Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by Anonymous : great stroller

I have had this stroller for only a few weeks, but I am very impressed. It is light to push--ideal for walking with his big sister to school each day and for taking jogs. The front wheel swivels when walking for easy mobility, but can be fixed for jogging so that the stroller doesn't shimmy. The bonnet is nice and long and provides a good amount of shade, and the bonnet's top window (which allows you to peak and check on the baby) has a little cover that velcros shut over it to keep the sun out when needed--I wish my other strollers had this! Best of all, the handle easily adjusts up and down, which means neither I nor my 6'3" husband are hunching over trying to push this, saving us many a backache, and the basket under the stroller is sufficiently far forward not to impede either his or my stride.

All in all, I really love this stroller. My only reservations are these:
1)As with every other jogging stroller I looked at, the cup holder in this one is too shallow, and we often lose our water bottle when we go over curbs or around corners. Luckily, it tends to fall out sideways and not onto the baby's head, as was the case with one of the other strollers I saw.
2)I'm not so sure the "easy one-hand fold-down" function is so easy or one-handed. I only tried it once and wasn't successful. Since I don't travel with this stroller, it didn't concern me. Perhaps if I had been more persistent, it would have been more-or-less easy, but it definitely is not as easy as the EvenFlo travel system stroller we have (which is the stroller we do travel with).
3)I ordered the weather shield and bug shield designed to fit this stroller from their website, and while they are very nice, they came with no instructions as to how to attach them. I've been able to drape them and cover the baby adequately, but I don't think I yet have them on as the designer intended. I can't seem to find what the velcro attachments are supposed to go around. Instructions would have been appreciated!

Those minor concerns kept me from giving 5 stars. This really is a superior stroller--especially at this great price.

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by A regular jogger : High quality at an affordable price--rides like a dream!

This stroller is, by far, my favorite piece of baby equipment that I own! I have a 10-week old daughter, and we have been jogging with this stroller almost every morning since she was 7 lbs. (I use a padded insert/headrest for her to lie in.) With the adjustable handlebar (essential for me, since I'm 5'0") and the front swivel wheel, this stroller is comfortable to use and can be easily steered with one hand while jogging, without losing any stability or control. I have never felt the need to lock the front wheel while jogging. The brake bar in quick to deploy and easy to use, and the basket underneath is roomy. I don't think the recline is too steep, but since my daughter is still so young I don't know how she will sit with the recline when she is bigger.

I have to disagree strongly with the reviewers who commented that the sunshade is large enough. In fact, the reason I am giving this stroller 4 stars instead of 5 is because the umbrella shade is fixed to the frame and isn't very large, so it doesn't shield very well if the sun isn't almost directly overhead. I almost always have to use clothespins to drape a towel over the front and sides of the stroller to block out the sun.

Overall though, this stroller is a fabulous buy and performs just as well as some of the high-end strollers, at less than half the price!

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by Lael : Great Stroller!

After reading about the drawbacks to this stroller, I was hesitant to order it without first testing it myself. I received it a few days ago and was pleasantly surprised. Many of the drawbacks listed in other comments were not that major.
1. Re: size of stroller when folded - My car is a 2000 Honda Accord, and the stoller fits fine in the trunk IF I TAKE OFF THE REAR WHEELS. The other jogging stroller model I considered also required removal of the rear wheels.
2. Re: stroller reclining too much - The angle of inclination can be adjusted by adjusting the straps at the back of the seat to almost any angle you want.
3. Re: difficulty of folding stoller - Yes, the stroller is hard to fold completely with only one hand, but it mostly folds by itself. I think most non-umbrella type strollers will require both hands to fold.

Overall, this is a great stroller. For traveling though, another stoller is definitely required.

