The Most Prevalent Issues In 3 Wheeler Buggies
3 Wheeler Buggies
A tri-wheeled stroller is ideal for off-road terrain and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also more convenient to move and push than a four-wheel buggy, particularly those with 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, and this makes them an ideal option for off-roading (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). These buggys often have oversized front tires that can withstand bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheels on the front to provide additional stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have a lower centre of gravity than models with four wheels and this can mean that they topple over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been designed with perfect design to ensure they stay solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn at a single click and be easy to steer with just one hand, and have a 360o swivelling front wheel which makes them perfect for manoeuvring and navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models that have pneumatic tyres. These are designed to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to handle mud, gravel, rocks and other debris. Many all-terrain buggies have an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability when working on extremely rough terrain.
A 3-wheel pram is also an ideal option for runners or for those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, particularly if you're planning to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It features a flat-reclining seat with five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to keep all your gear (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's lightweight, compact, and suitable to use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with the car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for jogging with a light pace, but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle the tough terrain then you want one with big wheels. They will be able to handle grass, cobbles, and dirt tracks while providing a smooth ride for all passengers. They are also great for jogging because they're equipped with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. However, the downside is that they are quite heavy to push.
The best 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels with a lockable swivel front wheel making it extremely maneuverable. It has tyres with air that need to be pumped regularly. It can carry children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat, and she was able to steer it easily with her three-year-old riding along.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar and a high-quality hood with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits into a the boot of a car that is small. It can also be used as a stroller with an infant carrycot or toddlers.
Fabric slings are set inside the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This design delivers an lower centre of gravity that is at the ideal height, making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you cannot overestimate the amount of times you'll have to do this as a new parent!)
Seating
There are a myriad of options for seating in three wheelers. For babies it is possible to use the included carrycot plus (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lie flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy) and older infants and toddlers can be seated in the parent or world-facing seat that is large and padded, and comes with adjustable ventilation. Push Chairs & Prams to note that these seats don't recline fully, but they can be adjusted to the lowest position which should still give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It is advantageous in that it is located within the frame, rather than on top as a seat that is modular. This creates a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it much easier and lighter to push especially when you're on bumpy terrain or curbs and MFM reviewer Kath loved the way that this style of seat handled these challenges.
This type of buggy comes with a large basket and other beneficial features like an extended hood 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 for improved safety on difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will expand with your family There's a brand new sport(tm) that's a world's first that can take a single infant from day one and change to take two or even 3 once your children have grown and all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame makes a buggy more sturdy to push one-handed and is also ideal for handling rough terrain. However, it also means that the basket won't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for added comfort, and a superb suspension. It should be able to accommodate a car seat, which means you can use it right from birth.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frames couldn't pass through their doors at home or car boot. If you're worried about space, make sure to check out the dimensions of the buggy once it is folded prior to purchasing.
It's worth considering a 3-wheeler that can take 2 (or even 3!) seats as your family grows - these are the best of both worlds and can help you to save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the most popular that can be used as a single unit from day dot, and then transforms to a twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. They are commonly found on pushchairs, such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath discovered to provide "an outstanding ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres make it easy to navigate cobbles and kerbs.
They can be difficult to maintain and will need to have their air pressure topped up regularly. These tyres are more prone to punctures, which is why it is recommended to always carry a repair kit as well as an spare inner tube when you're out and about.
PU tyres can be found on more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, yet they're still as sturdy. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide easily on uneven and tied surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres you can tell if they are PU or rubber. If it feels like it is sliding then it's a PU. You can also check whether your buggy has PU tyres by sliding the tyres over a clean, flat surface - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This can make your buggy less stable since the foam loses its springy feel. These tyres are also noisy due to the fact that they create a lot noise when you turn and drive around town.