Budget XL Special Needs Stroller
OVERVIEW
For many years the standard pushchair for an older/larger child was the Maclaren Major Elite (although this is currently not being produced). Our understanding is that the patent on that model has now expired allowing other manufacturers to copy the design.
The Budget XL is just one name for a copy of the Maclaren Major Elite, other companies sell 'copies' under the names:
and Excel Elise Special Needs Pushchair
The Budget XL is designed specially for an older or larger child who has outgrown a toddlers pushchair but still needs wheels for mobility, either because they can't walk far enough or they won't walk safely and reliably in the direction you need to go.
To assess whether it is suitable for your child we first ask you to consider your child's size and weight, their age can be misleading.
The pushchair is tested to a weight of 50kg and there are some retailers who advertise that it is suitable for a 10 year old, perhaps because an average 10 year old will be around 50kg and it's likely the warranty would have run out by the time the child gets to this size. If your 10 year old weighing 50kg is able to fit in the pushchair seat, is very co-operative, you are using it on perfectly smooth surfaces and you are strong enough to push it then it may still work!
The reality is a bit different, we tend to find that a standard sized 8 year old will start to outgrow the leg length at around 35kg.
Full specifications are available at: Specifications
The Budget XL has puncture-free solid tyres, swivelling front wheels for manoeuvrability on urban surfaces and a small 'footprint' on the ground helps to access small spaces like shops with ease.
The umbrella-style design (a copy of the original Maclaren Major Elite) makes it easy to fold (you do need to take the footplate off first). When folded it is lightweight but long.
The Budget XL has an adjustable footplate which can be fitted higher or lower as appropriate for your child's lower leg length.
The seat fabric wraps around the side of the pushchair, providing some padding to the metal frame and covering the gap in the frame which some children like to put their hands through. The seat has a built in adjustable height five point adjustable harness for safety.
It is possible to fit a Buggy Board to the Budget XL to help transport a second child
The Budget XL has a basic One Year Frame Warranty but do be aware that this only covers defects of manufacture not 'wear and tear'. It is designed for a co-operative occupant, both the warranty and the safe working load may be significantly reduced if the child is not a co-operative occupant.
The Budget XL is CE Marked, and CA Marked
The Budget XL pushchair is not 'Crash Tested' it cannot be used for transporting a child in a vehicle.
Whilst the Budget XL may be used for someone with special needs the seat may be unsuitable if they require postural management support, if in doubt please seek the advice of your physiotherapist.
Wheels
- 7" wheels - rear fixed, front swivel
- hard 'tyres' NO suspension
- front swivel wheels not lockable
- good manoeuvrability in small places, best on smooth surfaces
Adjustable Footplate
- three position footplate to suit child leg length
- location slots for fitting foot straps (not supplied)
- has to be removed before folding (can be a bit fiddly until you get 'the knack')
Seat
- fixed angle not adjustable
- exposed position for the child, lacks privacy (may be improved by adding a sun hood)
Key Features
- tested maximum weight limit 110 lbs, 50 kg (but most children will outgrow at around 35kg)
- lightweight but robust aluminium frame
- five point harness, shoulder height adjustable three levels
- dual rear wheel parking brakes
- low maintenance - wipe clean (sponge-able) fabrics, tough plastic non pneumatic wheels (no punctures !)