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by D. Dacko "A Peg Perego Mom" : Good Jogger, Great Value

I bought this jogging stoller after reading all of the reviews. I was looking for something that I could take on a prairie path and off on a trail near our home. I have to say that there are so many Jogging strollers out there, and some of them priced very high. I knew that I didn't want to spend a great deal, but yet I didn't want to sacrifice comfort either by buying a cheap jogger. So here is my experience with this stroller, as well as my opinion on whether it has lived up to my expectations.
First off, putting it together was very simple. It didn't take much time at all, but as I will mention later, I was missing a part which was a little frustrating. I have been using it every morning for a mile moderate paced walk, with the swivel wheel engaged. It's great! I live on a street that is curvy and this stoller allows me to push it with ease around all the curves and bends. Unbelievably easy to control. I have also used it on the prairie path which has a white sand/pebble surface. It's great for that, too. When I know I will be jogging a straight path, I lock the front wheel so that I can have better control of the jogger. It has thus far been great with the swivel and in locked position. I am very happy I went with a jogger that has both options. I have also used the stroller at the mall and have appreciated the easily accessible basket under the stoller. It's very spacious and has come in handy. In addition, the swivel wheel is even great at the mall, as it has allowed me to manuever through the ailes pretty well. At times, however the size of the rear wheels have gotten caught on racks, but for the most part I really prefer it over my regular stroller at the mall. I think I've even begun to use it more.

A few very important notes about the stroller. When I received it, it did not come with the front fender. They forgot to include it in the package. I had to phone Instep (apparently they are associated with Schwinn) and jump through a few hoops to get one sent out to me. However, once I got a hold of a competent representative, she was very helpful and promptly sent out the missing item. I think I received it within two days. So that was fast. Next, I want to say that I purchased a few accessories which have made me like the product even more. I purchased the extra padding for the seat. I believe it is a must have. My 15 month old was obviously much happier once I added the padding. It does make a big difference in comfort, and to help him sit up a little more. Many will complain that the seat is a little too far back, and I would agree a little. But adding the padding made it better. My son does not complain much and actually falls asleep in the stroller during our morning walks. But as I said before, he definately liked being seated in the stroller much more after I added the extra padding which I think is around $15.00. I also purchased the electronic gizmo that tracks speed, distance, time, etc. I really like that, too, because it helps me keep track of my morning walks and my progress. It's a nice perk if you think you'll use it. I must add that it is a little tricky to install, and the instructions that come with the model that Instep sells are written poorly. Finally, the only thing that bugs me about the stroller that is the reason I gave it a 4 is that after it's folded (which is very simple to do) it is a bit awkward to put it in my trunk after it has been folded because it doesn't lock in the folded position. I think that would be a nice added feature. I can't tell you how many times I've lifted the thing up into my trunk only to have it open and clunk me in the head or pinch my hand. I just haven't figured out an easy way to keep it folded and pick it up for transport. That's just my experience with it though. So anyway, I really think that it's a great price, a good product, and it does live up to my expectations. It's not a fancy one, but it certainly performs for the casual jogger and everyday user. I'm very pleased with my decision to go with this jogger. Good luck!

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by pantherra : My baby likes it! What can be more important?

Hello, everyone!

When my son was 5.5 I started to shop for jogging stroller. My main wish was a jogger for both running and walking - so I considered swivel option will work better for me. After making 2 day research I marked 3 models: Schwinn Free Wheeler, BOB Revolution and Baby Jogger City Classic.
I've always thought the most expensive means the best but after reading people reviews I had to change my mind. In BOB most people complained about seat. When it is in the upright position it becomes too slouchy and uncomfortable for a kid, so that he or she doesn't want to sit there. In Baby Jogger latest reviews stated that jogger came with a manufacturing defect. When you lock the front wheel for running it goes left or right instead of forward. So now explain me why should I pay $400, and get all these problems?

Schwinn is not ideal too... There are few things I don't like about it:

1) doesn't have hand stop, only parking
2) The locker on front wheel to make it swivel or stationary is cheaply made (think they could make it better)
3) Safety belts' fabric is too rough compared to BOB
4) As many people wrote in folded position jogger can't be locked, so it's pretty tricky to put it into your car. I still didn't have a chance to try it. It stands in my garage.
5) Under seat storage is not made for putting heavy things in it (just in case if u plan to put big diaper bags there)

But all these cons seem minor to me and think I can live with them

Now good news:

