I got my radian xt!!!! [Archive] - Car Seat.Org - Carseat, Vehicle & Child Passenger Safety Forums

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 07:09 PM

It was waiting for me when I got home!

I've had a whole 5 minutes to play with it, and thought I would post to see if anyone has any questions I might be able to answer!

Defrost will be over when she gets off of work to take some pictures (my good camera doesn't work for close-ups, and my cell camera takes crappy pics).

YAY!

So far I LOVE IT, and so does DS!

*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*

01-13-2009, 07:15 PM

OMG! I can't wait to see it. I really need a radian and keep debating between this and the 65. I have had the 65 before and hate the lack of SIP.

Can't wait to see pics! Congrats on your new seat.

njkj

01-13-2009, 07:26 PM

I can not wait to see pics!!!!!!! I have been waiting for someone to get theirs so I can determne if it is the seat DS will get for DH's Ranger :)

BW1426

01-13-2009, 07:49 PM

What time does Defrost get off work? I NEEEEED TO KNOW!!

:p

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 07:52 PM

Let us know if the new foot design makes it more possible to install more upright.

and uhhh how does the headrest go up and down?

And when is Defrost coming over?!?!?!?

LOL. I want my seat!

jdchic3

01-13-2009, 07:58 PM

On top of the other things I'd like to know how the ease of install compares to the 65 and 80.

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 08:05 PM

Let us know if the new foot design makes it more possible to install more upright.

and uhhh how does the headrest go up and down?

And when is Defrost coming over?!?!?!?

LOL. I want my seat!

Debbie delivers pizza and she gets off usually between 7 & 9 Mountain Time...

You reach in, through the cover and push it up and down - it's VERY easy - think Evenflo Triumph Advanced or how the Safeguard Child Seat and Frontier adjust SO EASY, and through the front.

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 08:06 PM

The install questions are going to take some time.

Debbie will have her Mazda 5 with her, but I don't know if we can try to install in it tonight or not - it's cold out there, and I am a single mama, so I need to make sure my kids are in a good mood and not fighting if I want to play in the driveway with Debbie.

The Radian has been incompatible rear facing in my center 3rd row, so we can try that to see if the new boot is helpful there.

stayinhomewithmy4

01-13-2009, 08:21 PM

Yay! I'm so happy for you! :) We can't wait to get ours, but we're waiting on the Malibu, which I've been told won't be out until Feb. :rolleyes: What color did you get?

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 08:23 PM

Hampton.

I requested "Rio or Hampton" because I really wanted the SuperCool cover!

NannyMom

01-13-2009, 08:25 PM

I can't wait to see pics and hear how it turns out!!

I wish my boss would just give me the money to place our order... I want one too!!

thepeach80

01-13-2009, 08:30 PM

I'm so excited! Just waiting on W2s so I can get tax $$$$. :)

BeckC

01-13-2009, 08:33 PM

Ooh I get so excited to see pics of new seats!

I'm anxious to see if the SIP causes head slump like it looks like it might. When we finally get to buy a carseat it's between the TF and the XT (assuming no issues and it fits in my car).

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 08:43 PM

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 08:43 PM

I want to see how the headrest adjusts and is held in place.

I want to see the difference between the new and old chest clip.

I want to see measurements of the slot heights.

I want to know what all was changed visibly.

and lots of pics with kids in it!!

Mommyto2

01-13-2009, 08:46 PM

I can't wait to see pics.!!

Pixels

01-13-2009, 08:56 PM

I want to know how low the headwings go.

MustangMama

01-13-2009, 08:59 PM

BABYGIRLLYNDSEY

01-13-2009, 09:00 PM

Ummmm, patiently waiting for photos. ;)

Oh, and do the wings push the head forward like the Britax Boulevard seats?

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 09:09 PM

This has nothing to do with your quote but did you used to get your kiddos pictures taken at Lifetouch/JCPenney's?

They look like some kids we had up in our studio a couple years ago??

Yes, Penny's :) My kids were chosen as model's with this picture series :)
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/sibling3w4d-1.jpg

MustangMama

01-13-2009, 09:36 PM

That's what I thought! Was there a recent one where they were wearing red? I think I might have seen that one somewhere as well.

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 09:59 PM

impatiently waiting for pictures

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 10:07 PM

That's what I thought! Was there a recent one where they were wearing red? I think I might have seen that one somewhere as well.

LOL, YES!

I don't have the color copy scanned, but in this, the flowers on dd's shirt are pink and red, and ds's shirt is red under his overalls.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/1evanlexaug06.jpg

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 10:09 PM

DEBBIE JUST GOT HERE!!!

