Cybex Onyx

Bottom Line

Parents and reviewers say that the Cybex Onyx delivers a comfortable ride from birth, with or without a car seat, and for toddlers up to 55 pounds. Parents love the giant canopy and the easy, one-handed fold and recline. However, at 16 pounds, the Onyx is heavier than many umbrella strollers and may not be as sturdy as you'd like on rough terrain.

Safety

Bumper bar beefs up the safety. The Onyx has a one-pull adjustable five-point harness. The buckle is hard for a toddler to undo. The front swivel wheels lock in a forward-facing position for greater stability on mixed terrain, and parents say the linked one-touch rear brake works well. Unlike most umbrella strollers, the Onyx has a bumper bar that provides an extra layer of protection.

Ease of Use

One-step controls work well. Parents and blog reviewers say that the Onyx is very easy to use, thanks to its one-handed fold/unfold mechanism and the one-pull harness adjustment. They also say the Onyx is easy to steer and maneuver on relatively smooth surfaces. The large canopy can be removed and machine washed, as can the seat covers. Parents also love the built-in carry strap that makes it easy to carry the stroller onto a bus or through an airport. One isolated report says the Onyx travel system, which includes the Cybex Anton infant car seat (*Est. $230) and Anton car-seat adapter (*Est. 18), is not very easy to load and unload from the car.

Lifestyle Features

A full-coverage canopy protects in all weather. Parents and reviewers rave about the Onyx's full-coverage, UV-protected sun canopy that can also be unzipped and folded up for airflow in hot weather. However, there is an uncovered window, and several owners say they have to cover it with a blanket because it gets too bright. Conversely, the canopy extends all the way around the seat for wind/weather protection in cold temperatures. Parents also say that the Onyx offers a very good fit and comfort for all stages from newborns to older toddlers. The Onyx's seat reclines in four positions until it is almost flat. There is a footrest for sleeping babies. The canopy adjusts in height to accommodate taller children. The Onyx can also be used as a travel system with the Cybex Anton infant seat. Several moms say the brakes are unusually flip-flop friendly and don't ruin their good shoes.

The only real complaints about this stroller are that the underseat storage basket is small and that all accessories are sold separately. Some reviewers feel these extras should be included, considering the overall price tag. Owners also note that, at 16 pounds, the Onyx is not a truly lightweight umbrella -- but most don't mind because of the stroller's otherwise good features and performance.

Customer Service

Good warranty. The Cybex Onyx carries a two-year warranty against defects. Parents say that customer support is responsive and quick to fix problems. Parents also like that the wearable parts on the stroller are replaceable.