Please help me decide on a ride on toy for my DS 1st birthday :)

[mommabear]

I have narrowed it down to 3 and need some help deciding.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0007RKD9E/ref=pd_kar_gw_2/103-8206857-5231864?%5Fencoding=UTF8&v=glance&%5Fencoding=UTF8

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/stores/detail/-/toys/B000034DOI/qid%3D1139709377/sr%3D11-1/ref%3Dsr%5F11%5F1/103-8206857-5231864

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00004U122/qid=1139709414/sr=1-3/ref=sr_1_3/103-8206857-5231864?v=glance&s=toys

These seem like the best but all are overpriced so please help me choose.
Thanks

[lmintzer]

My older ds got the Chicco train (#2 on your list) for a first birthday gift. He is currently 4 1/2, and let me tell you, that is one much-used, much-loved toy. He STILL scoots around on it once and a while--typically to chase his little brother, lol. My younger ds (age 2) now uses it. He loves to push the buttons and slide the levers. This thing is solid as a rock. It doesn't tip over and withstands abuse. I'd highly recommend it.

[R2sweetboys]

I think I like the Chicco one the best but I don't have personal experience with any of them unfortunately. I happened to be looking on the One Step Ahead website tonight and saw a couple of cute ride-ons that were on sale. Here are the links and pics...
http://www.onestepahead.com/jump.jsp?lGen=crossSell&itemID=217755&itemType=PRODUCT&iProductID=217755&wSubCat=85240&change=117
http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/user_files/32198.jpg

http://www.onestepahead.com/product/85240/399769/117.html
http://www.windsorpeak.com/dc/user_files/32200.jpg

Maybe not at all up your alley, just figured I'd post just in case. I believe there's a coupon code out there for OSA too. Have fun shopping!
ETA: They also have the Thomas ride-on that you're considering and it's on sale for $39.95 plus the coupon code that's floating around in the Bargains section.
~Leslie

SAHM to...
Ryan 8/14/00
Matthew 2/14/03

[bluestar2]

We have the Chicco train and love it. It gets played with every day. DC especially love the compartment under the seat, and always load it up with "luggage" before they scoot around. One of the best features is the steering wheel, which turns the front wheels so they can maneuver it around pretty well. It is built pretty solidly, as I have been known to take a spin or two on it hehe. I also like that it is brightly colored and fun but not obnoxious looking. I got it at Ross around Christmas for about $24.

[Mamma2004]

DS got the Chicco train for Christmas (he was 19 months at the time) and we all love it! I highly recommend this product and don't even mind that it seems to live in my dining room!

Stephanie

[Babywhite]

Another vote for the Chicco Train. Several people recommended it on this board, and I (also) found it at Ross during Christmas for $24. It is terrific!

[mudder17]

We have the third one and Kaya loves it. We got it from Kidsurplus for $29.99 with free shipping. She loves to store her toys (and other random objects) in the seat of the car. She also loves pushing her friends on it when they are riding it or pushing her dolls in it. :)


Eileen

http://www.mothering.com/discussions/images/smilies/candle.gif for Leah
http://www.gynosaur.com/assets/ribbons/ribbon_emerald_18m.gif

http://tickers.baby-gaga.com/t/catcatcvi20040222_4_Kaya+is.png
Kaya's a cousin! 10/1/05, 5lb13oz

[mommabear]

Thanks so much for the imput. I bought Thomas and didn't like him for 2 reasons. 1. his wheels don't turn 2. his handle constantle comes off
So we returned him.
I decided on the train but couldn't find it in person. So I bought the little tikes push and ride racer. I had to get the wiggles version but I just didn't put the stickers on. It was $20 and is not at all obnoxous. If my son really enjoys it I may get the Chicco one as well.
Thanks

[KBecks]

Not to confuse your selections, but this is the one we got for Alek, and it's great. And, it's 50% off at Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00005850H/ref=pd_sim_toys_1/002-9672426-0639215?v=glance&s=toys

It's simple, but I think it's a very good push toy.