Burley D’Lite Review

Burley D’Lite Review

We reviewed the Burley D’Lite back in 2015, but some major updates have meant that a new review is due! I was thrilled to get my hands on one (thanks, Burley!) to share with you about what we love about this updated trailer.

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Quick breakdown of the updates to the Burley D’Lite

• Reclining Seats
• Improved attachment of the cover
• Included single strolling wheel which makes a transition from biking to strolling super easy

For this review, we also were testing their new 16+ wheel kit, which is for sand, gravel and snow. Note as you look through the photos that this is an add-on and those wheels are not included in the base price.

The Burley D’Lite is Burley‘s higher-end all-in-one stroller/trailer, topped only by the Burley D’Lite X (which allows the seats to recline independently).

It is incredibly light, comfortable to push/pull AND ride in, and is a fantastic all-around stroller. While we have yet to use this particular model in the snow, our previous review tells about the skiing attachment (which we love and use often).

The D’Lite also has the option to remove the seat (by unclipping the buckles) and change it into a cargo trailer – this prolongs the usage of the trailer considerably. We have also used the older model for bikepacking and ski trips – it holds an incredible amount of gear with those seats removed!

With an baby snuggler, you can use the trailer with babies as young as ~ 5 months old (we started at 4 months) and our 6 year old still fits in just fine.

NOTE: I will say that I do prefer Thule’s version of an infant sling – it breathes better (the Burley one gets hot) and you can literally use it as a newborn while carefully strolling. Hoping this is an update Burley will make soon!

What We LOVE about the Burley D’Lite

Reclining Seats

This was a big one for me for many years that I wished Burley would change. As always, they listened to their customers and made it available in the newest models. On the D’Lite, both seats reclining as one unit (opposed to the D’Lite X with individually reclining seats).

The seat has the option to be in three different positions: upright, slightly reclined and all the way reclined. It’s very easy to move between the different positions, and I often even do it while my kids are sleeping.

Two things to note, however. One is that the recline isn’t really super far back. It’s pretty standard for every other similar trailer, but we still get necks bobbing forward.

Secondly, when the seat is in a reclined position, access to the storage is more limited.

Included One Stroller Wheel

This is my favorite option for any multifunctional stroller/trailer we have used and tested. Usually to do any type of switch between bike and strolling, you have to completely change out the accessories. On this one, you literally just pull out the wheel from the bike attachment handle and voila! You’re strolling! You can also shorten the “arm” for strolling, but it works fine either way.

I use it daily on bumpy, dirt roads and it has been totally fine. In fact, unless you’re truly jogging, this is all you need.

Integrated Cover/shade

I love this about the Burley model – everything is together, I can’t lose any pieces and it works well. The shade slides up or down, the zippers are fantastic and the weather cover stays rolled up when not in use.

Fully Adjustable Handlebar

Again, I love the versatility of this ….works for all heights, including kids who insist on helping push!

Note, there is some adjustment that has to happen to tighten the handlebar when you first receive it. This article will help you fix it!

Super lightweight

I love this about the D’Lite – it weighs less than 30 pounds and has a max capacity of 100 pounds. This means it weighs less than both the Thule Cross and Hamax Outback. Perfect if you’re moving it in and out of the car/storage.

Burley D’Lite Seat Padding

I am a huge fan of Burley’s Premium Seat Pads which include a headrest for added comfort, and are removable for easy cleaning. It’s easy to find the buckles, buckle the buckles and adjust the straps for different needs based on switching riders or less/more clothing.

What we aren’t so crazy about the Burley D’lite

Ventilation

Due to the fact that there is no way to completely open the window (though there is a vent in it) at the back, air ventilation can get tricky. You can lift up the back flap, but there isn’t a way to secure it (next update, Burley??)

NOTE: The D’Lite X DOES have the ability to roll up and secure the back window.

On really warm days, we pack ice packs behind their backs, have them wear minimal clothing and check often.

That said, it makes a great little cocoon for riding/strolling in inclimate weather, which we have more of here than hot days.

Burley D’Lite Optional Attachments

Jogging wheel conversion kit

From team member, Jami:

Instead of purchasing a double jogging stroller, we opted for the jogging wheel attachment for our Burley.  We knew the days of pushing two while running were numbered and this was a more affordable way to get more life out of the Burley trailer we already own.

We use our jogging wheel primarily for our long family runs when we don’t think our oldest will be able to bike the whole time. The weather shield keeps the girls nice and toasty as the temps drop too.

Note: If you have uneven weight on the inside (ie a 40lb kid and a 20lb kid), it can take a little time to dial in the adjustment so it isn’t pulling hard. Plan ahead and test it out before you start your run, otherwise you will be stopping every .1 miles to make an adjustment until you get it right!

Try these tips to get a straight, smooth ride:

1. Make sure all three tires are pumped up to the recommended PSI
2. Make sure your wheel is seated and installed properly
3. To start, make sure the wheel alignment knobs are all the way IN.
4. Take it for a test spin and make minor adjustments with the alignment knobs if needed

Ski attachment

We use the ski attachment a few times a week at least for nordic skiing. Burley had some issues with their attachment a few years ago, but they have made some updates and it works very well now.

The skis are high quality and lightweight. The waistband is comfortable (not it is unattached in the photo below) and it’s easy to pull for nordic skiing.

While it can be used for skate skiing, and is a great option, pulling anything while skate skiing makes that aerobic sport even more of a challenge.

Burley D’Lite: The bottom line

The Burley D’Lite is a fantastic all-in-one stroller, bike trailer, & jogger. While we haven’t tried this model in the snow yet, we are confident it will perform as well or better than the older model we love.

It is super light (making it easy to throw in the back of a car) & adjustable. We just wish it had better ventilation for super hot days!

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