7 Small Changes You Can Make That'll Make The Difference With Your 3 Wheeler Buggies
3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is perfect for off-roading and provides an easy ride for your baby. They are also easier to move and push than a four-wheeler, especially if they have fabric sling seats or seat units that are placed comfortably in the frame, delivering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, which makes them a great option for off-roading (especially when equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). These types of buggys typically have large front tires that are able to handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some even feature a lockable front tire to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies may have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they can tip over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been built with the perfect geometry to ensure that they remain solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn at a whim and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also have a 360o rotating front wheel that makes them perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
For really tricky surfaces you should look for a model with air-filled tyres also known as pneumatic tyres. These are made to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with dirt, gravel, and so on. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to increase stability when dealing with extremely rough ground too.
A 3-wheeler is a good option for runners or for those who like to walk fast and uphill, especially when you plan to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It features the flat-reclining seat, five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to store all your gear (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light, compact and suitable from birth and can be used with a carrycot or car seat. It also handles a bit of moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle the tough terrain then you want one with large wheels. These are designed to handle dirt, cobbles, and grass tracks easily and still provide a smooth ride. They are also ideal for jogging as they come with built-in suspension and are easy enough to climb up and down kerbs. However, they're a bit heavy to push.
The best 3-wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy comes with 16 rear wheels with a lockable swivel front wheel making it extremely maneuverable. It has air tyres, which require pumping occasionally, and it can carry children up to the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat and found steering it easy even with her 3-year-old riding along.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, with a movable handlebar and a high-quality hood with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move kerbs up and down, and can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram, with a carrycot or infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric slings are positioned inside the frame and not on top as modular seats. This design provides a lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you can never overestimate how often you'll be doing that as new parents!)
Seating
There are many alternatives for seating options in 3 wheelers. The included carrycot plus is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lie-flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will appreciate the spacious and comfortable seat unit with adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats don't recline fully however, they can be adjusted to the lowest level which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It has the advantage that it is positioned inside the frame instead of on top as a modular seat. This creates a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this style of seat dealt with challenges.
This type of buggy has a large basket and other features that are useful like an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and some unique visibility lights that can be placed on the front of the passengers to increase safety on rough terrain.
If you're seeking a buggy that will grow along with your family it's the sport(tm) is a world first designed to accommodate a newborn and then be modified to accommodate two or three children as they grow. Pushchairs And Prams within a single footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy much more stable to push with one hand and also perfect for handling terrain that is difficult to navigate. However, it means that the shopping basket doesn't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will accommodate a car seat, which means you can use it right from birth.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frame didn't fit through their home doors or car boot. If you're concerned about space, make sure to check out the dimensions of the buggy once it is folded before buying.
It's worth considering a 3-wheeler that can take two (or even 3!) seats once your family grows - these are the most efficient of both and future proof your money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the top of them and can be used as a single from day dot, and then transforms to a twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to provide your child with an easier ride by cushioning out bumps and uneven surfaces. They're commonly found on pushchairs, such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to be "an exceptional ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easier for her to maneuver around kerbs and other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and need to be filled regularly. They are also more prone to punctures than foam tyres so you'll need to make sure that you have repair kits along with a spare inner tube and pump on hand when you are you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are more commonly used on pushchairs because they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are equally durable. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide on flat and tidied surfaces.
It's usually possible to tell the distinction between air-filled and PU tire by running your fingers over each one. If it feels hard then it's rubber and when it slides, it's a PU. You can also check that your buggy has PU tyres by slipping the tyres onto an even, clean surface They'll be able to roll easily and should fit comfortably in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are often used in high-performance buggies as well as joggers since they are able to cope with the rough terrain associated with this kind of pushchair. This could make your buggy less stable because the foam will lose its springy nature. Additionally, these tyres may frequently be noisy, as they make a lot of noise as you turn and make your way around the town.