Bugaboo Bee
$530, Bugaboo
Overall score: 4. A great, superstylish everyday stroller.
Value: 2.5. Its price tag is pretty hefty, and you can get strollers with similar benefits for $200 less.
The basics: 17 pounds. Good from birth to 37.5 pounds. 20 inches at the widest point when it's unfolded. Collapses to 17 by 35 by 12 inches.
The extras: The lightweight Bee features an aluminum chassis and a simple one-piece folding system. Foam-filled rubber tires give a smooth ride. The seat reclines into four positions and can be adjusted to fit the height of the baby. The cover is also machine washable, and the Bee comes with a large rain canopy.
Folding and storage: The Bee takes a little getting used to, but the folding and unfolding process is fairly simple. It does take two hands, but as you become more familiar with it and the frame breaks in a bit, it gets easier. The Bee collapses into a fairly compact size for a full-size stroller, but it doesn't stand up on its own, so it can be difficult to store.
Pros: When it comes to stylish strollers, Bugaboos are unbeatable, and the Bee does not disappoint. The Bee is Bugaboo's first attempt at a lightweight, compact stroller. The Bee uses the same high-strength aluminum and tough joint components that make Bugaboo baby strollers so durable, but the smaller six-inch wheels allow the Bee to maneuver better in tight spaces. Plus, at 17 pounds, it's more convenient to take up and down stairs or on public transit than some heavier strollers are. "I felt much more comfortable taking this in a taxi than I did with other strollers I've tested," said one mom. Parent-testers also liked that the seat was reversible, for children who like to face the driver. A height-adjustable handlebar makes it comfortable to maneuver for tall parents. Testers also said that babies seem secure and comfy in the plush seat. Plus, the deluxe canopy and rain cover protects little ones from the elements.
Cons: Parents were disappointed with the amount of storage the Bee provides. A standard diaper bag is a tight fit in the small basket. And extra storage—like a cup holder—costs extra. While the ride is smooth over even ground, testers reported that the Bee doesn't handle large cracks in the sidewalk, cobblestones, or grass very well. "I'm used to a large Quinny, and this just didn't feel smooth in comparison," said one tester.
Who will love this stroller? City-centric, design-conscious parents looking for a chic stroller that is easy to use, easy to fold, and easy to store.
Editor's Note: The Bugaboo Bee was recalled on June 2, 2009 after multiple reports of break failures. Such a failure was not experienced during Cookie's testing of this product. Read the details about the Bugaboo Bee recall.
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