BOB Revolution Double Stroller SE Duallie Review
Spoiler alert for this review: I love the bob revolution double stroller. When I set out to find a 3 wheel stroller, I discovered that I had a large choice of models to choose from. There was a wealth of choices and I was considering everything from the evenflo double stroller to a bell jogging stroller, but ultimately I settled on the revolution.
My needs were pretty simple in looking for a toddler stroller that would hold up to travelling on non-paved surfaces. There are tons of walking paths around my county so I wanted to start using them once I had my second baby. With a two year old as well that sealed the need for a dual stroller.
Initial impressions
Every time I buy some new baby gear I take a little time to familiarize myself with that item. My dad always said “proper preparation keeps you out of trouble.” I never had the heart to correct him on the saying. So here are some of the details concerning the bob revolution double stroller.
• Durable – This side by side double stroller is a beast in the construction department. The bob stroller parts, especially the suspension system, are built strong and that makes the stroller a durable piece of gear. The manufacturer states that the frame is made from chromoly and aluminum. Of course, the strong durability also adds to the weight of the stroller. I’ll have more on this later.
• Safety features – Keeping the tykes in places are a five point harness system. This seems to be the norm for most strollers. There is your standard parking break feature that holds the stroller in place well enough. I like the wrist strap that doubles as a securing strap for when the stroller is folded up.
• Comfort – I realize that when out jogging, the kids are going to bounce around a bit, especially when on uneven ground. The bob revolution double stroller has coil spring and (manufacturer speak incoming) elastomer core shock absorbers built into the stroller. This system gives a nice bounce to the stroller when on the trails. The suspension has the option to allow the system to be adjusted depending on the weight in the stroller. There is also a five position canopy with a wide range of coverage that will protect the riders from the weather and sun.
• Car seat integration – The bob revolution double accepts the BOB Car Seat Adapter, but I do not have a BOB car seat, so this feature has not been used. In place of the accessory adapter a snack tray can be added on.
• Storage – The bob revolution double stroller has ample storage, or at least it has never been an issue for me on my trips. There are several seat pockets, two seatback pockets and the large space underneath. (click here for more double strollers like this)
Putting the Bob through its paces
Time for another spoiler alert: I love this stroller. I have been using it on my exercise runs over the summer and have had no issues that made me regret my purchase. The stroller seems to be a workhorse in the durability department. My kids enjoy the ride and enjoy the bouncing motion while I’m on the trails. I will admit that the suspension can be a bit floaty and the kids seem to bounce a bit more than I expected. I find that if I slow down on the rougher ground, the excessive bouncing is reduced. Of course, I could have sworn my two year old said “faster” the one time we were out and about. But that could have been my imagination.
If there was one caveat I have to write about, it would be that the stroller is pretty heavy. The stroller clocks in at 34 pounds according to the manufacturer’s specs. Before I had my second child I had a bob ironman and just got used to that I guess. Naturally, a double stroller was going to be heavier. This has not been an issue, but for those who may have issues with heaver strollers, I just want to make a note of it.
The trails I jog on run the gamut from paved straightaways to windy, dirt paths. I have found that the revolution stroller is very maneuverable and is a breeze to steer around any obstacles. I know you can lock the front wheel for stability when running or when hitting rough terrain. I have never taken the time to lock the wheel, but I do not really run that fast where stability becomes a concern.
When it comes to folding and storing, the revolution goes pretty quietly. The manufacturer claims it is a two-step process to fold up, but I find (and some other reviews agree) that it is more of a three step process. Here is the where the heavier weight of the stroller might be problematic for users. I’m relatively strong, but putting the stroller in my SUV can be a bit of a struggle when dealing with other items.
Also, for those instances when the kids spill their drinks or make other messes, the fabric on the seats cleans up nicely. A few wipes and your good to go. This is one area where my kids excel. They are the masters of mess.
Final thoughts
So, would I recommend the bob revolution for those on the market for a new stroller (or a used bob stroller)? The answer is yes! When I was looking for a jogging stroller my search ranged from a bell jogging stroller through the bob duallie stroller. Every stroller I read about had there pluses and minuses, but at the end of the day I settled on the revolution. This stroller has been a great purchase for my kids. I did blink when I saw the MSRP for the first time, but when I started digging I found a great deal through a major online retailer. In the internet age you should never have to pay the MSRP.
So you might be saying that she sure sounds like a cheerleader for the bob revolution double stroller. My response is yes I am! When I find a great bargain, deal or item I want to let everyone know about it. So keep this review in mind when looking for your next double stroller!