How To Choose A Mobility Scooter

Before you even consider buying a mobility scooter you must first understand it's limitations. Scooters are designed for people with some upper-body strength and mobility to steer it. If you or the person you're going to buy a scooter for does not have the necessary upper-body strength then you should not choose a scooter. Go for a wheelchair instead.

Now that the limitation is cleared let's continue with some stuff you need to consider before buying a handicap scooter.

* Go For Electric
Perhaps this is not all that important since non-electric-powered scooters are almost extinct. However in case somebody for some reason offering you a gas-powered mobility scooter don't buy it. Go for electric instead.

* Front-wheel Drive or Rear-wheel-drive?
Front-wheel-driven scooters are designed for outdoor use and the rear-wheel models are made for indoor use. If you're planning to use the scooter for both indoor and outdoor just calculate how much time you spend indoors compared to outdoors.

* How many wheels? Three or Four?
A four-wheeled mobility scooter has more powre, more stable but has a wider turning radius. The right choice if you need to go steep hills and other obstacles. A three-wheeled scooter is more compact and has better maneuverability. Assess your need so you'll know which one to get. The size of the wheels matters too. Bigger tires absorb shocks better and it also more stable than smaller ones.

* Lightweight or Bariatric Scooter?
A lightweight scooter is usually portable and can be easily stored in your car trunk just like a wheelchair. However if you have excessive weight then a bariatric scooter is your choice. This heavy-duty model will allow better mobility than portable ones.

* Warranty
Ask about the manufacturer warranty, what does it cover (labor & parts or parts only) and how long is the cover. Sometimes the warranty differ for each part of the scooter. For example a six month warranty for the battery, lifetime warranty for the scooter frame, one year one the controller, etc.

* Seating
A comfortable ride should not be compromised. You do have the option to buy a separate cushion in case the scooter you buy isn't comfortable enough but why your dollars on an extra cushion when there are plenty of scooters in the market already equipped with nice comfy seats? When possible buy a scooter with swivel seat. It makes it easier for you to get on and off it. A reclining seat won't hurt either. All these extra features may add to the price but if it's still within budget just go for it.

* Leg room
If you will spend a lot of time on the scooter pay good a ttention to this one or you'll get cramp often.

* Armrest
Do you need armrest? In most cases you do. Riding a scooter is much comfortable if you can rest your arm on it. Not all scooter has it though so you better make sure it's there.

* Travel distance
How long can the scooter go before you need to charge the battery. The normal travel distance is about 25 miles (40 km) though some can go up to 34 miles (55km).

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