Give us a bit!

wendytthomas

01-13-2009, 10:25 PM

Have fun guys!!! I'm very envious.

HURRY!

Wendy

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 10:31 PM

Aww Man. I was gonna go to sleep. How can I sleep knowing it will be soon though???

Off to find a snack to keep me awake!

MustangMama

01-13-2009, 10:36 PM

Yeah I knew I saw those faces somewhere!

That's crazy I recognized them, LOL!

Your kiddos are cute!

tanyaandallie

01-13-2009, 10:46 PM

Can't wait to see pics!

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 10:58 PM

waiting to go to bed until I see the pics.

BW1426

01-13-2009, 11:01 PM

waiting to go to bed until I see the pics.

:yeahthat:

:p

pathetic, I know.

OwensMama

01-13-2009, 11:02 PM

waiting to go to bed until I see the pics.

Me too! Cant wait to see them. I really want an XT... I think. :)

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:14 PM

Debbie is taking a few more pics but...

The boot is in a different position, but it still forces the 45 degree recline. The boot is shaped differently too, but we knew that.

The wings don't go nearly as low as I (we) was hoping. It can't go lower because that's where the tether is attached to the shell of the seat which blocks the wings from going down further.

The top slots are 17" and when I first measured I got 16, we had to rethread the harness, push the wings all the way up and adjust the cover to get to 17 inches - I think the memory foam takes a bit of height away.

Patience please, pictures are uploading!

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:14 PM

Me too! Cant wait to see them. I really want an XT... I think. :)

I am just always eager to see pics IRL of new seats!

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:17 PM

Hmmm, this seat fits newborns so well, I wonder what you are supposed to do if the wings down go down low enough? So much for SIP lol.

I am very eager to see how that new chest clip is on a newborn. On Holly's daughter who is much older and bigger it seemed huge. I couldn't imagine it on a newborn. The straps seem like they'd fall right off her shoulder

ETA: Ohhh I wanna see head slump too! I can handle GN slump, but not old BLVD slump, KWIM? A pic with a kid in it would be peachy!

elle7715

01-13-2009, 11:18 PM

The wings don't go nearly as low as I (we) was hoping. It can't go lower because that's where the tether is attached to the shell of the seat which blocks the wings from going down further.

That's what I was worried about...I haven't seen any pictures with the headrest in the lowest position. Thank you for doing this!

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:19 PM

wouldn't a child not have the risk of the head not being contained as much just by being rf, though??

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:21 PM

It DOES install upright easier rear facing! It also fits well between the LATCH anchors!

stayinhomewithmy4

01-13-2009, 11:25 PM

:D:D:D I'm so excited to see pictures!

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:25 PM

YAY!! (note to self... go tell dh that he needs to get us to where we can afford another baby NOW... cause I have the seat picked out!)

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:29 PM

Photobucket won't rotate pics for me tonight sorry!

I'll fix them and upload again, but I didn't want to keep making you all wait!

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2640.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2630.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2631.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2633.jpg

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:32 PM

The head slump factor doesn't look too horrible :)

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:32 PM

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2635.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2636.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2638.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2634.jpg

Blondie87

01-13-2009, 11:33 PM

Nice! The wings are bigger then I imagined! :thumbsup:

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:33 PM

THIS is why the wings can't go lower
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2644.jpg

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:34 PM

You really just push them up and down :)

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2641.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2642.jpg

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:34 PM

Uploading more!

crunchierthanthou

01-13-2009, 11:36 PM

which set of slots is he on? I think he's pretty much the same size as my ds.

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:37 PM

Uhh that's as low as they go? That's not very low.... Would it even be around the head of an infant (not even a newborn?)

wendytthomas

01-13-2009, 11:38 PM

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:39 PM

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:40 PM

More upright
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2651.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2647.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2646.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2645.jpg

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:41 PM

I love how upright it can go... my dh's car and the third row middle seat of my van would love this seat for a rearfacing child.

Uhh that's as low as they go? That's not very low.... Would it even be around the head of an infant (not even a newborn?)

it comes with matching comfy-soft (well, that's what was shown on carseatblog) for newborns, though

OMG this is carseat p*rn!!!! I swear I'm sitting here moaning.

If that recline angle wasn't so obnoxious and the headwings went down lower I think I'd really be in love.

The bottom doesn't fold up into the wings at all, does it? How flat can it get down with those sticking out? Can I put in a request (when you have it out) of a picture of it folded, please?

Wendy

I think that's another reason they don't go lower... I bet when it's folded, they don't want the bottom hitting the wings.

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:42 PM

so even if you put the straps lower, you can't move the headrest lower than that??

ah, well, from the looks of the lowest position, it seems they are intended only for forward facing kids, which is when the kid really needs them.

