View Full Version : Pram Advice and Help Needed
mum2peanut
03-01-2006, 16:28
Hi Everyone,
16 wks preg and have just started the fun adventure of looking at baby items. Prams have already caused enough confusion and it's only our first stop!! Had my heart set on the Valco Rebel, as it's a three wheeler with the ability of having the bubs facing you. Lady in the shop told me it was too heavy and bulky but no other jogger gives you the reverse seat option. Does anyone have this pram or know of someone with this pram. Any advice would be appreciated
Thanks, mum2peanut :confused:
I have a Mountain Buggy. I love it. You can use a bassinette part for bub when they're little, and it faces you. When they're older it converts to a normal upright pram they sit in.
It's the lightest one on the market, easy peasy to put in the car.
mum2peanut
03-01-2006, 16:36
Thanks Cathy,
I'll definately look into that one.
Crazy Monkey
03-01-2006, 16:42
Hi Mum2Peanut,
I have the Valco Rebel and love it.. The only problem I have with it is, it is too big for my car.. I have a Honda Civic and I need to pull it apart to get it in the boot and then there is no room for anything else.. Other than that, it is fantastic to push and get around...
DS is now nearly 8 months old and I sometimes still have him facing me, which is lovely, especially when he is upset, I can talk to him...
I would definitely recommend it, but check that you can easily get it in and out of your car..
PM me if you have any other questions..
Hi, I've decided to go with a Mountain Buggy as well.
Like you, I was so overwhelmed with the choices that I ended up logging onto Choice online and downloaded their report on 3-wheelers. They did safety/durability tests on 10 different ones and the only two that passed all the tests were the Mountain Buggy (most expensive - $700) and the Swallow BeemaQ (check it out at Babyco) for $400.
Both of them have the bassinet option which you put in so bubs can face you when they are little - again MB is much more expensive than Beema.
So once I got it down to those two, I preferred the quality of the fabric that the MB was made from - really heavy duty. It is also slightly lighter at 10kg as opposed to 12kg and I found it slightly easier to fold down (husband loved that) and it takes kids up to 35kg whereas the Beema only says it goes to 20kg. Oh, and if I'm really honest, I didn't like that the Beema only comes in Black with either Orange or Green trim and I liked the colour options with the MB. :o
Hope that helps you. I found the report a really interesting read - many of them when put onto a simulator and left to roll for several hours had wheels falling off them :eek:. While I was investigating I bailed up a few mums in shopping centres (as you do :p) to ask them what they used and 2 of them told me they were onto their second pram because of problems with wheels coming off etc.. so it goes to show it does happen in real life!
If you want to download the choice thing for yourself it is www.choice.com.au and I think it is about $12 for an individual report. :)
mum2peanut
04-01-2006, 10:52
Hi Cosmic and Jacksmum05,
Thank you so much to both of you for your advice.
Cosmic, I will look into the Mountain Buggy on my next baby shop visit. My sister has the Beema Q and she doesn't recommend it. I find it a bit painful to fold and it's quite long. Easy to push though. I know what you mean about colours that, it will be one of my deciding factors too.
Jacksmum05. Thank you! I haven't even seen anyone out and about with the Valco Rebel. I've got a Toyota Corolla which has a decent sized boot, but I will check out if it fits without pulling it apart. I was surprised that the lady in the shop recommended the cheaper version. (Obviously doesn't work on comission:rolleyes:)
Mum2peanut, I also had trouble folding down the Beema in the shop, but I thought maybe I just needed more practice. :o When we got the lady to show us how to fold down the MB, my husband just said "That's it - this is the one!" because it was sooo simple.
Just as a matter of interest, I am still tossing up whether to get the bassinet for it. They are around $250 new and will only be used for a few short months (and they do say you can put a newborn in the stroller if you lie it flat). I plan to use a sling esp. when bubs is very small, so I'd hate to spend that money on the bassinet and never use it :eek:. I think I've decided that if I can pick one up cheaply on EBay I will get it, otherwise I won't worry. If the price is right, I'd like to have it to use as a carry cot for visiting etc and figure that's another way to get my money's worth out of it!
