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The Bugaboo Donkey 5 is the latest iteration of this popular convertible pushchair from the iconic Dutch brand. Able to switch from single to double mode, it aims to provide flexibility for growing families. In our hands-on Bugaboo Donkey 5 review, we assess how this versatile stroller performs across key criteria.
Is the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Worth it?
The Donkey 5 has premium pricing but it's versatility, high quality materials and longevity across multiple children can make it worth it the cost.
The flexible expandable design from single to double mode, and superb all-terrain performance provide growing families with a sound long-term investment. For those seeking a stroller that can adapt as your family expands, the Donkey 5 delivers.
Quick Verdict
The Donkey 5 impressed us with its innovative expandable design and superb all-terrain capability. The redesigned chassis noticeably improved manoeuvrability compared to previous Donkey models. Larger foam-filled wheels absorbed shocks well and provided a smooth, stable ride.
We found the generous storage space to be a significant plus point. The huge under seat basket and side luggage basket offered ample room for all the essentials needed when out with kids.
Key Features:
- One-handed fold in seconds while holding baby
- Easy height-adjustable handlebar
- Generous sun canopy with flip-out eyeshade
- Smooth all-terrain ride with adjustable suspension
- Eco-friendly construction from recycled materials
- Backrest reclines flat for newborn naps on-the-go
- Premium, soft-touch fabrics in multiple colour options
What comes in Bugabo Donkey 5 travel system Bundle?
- Complete Donkey 5 chassis with handlebar, wheels and carry handle
- 1x Seat/carrycot frame
- 1x Seat fabrics with comfort harness
- 1x Carrycot fabric with mattress
- 1x Sun canopy
- 1x Raincover
- 1x Under seat basket
- 1x Side luggage basket
- 1x CYBEX Cloud T car seat
- 1x Optional base T
- 1x Bugaboo Donkey Mono Adapters
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 comes well equipped with everything needed to use it from newborn through the toddler years. The versatile bassinet and seat options, storage baskets, and CYBEX infant car seat integration deliver exceptional flexibility. Owners can customize their Donkey 5 further with additional accessories and color packs for personalization. With its quality construction and expansive included components, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 makes an excellent investment for growing families seeking longevity.
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How Does It Feel to Push?
Despite its robust construction, we were impressed by how easy and natural it felt to push the Donkey 5. The suspension and foam-filled tires meant it glided smoothly across most surfaces with minimal vibration.
Pushing the Donkey 5 feels responsive and steady thanks to the optimised pivot point and wide wheel base. The stroller tracks reliably even one-handed. We found steering required minimal effort whether winding through crowded city streets or trekking across a field.
The adjustable handlebar can extend up to 41.7 inches to suit parents of different heights. At its highest position, we had plenty of clearance from the rear axle. The textured leatherette grip also enhances comfort.
When loaded up in double mode, we could feel the increased weight. However, the Donkey 5 still pushed fluidly. The weight distribution helps it maintain composure through turns. Only steep inclines proved challenging, occasionally requiring an extra push.
But overall, we were impressed by how little effort was needed to propel this stroller, even fully loaded. The Donkey 5 combines a robust feel with refined handling. Once in motion, it maintains momentum well, making even long family outings manageable.
Design and Engineering
The Donkey 5 retains the sleek aesthetics Bugaboo is renowned for. The curved aluminum chassis provides a lightweight yet sturdy frame. Larger 12" rear wheels and 10" front wheels deliver superb all-terrain capability.
We were impressed by how smoothly the Donkey 5 handled uneven ground and trails. The advanced suspension system ensured a remarkably stable, comfortable journey for our kids whether navigating city streets or park paths.
Maneuverability
Despite its size, we found maneuvering the Donkey 5 surprisingly nimble thanks to the responsive wheels and pivoting front axle. The foam-filled tires absorbed shocks well, smoothing out kerbs and bumps.
One-handed steering was no problem, even when loaded with two kids. We did notice the weight more on hilly walks, occasionally needing an extra push. But overall, pushing the Donkey 5 felt easy across various urban and rural terrains.