But not when you have a RFing kiddo who needs them to sleep and that's the reason you bought it!!!!!! Wahhhh (i would have bought a 65 if I had known that! (and we did the comfy soft. It was the biggest waste of money. It did NOTHING for us. Just got in the way and never laid flat) We NEED a seat with head wings. GRRR

Can you tell us what set of slots the headrest goes down to? I'm totally bummed. And how weird is the seat gonna look if they are way above your kids head for no reason. Just something to get in the way. Or if they are only half covering their head.

Unless they come off......

elle7715

01-13-2009, 11:43 PM

Uhh that's as low as they go? That's not very low.... Would it even be around the head of an infant (not even a newborn?)

I know, now I'm glad I ended up ordering an 80 on sale. From the stock photos it didn't look like it could go very far down because the cover only had those short slits...but I was hoping for velcro openings or something for it to go farther down. It does look like a great option for older kids whose heads aren't getting much protection in a regular Radian though.

oxeye

01-13-2009, 11:44 PM

So excited to get mine!!! I think it is going to be perfect in DH's car for the girls once DS is here.

Thanks so much for posting pics. :)

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:47 PM

But not when you have a RFing kiddo who needs them to sleep and that's the reason you bought it!!!!!! Wahhhh (i would have bought a 65 if I had known that! (and we did the comfy soft. It was the biggest waste of money. It did NOTHING for us. Just got in the way and never laid flat) We NEED a seat with head wings. GRRR

Can you tell us what set of slots the headrest goes down to? I'm totally bummed. And how weird is the seat gonna look if they are way above your kids head for no reason. Just something to get in the way. Or if they are only half covering their head.

Unless they come off......

very true... I think they need to get past the folding carseat as a selling point and make one that doesn't fold so the wings can go lower.

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:47 PM

so even if you put the straps lower, you can't move the headrest lower than that??

ah, well, from the looks of the lowest position, it seems they are intended only for forward facing kids, which is when the kid really needs them.

Except that 90% of America turns FFing at a year so the child would still be well below those wings. I just want to know what in the world you are supposed to do with them if your kid is too little? Just let them sit there 6 inches above your kids head? I can't figure out why they'd only put on wings for older taller kids, but not the most vulnerable younger shorter crowd. Just doesn't seem well planned out (like some of the other stuff they've done to their seats)

Sorry I'm venting on you. LOL. I'm mad though. The wings seem like a pointless idea

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:48 PM

very true... I think they need to get past the folding carseat as a selling point and make one that doesn't fold so the wings can go lower.

Great idea. Make the 65/80 fold for travel, but the XT just be a normal non folding seat. Seriously...how many people fold it? I know some do, but the majority don't

Gypsy

01-13-2009, 11:49 PM

Debbie already went home, more pics will have to wait until tomorrow, but please keep posting requests.

Last batch of pics uploading right now.

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:51 PM

Except that 90% of America turns FFing at a year so the child would still be well below those wings. I just want to know what in the world you are supposed to do with them if your kid is too little? Just let them sit there 6 inches above your kids head? I can't figure out why they'd only put on wings for older taller kids, but not the most vulnerable younger shorter crowd. Just doesn't seem well planned out (like some of the other stuff they've done to their seats)

Sorry I'm venting on you. LOL. I'm mad though. The wings seem like a pointless idea

not to worry... I take it as rage on sunshine kids... not on me... and I like the point of the masses.

I hope they would mind it and call and get told that they should then leave baby rearfacing until 35lbs because rearfacing offers the most side protection.

On the other hand, we then have kids like your oldest who are petite and would be rearfacing longer than their younger siblings, which isn't always EMOTIONALLY a good idea.

Have people write sunshine kids and complain about it and hope they redesign for next year, which won't help us now but would help long term and keep recommending the Signo or boulevard in those cases?

Kat_Momof3

01-13-2009, 11:52 PM

Debbie already went home, more pics will have to wait until tomorrow, but please keep posting requests.

Last batch of pics uploading right now.

did it come with the matching comfy-soft we saw in the photos from abc??

fyrfightermomma

01-13-2009, 11:53 PM

not to worry... I take it as rage on sunshine kids... not on me... and I like the point of the masses.

I hope they would mind it and call and get told that they should then leave baby rearfacing until 35lbs because rearfacing offers the most side protection.

On the other hand, we then have kids like your oldest who are petite and would be rearfacing longer than their younger siblings, which isn't always EMOTIONALLY a good idea.

Have people write sunshine kids and complain about it and hope they redesign for next year, which won't help us now but would help long term and keep recommending the Signo or boulevard in those cases?

I even wonder if my scrawny short 3.5 year old would even be tall enough FFing or my chunk 1 year old who will be FFing shortly. She isn't very tall. Will she be tall enough, KWIM?

Glad I got shipping insurance if it doesn't work though. Then I'll just get a 65/80 with the new base and go from there!

And yes...I am venting on SK hehe :)

Kat_Momof3

01-14-2009, 12:01 AM

well, hopefully she'll be like my chunk, Jeffrey... he was 30lbs at 12mo... but then not 35lbs until 2.5yrs old....and I could see her holding off that long.

Defrost

01-14-2009, 12:05 AM

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2636.jpg

Sorry to quote a pic, but I needed an example. See this pic? See how the boot is back farther? That is why it's easier to install upright. You know how with the MA we always say to pull it back from the bight, but with the Radian 65/80 you couldn't do that? Well, now you can. :thumbsup:

I honestly don't think I've ever seen a RF Radian as upright as I got this one, and it was quite easy.

And I have to add that I'm just silly. I had SO MUCH FUN tonight! When Gypsy called and said she'd got it, my heart actually started pounding. I could not wait to get off work and go see it. :D

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:06 AM

The head slump factor doesn't look too horrible :)

It's really not bad - it's better than the Nautilus or Boulevard.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:06 AM

Nice! The wings are bigger then I imagined! :thumbsup:

I LOVE the wings!

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:07 AM

which set of slots is he on? I think he's pretty much the same size as my ds.

2nd from the top, with a little grow room.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:09 AM

Uhh that's as low as they go? That's not very low.... Would it even be around the head of an infant (not even a newborn?)

No, I have some pictures - still uploading though.

stayinhomewithmy4

01-14-2009, 12:10 AM

And I have to add that I'm just silly. I had SO MUCH FUN tonight! When Gypsy called and said she'd got it, my heart actually started pounding. I could not wait to get off work and go see it. :D

You think that's silly? My heart is pounding over the pictures! The suspense while waiting for them to be uploaded was incredible! I can't even imagine what I'd do if I got to see it IRL!

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:11 AM

OMG this is carseat p*rn!!!! I swear I'm sitting here moaning.

If that recline angle wasn't so obnoxious and the headwings went down lower I think I'd really be in love.

The bottom doesn't fold up into the wings at all, does it? How flat can it get down with those sticking out? Can I put in a request (when you have it out) of a picture of it folded, please?

Wendy

I was so excited when I got home and saw that box! I had no idea it was coming today!

I haven't folded it yet, I'll play with it more when I get all the pics uploaded and posted :) Debbie will be here tomorrow, we can get folded pics then :)

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:12 AM

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:15 AM

Foot down - looks identical in Defrost's and my opinions to the Radian 80 she has

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2601.jpg

BW1426

01-14-2009, 12:17 AM

Oh man, I need one. It's a need.

Thanks for posting :love:

Defrost

01-14-2009, 12:18 AM

Foot down - looks identical in Defrost's and my opinions to the Radian 80 she has

Oh, but it is reinforced, so I think it would be less likely to crack. Same functionality and "height," though.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:19 AM

But not when you have a RFing kiddo who needs them to sleep and that's the reason you bought it!!!!!! Wahhhh (i would have bought a 65 if I had known that! (and we did the comfy soft. It was the biggest waste of money. It did NOTHING for us. Just got in the way and never laid flat) We NEED a seat with head wings. GRRR

Can you tell us what set of slots the headrest goes down to? I'm totally bummed. And how weird is the seat gonna look if they are way above your kids head for no reason. Just something to get in the way. Or if they are only half covering their head.

Unless they come off......

The wings don't come off.

The wings go down to the 2nd from the top slots, so a child using it with the center slots (there are 5 slots) would be able to comfortably rest their head on the wings - POSSIBLY also the 2nd from the bottom, and we will try to get pics of that tomorrow.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:23 AM

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2606.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2607.jpg

Judi

01-14-2009, 12:23 AM

Very cool! And to think, I was going to post about the cool purple companion I installed. Yep, you got me beat, big time.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:24 AM

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2609.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2610.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2612.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2608.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:25 AM

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2613.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2616.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2618.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2619.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:25 AM

13"???

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2620.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2621.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2622.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2623.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:29 AM

While she TECHNICALLY fits, she is not even close to comfortable - her shoulders are about an inch over the top slots, and she is wedged in that seat - she can't scoot all the way back because the seat is so narrow, and she is THIN and TALL!

52.5 inches and 65 pounds (I need to update signature), she has a 19.5 inch torso and would be WAY over if she could scoot back.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2625.jpg

Pushing her shoulders WAY down just to get a picture of the slots

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2626.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:32 AM

All the way up
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2628.jpg

Adjusted for him
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2630.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:33 AM

That's all the pics for today!

More to come tomorrow!!!

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 12:36 AM

And I have to add that I'm just silly. I had SO MUCH FUN tonight! When Gypsy called and said she'd got it, my heart actually started pounding. I could not wait to get off work and go see it. :D

I knew you would be as excited as I was, that's why I called you as I was pulling into my garage before I even got me or the kids out or touched the box LOL!!! :love:

*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*

01-14-2009, 07:46 AM

Thank you so much for posting these pics! :-) Your kids are too cute too.

So, it is easier to install then the radian 65/80? I am thinking I could get this RF in my van in the 3rd row if I had too?

I love the wings, stinks it doesn't go lower.

Defrost

01-14-2009, 08:12 AM

So, it is easier to install then the radian 65/80? I am thinking I could get this RF in my van in the 3rd row if I had too?

No, all we know so far is that it was easier to install upright for older RF babies.

The only install we did was RF in my 2nd row with LATCH, which has always been a breeze anyway.

The FF beltpath and RF beltpath appear identical to the 65/80, and I don't anticipate there being much difference in any installs. I was quite shocked when I got it upright, even, because the only noticeable difference in the boot is the width.

ETA: I mean to add, I think any RF install that was incompatible because there was plastic that the boot wound up sitting on might now be possible. That's why we measured the width of the boot, because it might fit between the plastic in some vehicles now.

*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*

01-14-2009, 08:27 AM

Thank you. I think I would need it more for FF though. :-( Darn. I was hoping for an easier install and was willing to pay $$$ as I take my seats in and out alot for my daycare kiddos.

thepeach80

01-14-2009, 08:41 AM

I LOVE it! It'll be perfect for Evan. He's going to use it ffing anyways. He was NOT happy your pics were of the grey one, lol, he said 'but I wanted red'! ;) That baby looks good though. Ilana fit well in our old 65 at 8#, I can't wait to try Olivia in this one. Now come on W2s! I was hoping they'd have upped the slots, but that's o.k. AJ's not 17" yet, 16" probably, but it should get him through just the year or so he needs it. I think I'm just getting him a normal 65 though.

NannyMom

01-14-2009, 08:57 AM

Thanks for all the pics! I hope we order the XT not the 80! I can't wait to play with it :) So it's the new boot that helps it install more upright, not the seat itself, right?

hehe, I might be able to get this in my mom's car! :D

*I'm trying to convince myself I need to save my money to pay my taxes.... I don't need another seat.....*

Kat_Momof3

01-14-2009, 09:11 AM

my only dissappointment, aside from the wings not going lower, which isn't a HUGE one, since most kids shouldn't be ff until then and rf kids don't have the problems of head containment in side crashes that ff kids do, is the top slots being shorter.

One thing I love/loved about the Radian 65 (have never tried out the 80 to know if it measures the same) were the 18" top slots. I know they say you can use them after the shoulders go past, but by the time my kids reach the top slots, it seems that is when they are getting to where they need a wider seat.

Plus, I think the consensus is to avoid doing that anyway.

with 17" top slots, Ruthie would have outgrown it around the same time as the Marathon... though it sitting more upright could help.

I don't know if it's the extra padding or the wings, though.

if it is the added padding of the foam, could we remove it when needed??

*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*

01-14-2009, 09:46 AM

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 10:26 AM

One thing I love/loved about the Radian 65 (have never tried out the 80 to know if it measures the same) were the 18" top slots.

if it is the added padding of the foam, could we remove it when needed??

This is something that has always (pleasantly) confused me about the Radian. My ds has a 16.5 inch torso, but we measured how much room he had until the top slots and he has 3 3/4 inches until he reaches the top slots.

That math doesn't add up!

Yes, the memory foam can be removed.

ketchupqueen

01-14-2009, 10:52 AM

I have Radian 65s and an 80. They ALL have 17-ish (not a perfect 17, but close) inch top slots. However, you are allowed to use the seat after the slots are passed if the ears are still below the shell, so...

2mykids

01-14-2009, 11:29 AM

Does the XT base fit on the regular RN? I wonder if SSK will approve using the new base on the older models, that would be awesome, we could all have more upright RNs.

Thanks for sharing all this!!

Kat_Momof3

01-14-2009, 11:53 AM

I forgot that the radian65 has 18 inch slots and then if this only has 17 inches, this seat is out for me seeing I want to harness Logan for a LONG time. ;-)

Look at the post below yours, though... the memory foam can be pulled out... that may/should fix the problem.

This is something that has always (pleasantly) confused me about the Radian. My ds has a 16.5 inch torso, but we measured how much room he had until the top slots and he has 3 3/4 inches until he reaches the top slots.

That math doesn't add up!

Yes, the memory foam can be removed.

sounds like a good heavy toddler will compress that foam well enough!! And I admit to also sharing the same love of the "magic slots" of the Radian... they seem to magically grow or shrink (top grow bottom shrink) to suit.

Does the XT base fit on the regular RN? I wonder if SSK will approve using the new base on the older models, that would be awesome, we could all have more upright RNs.

Thanks for sharing all this!!

I'm emailing Russ on that issue NOW.

Gypsy - could you compare the new tether to the old tether?? Did they change anything to make it easier for routing the tether in small cars when the seat is ff??

Defrost

01-14-2009, 12:20 PM

The tether appears to be in the same location, though we didn't play with it much. My Radian 80 is out on loan, so we can't compare them side-by-side, unfortunately.

As for the top slot height, they are definitely "magical." Alexia (Lisa's DD, the one in the pics) was even with the top slots in my DD's Husky last time she was in it, and that was months ago. I was shocked that she wasn't all that much over the top slots in the XT. Still over, yes, but I expected her to be around two inches over, and it was more like an inch.

As for using the new boot on the old Radian, I'm not sure... it's hard to say without having both in front of me, but if I had to guess I'd say they aren't compatible.

Pixels

01-14-2009, 12:54 PM

I had a new Radian and an old Radian. I was able to put the new foot on the old Radian, but not the old foot on the new Radian. The new Radian has anti-skid strips on the bottom, and the foot has cutout channels to allow for the strips. The old foot does not have those cutouts, which is why it wouldn't go on the new Radian.

Here is the thread with pics:
http://car-seat.org/showthread.php?p=673747#post673747
For some reason I can't see the pics in the thread right now but hopefully it's just me :shrug-shoulders:

I'd definitely ask SK before actually using it that way (new base on old Radian).

2mykids

01-14-2009, 12:56 PM

I had a new Radian and an old Radian. I was able to put the new foot on the old Radian, but not the old foot on the new Radian. The new Radian has anti-skid strips on the bottom, and the foot has cutout channels to allow for the strips. The old foot does not have those cutouts, which is why it wouldn't go on the new Radian.

Here is the thread with pics:
http://car-seat.org/showthread.php?p=673747#post673747

I'd definitely ask SK before actually using it that way (new base on old Radian).

I seriously doubt they would have thought to crash test it that way. If they did, I would be head over heels!!! But I doubt it. It is just an idea I think would be really helpful to a lot of people.

crunchierthanthou

01-14-2009, 12:57 PM

As for the top slot height, they are definitely "magical." Alexia (Lisa's DD, the one in the pics) was even with the top slots in my DD's Husky last time she was in it, and that was months ago. I was shocked that she wasn't all that much over the top slots in the XT. Still over, yes, but I expected her to be around two inches over, and it was more like an inch.

but were both seats installed at the time you were measuring? That will have an effect on how much room she has.

Maedze

01-14-2009, 01:27 PM

Defrost

01-14-2009, 01:46 PM

but were both seats installed at the time you were measuring? That will have an effect on how much room she has.

Oh duh - good point. I have no doubt she'll loose a lot of harness height once it's installed!

Kat_Momof3

01-14-2009, 02:17 PM

I seriously doubt they would have thought to crash test it that way. If they did, I would be head over heels!!! But I doubt it. It is just an idea I think would be really helpful to a lot of people.

but her Radians were the same seat... the only difference was the new foot... so essentially it would have been tested.... I think they were both 65's (but the same would hold true for the new 80 vs. an old 80... nothing changed but the foot)

Still, when I hear from Russ on this one, I'll post a fresh thread to announce it.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 02:23 PM

As for the top slot height, they are definitely "magical." Alexia (Lisa's DD, the one in the pics) was even with the top slots in my DD's Husky last time she was in it, and that was months ago. I was shocked that she wasn't all that much over the top slots in the XT. Still over, yes, but I expected her to be around two inches over, and it was more like an inch.

Yeah, but she couldn't sit all the way back in the XT either - it's so narrow her hips were at least 2 inches from the back of the seat - so she would have been at least 2 inches over if she was able to scoot back.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 02:26 PM

I have owned at one time or another 5 SKRadian 65s. I have never measured 18" on any of them. I see 18" thrown around a lot, but I have measured each one of those seats, pressing firmly down on the seat area, and have never seen a number over 17".

