Britax B-smart 3 or 4?? Carrycot?? and views please

[janmk]

HI all,
I am looking at buying one of the above current line end. Does anyone use either and have any views? I liked the 3 wheeler as I will be walking dogs but have read that can be unstable?? Would the 4 wheel be better.
Also do we need the carrycot?? I am told the seat will suffice just fine but would like your views?

Thanks

Jan

I have the Vigour 4+ which is the 2009 model. (same system, different name!) The seat lies flat and would probably be fine with the baby cocoon rather than getting a carrycot. It's fabulous in sand and snow, i just lock the front wheels to stop them getting stuck.

I love it, and am rather sad that DS is now too big for it!

Thanks for your reply, did you have any issues with the brakes or the harnesses being too small?
I am unsure which to go for 3 or 4 wheels?? Any views?
Jan

No problems whatsoever with the brakes, and DS still fit in it a few weeks ago in his full ski wear! :o He's a big 2.6. I went for 4 wheels as i felt the 3 wheel version would be unstable with a heavy toddler in it.

It's a little big when folded, but actually can be made much smaller by removing the wheels. That's probably my only complaint. I love it, and i've had a lot of pushchairs! :)

Did you compare the two for easy steering. I really liked the 3 wheeler as could steer with one hand. Is the 4 wheeler easy to steer??

I have the B-smart 3 and not had any problems with stability. I really like mine, I do loads of walking and it's great! I had the carrycot purely because I wanted it, but you could use the seat from birth as it lays totally flat. I just preferred DD to be in the carrycot as it was summer and felt she would keep cooler and be more comfortable. I use it now with the cosytoes and actually had DD been a winter baby that would've been better as it really cocoons them in! The one benefit I have found in 3 wheel version over 4 wheel version is the ability to get through snow and over sand okay! My friend has a 4 wheel one and its not great in either of those situations. HTH.

Thanks Milkybrew, how long have you had it? Any other problems with harness or brakes??

I am just worried as if I buy the 4 wheeler it will be without trying it properly and I did like the way the B smart 3 steered.

Thanks

Janet
x

The 4 wheeler steers very well one handed, it had to as i have 2 other DC to hang on to! Snow and sand i just tipped it slightly onto the rear wheels.

I've had mine since last may, it's the 2011 model. DD is now 9 months old. The harness was short but I phoned Britax who sent harness extenders. I think they've rectified this on new models?! The harness extenders have worked out fine! The brake occasionally sticks but usually it's because I'm rushing, I don't think I press it fully and then go to march off! I like my b smart but prams are a very subjective item-what one person likes another can hate! I love the huge basket, the one hand push, the ability to walk practically anywhere, the rear facing, the huge hood which blocks out the sun but I have to say I find the raincover annoying as it's huge! However it does a great job and keeps DD lovely and dry! I bought my one the recommendation of 3 other mums who all love theirs too! HTH.

Thanks , your comments really help as I have now ordered the 2012 model and am glad of the reassurance !

Still insure on the carrycot tho !