Frame
The Donkey 5 has an aluminium frame with a sleek bio-based coating designed for durability and reduced environmental impact. We like how lightweight yet sturdy the frame feels. The newly curved chassis shape and optimised pivot point improve maneuverability compared to previous Donkey models.
Seating Options
The Donkey 5 offers both a bassinet and reversible toddler seat to accommodate children from newborn through the toddler years. We found both seating options felt sturdy and well-constructed from premium materials.
The spacious bassinet provides a comfortable enclosed sleeping space for babies up to 9kg. It features an aerated mattress and flip-down ventilation window to allow airflow on hot days, helping regulate temperature. The bassinet also collapses flat for travel and storage.
Once babies reach about 6 months, they can transition to the reversible toddler seat. This seat can hold up to an impressive 22kg, giving it longevity that could potentially last through multiple children.
We really appreciated the ability to have the seat face forwards or backwards. Having our toddler rear-facing allowed for great interaction, entertained by the ability to maintain eye contact. It also provides an alternative position to help relieve any potential discomfort for little ones.
The seat itself features thicker shoulder pads for comfort and a 5-point harness that's simple to buckle securely with one hand. The quick-release mechanism helped minimize fussing during transitions in and out of the stroller.
Both seating options feel thoughtfully designed with baby's comfort and parent's convenience in mind. We were impressed by the versatile configurations, spacious size, and high weight limits that give this stroller remarkable longevity.
What's the Storage like?
The Bugaboo donkey storage capacity is a major highlight. The underseat basket can hold a substantial 22kg while the side luggage basket adds even more room. We easily fit all our everyday essentials with space to spare. The higher position makes accessing the basket simpler.
The Carrycot
The included carrycot immediately impressed with both comfort and quality. With plush linings, it feels more like a deluxe crib than standard bassinet. Durably constructed, it provides ample room for newborns to stretch and move their arms.
Despite the sturdy build, it's not overly heavy or cumbersome to attach to the chassis. The handy memory buttons make switching between carrycot and seat quick and smooth. This bassinet lets infants rest in cushy comfort, whether snapped into the Donkey frame or used as a standalone sleeper. Its exceptional spaciousness and quality finishes explain its deluxe price point.
Safety Features
The Bugaboo Donkey 5 doesn't compromise on safety. It comes equipped with a 5-point harness system that ensures your child is securely seated. The harness is easily adjustable to fit your growing child, ensuring they're always snug and safe. Additionally, the stroller's brake system is robust and reliable, providing parents with peace of mind during strolls. The brake pedal is conveniently located and easy to engage, ensuring the stroller remains stationary when needed. Reflective accents on the stroller's design ensure visibility during evening walks, adding an extra layer of safety.
Moreover, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 offers adjustable canopy settings. The canopy can be extended to provide maximum coverage, protecting your child from harmful UV rays, rain, or wind. The peek-a-boo window on the canopy allows parents to keep an eye on their little one without disturbing them. This feature is particularly useful on sunny days or during nap times.
Customisation and Accessories
One of the standout features of the Bugaboo Donkey 5 is its customisation options. Parents can choose from a range of fabric colors and finishes to match their personal style. Here are some of the specific colour options available are Classic Black, Navy Blue, Soft Pink, Vibrant Red and Neutral Grey
In addition to the aesthetic customisation, the stroller is compatible with a range of Bugaboo accessories. From cup holders to footmuffs, parents can equip their stroller to suit their specific needs. The Bugaboo Donkey 5 also supports various car seat brands such as Cybex and Maxi-Cosi.
Is the Donkey 5 suitable for growing families?
With its flexible configurations, quality finishes and all-terrain performance, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 suits growing families seeking longevity. While expensive, it can potentially serve multiple children from newborn through toddler years, enhancing value. For parents needing a single stroller that can easily convert into a functional, durable double, the Donkey 5 delivers impressively.
