Bugaboo Donkey5 Stroller Review: Versatile Single-to-Double Solution
The stroller market has been abuzz with excitement over the Bugaboo Donkey5, the latest iteration in Bugaboo’s premium convertible stroller lineup. As parents seek versatile solutions that grow with their families, the Donkey5 promises to deliver adaptability without compromising on quality or performance. But with its premium price tag, many wonder if this stroller truly delivers value commensurate with its cost. In this comprehensive review, we’ll examine the Bugaboo Donkey5 from every angle to help you determine if it’s the right investment for your family.
Bugaboo Donkey5: Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Stroller Type | Convertible single-to-double |
| Weight (Mono Configuration) | Approximately 26.9 lbs (12.2 kg) |
| Weight (Duo Configuration) | Approximately 33 lbs (15 kg) |
| Dimensions (Mono) | 23.6″ wide x 33.5″ high x 40.2″ long |
| Dimensions (Duo) | 29.1″ wide x 33.5″ high x 40.2″ long |
| Folded Dimensions | 20.5″ x 34.3″ x 9.1″ |
| Maximum Weight Capacity | 50 lbs per seat |
| Age Range | Birth (with bassinet) to approximately 4 years |
| Configurations | Mono, Duo, Twin |
| Warranty | 3 years (with registration) |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional maneuverability despite size | Significant weight (heavy compared to competitors) |
| Seamless conversion from single to double | Premium price point may be prohibitive |
| Side storage basket in mono mode | Cumbersome folding mechanism |
| Stable design prevents tipping on slopes | Bulky even when folded |
| High-quality materials and construction | Learning curve for adjustments and configurations |
| Multiple seating configurations | Some accessories sold separately at additional cost |
| Adjustable handlebar for different heights | May be too wide for some doorways in duo mode |
Design and Build Quality
The Bugaboo Donkey5 maintains the brand’s reputation for premium construction and thoughtful design. The stroller features a robust aluminum frame that, while contributing to its weight, provides exceptional durability. The fabrics are high-quality, stain-resistant, and available in several sophisticated color options.
One of the most notable design features is the expandable chassis, which transforms from a single stroller with side storage basket to a full double stroller with just a few clicks. This conversion is surprisingly intuitive, though first-time users may need to consult the manual initially.
Maneuverability and Handling
Despite its substantial size and weight, the Donkey5 receives consistent praise for its maneuverability. The stroller features all-wheel suspension and foam-filled tires that provide a smooth ride across various terrains. Parents report that the stroller “spins on the spot” with remarkable ease, making it navigable in tight spaces despite its width.
The handling is particularly impressive when considering the stroller’s stability. Multiple users note that the Donkey5 handles slopes without tipping over, a critical safety feature for families with multiple children. The front wheels can be locked for rougher terrain or set to swivel for nimble navigation in urban environments.
Versatility and Configurations
The Bugaboo Donkey5’s primary selling point is its versatility, offering three main configurations:
Mono Configuration
In single mode, the Donkey5 includes a convenient side storage basket that provides additional carrying capacity beyond the under-seat storage. This basket can hold up to 11 pounds of essentials, making it perfect for shopping trips or day outings. The mono configuration is 23.6 inches wide, comparable to many standard single strollers.
Duo Configuration
The stroller expands to accommodate a second child with a simple adjustment, widening to 29.1 inches. While wider than single strollers, it remains narrower than many side-by-side double options on the market. Parents can use two seats, two bassinets, or a combination of car seat adapters to customize for children of different ages.
Twin Configuration
For parents of twins, the Donkey5 offers identical seating positions side-by-side. Parents of multiples particularly appreciate that both children have equal access to views and interactions, unlike tandem double strollers where one child sits behind the other.
The seats can be positioned to face parents, face forward, or face each other, providing flexibility as children grow and their preferences change.
Comfort and Convenience Features
For Children
The Donkey5 provides a comfortable ride with well-padded seats that recline independently. The bassinet option for newborns is particularly well-designed, offering a flat, supportive surface for infants. The extendable sun canopies provide UPF 50+ protection and excellent coverage from the elements.
The stroller accommodates children from birth (with appropriate attachments) until they reach approximately 50 pounds per seat, representing a significant usage lifespan.
For Parents
The adjustable handlebar accommodates parents of varying heights, while the accessible brake system can be engaged easily even in sandals. The under-seat storage basket offers reasonable capacity, though accessing it can be challenging when both seats are fully reclined.
Parents should note that the stroller’s weight (approximately 26.9 pounds in mono configuration and 33 pounds in duo configuration) may present challenges when lifting in and out of vehicles or navigating stairs.
