The Cybex e-Gazelle S: A Stroller With a Boost
Remember those magical stroller gadgets, like the Rockit, that vibrated to soothe a fussy baby? Now Cybex has taken that concept and built it into a stroller itself, offering a modern solution to one of the toughest challenges of parenthood: conquering hills. The Cybex e-Gazelle S brings electric assistance to the brand’s popular Gazelle design, making it a powerful ally for families who navigate a world of inclines.
But is it worth the splurge? At $1,100, it’s certainly a pricier option compared to other excellent strollers on the market. While it might not be a necessity for every family, the e-Gazelle S delivers a clear advantage if you live in a hilly area or frequent parks with uneven terrain. For those willing to invest, it provides a smoother and more manageable stroller experience, making those uphill treks a breeze.
Power On: Electric Assistance that Makes a Difference
The e-Gazelle S’s electric assist system is seamlessly incorporated into its frame, powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that slots neatly into the storage basket. A simple handlebar setup, featuring a power button, rocking mode button, LED battery life indicators, and a thumb lever for the assist, controls the functionality.
The smart assist system kicks in only when the stroller is in motion, ensuring there’s no runaway stroller risk. A gentle thumb movement controls both the forward assist and electric brake. The forward assist comes in handy on steep inclines, requiring minimal effort from the user. While it doesn’t achieve a thrilling speed, it provides a noticeable boost, particularly compared to pushing a stroller up an incline manually. The electric brake, however, feels inconsistent, sometimes offering a firm stop and others a gentle nudge.
Even on a hot day during a full day of amusement park exploration, the battery held strong, remaining more than adequately charged. This is a significant plus, especially for those planning longer outings.
Gentle Rocking for a Peaceful Ride
The e-Gazelle S also boasts a captivating rocking mode, a feature that undoubtedly appeals to the parents who remember the Rockit’s calming effect. While not as instant as its predecessor, activating this mode involves locking the front wheels, powering up the stroller, and then holding down the rocking mode button. You can adjust the intensity levels with three options, each represented by a corresponding number of LED lights.
The rocking motion is more subtle than you might expect, with a gentle back-and-forth movement that simulates the soothing hand-rocking technique parents often employ. While the rocking mechanism is a bit unusual to witness, it’s undoubtedly calming and can be a lifesaver for keeping a fidgety little one content.
However, there are a few minor drawbacks. The lack of a continuous rocking mode, requiring multiple pushes of the button to adjust levels, is a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the highest rocking mode might be too forceful for some babies, and the stroller undoubtedly makes noise when the electric assist is on, sounding a bit like an electric scooter. While not obtrusive, it’s a sound that will be noticeable.
More Than Just a Powerful Stroller
The e-Gazelle S goes beyond simply offering a power boost. It is a remarkably versatile stroller, adapting to evolving family needs. With the right accessories, it transforms into a single stroller, double stroller, or a car seat combination, with over 20 different seating options. While car seat adapters, a second toddler seat, and a bassinet all require additional purchases, the overall flexibility provides a great deal of functionality for growing families.
Final Verdict: The Cybex e-Gazelle S: Power and Versatility Combined
The Cybex e-Gazelle S, while carrying a hefty price tag, offers a unique combination of power, versatility, and convenience. Its electric assist makes conquering hills a much less strenuous experience, while the rocking mode can be a blissful solution for fussy babies. While the slight noise and the lack of a continuous rocking function are minor drawbacks, they don’t outweigh the overall benefits. If you live in a hilly area or frequently navigate rough terrain, this innovative stroller may be the perfect match for your family’s needs.
Keep in mind: The e-Gazelle S might be a significant investment for many families. If you’re looking for a solid stroller without the electric features, there are excellent choices available at a lower price point. However, if a smoother ride and effortless hill climbing are priorities for you, the e-Gazelle S offers a solution that feels more like a luxury than a mere stroller.