Is the Bugaboo Donkey 5 easy to set up?
Constructing the chassis took mere minutes thanks to the intuitive click-together design but attaching the textile components like the seat fabric and canopy did involve a bit more effort. Overall the Bugabbo Donkey 5 took around 40 minutes to set up. The main difficulty was the the toddler seat canopy was particularly fiddly needing precision alignment of the segments.
The Donkey 5 arrived in pristine packaging, giving an immediate sense of luxury. We appreciated the included QR code linking to an assembly video, though found referring to the impressively detailed printed manual easier when the on-screen colours blended together.
While not the absolute quickest assembly, the process felt straightforward with the detailed instructions and modern touch of an assembly video. We never felt stalled or that excessive tools or strength were required. And seeing the stroller take shape certainly built eager anticipation to take it out on the road.
Is the Donkey 5 better than the Donkey 3?
The Donkey 5 incorporates smart upgrades on the Donkey 3 based on parent feedback. We especially appreciated enhancements on the like the redesigned one-handed folding mechanism.
By moving the fold buttons to the front of the handle rather than underside, the Donkey 5 collapses smoother and more intuitively. This improvement alone makes a daily difference when wrangling squirmy toddlers.
The ventilation flaps on the new breezy bassinet also impressed us. With mesh windows that can open for added airflow, they help regulate temperature on hot summer walks. Donkey engineers cleverly designed magnet closures that keep the bassinet snuggly when needed.
Raising both the main seat and side luggage basket higher also proved more convenient for accessing stored items and interacting with baby. And the Donkey 5 simply looks sleeker with its four fresh colour options and soft-touch fabrics.
From folding to temperature control, it's clear Bugaboo refined this stroller with family needs in mind. The thoughtful upgrades enhance both form and function.
How does the Bugaboo Donkey 5 compare to the Bugaboo Fox 5?
The key distinction is that the Donkey 5 converts from a single to double stroller, while the Bugaboo Fox 5 is a single only. The Donkey 5's expansive design adapts as your family grows, making it wider but able to accommodate two children side-by-side. This flexibility and larger size give it better all-terrain capabilities. The Donkey 5 handles rough terrain smoothly thanks to 12” rear and 10” front wheels. It also boasts massive storage space, with two 22kg baskets. Easy one-handed folding and abundant accessories let you customise the Donkey 5. The Fox 5 single stroller suits families with just one child needing a more compact, sleeker design. Its slimmer profile nimbly navigates urban environments.
In summary, the Donkey 5 is ideal if you may need a double stroller down the road or regularly tackle varied terrain. Its versatile expansions and rugged performance maximise utility for growing families. The sleek Fox 5 suits those needing just a single stroller.
How wide is the Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo?
The Donkey 5 Duo is 74cm (29 inches) wide, designed to maneuver through standard doorways in double mode. The Mono is 60cm (23.6 inches) wide. Measure your doors to ensure a comfy fit.
Is the Bugaboo Donkey 5 suitable for newborns?
Yes, the spacious bassinet provides a safe enclosed sleep space for newborns. The flat, firm mattress and breathable design keep babies comfy. Car seats can also attach to the chassis.
What is the weight limit on the Bugaboo Donkey 5 seats?
Each seat can accommodate up to 22kg (48.5lbs), giving the Donkey 5 exceptional longevity that could last through preschool age with proper care.
| Bugaboo Donkey 5 Specs | |
|---|---|
| Type: | Convertible stroller |
| Expansions: | Single → Duo → Twin |
| Width: |
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| Weight: |
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| Fold Size: |
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| Seat Positions: | Forward and Parent-facing |
| Seat Weight Limit: | 22kg (48.5lbs) each |
| Age Range: | 0-4 years |
| Wheels: |
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| Tires: | Foam-filled, puncture-proof |
| Folding: | One-handed |
| Basket Capacity: |
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| Accessories: | Carrycot, car seat adaptors, cup holder, ride-on board, etc. |
Gemma Woolich
Gemma Woolich
