over the front wheels and would make it harder to steer), the younger child then doesn't have the option of reclining. It hasn't been a problem for us, but it's a consideration.
Smooth Ride: The all-terrain wheels have full suspension, providing for truly smooth ride. The wheels are durable -- 10 months of fairly heavy use and they are holding up well.
A Great Company: Evenflo, in my experience with other products of theirs, is very helpful when it comes to customer service. They will quickly and without cost send out replacement parts. For a $130 stroller, I wanted to feel safe that if a wheel broke I would be able to get a replacement without a lot of trouble and without forking out more than I'd already spent.
Lots of Storage: The enormous storage space underneath provides plenty of space. We've gone on small shopping trips many a time without a cart but using the storage space of the stroller instead. Which is nice when it is tough to fit two kids into a shopping cart.
A couple items to note:
Two models: There are two models of the Take Me, Too! stroller. One is the basic model and the other is the premier. As far as I can tell, the premier (which I have) is about $30 more and allows you to have a car seat in both the front and the rear (the front must be an Evenflo PortAbout seat, the rear can be any model), while the standard model only provides for a car seat in the rear.
Wheel Shaking: The front wheels can shake and shimmy when you get going at a jogging pace unless they are locked in place. This is worse when there is no child providing a stabilizing weight in the front seat (which I think was the case in one of the reviews I read that complained of severe front wheel shaking problems -- that reviewer seemed to only speak of one child).
Here are the features according to the manufacturer:
*MyStep side-entry provides easy in/out for toddler and easy basket access for parent
*Rear seat secures major brands' infant car seats. Front seat attachment for Evenflo's PortAbout, making this tandem great for twins!
*Stadium seating provides better view for baby in the back
*Extra large, 2.0 cu ft storage basket easily holds baby gear for two
*Front and rear child trays with cup & snack holders
*Large wheels provide durability and easy driving over rough roads
*Compact fold with no parts to remove---child tray pivots and front canopy retracts!
*Extra-wide steering grip area for easy maneuverability
*Parent cup holders keep snacks and beverages within easy reach
*Retractable front canopy for unobstructed view from back seat
*Multiple reclining positions (Front-2, Rear-3) with one hand adjustment provide greater comfort for babies
*Machine washable pads for easy cleanup
*Side storage pocket and zipper parent storage on rear canopy for securing personal items within parent's reach
*Front & rear suspension and swivel locks provide a smoother ride for babies
*Each seat holds child up to 40 pounds
*Front seat designed for children 6 months and older
In summary: This is a great tandem stroller that I would highly recommend. It is as convenient as a tandem can get!