Comparison Britax Romer B-Motion 4 vs Britax Romer B-Agile 4

The depreciation theme is designed to absorb shocks and bumps from uneven road surfaces. The most popular nowadays are models with spring systems; you can also meet the shock absorption of the articulated and double types, and in quite a large number of pushchairs this function is absent at all. Here are the main features of each option:

— Spring type. Depreciation systems based on classical springs mounted on individual wheels. They are used in all types of pushchairs except classic pushchairs (see "Design"). The simplest models use a single set of springs, while more advanced models may include additional comfort features such as SAS shock/vibration absorption technology. Whatever the case, depreciation systems of this type are simple yet practical, efficient and reliable.

— Articulated type. The type of depreciation used in pushchairs with carrycots - classic, universal, transformers. The frame, on which the carrycot or seat unit is installed, in such models is attached to the base of the pushchair with the help of special bridges, which play the role of depreciation. As bridges can be used belt hinges, such systems can also refer to the articulated. Anyway, this type of depreciation is excellent for carrycots. First of all, the pushchair is as smooth and soft as possible, which contributes to the comfort and deep sleep of the child (and the parent to...drive the pushchair is much easier, especially on uneven surfaces). Secondly, the carrycot on such a pushchair can be rocked back and forth, lulling the baby. On the other hand, such systems are poorly suited for pushchair frames with swivel front wheels; and the failure of one absorber leads to tilting of the carrycot.

— Double. This term most often refers to the spring systems described above with additional shock absorbers on the frame of the pushchair. Such systems help to maximize vibration reduction and can approach articulated systems in terms of efficiency (see above). On the other hand, the softness of the suspension can be inconvenient when overcoming curbs and other bumps: to raise the front wheels of the pushchair, you have to press hard on the handle.

— Is absent. Pushchairs without depreciation are not suitable for uneven surfaces: in such conditions, the pushchair will be shaken violently, which creates both discomfort for the baby and inconvenience for the parent. On the other hand, such models have advantages over pushchairs with depreciation. First, due to the lack of unnecessary parts, they are much cheaper, and the design itself is as simple as possible and at the same time reliable. Secondly, without depreciation, it is easier to overcome curbs and other obstacles: to raise the front wheels, it is enough to push a small pressure on the handle. Thirdly, such pushchairs rock less on smooth, wave-like uneven surfaces.

Possibility to adjust the stroller handle in height. This function allows you to optimally adjust the length of the handle to the height of the parent. It will be especially useful if the parents are of different heights, and each of them regularly carries a stroller.

Typically, height adjustment is carried out by lowering or raising the upper segment of the handle, and in advanced implementations a telescopic mechanism is responsible for it. The retractable handle makes the stroller more adaptable to different situations and conditions. For example, it can be lengthened for more comfortable walking or shortened for ease of use in tight spaces.

The type of wheels installed on the pushchair.

The most popular in our time are rubber wheels, including air-filled ones. Plastic wheels are used mainly in inexpensive pushchairs to further reduce the cost, while gel ones, on the contrary, are considered a very advanced option. Polyurethane wheels and EVA foam-filled wheels are also widely used. Here is a more detailed description of each of these varieties:

— Rubber. Rubber solid tires, found in many modern pushchairs, are popular due to their affordability, quiet operation, and smooth ride over bumps. While less effective on uneven surfaces compared to air-filled and gel wheels, solid rubber tires are cost-effective, low-maintenance, damage-resistant, and suitable for various wheel diameters, including small ones.

— Air-filled. Air-filled rubber tires, commonly featured on pushchairs, offer a softer ride and facilitate easy maneuvering on uneven surfaces and high curbs. Despite their higher cost, they require periodic maintenance to ensure proper pressure and protection against cuts or punctures. However, users find air-filled wheels manageable, as they are thick and less prone to damage.

— Plastic. Plastic wheels, commonly featuring both tire and rim made from this material (thou...gh some have metal rims), are known for their simplicity and affordability. However, they lack durability, reliability, and effective vibration dampening due to their hardness. Typically found in low-cost pushchairs with small wheels designed for flat surfaces.