Folding and Storage
The folding mechanism represents one of the Donkey5’s more divisive features. While the stroller does fold with seats attached (unlike some competitors that require seat removal), the process involves multiple steps and the resulting folded package remains substantial.
The stroller stands when folded, which helps with storage, but its dimensions mean it will occupy significant trunk space. Some parents note that removing the wheels can help with fitting the stroller into smaller vehicles, though this adds an extra step to the process.
Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Bugaboo Donkey5 | UPPAbaby Vista V2 | Baby Jogger City Select 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Configuration | Side-by-side (when double) | Tandem (one behind other) | Tandem (one behind other) |
| Width (Double Mode) | 29.1 inches | 26.5 inches | 25.5 inches |
| Weight (Double Mode) | 33 lbs | 35.5 lbs | 34 lbs |
| Price Range | $1,500-$2,000+ | $1,000-$1,500+ | $600-$900+ |
| Storage Capacity | Side basket + under-seat | Large under-seat only | Under-seat only |
| Maneuverability | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Fold Complexity | Complex | Moderate | Moderate |
Bugaboo Donkey5 vs. UPPAbaby Vista V2
While both strollers offer single-to-double versatility, the Donkey5’s side-by-side configuration provides equal positioning for both children, whereas the Vista’s tandem arrangement means the second seat has a different experience. The Donkey5 offers better maneuverability but at a higher price point, while the Vista provides a more compact footprint for navigating narrow spaces.
Bugaboo Donkey5 vs. Baby Jogger City Select 2
The City Select 2 represents a more budget-friendly option in the convertible stroller category. While it lacks the premium materials and some refinements of the Donkey5, it offers similar versatility at roughly half the price. The Donkey5 provides superior handling and stability, but the City Select 2’s lighter weight and more accessible price point make it attractive to many families.
Value Assessment
With a starting price around $1,500 for the mono configuration (and additional costs for expanding to duo), the Bugaboo Donkey5 represents a significant investment. The value proposition hinges on several factors:
Long-Term Use
Families planning multiple children close in age may find the Donkey5’s convertibility justifies the initial expense, eliminating the need to purchase separate single and double strollers.
Quality and Durability
The stroller’s construction quality suggests it will withstand years of use and potentially maintain good resale value. The 3-year warranty provides additional peace of mind.
Lifestyle Compatibility
Urban families who frequently navigate varied terrain and rely heavily on their stroller may appreciate the premium features more than occasional stroller users.
Ratings
| Category | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Build Quality | 4.8 |
| Maneuverability | 4.5 |
| Ease of Use | 3.7 |
| Versatility | 4.9 |
| Comfort | 4.6 |
| Value for Money | 3.5 |
| Overall | 4.3 |
Who Should Buy the Bugaboo Donkey5?
Ideal For:
- Growing Families: Parents planning on having children close in age who want a long-term stroller solution
- Parents of Twins: The side-by-side configuration offers equal seating positions for twins
- Urban Dwellers: Despite its size, the exceptional maneuverability makes it suitable for city navigation
- Premium Seekers: Those who prioritize quality materials, design, and are willing to invest in higher-end baby gear
- Frequent Stroller Users: Families who rely heavily on their stroller for daily activities and outings
Less Suitable For:
- Budget-Conscious Parents: The high price point may be difficult to justify for those with tighter budgets
- Frequent Car Users: Families who need to frequently fold and load the stroller may find its weight and folding mechanism challenging
- Small Living Spaces: The stroller’s substantial folded footprint may be problematic for those with limited storage
- Occasional Stroller Users: Families who only use a stroller infrequently may not benefit from the premium features enough to justify the cost
Final Verdict
The Bugaboo Donkey5 represents both the pinnacle of stroller engineering and the premium price point that comes with it. Its exceptional versatility, quality construction, and surprising maneuverability make it a standout option in the convertible stroller market. For families committed to a single stroller solution from infancy through toddlerhood for multiple children, the Donkey5 delivers impressive performance and adaptability.
However, its substantial weight, complex folding mechanism, and high price tag mean it’s not the ideal choice for every family. Those prioritizing lightweight design, simplicity, or budget-friendliness may find better matches elsewhere in the market.
For parents who can accommodate its size and cost, the Bugaboo Donkey5 offers a premium strolling experience with unmatched versatility, potentially providing value through years of use with multiple children. As one parent of twins noted, the system is “surprisingly maneuverable” and “handles slopes without tipping over” – crucial features for safely transporting precious cargo.
Ultimately, the Bugaboo Donkey5 excels at what it was designed to do: provide a versatile, high-quality transportation solution for growing families, though at a premium that requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances.