With its multiple rearview mirrors, motorized axel and fold-out tent, Bruce Maynard’s solar powered stroller seems like baby gear on steroids — but 74 year old Bruce didn’t retro fit the motorized baby stroller dubbed ‘Sam’ for his grandchildren… he’s planning on using it himself to trek diagonally across America from Washington State to Key West, Florida.
So, why a stroller? “I wanted to take some creature comforts along,” says Bruce. “I didn’t want to carry them.” In the jogging model stroller, Bruce will carry a computer, cell phone, camping gear, food and water — or about the same amount of stuff parents cart around in strollers on a daily basis, sans the kid.
The solar panels power a motor that will help Bruce navigate steep terrain, and boat-hook poles will be used to construct a sturdy tent that will shelter both Bruce and ‘Sam.’ The trip, which is still in the planning stages, is set to begin in April.
via The News Tribune
I bet he makes it as far as Atlanta.
Go Bruce, Go “Sam” What an adventure/.
This man deserves an award, a Darwin Award! Frankly with this kind of thinking I don’t see how he’s made it to 74. Before starting his trip he might consider the safety aspects, so he isn’t run over by a car or truck. Speaking for myself, I feel his mode of travel is very dangerous when on highways, especially two lane rural roads. Strollers are safe enough on sidewalks where road traffic rarely ventures. Considering he will be traveling on roads for a few thousand miles, his slow speed is a hazard to himself and others traveling at much greater speeds. Wherever the road shoulder is to narrow or where none exist he will be using the road itself and he could cause an accident, like on a blind curve. There could be hundreds of places like this on his way. I’ll feel sorry not for him but for any driver who might kill this man, injure or be killed themselves because of his ill considered undertaking. I say it’s a stupid stunt. Boat hooks for tent poles???? Please!
He might be better of signing into a retirement home where he is less likely to hurt himself or anyone else.
Hi Bruce, it’s Vladimir again; we met on Friday in Seattle on your way to a camp , I am very impressed by the design of your “intelligent”: vehicle, I use a solar powered articulated quad (Vlad’s Quad @ U-tube), take care and good luck – safety is a serious issue – cheers V.C.Rylski
Hi Sam,
I am a friend and neighbor. She told me about you and your trip. I am proud of you for not sitting on your can in a rest home when you don’t need to. Save that for like 100 years or so. Good luck take care my prayers are with you.
Bunny