Stroller Info

As Right Start Stores Begin to Close, Future Remains Uncertain

In an apparent attempt to begin liquidating asses, Right Start has begun closing stores and announcing others will have liquidation sales.

Six of Right Start's stores have now been closed and their merchandise apparently moved to nearby locations:

Lombard - Lombard, Illinois
Naperville - Naperville, Ilinois
Sugar Land - Sugar Land, TX
Dulles - Dulles, Virginia
Washingtonian - Gaithersburg, Maryland
Rancho Cucamonga - Rancho Cucamonga, CA

The company's corporate office is still relaying to the remaining employees that they are "motivated to do [their] best ... to find a buyer." 

They have also begun "Clearance Sales" to liquidate the assets of poorly performing or "Island" stores.  The following locations have begun selling all strollers and gear at 20% OFF and everything else at 30% OFF:

Clinton Township - Clinton Township, MI
Natick - Natick, Maryland
Palo Alto - Palo Alto, California
St. David's - St. Davids, New York

Today, Right Start Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy... Closing?

Today, Right Start filed for Chaper 11 bankruptcy.  This following the closing of babystyle.com, tinyride.com and the apparent stop in all RightStart.com transactions.  All items on RightStart.com are Out Of Stock!

Right Start is now looking / speaking with potential buyers of all brands.  This does not initially affect the use of Right Start credits, but this will surely change soon.

We hope all the best for the Rightr Start brand families and jobs in this economically stressful time...

Use your Gift Cards / Merchandise Credits as soon as possible.

More to come...

babystyle Website Closed For Business... as are more babystyle stores

It seems that babystyle has officially closed their website for good.  Recently purchased by Right Start, babystyle has been a brand in trouble for a while - having filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in March of 2008.  

As of 28 January 2009 the caption on the babystyle website states: 

"We're sorry but we have suspended operation of our site.  

 

We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.  We hope we'll be back soon.

Any pending orders that have not yet shipped have been canceled and your credit card will not be charged."

-babystyle.com

 

There has been much discussion about the use of your babystyle gift cards - since there is no longer an ecommerce site it is recommended contacting your local babystyle freestanding store location. 

Here is a list of store locations that are believed to still be open:

 

BELLEVUE, WA
168 Bellevue Square
Bellevue, WA 98004
Phone:  425-462-2811

NEW YORK, NY - CADEAU
254 Elizabeth Street
New York, NY 10012
Phone: 212-994-1801

DENVER, CO
3000 East First Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
Phone:  303-333-0385

BURLINGAME, CA
1319 Burlingame Avenue
Burlingame, CA 94010
Phone:650-342-1534

NEWPORT BEACH, CA
1103A Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone:  949-759-1129

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA
3200 Sepulveda Blvd. #C-5
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Phone:  310-802-0224

SANTA MONICA, CA
1324 Montana Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Phone:  310-434-9590

SHERMAN OAKS, CA
14006 Riverside Drive
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Phone:  818-986-1588

SANTA CLARA, CA
2855 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95050
Phone:  408-246-9703

SHORT HILLS, NJ
1200 Morris Turnpike
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Phone:  973-921-1115

SCOTTSDALE, AZ
15215 N. Kierland Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Phone: 480-596-9201

SCOTTSDALE, AZ
7014-2304 East Camelback Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

CLOSED

If you are unable to reach the stores above, some have been saying that Right Start stores are accepting the gift cards.  Contact your local babystyle/Right Start store and see if they will honor them or the Right Start corporate office @ 1-888-548-8531.

Our thoughts go out to those that have unexpectedly lost their jobs in this very tumultuous economic climate.

 

MORE TO COME:

StrollerInfo.com

 

The Weight of Things - Keeping Stroller Companies Honest

Does the stroller you've read about ever seem a little heavier in person than the weight published on the stroller company's website? 

It usually is.

In trying to give consumers the most accurate information possible, StrollerInfo.com will now begin a new section titled: The Weight of Things.  We are in the process of weighing strollers on a proper scale and will publish our findings - and they might surprise you!

Many stroller companies only weigh their prototypes - yet to be modified to satisfy varying safety regulations and/or material changes.  Some don't even weigh the stroller with fabric.  In an effort to have a published weight in the market to create desire, many strollers end up being much heavier than companies initially publish.

And this weight has a huge impact on your purchasing decisions :: if it is published at 21 pounds and actually weights 31, you may be in for more of a workout than you bargained.  

If you would like us to weigh a stroller that has suspect specifications, let us know!

strollerinfo@gmail.com

Right Start, babystyle, Tiny Ride CLOSING?

AN ANONYMOUS TIP!  HERE FIRST!

 

As of this morning, Right Start told its corporate employees that they are being laid off.  All but the COO, Logistics Manager, Human Resources and IT. 

