3 Wheeler Buggies: The Good The Bad And The Ugly
3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-roading and provides the most comfortable ride for infants. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheel buggy, especially those with fabric slings or modular seats that are set snugly in the frame, delivering the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeled buggy offers excellent stability, which is why it's an ideal option for off-road walks (especially with an all-terrain or off-road style seat unit). These buggys often have oversized front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some models have a lockable wheel on the front to provide extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3 wheel pushchair cheap-wheel buggies have lower center of gravity than their 4-wheeled counterparts and, therefore, could fall more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with an ideal geometry and design to ensure they are stable in all conditions. They should be able to turn at a whim and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also have an incline of 360o for the front wheel that is ideal for maneuvering over difficult terrain.
For really tricky surfaces be sure to choose an air-filled model, also known as pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle non-paved tracks and should cope with mud, gravel, rock etc. Many all-terrain buggies include an swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3 wheel all terrain pushchair-wheel pram is also an excellent option for runners and those who like to walk fast and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to store all your gear (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's light, compact, and suitable for use from birth. It can be used with a car seat or a carrycot. It also handles a bit of light jogging but isn't intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you are looking for a buggy that can tackle difficult terrain, then you should pick one with big tires. They can handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks and provide an enjoyable ride for all passengers. They are also great for jogging because they come with built-in suspension and are easy enough to climb up and down kerbs. The downside is that they're quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy for use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheeler has 16 rear wheels with a lockable swivel front wheel, so it's very manoeuvrable. It has air-filled tyres that require pumping up from time to time. It can accommodate 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 found steering it easy even with her three-year-old riding along.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another excellent option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a hood made of high-end materials that provides 50+ UV protection as well as a high quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs up and down, and can fit into the boot of a car that is small. It can also be used as a pram, with a carrycot or infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric slings are set within the frame and not on top 3 wheel strollers as modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity that is at the ideal height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you can never overestimate how often you'll be doing this as a new parent!)
Seating
The seating capacity of 3 wheelers is quite impressive and there are a variety of different choices to choose from. The carrycot that comes with it is ideal for a newborn (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lay-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older infants and toddlers will love the large and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats aren't fully reclined however, they can be lowered to the lowest position which will give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A fabric sling is also available. It has the advantage that it is placed inside the frame rather than on top as a modular seat. This means that it has a lower centre of gravity with perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push, especially over bumpy terrain or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath really liked the way that this style of seat handled these obstacles.
This kind of buggy comes with an enormous basket, along with other beneficial features such as an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal and some innovative visibility lights which can be put in front of occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're searching for a stroller that will grow along with your family The sport(tm), a world-first, can accommodate the newborn, and later be adapted to accommodate three or more children as they grow. All in one footprint.
Stores
The 3 wheel double pushchair-wheeled frame is much more sturdy and can be moved by one hand. It's also better for difficult terrain. However, it also means that the shopping basket doesn't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for added comfort, and a superb suspension. It should be able to accommodate a car seat, so you can use it from the time of 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 you check the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded prior to purchasing.
Choose a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3 wheel stroller brands - top article -!) seats. This is the most suitable option for your future and will save you money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the top of them and can be used as a single from day dot and later converts to twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more enjoyable. You'll find these on pushchairs, such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also noted that its grippy tyres made it easier to handle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and need to have their air pressure regularly topped up. These tyres are prone to punctures, so you should always carry an repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres can be used on pushchairs since they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are equally robust. You can identify PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide over smooth and tidy surfaces.
It's usually possible to tell the difference between air-filled and PU tire by running your fingers over each one, if it feels hard, then it's rubber and if it slides then it's a PU. You can also verify that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by slipping the tyres over a clean, flat surface They'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can withstand the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable because the foam will lose its springy feel. You'll also find that these types of tyres can frequently be noisy, as they make lots of noise when you turn and navigate your way around town.