1) Schwinn offers all the basics like parent console, child's tray, weather shield, bottom basket in one price. You buy a jogger and get it all included. Which can't be said about BOB or BJ where you have to buy all these accessories separately for pretty high prices.
2) Adjustable handle. By the way my personal advice is to put it in the lower position during running, to keep all strain away. Cuz first time I put it too high and then my wrists ached.
3) Sun visor is really big, and what I most like is that it fully closes the baby from wind. Remember when you run wind blows much stronger. First time I didn't pay much attention to that and my little one had runny nose. And again I'm so pleased that we have weather shield, which is connected with sun visor, and is kept inside it, as I live in Florida and rains start so unexpectedly here. With my previous stroller I was so scared to get into the rain, now I don't.
4) Schwinn jogger is so light, and easy to push.
5) Wheels are huge and have good suspension, so I don't care now if there are some bumps or terrain on my way. What is more: my baby sleeps in it every time I run which I think means that he likes it.
6) Seat is padded enough, and mesh lining provides good ventilation, besides I can see what my son is doing through it.
7) It fits our Honda Civic w/o taking the wheels off!!!

So taking into account all pros and cons I give it 4 stars, even 4.5. And if somebody would ask me if I can recommend it to a friend I'd definitely say: Yes!

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by mom of one boy "divergrrl" : Owned this stroller for a year

I have had this stroller for over a year and like it, but one thing keeps me from "loving" it...it is much heavier to push than the BOB jogger. That said, its a LOT cheaper than the BOB, so I guess the $$ you spend on the BOB goes to the lighter frame. (I pushed my friends & fell in love)

But here are the pros of this reasonable stroller: (my son is now 2 & 1/2 and is very tall, 85% for his age....skinny though...9%--just for your reference)

1) Air filled wheels (keeping them filled correctly makes for easier pushing)

2) Front - Swivel Wheel

3) Large storage basket

4) Decent canopy (better sun protection than many)

5) Good looking stroller, I get compliments all the time

6) Comfy for baby---has removable pad you can wash that is pillowy

7) Removable snack tray for child (but I found seat didn't come forward enough to make it very useful)

8) Easy to use foot brake

9) Wrist strap for safety.

10) Easy folding

I don't jog with my stroller, but I do a lot of walking with it. I recommend this stroller to anyone who needs an all terrain stroller on a budget. It really does offer quite the bang for the buck.

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by R. Commero : Very good jogger

I purchased this jogger a few months ago and now that the weather is warm I am really getting alot of use out of it and have some feedback to share.
The pros of this stroller are:

1. Large sunshade that can be adjusted very well to block the sun.
2. It seems to be very comfortable for my daughter, we started using it when she was 3 months old and she seemed very cozy and secure in it. My five year old, who is 38 lbs and 46 inches can also ride in it fairly comfortably when she is tired.
3. The seat adjusts from almost fully reclined to sitting.
4. You can actually store a decent amount of stuff in the basket.
5. The swivel wheel and large air filled tires make it a dream to push around and minimize bumps.
6. Very easy to engage and disengage the foot brake.
7. It has very nice parent and child trays that are removable.

Cons:
1. My less expensive, double jogger had a handbrake on the handle that could be used to slow the stoller on steep hills, this stroller does not have a brake. It only has a foot brake to use when you are completely stopped so the stroller doesn't roll away.
2. There is no mesh in the stoller to increase airflow and might get very hot in warm weather.
3. It folds easily, but there is no latch to keep it folded and it opens as you are trying to take it out of the car.
4. Even when folded, it will not fit in the cargo area of my Caravan unless I remove the wheels - it is rather bulky.

Overall, I am very happy with this purchase and I am sure we will get alot of use out of it. Luckily the trails we hike are mostly within walking distance from our home and we don't have to try to transport this stroller often.

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by J. Bronson : Everything you need at half the price

For those of you who want a great go anywhere stroller, but can't wrap your mind around paying $300-500 for a BOB Revolution - this is your stroller. It's easy to put together, has plenty of storage, easy to push, and most importantly to us, easy to steer. We had a fixed front wheel stroller before this one, and got fed up with constantly having to raise the front wheel to make a turn. Now with the swivel wheel, we feel comfortable taking it into the grocery store, which is very convenient!