PS. Interesting feedback from your sister about the Beema! I actually still have one on layby (need to transfer the money to a carseat now I've decided on the MB) so it makes me happy I've made the right decision... especially since it's a big price difference! :)
well not sure what your budget is but check Quinny out they have 3 different ones some are very compact one even goes in a bag! looks like a golf bag he he
We are getting the Quinny Buzz should last a few years very pricey but not getting it until the baby bonus is through lol
here's a link for quinny
http://www.quinny.com/
Mum2peanut - I'm not sure if this is highly illegal :rolleyes: (a mod will delete it if it is ;)) but here is an excerpt of what Choice had to say about the Valco. They actually have an online video showing a kid (doll actually) being tossed out of the pram :eek: but it appears the issue has been fixed. *phew*
At 17kg (if it still is) I'd be really concerned about weight, but that's just me. One of the big factors for me was how many times I would have to lift it up into the car and up and down stairs.. and even 12kg seemed heavy! So maybe the woman in the store was right...
VALCO Rebel N5316 ATS
Good points
- Multiple backrest and footrest positions
- Foldable visor on canopy
- Comfort pads on shoulder straps
- Adjustable crotch strap
- Maintenance tools provided
- Suspension
- Removable and adjustable front bar
Bad points
The reversible seat is released by pressing a small red lever. Care needs to be taken because the release causes the seat to tilt backwards (or forwards if the seat is reversed) and it can separate from the stroller if the child is in it. The red lever can be pressed inadvertently by a carer or by another child attracted by its colour.
Update 9 May 2005: We brought this problem to the attention of the ACCC, who contacted the manufacturer. VALCO took prompt action. New models now have an additional lock on the seat release mechanism. If you have a current model Rebel, VALCO has created a strap to be retrofitted to the seat section and chassis support bar to prevent the problem occurring. The company will advertise the availability of these straps as soon as they arrive in Australia.
- There are no clear instructions relating to changing the seat direction
- Relatively difficult to lock the front wheel to the non-swivel position
- Internal padding of the bumper bar can be accessed and easily torn off by the child, creating an ingestion or inhalation hazard
- If the child isn't securely restrained and tries to wriggle and falls through the front, the child’s head can be trapped between the front bumper bar and the seat
poshBecks
04-01-2006, 12:40
I love the phil & teds E3 pram...
You can see bub through the back when the are lying down no worries. Plus if you plan on having more than 1 child down the track you will only need to buy the toddler seat as opposed to a whole new pram!! (we found that out the hard way!!)
It's excellent I cant recommend it highly enough!!
http://www.philandteds.com/
theres the link!!:D
I have a mountain buggy and highly reccomend it! I was going to get a bassinet if I found one second hand, but didn't end up getting one. Bubs was fine in it.
My friend has a Phil&Ted's and she likes it, but the advantage of the MB is that it adjusts to infinite layback heights, where as the P&T's only has four heights and she still hasn't figured out how to do this with ease. So, when my DD falls asleep sitting up I just lay the pram down, friend has to fiddle and pull and push and ends up taking bubs out. Maybe she just hasn't found the easy way yet :confused:
The Mountain Buggy is very simple and non-fuss. Love it!! :D
I love the phil & teds E3 pram...
I definately recommend that pram as well, I couldn't find a fault with it, and it is really good for people like me who have a small car but still want a 3 wheel jogger pram.:D
I was at baby bunting today and thought I'd check out the double prams since No. 2 is on it's way.
OMG - it's like driving a bus! They're HUGE. I walked around looking bewildered for a while, then decided I'll think about it another time.:rolleyes:
It's hard enough getting through checkouts with a single. Isn't a mum with 2 kids supposed to shop?
I 'had a go' of the E3, but thought that the little one lying down underneath would get pretty squishy. Has anyone else found that?
I'm leaning towards a side by side one at this early stage.
Crazy Monkey
04-01-2006, 21:04
Bad points
The reversible seat is released by pressing a small red lever. Care needs to be taken because the release causes the seat to tilt backwards (or forwards if the seat is reversed) and it can separate from the stroller if the child is in it. The red lever can be pressed inadvertently by a carer or by another child attracted by its colour.
.
It is true that you can separate the seat from the stroller with bubs in it but it is not like you can accidently release the seat.. You need to press the release and lift the seat up... 17kg sounds heavy but you really don't notice it (maybe because I pull my pram apart), I didn't realise that was the weight...
Must admit I see a lot of people with the Valco Runabout.. My only advice is to try pushing the pram and getting it in and out of your car.. It is something you will use a lot so make sure you are comfortable with your choice...
Good luck on the next shopping spree
funfarrell
04-01-2006, 21:08
I agree with Becky, the Phil and Ted is brill. You can buy the newborn cocoon and you can have it face you when in teh flat position. It is also narrow, not too heavy, lots of funky colours and accessories. Great!
mum2peanut
04-01-2006, 21:30
So confused!!
