B.O.B. Gear Strollers make great secondhand pieces because they are made to last. With that known, there are still some key things to look out for when purchasing. Please check out the video below and take our shortlist with you when checking out gear.
Things to look for:
Brakes – Hand brake and foot brake. Foot brake should hold back wheels firmly in place. If the stroller includes a handbrake, it should fully stop or slow the wheels when you push it. Handbrake can be tightened or loosened to your liking. Make sure that the brake cable from handbrake to rear wheel is intact and not broken.
Folding Mechanism – Stroller should fold completely and with ease. Pre-2020 BOBs fold in a two step fashion: 1) Squeeze the two hand levers (red metal on earlier models, black resin on later models) just below the handlebar and then push the whole seat forward to fold in half 2) Pull up at the bell curve cable (will have a red handle to grab) and pull the entire stroller upward. Sometimes gear will not fold easily for reasons that are easily repairable (lubrication etc) See our prior video on BOB folding troubleshooting HERE.
Straps and Buckles – Attach and detach the five-point harness to make sure that it is working properly. Look at the red crotch strap as this is often worn away. Note that this repair can be made through professionals like Stroller Spa or your local cobbler who has commercial-grade stitching equipment.
Fabric and foam – Check Fabric to look for holes, fading and mold. Mold can be removed, but some holes that are beyond re-patching may hinder the safety of the stroller. Check foam handlebar for rips. Tears in the handlebar can easily be replaced through a re-wrap or handlebar covers. We love CityGrips which are affordable, feel great, and were originally designed by a mom.
Screws and other hardware – check to make sure that no screws are missing. I suggest starting at the top of the stroller and working your way down and around. Don’t forget to fold stroller in half to check the six underside screws that hold the cable, straps and underseat bag in place.
Ask about accessories – Ask if the owners also have the rainguard, strap pads, the innertube pump, infant inserts and car seat adapters
Don’t want to deal with asking the tough questions or accidentally purchasing a lemon? Let Stroller Spa do the work for you! We sell consignment gear and we guarantee that everything that you purchase from us is Clean + Tuned-Up and features a Warranty. Have questions about specific pieces of gear? Feel free to ask away here or email us at orders@strollerspa.com
Thank you and happy B.O.B. hunting!
Love,
Jamie
