MarieBunny
05-16-2006, 02:12 PM
I got my single Valco 2005 Runabout a week ago but unfortunately because of the non-stop rain and chilly weather over the past week, we've only taken it out twice for quick walks in between rainstorms!
I will say it was tricky to assemble and directions were poorly written. The whole thing took me a couple hours to assemble and figure out how all the parts worked (that said, I am a jogging stroller novice). But once I did, I found it fairly easy to fold/unfold. Some of the reviews I read made it sound more complicated.
Now for my question: It comes with a strap included that is not mentioned in the instructions. It has elastic and a snap, and I assume it's the safety leash thing but I don't know where it attaches. I also noticed a couple of small straps attached to the stroller on the back of the seat above the basket with rectangular hooks. I don't know what this is for either, or if it's related.
Anyway, the Runabout is beautifully constructed, has a wonderful cushy padded seat with nice fabric (I got crimson). It folds fairly compactly, even more so if the wheels are removed (wheels are large). I haven't put it in my Toyota Camry trunk yet, but I have no doubt it will fit. The basket isn't huge but is more than adequate. Sunshade should be fine for our Ohio weather, although hotter/sunnier climes might want to add a bigger shade.
Most importantly, it glides like a dream in my neighborhood with no sidewalks. I have taken it over grass and hilly terrain and it is so easy to push, it almost pushes itself! DS (32+ lbs and 35 in.) fits comfortably in the main seat. I plan to use it as a double with my toddler seat once my next DC is born. It is so plush, has full recline and includes an infant headhugger. I think it will be perfect for a newborn.
I was a little concerned about width. And it is quite wide (27"). It does fit through my front door with some room to spare but I see how it could be a problem in stores with tight aisles. I prefer the width of the E3 but went with the Valco because it seemed more sturdy and I liked the toddler seat placement in the front. It is still more narrow than SBS strollers so I think I will like it as a double. I don't know if I will be able to use it as my one and only double though. I plan to try it for a while but may end up getting a Graco Duoglider or a SBS umbrella stroller for errands.
So far I am very satisfied with my purchase as the Valco seems like it could withstand a LOT of use. It was well worth the purchase price of $299.99 + $70 for toddler seat (plus free cupholder). I ordered from StrollerMama.com (Amy & Erika) and their customer service was outstanding! They went out of their way to accommodate me and price matched the stroller based on other prices I found online. They also offered to pay my Ohio state tax for me (since I am in Columbus and they are in Cleveland). The shipping was extremely fast, and they use the product themselves so they are happy to answer questions. It was a great experience and I recommend them highly. :)
I will say it was tricky to assemble and directions were poorly written. The whole thing took me a couple hours to assemble and figure out how all the parts worked (that said, I am a jogging stroller novice). But once I did, I found it fairly easy to fold/unfold. Some of the reviews I read made it sound more complicated.
Now for my question: It comes with a strap included that is not mentioned in the instructions. It has elastic and a snap, and I assume it's the safety leash thing but I don't know where it attaches. I also noticed a couple of small straps attached to the stroller on the back of the seat above the basket with rectangular hooks. I don't know what this is for either, or if it's related.
Anyway, the Runabout is beautifully constructed, has a wonderful cushy padded seat with nice fabric (I got crimson). It folds fairly compactly, even more so if the wheels are removed (wheels are large). I haven't put it in my Toyota Camry trunk yet, but I have no doubt it will fit. The basket isn't huge but is more than adequate. Sunshade should be fine for our Ohio weather, although hotter/sunnier climes might want to add a bigger shade.
Most importantly, it glides like a dream in my neighborhood with no sidewalks. I have taken it over grass and hilly terrain and it is so easy to push, it almost pushes itself! DS (32+ lbs and 35 in.) fits comfortably in the main seat. I plan to use it as a double with my toddler seat once my next DC is born. It is so plush, has full recline and includes an infant headhugger. I think it will be perfect for a newborn.
I was a little concerned about width. And it is quite wide (27"). It does fit through my front door with some room to spare but I see how it could be a problem in stores with tight aisles. I prefer the width of the E3 but went with the Valco because it seemed more sturdy and I liked the toddler seat placement in the front. It is still more narrow than SBS strollers so I think I will like it as a double. I don't know if I will be able to use it as my one and only double though. I plan to try it for a while but may end up getting a Graco Duoglider or a SBS umbrella stroller for errands.
So far I am very satisfied with my purchase as the Valco seems like it could withstand a LOT of use. It was well worth the purchase price of $299.99 + $70 for toddler seat (plus free cupholder). I ordered from StrollerMama.com (Amy & Erika) and their customer service was outstanding! They went out of their way to accommodate me and price matched the stroller based on other prices I found online. They also offered to pay my Ohio state tax for me (since I am in Columbus and they are in Cleveland). The shipping was extremely fast, and they use the product themselves so they are happy to answer questions. It was a great experience and I recommend them highly. :)