Was out doing general shopping today. It's amazing how much attention you pay to all the prams around you. Everyone time someone wheeled a pram by I was checking it out. My poor non-preg friend must have thought i was crazy. Then I ran into a preg friend and she was doing the same.
Preg friend is looking at P & T. I personally don't like the look of it (bit tentish), or the uncarriage section for the 2nd bub. Seems a bit cruel to me.
All of the advice I'm getting is excellent though, open up my mind to other options aside from Rebel (though my heart is still set on it :confused:)
I'll keep looking and if anyone else has the Rebel I would appreciate hearing from you
:D
CrazyBeautiful
05-01-2006, 15:27
I have a Mountain Buggy, it's fantastic. I've also got the cot attachment and it's brilliant. They're facing you and they're comfortable at the same time. The MB is so light compared to a lot of prams and it leaves so much room in the boot of the car also. It may be more expensive than most other prams, but the extra expense is worth it. You can get brand new MB's on ebay for about $600, that's over $100 cheaper than the RRP. And they're made in New Zealand and not China like a lot of them are.
I SO know what you mean. I looked at prams for aaaaages and found it so confusing! I do agree that when you have to push it and lift it up and down and fold it up and down for about 3 years, you don't want to be stingy.... you want to LOVE that pram!
Just another thought about price - I lay-byed my MB just before Xmas when they were selling out of 2005 stock to make way for the 2006 model so I got it for $600 (normally $700). The only difference is that the new model is coming out in a couple more colours, and the new ones are being made from a poly-cotton instead of canvas. oh and the 2006 model won't have suspension but the rep told me people can't tell the difference anyway (but on the whole, I thought the 2005 model was actually better!)
Anyhooo.. my point is that if you like one that is a little more expensive, you could get a bargain at this time of year if they have old stock left. In fact, the store where I got mine had run out of navy blue so that actually ordered it in for me and still gave it to me for the sale price! :D
JasmineLouise
06-01-2006, 19:00
As mentioned previously, i too read the report in choice and was shocked by what i read! I work in retail (shh), and although my 'store' does not stock the three wheel valco models, we do stock the valco prams and strollers, and we have had several returns from customers who have had issues with the wheels falling off at the welding... :eek: I am disapointed as the price should match the quality of the product and this is simply not the case. As for the Australian safety standards, i have been told they are basically rubbish so i would highly reccomend that you check out any potential purchase thoroughly. As also mentioned i have heard good reports on the Mountain Buggy although it would be wise to invest in the more expensive model with a swivel wheel. The more expensive childcare three wheelers also offer a bassinet option for approx $100 extra- (and can also attach a toddler seat for a second child).
I hope iv'e helped you out a bit.. :)
Stay away from Steelcraft is all I can say......
Problems with the wheels falling off and other things.
Hope you get a good one!
deanbean
12-01-2006, 20:37
Hi all
Have been reading this thread with interest as well as other research ('Choice', etc) for prams and am still confused. Like many people the MB seems to be one of the best on the market for quality, weight, etc, but what do you do if another one comes along?
A good friend has the Phil and Ted's and loves it - she bought it specifically because of the toddler type seat that has back support as opposed to other brands that just have that booster type seat in the front ( ie toddler can't have a bit of a lie down when they are tired). I too though am wary about the 'Choice" review on this pram but my friends kids are 9months and 26months and are still happy in it with no quality control issues.
I would have thought that MB would have considered the add on option of a toddler seat - who would have thought it would be that hard!!?? Ok considering how "Choice" magazine tests their stuff maybe it is really hard.
If anyone has any suggestions that have a toddler type seat option - without the previously mentioned hideously wide double stroller thingy or booster seat type attachment - that would be great!
By the way I am 31 weeks and still haven't bought prams, cots, etc - guess I better get a move on!!:o
Crazy Monkey
12-01-2006, 20:46
By the way I am 31 weeks and still haven't bought prams, cots, etc - guess I better get a move on!!:o
Yeah I would get a move on... I left it late too and when we ordered our furniture, there was a 6-8 week wait, which put us at our due date. Luckily the furniture came in a few weeks early...
Hey Deanbean.. you should talk to Draught.. she had a MB and traded it for a Phil and Ted when the 2nd bubba came along and she says she still misses her MB every single day. Not sure about the toddler seat thingy though.. MB only has the kiddyboard and I can't see that being the greatest option on a full-time basis. I had thought I would probably carry the 2nd bub in a sling for a while if/when he/she comes along.