I agree, I've only ever gotten 17" when measuring - I really thought they lowered the slots initially though, because we were only getting 16" at first, then had to play around with rethreading the harness, adjusting the wings, adjusting the cover... in order to get that 17 inches.

arly1983

01-14-2009, 03:31 PM

The radian is just weird that way (top slot measurements).

J just outgrew the Marathon and has just a smidge in the EFTA but has 1.5-1.75 ins in the radian. Go figure.

Thanks for the pics, Gypsy.

safeinthecar

01-14-2009, 05:10 PM

Is there memory foam all over, or just on the seat? Is there memory foam sewn into the cover?

*mental note: call SKJC and find out if there is latex in the memory foam they use.

minismom

01-14-2009, 06:07 PM

Thanks Gypsy and Defrost, great pics!!! You guys are awesome!

I'm still confused about the headrest/wing lowest position. DD has an 11" torso and is still in the lowest slots on the roundabout. But her head goes much higher. So, do you guys think her head will reach the wings? I'm guessing she'd still be in the second from the bottom slots on the Radian, with maybe an inch to go to the next one up. I'm so excited to hear it installs better upright so now I'm reconsidering it. I was just about to order a Blvd!

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 08:57 PM

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2669.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2671.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 08:58 PM

Folded
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2674.jpg

Removable harness
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2677.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2678.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2685.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 09:00 PM

The Frontier offers about an inch more of harness room
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2654.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2657.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 09:00 PM

With the Monterey
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2659.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y99/Forevermama/IMG_2660.jpg

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 09:02 PM

Is there memory foam all over, or just on the seat? Is there memory foam sewn into the cover?

*mental note: call SKJC and find out if there is latex in the memory foam they use.

Just in the seat, and it is removable.

Kat_Momof3

01-14-2009, 10:38 PM

Does the manual say anything about slots being only for rf or only for ff??

I asked some questions to Russ about the placement of the wings and he said that since the third slots are the lowest for ff, that any ff kid should benefit from the wings.

I'm asking him about that statement, of course.

very cool to see where the straps can be removed.

Thanks Gypsy and Defrost, great pics!!! You guys are awesome!

I'm still confused about the headrest/wing lowest position. DD has an 11" torso and is still in the lowest slots on the roundabout. But her head goes much higher. So, do you guys think her head will reach the wings? I'm guessing she'd still be in the second from the bottom slots on the Radian, with maybe an inch to go to the next one up. I'm so excited to hear it installs better upright so now I'm reconsidering it. I was just about to order a Blvd!

Russ said that a child should gain benefit from them once they need the third set of slots... but who knows how accurate that is for a child with a big head/long neck.

Pixels

01-14-2009, 10:39 PM

but her Radians were the same seat... the only difference was the new foot... so essentially it would have been tested.... I think they were both 65's (but the same would hold true for the new 80 vs. an old 80... nothing changed but the foot)

Still, when I hear from Russ on this one, I'll post a fresh thread to announce it.

The two Radians I had may have been both champagne Radian65s, but they were definitely not the same seat with different feet. It's akin to two different model years on vehicles. Same name perhaps, and pretty similar, but if you look closely you'll see the differences. And there are some fairly significant differences. That is why I posted the other thread.

Kristin

01-14-2009, 10:46 PM

wow, I :love: the new radian. Could you ppossible take some pics of the ff recline foot down, I would love to see that.

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 11:04 PM

wow, I :love: the new radian. Could you ppossible take some pics of the ff recline foot down, I would love to see that.

http://www.car-seat.org/showpost.php?p=696230&postcount=72

Kat_Momof3

01-14-2009, 11:06 PM

The two Radians I had may have been both champagne Radian65s, but they were definitely not the same seat with different feet. It's akin to two different model years on vehicles. Same name perhaps, and pretty similar, but if you look closely you'll see the differences. And there are some fairly significant differences. That is why I posted the other thread.

not what I meant... they changed features, but not the basic structural design, kwim??

but I already found out from sunshine kids... we can use the new foot on the older models.

lovinwaves

01-14-2009, 11:13 PM

Just showed my DH the photos of the new XT. He wants one for his car that has black leather :p

Oh, and Gypsy, he said almost immediately, "Wow those are some cute kids!" :D

Gypsy

01-14-2009, 11:23 PM

Oh, and Gypsy, he said almost immediately, "Wow those are some cute kids!" :D

Awww! Thanks! :love: I think so, but I'm their mom LOL

minismom

01-15-2009, 02:28 AM

Russ said that a child should gain benefit from them once they need the third set of slots... but who knows how accurate that is for a child with a big head/long neck.

Thanks! Are the slots the same height as the regular radian? If so I could try to find one around here and check which slots dd would be in. DD doesn't strike me as having a particularly long head, but she is outgrowing the RA RFing while still on the first slots, I thought that was weird.... Bummer on the headrest not going lower though!

