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An all-terrain stroller that looks like a jogger but isn't
- Large, comfortable seat
- Ample storage space
- Handles rough terrain with ease
- Expensive
- Lacks basic accessories
- Bulky and large
The Baby Jogger City Elite (*Est. $400) is the luxury addition to the brand's line of strollers, but it's not meant for jogging: Its recommended max speed is only 3 mph (an average walking pace). Still, the large back wheels and lockable front swivel wheel -- aided by a superb suspension system -- make for a smooth ride. This all-terrain stroller features sturdy, 12-inch "forever air" tires, and reviewers agree that the City Elite can handle the toughest terrain.
This stroller is universally praised for its canopy, which users say shield the rider entirely; a larger-than-normal seat is another highlight. While most similar models have a maximum weight of 50 pounds, the City Elite is suitable for kids of up to 75 pounds. Its wide, comfy seat makes this stroller a good fit for parents with older or taller children. Storage is ample, but a cupholder isn't included. In fact, several reviewers say that despite the price, the City Elite skimps on basic accessories. A weather shield or car seat adapter also cost extra.
Where the City Elite really loses points in reviews is its size. It weighs 26 pounds, and some reviewers say they feel dwarfed by it. It does feature a one-handed collapse, but the fold is bulky at best, and storing or transporting this model can be problematic. The City Elite's size also hinders its maneuverability. The width of the back wheels is nearly 28 inches (most doorways are 30 to 33 inches), and navigating through crowded spaces or narrow areas can be a challenge, say owners. Reviewers say this stroller has the body of a jogger but is unable to perform like one.
The Baby Jogger City Elite is often overshadowed by its sister models, the City Select (*Est. $500 plus $160 for doubles kit) and City Mini (*Est. $230) , but there are some highly complimentary reviews of the City Elite. The most thorough evaluation comes from People magazine's Celebrity Baby Blog, which addresses everything from storage to maneuverability. User feedback is another compelling source of information for this model; Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com feature more than 20 reviews of the City Elite, most of which are balanced and detailed.
| Baby Jogger City Elite Single Stroller, Red Sport | |
(55 reviews) In Stock. |
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Our Sources
This parenting site features evaluations of several top-selling strollers, and the review of the Baby Jogger City Elite is one of the most detailed. The reviewer addresses everything from storage to maneuverability, and praises the stroller's massive sun canopy, comfortable seat and smooth ride. However, the City Elite's large wheelbase and formidable weight are major drawbacks. The 5-foot 6-inch tester says she felt "dwarfed" by this model, and says basic accessories (such as a cupholder and weather shield) must be purchased separately.
Review: Baby Jogger City Elite Stroller: A Big Stroller That's Big on Features, "Kristen", March 25, 2009
The British edition of AOL's parenting site selects five all-terrain strollers for its guide, and Hughes Joshi says the City Elite is a well thought-out model. She praises its cushioning suspension and three large, air-filled wheels, which lend a smooth ride. The supportive, reclining seat, ample storage and adjustable handles are other highlights. One big downside is the stroller's weight.
Review: All Terrain Pushchairs: ParentDish Best Buy Guide, Liat Hughes Joshi, Oct. 13, 2010
3. Amazon.com
Amazon.com features about 50 user reviews of the Baby Jogger City Elite, and more than half give this model 5 out of 5 stars. Owners are generally very positive, saying the stroller is well-made and durable. The large canopy is often praised for its size and stability. Parents also note that the seat is bigger than comparable models, making the stroller a good choice for families with larger or older children. It's also recommended by taller parents, who say the handle height is great for longer strides. However, users say the City Elite's back wheelbase is larger than some narrow doors, and the stroller is too big to transport in small vehicles or store in small closets.
Review: Baby Jogger City Elite Single Stroller, Contributors to Amazon.com, As of Dec. 2011
Buzzillions.com aggregates user reviews from top stroller retailers such as REI and ToysRUs.com. More than 30 owners weigh in on the Baby Jogger City Elite, rating it an average 4.6 out of 5 stars. Comments range from vague to extremely detailed, but all are relatively positive. The one real gripe is the size of the stroller, which is substantial.
Review: Baby Jogger City Elite Single Stroller, Contributors to Buzzillions.com, As of Dec. 2011
This retail site features reviews from its editors that tend to be detailed but focus on the positives of each model. They call the Baby Jogger City Elite "perfect for the active, urban parent" but warn that it shouldn't be used as a jogger. Editors say the base of the City Elite is slightly wider than comparable models, but the seat is larger and its maximum weight is 75 pounds. Families with older or taller children will likely be pleased.
Review: Baby Jogger City Elite Single Stroller, Editors of JoggingStroller.com, Not Dated
This blogger provides a detailed, informal review of the Baby Jogger City Elite. Behnke likes the large canopy, the "unexpected" storage pockets and the quick-fold action. Behnke does say, however, that the under-seat storage, while ample, can be difficult to access.
Review: Baby Jogger City Elite Stroller - An Unsolicited Review, Gillian Behnke, May 27, 2010