— Gel. Wheels similar in design to air-filled tires (see the relevant paragraph), but filled not with air, but with a special gel. The main advantage of this option is its insensitivity to small punctures and cuts: coming out, the gel in the tire in contact with air almost instantly solidifies, effectively sealing the damage. In addition, such wheels are virtually maintenance-free — they do not need to be inflated. The disadvantages of gel tires include high cost and somewhat higher rigidity than air-filled tires (although in terms of softness of running such wheels are still noticeably superior to rubber and even more so to plastic ones).

— Polyurethane. Solid polyurethane tires offer excellent maneuverability, shock absorption, puncture resistance, and durability. They are unaffected by extreme temperature changes and are cost-effective, making them a common choice for various pushchair types.

— EVA. Wheels made of microporous foam rubber, specifically EVA material, offer high elasticity, excellent cushioning, and wear resistance. Lightweight and puncture-resistant, these wheels provide a smooth pushchair ride. However, they may stiffen in cold winter weather.

The diameter of the front wheels installed in the stroller.

At the same time, the front wheels are not as important for mobility as the rear wheels: for example, to overcome obstacles, the stroller is often lifted "on its toes" by tilting it towards itself, with only the rear wheels working. Therefore, the diameter of the front wheels may be noticeably smaller than the rear wheels. It should be noted here that the small size also has its advantages — the wheels are lighter.

Speaking of specific numbers, diameter up to 15 cm is considered very modest, 16 — 20 cm — small, 21 — 25 cm — medium, 26 — 30 cm is larger than average and more than 30 cm is large.

The diameter of the rear wheels installed in the stroller.

The larger the wheel — the better it overcomes obstacles and bumps, the more convenient it is to drive the stroller over mud, snow and other difficult surfaces. For the rear wheels these moments are most relevant: for example, when driving the stroller over obstacles, it is usually tilted towards itself, so that the front wheels are in the air, and the rear wheels have to overcome the obstacle. On the other hand, small wheels weigh less and are easier to move, they are better suited for flat surfaces. So choose a stroller on this indicator should take into account the roads on which it has to be driven. If you plan to move on flat floors, good asphalt and stroller ramps — it is worth choosing small wheels, up to 20 cm. For difficult terrain, driving on mud and snow, regular overcoming steps and curbs it makes sense to pay attention to wheels in 30 cm and larger. And the diameter of 20 — 30 cm is an average option — it is suitable if you have to ride mainly on flat surfaces, but occasionally there is a need to overcome obstacles.

The distance between the side wheels of the pushchair; this generally corresponds to the overall width of the pushchair. If the front and rear widths are different, the greatest distance is indicated, usually on the rear wheels; the same wheels are used to measure the width of three-wheeled models.

In general, the wider the chassis, the more stable the pushchair is and the more difficult it is to tip it over. On the other hand, greater width can cause problems in tight spaces such as narrow hallways and doorways, elevators, etc. The narrowest modern pushchairs have a width of up to 45 cm, the widest — more than 70 cm (these are mainly models for twins or triplets , where two seats are side-by-side). Models 46 – 50 cm are also considered quite narrow, a width of 51 – 55 cm can be called small, 56 – 60 cm — medium, 61 – 65 cm — more than average, 65 – 70 cm — large.

The width of the seat installed in the stroller.

When selecting a seat, focus on the seat width, considering the child's build and allowing space for future growth, rather than the overall dimensions.

The total weight of the assembled pushchair. For universal models (see "Design"), this paragraph usually indicates the weight with the seat unit installed: such an accessory is used for a longer time than the carrycot, therefore its characteristics are considered the most important. In addition, the difference in weight between cradles and walking blocks usually does not exceed 700 – 800 g (there are exceptions, but quite rarely).

Comparing similar models, a lighter pushchair may offer more convenience, but it often comes at the expense of reliability or a higher price compared to a relatively heavier counterpart. It's important to note that weight varies based on the pushchair type (refer to "Design"). Heavier pushchairs provide stability, reducing the risk of tipping over. The lightest models, weighing less than 5 kg, refer to pushchairs and single-seat ones. Models in the 6 – 10 kg are also mostly pushchairs, including variations for twins. The 11 – 15 kg range is standard for universal pushchairs and transformers. Models weighing 16 – 20 kg are notably heavy, while those exceeding 20 kg are rare and found among high-end double-seat pushchairs.