Pixels

01-15-2009, 08:41 AM

xmascarolmarie

01-15-2009, 09:00 AM

I want this Radian sooo bad! This is also the color that I would probably get. Do you guys like the fabric? Does it feel fine to the kids? Thank you!

Maedze

01-15-2009, 10:37 AM

I have to say with the wings, and the fact that it can be installed more upright now, makes me want to sell my Wizard, BV and Nauti and buy three RED RadianXTs.

Wouldn't red Radians look awfully nice in a gray-upholstered minivan? :whistle:

Maedze

01-15-2009, 10:39 AM

Whoa, just a thought? Is this one actually STICKERED to 35? (unlike my Radians that read 35 in the manual but only sticker to 33 :rolleyes:)

ketchupqueen

01-15-2009, 10:40 AM

Whoa, just a thought? Is this one actually STICKERED to 35? (unlike my Radians that read 35 in the manual but only sticker to 33 :rolleyes:)

Mine too! I've thought about calling and getting new stickers but I really don't care, unless I ever decide to sell or give away these Radians, which isn't likely because I :love: them so much.

Gypsy

01-15-2009, 10:52 AM

Thanks! Are the slots the same height as the regular radian? If so I could try to find one around here and check which slots dd would be in. DD doesn't strike me as having a particularly long head, but she is outgrowing the RA RFing while still on the first slots, I thought that was weird.... Bummer on the headrest not going lower though!

Yes, they are the same.

Gypsy

01-15-2009, 10:54 AM

Kat, any word back on this? If you haven't asked yet, could you let him know that the link to the manual for the XT on their webpage is broken.

And my 10th percentile 8 month old is on the second set of slots RFing, so it makes sense that even a 1 and 20 child would be on the third set FFing. And the manual for the 65 definitely does not say anything about not using the bottom two slots for FFing.

The manual doesn't say anything about which slots are required forward or rear facing (that I could tell, I haven't read it cover to cover, but I did look in the section for adjusting harness to proper height).

It just says the standard "nearest slot" and "at or below for rear facing" and "at or above" for forward facing.

Gypsy

01-15-2009, 10:54 AM

I want this Radian sooo bad! This is also the color that I would probably get. Do you guys like the fabric? Does it feel fine to the kids? Thank you!

I like it, the kids like it :)

Gypsy

01-15-2009, 10:55 AM

Gypsy

01-15-2009, 10:55 AM

Whoa, just a thought? Is this one actually STICKERED to 35? (unlike my Radians that read 35 in the manual but only sticker to 33 :rolleyes:)

YES!!!!

Maedze

01-15-2009, 12:35 PM

YES!!!!

It's about time :whistle:

Now, I just need to convince DH that we need to sell all our seats and buy new ones :whistle:

I don't know why. Willy-nilly seat buying is quite unlike me. The first convertible I ever purchased is still being used as a primary seat for my youngest. I'm frugal! I'm thrifty! Waste not, want not!

Sunshine Kids, what have you dooooooooooone? :crying:

crunchierthanthou

01-15-2009, 12:48 PM

the most recent 65s are also stickered for 35 lbs (09/08 and newer). 'bout time, eh? :rolleyes:

Kat_Momof3

01-15-2009, 01:32 PM

Kat, any word back on this? If you haven't asked yet, could you let him know that the link to the manual for the XT on their webpage is broken.

And my 10th percentile 8 month old is on the second set of slots RFing, so it makes sense that even a 1 and 20 child would be on the third set FFing. And the manual for the 65 definitely does not say anything about not using the bottom two slots for FFing.

not yet... but that makes me feel a lot better... I was worried for fyrfighter (sp??) above who was worried for her very petite older daughter and huge younger daughter.

if a tiny 8mo old is already on those second slots, I can definitely see why he referred to it that way... even if there is no requirement, because it would seem impossible for a ff child to use anything lower.

elle7715

01-16-2009, 09:10 PM

the most recent 65s are also stickered for 35 lbs (09/08 and newer). 'bout time, eh? :rolleyes:

My 11/08 Radian 80 is stickered for 35 lbs as well. But that new chest clip...sheesh. It's twice as thick as a Britax clip. I switched it out already.

fyrfightermomma

01-16-2009, 09:19 PM

not yet... but that makes me feel a lot better... I was worried for fyrfighter (sp??) above who was worried for her very petite older daughter and huge younger daughter.

if a tiny 8mo old is already on those second slots, I can definitely see why he referred to it that way... even if there is no requirement, because it would seem impossible for a ff child to use anything lower.

Phew!