 

All of the area and regional managers are being laid off.

 

The entire Babystyle corporate office, and Blue Lava.

 

This is another sign of the financial times...  No credit is being given to manufacturer's of products, or retailers to purchase them.

 

It would be a good idea to USE YOUR GIFT CARDS NOW!!!!

 

More info to come!!!!

 

StrollerInfo.com 

 

UPDATE: 

 

Right Start Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy!  It's Official!  See Above....

 

2 FEB 2009

Right Start stores are now closing:

Dulles
22000 Dulles Retail Plaza Suite 140
Dulles, VA 20166
703-430-7458

HAS NOW CLOSED ITS DOORS

 

 

30 JAN 09
Right Start said to be in talks with Vested Group, "a Private Investment and Management Company that specializes in e-Business and Real Estate" in Orem, Utah.   The Vested Group just recently purchased BareBabies.com from bankruptcy.  If this tip is true, they are said to be purchasing the Right Start, babystyle, and Tiny Ride assets .  It is still not known, if they are going to be purchasing their assets, whether stores will remain open and the brands will remain intact.

 

*Tiny Ride's website now mirrors that of babystyle, no longer directing potential shoppers to Right Start (which remains OUT OF STOCK ON EVERY SINGLE ITEM), but saying instead:

 

We're sorry but we have suspended operation of our site.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.  We hope we'll be back soon.

Any pending orders that have not yet shipped have been cancelled and your credit card will not be charged.

 

28 JAN 09::

*babystyle website is now OFFICIALLY CLOSED.  The website states: "

We're sorry but we have suspended operation of our site.  

We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.  We hope we'll be back soon.

Any pending orders that have not yet shipped have been cancelled and your credit card will not be charged.

Babystyle seems to now officially be closing.

 

5:00 PM EST 26 Jan 09::

*babystyle still has a skeletal page on amazon.com, but are not listing any products.

 

*Right Start still has a shop on amazon.com, but it is pretty bare as well. 

 

*We are getting reports that most shops do not have much in the way of merchandise.  If you have registries with Right Start, check to see if the items on it are still available to purchase. 

 

 

6:06 PM EST:: *www.TinyRide.com is no longer up and running - it directs shoppers to the NOTORIOUSLY OUT OF STOCK www.RightStart.com website.

 

*www.babystyle.com is no longer up and running - where did all of that great merchandise go?

 

 

 

 

Properly Inflating Your Stroller's Tires :: Maintenance Tips

If your stroller has pneumatic (or air-inflated) tires, it is important to remember to use a small hand pump to inflate them if they become flat. 

DO NOT USE AN ELECTRIC PUMP OR AN AIR COMPRESSOR.  Because your stroller's tires are small, they will pop and/or cause the wheel casing to warp or fracture.  Even if your compressor has options to preset the inflation rate, your tire's tube may still tear or pop.

Any hand pump will work.  You can even use a larger bike tire pump, just make sure not to over-inflate the tires - this may cause the tires to bubble or warp, impeding a smooth push while strolling.  Each wheel as a psi rating on the tire to let you know how much air the tire requires.  Consult a tire gauge if you have one to make sure you are not over-inflating the tube.

If you have any specific questions about stroller maintenance, feel free to ask us.  We are beginning a Maintenance Tips section to answer these questions.

strollerinfo@gmail.com

New Reviews - New Concepts

We have taken a little time away from  www.StrollerInfo.com to focus on the future of the site.  We plan to begin introducing new reviews very soon.  These reviews will be more extensive, including photos and other multimedia to better explain and compare different stroller brands.  We are also going to begin fluid updates on previous reviews/information pages, as many stroller companies have been increasing their prices mid-season.

NEW Reviews - Look for them this next week:

Bumbleride Indy Single
Valco Runabout Tri Mode Single
Baby Jogger City Double

If you would like to see a stroller reviewed, please do not hesitate to tell us!  You can email us at strollerinfo@gmail.com.

Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller 2008 - Review

Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller:  Known for its patented Quick-Fold technology, the Baby Jogger City Series attempts to incorporate active urban walking with easy car storage and mobility.  In theory, the Quick-Fold system is a great feature: easily lift the folding strap to allow the stroller to collapse on itself and place in the car with one hand (as seen in this video).  There are some logistical problems with this folding system: when the stroller is folded, the seat is completely exposed.  If it is raining outside and you are placing the stroller in the car, it will get wet.  If you place the stroller in a not-so-clean trunk or storage space, the seat will be directly exposed.  It is also not as easy to lift a 21 pound stroller with a small strap.  The weight of the entire stroller is transferred to the small carrying handle - transferring the weight directly to your hand and possibly crunching your four fingers - very uncomfortable.  As we usually recommend, always try and pick up a stroller using the frame structure if you can.  The weight is distributed more evenly and the stroller will feel lighter and more balanced - you will not be fighting the stroller to get it in your car.  Something else to think about - are you really going to be constantly folding the stroller and placing it in your car, or are you going to have a second, lighter durable stroller (see Maclaren Volo, Quest, and Triumph for durable, light travel and car strollers) to use in and out of your car for quick trips and travel?  Either way, a stroller's fold is important - surely - but a stroller's frame composition, durability, and strolling function is more important.