Pros:
*Swivel wheel - unless you do a lot of distance running with your stroller a swivel front wheel is a must.
*Canopy - Provides good coverage, and can be detached at the top so it can pivot down in front of your child - important when walking towards the sunrise/sunset
*Storage - Huge bin below, zippered pocket behind child, parent tray, kid tray.
*Adjustable handle - I'm 6'2, wife is 5'2, works great for both of us.
*Kid tray - It's easily removed if your little one won't use it yet, but makes such a huge difference for our 2yo - sometimes we'll go for a walk, just so she'll eat something!
*Easy to assemble - You'll have it ready to use within 7 minutes of taking it out of the box. Also means it's easy to break down to pack for a trip or store.
*Weight - Lighter than most similar strollers at the same price range. Perhaps a touch heavier than the expensive strollers - but not much.

Cons
*Quality - If you can't afford a BOB Revolution or other high-end stroller, don't go try one - you will notice a difference. The Freewheeler lacks the polish of the BOB, and some of the features aren't as easy to use. That said, the Freewheeler will do everything the BOB does at half the price.
*Folding Mechanism - While it folds relatively easily in a single motion, you will probably struggle with it a little bit. With practice you will do fine - but if you plan to put the stroller in the back of your car more than once a day, you may want to think twice. It's just kinda klunky and awkward when compared to the $300 strollers.
*Seat angle - My kid is 2, and has no troubles - but if you have an infant you will have to improvise some padding to make your child comfortable.

I have no doubt that this is by far THE BEST jogger-stroller for the money. Now you just have to ask yourself: How much are you willing to pay for something better? Unless the answer is nearly double, I'd pick the Schwinn Freewheeler.

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by Karen Hill "khill29" : Great all-terrain stroller

I bought this stroller to replace my Graco Metrolite travelsystem after my baby outgrew his car seat and I decided I needed a stroller that could handle hikes on natural trails. I absolutely love it and have overcome the seat adjustment issue by removing the child tray. My son can see perfectly fine and in reality is not that reclined with the seat in the upper-most position. In fact he looks more nestled and secure, which I like given that we cover some bumpy terrain. Issues with the seat seeming too reclined may be exacerbated by the position of the child tray on the frame of the stroller and the angle of the frame itself. The tray sits pretty high on the frame (perhaps necessary for leg clearance) and could obstruct the childs view. As it is my son doesn't really need the tray. I just put his sippy cup and/or some snacks next to him in the seat and he just grabs what he wants.
All in all, I would agree with the other reviewers that - if it were perfect - the seat should come up a bit more and the shoulder straps should tighten more, but we have overcome these issues. I buckle him in with the shoulder straps tucked behind him. The other positives of the stroller outweigh these negatives:
It turns with the flick of a wrist; has a sturdy cross bar to place your foot for leverage to get over bumps and obstacles; has a large base storage compartment as well as a smaller zippered storage area behind the seat (perfect for a diaper pad, wipes and diapers); has an adjustable handle bar (husband is 6'3" and I am 5'7" and it works great for both of us); has relatively easy, compact folding (I have a Jetta and it fits in the trunk nicely); has a large sunshade; has a parent tray that works fine for us (I lay my water bottle sideways when jogging and when on flat terrain fountain drinks fit in the holder and don't spill); and lastly the front wheel swivels and locks if necessary.
I am an intermittent jogger and rarely lock the wheel. The wheel unlocked works great for us, even on rough terrain. I also use this stroller for mall shopping (haven't bought an umbrella stroller yet) and though the wheel base is slightly wider than typical we get around in stores just fine.
Highly recommended.

Schwinn Free Wheeler Jogging Stroller (Red/Black)
Review by K. Taylor : Overall, great stroller

Good

1. Smooth ride for my little one
2. Well made, good construction
3. Attractive
4. Light enough (as far as jogging strollers under $200 go)
5. Front and rear wheels locks quickly easily and securely
6. HUGE hood for shade

Bad

Folding / portability is HORRIBLE. If you have a small trunk you're counting on it fitting in, dont. It's very bulky, even "folded", if thats what you want to call it. I have a minivan with no 3rd row seat so I'll get by just fine. I just dread the day I HAVE to fit into my wife's Toyota Corolla =

Otherwise, its a great stroller!