The Ultimate Guide For Buying A Mobility Scooter

At a certain point in your life, you won’t feel as energetic as before. Simple tasks such as going to the grocery store or seeing your friends might feel like a huge hassle for you. A mobility scooter will help people with mobility issues to live an active lifestyle and be independent.

While buying one is brilliant, making the right choice might be challenging. With so many mobility scooters on the market, finding the right fit for your needs is tricky. We compiled a helpful guide for buying a mobility scooter for you. Once you go through it, you will know which aspects to consider.

Your budget

Buying a mobility scooter is a significant investment that will make your life easier. The first step is to determine the budget you have available. Keep in mind that the prices will vary, depending on your chosen model. The cheapest models are available starting at £450, with prices going up to £3,500 for advanced heavy-duty models. You can look for a used mobility scooter if you have a limited budget.

When calculating the budget, don’t forget about the additional costs. Some models might come with a standard package that lacks the features you need, so you need to pay more to get the thing you need. In addition, count in the regular costs for batteries, electricity, tires, and routine maintenance. If you use the scooter outdoors, the tires will wear out quicker.

Types of mobility scooters

There are four mobility scooters available so that anyone can find the right fit for their needs. In addition, we explain the different types to make things clear for you.

• Portable or travel scooters are specially designed to fold down for easy transportation.
• Three-wheel scooters are compact and lightweight. This advantage makes them ideal for indoor use. However, have in mind that they aren’t suitable for outdoor use due to the tight turning radius.
• Four-wheel scooters are stable and can handle rough terrain. Therefore, they are an ideal choice for driving outdoors.
• Heavy-duty scooters are suitable for heavier people. Standard models have specific weight limits, so larger users will need enhanced support.

When choosing the right scooter type, consider a few things. If you plan to use the device in your home, make sure to measure the doorways to check if it would fit. You don’t want to find out that the scooter won’t fit through the doors after you have made the purchase.

For outdoor use, it is best to stick with four-wheel models. One of the features to look for is large tires since they tend to maneuver better over rough terrain.

If you travel often, the portable scooter is your ideal pick. If you travel by plane, make sure to avoid lithium batteries since some airlines prohibit them onboard.

Mobility scooter class

When browsing for the perfect mobility scooter, you came across many different characteristics. One of them is the class, which might be a little confusing. The class refers to the license of the scooter for moving on streets. Class 2 mobility scooters are suitable for driving on pedestrian sidewalks and indoor use. The legal speed limit is 4 miles per hour. Therefore, users aren’t legally allowed to drive their scooters on the road. The Class 3 scooters are also known as road class scooters. The devices come with front and rear lights respectively and wing mirrors. Users can drive them on the road, with a maximum speed of 8 miles per hour.

Seat

A mobile scooter should provide a comfortable experience for you. Before buying, always run a test drive with a few chosen models. This way, you will find out if the seat feels comfortable. The seat will tilt to the side to allow easy use. If you intend to use the scooter for long sessions, make sure to pick a comfortable seat. The seats are usually adjustable so that you can choose the perfect height to rest your legs at a 90-degree angle with feet flat on the footrest. Look for an ergonomic shape with a curve supporting the back and providing utmost comfort.

Battery

Your mobility scooter runs on batteries, meaning that it requires charging. The battery size will determine the charging capacity and define the travel length with a single charge. On average, batteries will allow a 6 to 8-mile drive with a single charge. If you think that you will need more than that, go for a larger battery that can cover up to 30 miles with one charge.

Wheels

The mobility scooters come with three-wheel types: solid, foam-filled, and pneumatic. The first two options are durable and will never deflate during driving. However, the sturdiness will result in a more rigid ride. The wheels will have a massive impact on your ride. Pneumatic wheels provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Just like car wheels, they are filled with air. However, the only disadvantage is that they can puncture and run-flat.

Additional features

When browsing different models, compare the additional features that enhance your experience. A battery indicator will show the exact distance you can travel with the remaining power. Some models come with convenient features to accommodate you, such as crutch holders, oxygen tank holders, and armrests for maximum comfort. A storage compartment is one of the essentials, as you will need it to store your groceries or walking aids.

Warranty

As with every other device, you need to be fully informed about the warranty. Maintaining the scooter can be costly, so make sure that your warranty covers the service. If you have any problems with your scooter, the company should take care of them.

Conclusion

Our ultimate guide for buying a mobility scooter covered all essential aspects. All you need to do is browse the various models available and assess their characteristics according to our guidelines. When you know about the different types and their advantages, you can choose the right fit for your specific needs. The final choice depends on the driving length, terrain, body weight, and budget.