 

INNOVATIONS

The Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller is lighter and more durable than most of its competitors.  It does offer adjustable hood coverage, recline suitable for a newborn, pneumatic (air-filled) tires to absorb the shock and friction of rough terrain, and a quick folding system (though is not as logical as it seems - see above).  The innovations included are not as functional as they appear - the recline system is controlled by a string and plastic buckle, similar to the tightening system in a winter jacket's hood.  Anytime this pieces breaks or the buckle's tension system fails, it can be replaced but may cause much frustration.  There is also a significant amount of plastic on the stroller's frame (which reduces the stroller's overall weight) that may cause problems in the long run.  Anytime plastic fractures or breaks due to handling, heat and cold or storage and travel, the stroller is unusable.  A stroller's composition on a basic level should always be noted when thinking about any stroller.  The Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller has much more exposed plastic than most of its direct competitors (BOB Revolution, Mountain Buggy Urban Single, Phil & Ted's SPort).  The Baby Jogger is also missing a very important feature: a functional suspension system.  The only suspension absorption built into the stroller is through the pneumatic tires.  A better suspension system would make the stroller easier to push (as a suspension system absorbs the tension of a turn), and make it a smoother ride for your child.   The Baby Jogger City Classic Single stroller does have one great feature: a venting system built into the hood and the seat, cooling your child in the heat while proper shade is utilized. 

FEATURES

• Patented Quick-Fold technology making the fold easier (see above).
• Large, adjustable hood with ventilation system and peek hole.
• Swivel front wheel that can be locked easily for light jogging (Note: this stroller is not a technical jogger.  It is suitable for very slow jogging/fast walking) or maneuvering over rough terrain.
• Quick-release rear wheels can be detached for storage or travel.
• Padded, ventilated seat reclines enough for newborn.
• Tilting, adjustable handle.
• Included storage areas on seat back and under seat.
• Rear parking brake.
• Reflective accents on stroller's fabric.

COMPATIBILITY:  The Baby Jogger City Classic is adaptable with the following infant carriers with additional Infant Car Seat Adapter (sold separately):

• Graco Snugride
• Graco Safe Seat (Step 1)
• Most Evenflo car seats
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP
• Britax Companion
• Maxi Cosi Mico

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:  Baby Jogger brand specific and sold separately:

• Bug Canopy
• Rain/Wind Canopy
• Food Muff
• Child Tray
• Bassinet
• Belly Bar
• Belly Bar Console
• Liquid Holster
• Soft Pram
• Tire Pump
• Infant Car Seat Adapter

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight:  21 lbs
• Capacity:  75 lbs (Please note: most stroller companies include both child and storage weight restrictions when calculating total weight capacity)

DIMENSIONS

• Open:  47.5" L x 24.75" W x 32" - 48" H
• Folded:  32"L x 24.75" W x 17" H

THE PRICE:  $399.99

AVAILABLE COLORS

• Black / Silver
• Navy / Silver
• Red / Silver

ALSO CONSIDER

• BOB Revolution
• BOB Revolution 12" AW
• Mountain Buggy Urban Single

Something we missed?  Want a side-by-side comparison?  Email us!  strollerinfo@gmail.com

Valco Universal Cup Holder - Recommended

Many have been asking about the 'perfect' cup and bottle holder for their stroller.  All strollers are designed a little differently, but the cup holder that has worked on EVERY stroller system we have worked with is the Valco Universal Cup Holder.

The Valco Universal Cup Holder

When used properly, the Valco Cup Holder keeps your drink snugly attached to the stroller without the hassle of pesky Velcro strapping systems or loose hanging fabric cup holders.

Make sure that you read the instructions: the cup holder is secure when installed properly, but if it is not done per the instructions the cup holder will be loose fitting and could cause the drink to spill.

If you have any questions about this or any other accessory, please feel free to write us any time!  stollerinfo@gmail.com

BOB Revolution Duallie - Recommended

The BOB Revolution Duallie: one of the most well-constructed, functional double strollers currently on the market.  BOB has been setting the standard in sturdy, durable stroller construction for a years now, perfecting their original designs with function rather than over-zealous features.

The BOB Revolution Duallie is our choice as the best side-by-side double stroller currently on the market.