But if it comes down to having to sell the MB, at least there is a always a good market for them and they hold their value.
Snugglepot
13-01-2006, 06:44
I bought a second hand peg perago for bub, I was so confused by all the prams, so I went the cheap option. I like it, 4 wheels, small, light, revesible, good buckles, large shopping basket, lays flat easily and fits into my car boot and everywhere in the supermarket
It is rather untrendy, but really it is pretty good!;)
Hi all
Have been reading this thread with interest as well as other research ('Choice', etc) for prams and am still confused. Like many people the MB seems to be one of the best on the market for quality, weight, etc, but what do you do if another one comes along?
A good friend has the Phil and Ted's and loves it - she bought it specifically because of the toddler type seat that has back support as opposed to other brands that just have that booster type seat in the front ( ie toddler can't have a bit of a lie down when they are tired). I too though am wary about the 'Choice" review on this pram but my friends kids are 9months and 26months and are still happy in it with no quality control issues.
I would have thought that MB would have considered the add on option of a toddler seat - who would have thought it would be that hard!!?? Ok considering how "Choice" magazine tests their stuff maybe it is really hard.
If anyone has any suggestions that have a toddler type seat option - without the previously mentioned hideously wide double stroller thingy or booster seat type attachment - that would be great!
By the way I am 31 weeks and still haven't bought prams, cots, etc - guess I better get a move on!!:o
Cosmic said my input was needed!
She is right - I had an MB, sold it and bought the Phil and Ted's when no 2 came along. The set up with the Phil and Teds is the best on the market for two children IMO but after the MB there are sooooo many things that could be better about it. The harness is not good - the straps slip easily and having the large centre piece means you don't get a snug fit with smaller babies - so really not that safe. My two have been fine in it but in terms of single pram set up the MB is definitely superior.
If I had my time again I would not have sold the MB but probably would still have bought the Phil and Ted's as being able to carry the two was great. It also depends on how close your two will be - many children don't want to be in a pram by the time they are two and are happy walking or riding on the buggy board. If there is a bigger gap then you probably don't need a double pram.
Another option - I know we all love to buy new for babies (lord knows I did) but ebay always has MB prams for sale so you could get one for a reasonable price and then if you do need to get a Phil and Teds later on you won't be spending as much money? Just a thought!
I probably haven't been much help but I guess I can say that if I was buying a pram for one baby I would definitely recommend the MB over the Phil and Teds.
deanbean
13-01-2006, 20:03
Thanks Therese for your input re MB - think the decision is pretty much made!!
I went for a MB and it has been brilliant!! So easy to lift, move around etc. We spent the extra bit and got the bassinet too and it has been money really well spent.
cullen80
04-09-2008, 11:44
hi,
i have been looking to buy the valco rebel pram but i haven't been able to find them at any shop in my area! does anyone a store that sells them? i live in sydney!
Hi cullen80
Not sure if you are still looking for one but I am selling my Valco Rebel. It is only 6 months old and have found it a fantastic pram. Only selling as we travel a lot and now that my baby is getting older we need more space in the car, hence a smaller stroller.
I live in Newcastle, so not far from Sydney. :)
Like someone else said, stay away from Steelcraft.... my single pram from them has hardly been used so many problems with it.
I now have a Peg Perego twin aria, my kids are 6 and 20months. I really wanted a light easy to fold up pram despite it being a double pram and I can't recommend this pram highly enough for kids close together in age.
I love my mountain buggy! I'm another one who can't recommend it enough! It's light, it fits in my corolla boot with ease (although it does struggle to fit in my mum's honda accord boot). It manoevres SO easily. It is wider than many checkout aisles, but I'm used to taking the 'wide' aisle now. I also wanted bubs to face me, but we decided against a bassinette and it was no problem ... we didn't walk that much before he would have grown out of the bassinette and when we did I could see him quite easily through the viewing window.
My SIL bought the BeemaQ and although choice recommended it & the MB, the BeemaQ is dreadful in comparison. It steers poorly, is heavy and hard to fold up and yeah I don't enjoy pushing it at all.
I hear SO many stories of people buying one type of pram thinking it's a bargain only to have to buy another pram a few months later because it's so bad. The MB is worth the extra money.
You can get kickboards for off the back of the pram, and I think there are some with little seats (no back) for toddlers, but that is the only toddler option with MB's.
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