You can see electric scooters every day, and different product types exist in this category. Children use them for fun, and adults commute to work. Elderly and those with limited movement abilities go with mobility scooters. These are the focus of our guide below.
A mobility scooter aims to be functional and provide the user with more independence. It helps the owner move around the house and outside. If you find a scooter to be the right choice, here’s how to pick the perfect model!
How to Choose a Mobility Scooter
Before diving into mobility scooters’ features, why would you even pick this vehicle? Here are the main benefits:
-
Increasing independence for people with physical disabilities. You can move indoors and outdoors and reach the desired location with minimal effort.
-
Excellent stability and comfort. These scooters focus on ensuring the user is safe, regardless of the surface where they ride the vehicle.
-
Saving energy and being hassle-free. Manual wheelchairs require pushing. But mobility scooters are automatic and only require pulling handles or pressing buttons to move.
-
Enhanced social life. Users can head to parks or restaurants. It’s even possible to go on travels and visit events like weddings. That’ll affect well-being and mental health positively.
Do You Need an Indoor or Outdoor Scooter?
The first thing to clarify is how you plan to use the scooter. Some only intend to move around the house. They should focus on 3-wheel models of compact size and excellent maneuverability. The ability to make tight turns is imperative.
As for outdoor scooters, it depends on your intentions. If you only plan to head to a nearby park or store, a small-sized model will do the trick. But a 4-wheel mobility scooter with durable components is necessary for something more.
The good news is there are units that can cross large distances. However, you’ll need durable components and ultimate stability. You don’t want anything to go wrong on bumpy terrains.
How Many Wheels Does the Scooter Have?
Mobility scooters always have two wheels in the back. The difference is in those you find at the front. The total number varies from three to five, which achieves maximum stability. In essence, there are two additional wheels to the standard setup to boost safety, especially on bumpy terrains.
The choice depends on your preference and disability level. Three-wheel models offer more flexibility and mobility, but the stability isn’t impressive.
Another thing to consider is the wheel-drive system. If it’s at the front, these units are usually smaller. That makes them more suitable to use inside. If you plan to head outside often, go with a 4-wheel mobility scooter with a rear-drive system. These models are bigger and more durable, making them suitable for heavier terrains.
Would You Like a Full-Sized Scooter?
How frequently will you use the vehicle? If you plan to rely on it every day, a full-sized scooter will be necessary. These models are more durable and larger. They also offer more comfort and some extra perks. Those can be vital if you plan to spend hours daily on the scooter.
The alternative lies in going with portable units. These are lighter and often come with a foldability feature. It makes them transport-friendly since it’s a piece of cake to fit them in the trunk. If you travel often, these units are excellent to use while on trips.
What’s the Weight Capacity?
Nobody needs to know, but it’s important not to lie about how much you weigh. Mobility scooters can only handle a specified number of pounds. If you overload them, the odds of the unit damaging or breaking are huge. And apart from damaging the vehicle, that comes with a big injury risk.
A standard 4-wheel mobility scooter has a weight capacity anywhere from 220 to 350 lbs. What if you need more than that? Special heavy-duty vehicles increase the bearing capacity to 600 to 1,000 pounds. Those models are pricier. However, they are long-term investments.
Another consideration is that people’s weight varies. That’s why you should always give 10-15% of wiggle room. For example, if you weigh 200 pounds, choose a scooter with a capacity of at least 250lbs. You might be wearing some heavy items. And since you’ll be using the scooter for years, perhaps you will add weight over time. But this way, you’ll be certain the vehicle can handle the load.
Check If the Seat Is Comfortable
The following can help to determine if the seat is suitable:
-
Most mobility scooters use padding for the seating area. It’s imperative for comfort, especially when spending hours in the vehicle. Padding must be generous, and you should find it on the back and armrests (if they exist).
-
Swivel function. It’s imperative for mobility scooters since it allows easier entering and exiting the vehicle.
-
Adjustable height. While it’s not necessary, it’s convenient to ensure all users can find an optimal seat position.
It’s worth noting you’ll find some storage room in the front. Most mobility scooters offer a carrying basket for your essentials.
Are the Controls Intuitive?
The control panel should be user-friendly and provide simple operation. It’s because people with limited strength and mobility, perhaps even in their hands or arms, will use the vehicle.
Most models come with a simple power switch to activate the scooter. From there, you have handles or other methods to move forward or go in reverse. The speed control button is a frequent addition. Indicators that show battery levels or range left are also helpful to be on the panel.
Consider the Safety Features
The basic safety features include a headlight, which often needs to be activated by a switch. It’s imperative if you plan to use the scooter during nighttime or with limited visibility. Not only will others notice you easier, but you’ll see the surface in front of you better.
A horn is how you can warn others about your presence. Don’t hesitate to use it in any situation that might seem risky. Some units also have rear-view mirrors to have a better overview of the surroundings.
It comes as a given that mobility scooters should have a reliable braking system. Many manufacturers use puncture-proof tires, add improved suspension, and enhance the entire construction for safety.
How Long Can You Ride Before It Needs a Battery Charge?
Mobility scooters run on batteries, which require occasional recharging. Depending on the component quality, you should cover at least 15 to 20 miles first. Full battery life on some models can get you up to 40 miles or more.
Pick the option that suits you. Batteries should have a minimal 10Ah capacity. The more is, the better, but also pricier. Additionally, consider the charging time. Most vehicles will require a minimum of three to four hours before the battery is at full strength again. Some units will require overnight charging due to a high capacity.
What’s the Maximum Speed?
Speed is a tricky area since these are mobility scooters. Your top priority is safety, so you don’t want to go a tad faster than the velocity that provides maximum security. It’s why most scooters limit their speeds to five miles per hour. It’ll ensure you remain stable and comfortable while moving indoors or outside.
If you feel in good condition, you can pick models offering higher speeds. But be careful while using the scooter, especially on rough terrains. A single small mistake could lead to injuries and serious consequences.
Aesthetics Are Important
Your scooter appearance shouldn’t be your primary focus. But you might be using it every day for years, so don’t ignore the aesthetics.
Some manufacturers will offer multiple color choices. Men might love chrome or metallic gray, while women could find yellow or plum a better shade. Also, check the scooter’s overall design. Do you like how it looks? If it already fulfills performance expectations, that’s another reason to go with that model!
What’s the Budget for Your Scooter?
The final item is price, and the mobility scooters’ cost range varies significantly. The good news is you can find excellent models under $1,000. For example, a Metro mobility scooter is a reputable brand that delivers excellent value for the money with great maneuverability and durability.
If you go with full-sized and heavy-duty models, the price could get up to $5,000 or more. These more expensive units are generally for those with particularly limited mobility and frequent users.
Regardless of the product selected, always stick to a reputable brand. That ensures the scooter delivers the promised features and maximizes user safety.
Final Thoughts
The market offers a huge range of mobility scooters, making it tricky to find an ideal model. It’s all about finding a unit that meets your needs. For example, if you plan on carrying it on travels, you need the best portable mobility scooter.
But if the vehicle is for daily and frequent use, it should be of higher quality. The general rule is that 4-wheel scooters offer excellent stability, and many units are even foldable. You can look for discounts in online stores and have the unit delivered to your doorstep. Ordering over the internet is easy, so don’t hesitate to use the opportunity today!