The Revolution Duallie is becoming more and more popular as a dependable, easy-to-push double stroller in both urban areas and on dirt paths and trails.  Not only does the stroller boast pneumatic tires, but like all BOB strollers there is a suspension system built directly into the frame structure instead of being placed directly above the rear or front wheels (such suspension placement acts merely as an extension of the suspension absorption of the pneumatic - or air filled - tires).  The placement of the Revolution's suspension is important - not only does it absorb the shock and bumps of dilapidated sidewalks and larger objects in the park - it absorbs the force of a turn - making it one of the easiest and lightest strollers to maneuver.  Even with larger 35 lb children in each seat.  This suspension system is not found on any other side-by-side double stroller.  Other stroller systems are easier to push if pneumatic wheels are incorporated (see Mountain Buggy Urban Double and Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Twin ATS), but B.O.B.'s suspension system makes it even easier to navigate - especially on the wrists and back.

INNOVATIONS

The BOB Revolution Duallie has given each seat a canopy of its own - and a large one at that.  The Mountain Buggy Urban Double (or, MBUD) incorporates one hood to cover both seats, and it does not shield as much as the Revolution Duallie.  The Revolution's hood is fully adjustable, allowing for as much or as little coverage as desired.

The frame structure is lighter, making storage and travel a little more convenient than the competition. 

The stroller incorporates one swivel wheel in front instead of two.  This feature reduces the overall weight of the stroller, and makes maneuvering more convenient: there aren't two wheels that have to interact together while pushing.

There is an absence of exposed metal pieces in the stroller seat and on the footrest.  Many times exposed metal surfaces react to weather conditions, getting quite hot or cold.

Larger seats offer the most growth potential for older children.

High impact composite polymer wheel spokes make the wheels easier to clean and maintain.  Polymer also inhibits deterioration from rust.

FEATURES

• Front wheel swivels for supreme maneuverability and locks out for jogging or while navigating over rough terrain.  It is also helpful to lock out the front wheel while going up or down steep inclines as it prevents the stroller from veering.
• Seats independently recline to 70 degrees from the vertical position.  This allows for their use with an infant - 2 months old without added head or body support, from birth with with an added body support (JJ Cole Body Support is fantastic).  Note:  it is not recommended to jog with a child under 8-9 months.  Please consult with your pediatrician.
• Well padded 5-point height and girth adjustable harnessing system.
• Fully adjustable, dual canopies with individual peek holes.
• Two pockets located in each seat to store sippy cups, snacks and toys.
• Storage pockets located on the back of each seat.
• Adjustable (two position) suspension system built into the frame structure. 
• 16" quick-release rear wheels and a 12" front wheel - versatile enough for jogging, urban walking, or trailblazing.
• Low Boy Cargo Basket - note its height from the ground.  Many of the competitor's baskets are too close to the ground, allowing the basket to scrape when going up/down curbs or through snow.
• Fast, easy, compact folding system for storage or travel.
• Parking brake engages both rear wheels with one movement.
• Lightweight aluminum frame structure.
• Suitable from birth to 50 lbs in each seat.
• Includes wrist safety strap so you don't lose your stroller if it tries to get away.

COMPATIBILITY:

The BOB Revolution Duallie is adaptable with the following infant carriers with additional Infant Car Seat Adapter (sold separately):

• Britax Companion - 2003 and newer
• Graco Snug Ride - 2003 and newer
• Graco Safe Seat - 2006 and newer
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio - 2003 and newer
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP - 2006 and newer

The Infant Car Seat Adapter also includes two snack trays that can be easily attached the the Infant Car Seat Adapter's frame.  The prolongs the life the the adapter, transforming it into two trays for snacks, sippy cups and the attachment of toys.

Please note: the adapter is for one infant carrier, it cannot be used for two at a time. 

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: 

BOB brand specific and sold separately:

• Infant Car Seat Adapter
• Duallie Handlebar Console
• Weathershield
• Sun Shield
• Warm Fuzzy
• Stroller Diaper Bag
• Stroller Strides Fitness Kit

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 33.2 lbs
• Capacity: 100 lbs. or 50 lbs in each seat

DIMENSIONS

• Seat dimensions: 13.5" wide x 21" high x 10" deep (one of the widest and tallest seats available)
• Open 51.4" L x 30.8" W x 40.7" H
• Folded w/ wheels:  38.8" L x 30.8" W x 18" H
• Folded w/o wheels:  33.7" L x 13.2" H

THE PRICE: $569 [Updated for the July 2008 price increase]

COLORS

• Navy / Cool Grey
• Mesa Orange / Chocolate

ALSO CONSIDER

• Mountain Buggy Urban Double
• Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Twin ATS
• Baby Jogger City Series Double

Something we missed?  Want more information? Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com