How to Choose a Power Scooter
A Power scooter is ideal for shopping and errands because storage baskets are easily mounted to the front section. Unlike power wheelchairs, they can be taken apart to fit into the trunk of a car for travel.
Here are 5 things to consider before selecting a power scooter.
1. Which type is most suitable?
Some scooters are designed for recreational use while others are intended to assist with users with limited mobility.
Power scooters are available with 3 or 4-wheels in heavy duty or lightweight designs.
Recreational scooters are designed for fun and enjoyment. They are faster and more powerful than power scooters and are intended for outdoor use. They are not ideal for individuals with injuries or disabilities.The Drive Medical ZooMe 3-wheel recreational scooter has a 20 mile range and top speed of 15 miles per hour. |
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4-wheel scooters feature a broad wheelbase that provides stability for outdoor use. A large turning radius makes them less able to navigate narrow spaces indoors.The Drive Medical Cobra GT4 mobility scooter has a 22 mile range and wide 82” turning radius. |
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3-wheel scooters are useful for indoor use due to their small wheels and maneuverability. The single front wheel design provides maximum legroom for tall users.The Drive Medical Scout 3 mobility scooter has a narrow 45.5” turning radius and top speed of 4.25 miles per hour. |
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Folding scooters collapse are lightweight and ideal for travel. They are best used indoors due to their small wheels and low ground clearance.The Drive Medical ZooMe Auto-Flex Folding Travel Scooter electronically folds or unfolds in 15 seconds with its wireless key fob. |
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Heavy duty scooters are designed to remain stable on uneven terrain. They also safely accommodate heavier users.The Drive Medical Cobra GT4 mobility scooter offers 5.5” of ground clearance and a weight capacity of 450 lbs. |
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2. Where will the mobility scooter be used?
It is important to determine if the mobility scooter will primarily be used indoors or outdoors in order to select the best model for your needs.
Indoor useThe turning radius of the scooter is the amount of space required to complete a full 360° turn. Compact 3-wheel scooters navigate narrow hallways and corners with their small wheels with tight turn radius. Non-marking tires protect indoor floors while anti-tip wheels protect the user.
The Drive Medical Scout 3 mobility scooter has a narrow 45.5” turning radius. The 42.5” length and 20.5” width allows users to fit inside most elevators. |
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Outdoor useDurable, flat-free wheels are best for navigating various types of outdoor terrains.
Large, wide wheels navigate more easily over rough terrain, allowing a smoother ride for the user. High ground clearance allows the chair to navigate obstacles without bottoming out.
Maximum range is an important consideration so that the user can travel desired distances without having to recharge the battery.
The Drive Medical Cobra GT4 mobility scooter offers 5.5” of ground clearance with 8 degrees climbing angle. It has a maximum range of 22 miles with a top speed of 10 miles per hour. |
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3. Who will be using the Power Scooter?
A power scooter is available with a variety of seat styles and weight capacities. Delta tillers are ideal for users with limited dexterity.
FitThe user should be able to reach the steering control without having to arch the back.
The knees should be bent at a 90-degree angle and the feet resting flat on the footrest. The listed weight capacity must accommodate the user as well as other items that will be carried on the scooter.
The Drive Medical Ventura 3 mobility scooter has a 400 lb weight capacity and a roomy floorboard with 23” of foot space. The seat can be adjusted for height as well as forward/backward. |
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SeatA contoured captain’s seat is designed for comfort and support, making it suitable for long periods of use. Compact scooters typically have narrower lightweight seats with folding backrests.
The Drive Medical Cobra GT4 mobility scooter has a generous 22” seat with a reclining backrest. The padded armrests can be adjusted to the user’s preferred angle. |
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ControlsThe tiller controls the direction and speed of the mobility scooter. A standard handlebar-type tiller requires the user to hold it with both hands.
Constant pressure and manual dexterity are needed to control speed and turn signals. Delta tillers have an oval shape that can be controlled with either hand.
Less dexterity is required as the speed is controlled with a center dial.
The Drive Medical Spitfire DST features a delta tiller with central mount speed control dial. |
4. Is portability a priority?
Some scooters may fold or be dismantled so that they can be transported without the need for ramps, hoists or trailers.
They are ideal for traveling by plane, train or automobile.
Folding scooters fit in the trunk of a car without need for a hoist, ramp or trailer. Folding may be done electronically or manually.The Drive Medical ZooMe Auto-Flex Folding Travel Scooter weighs only 60 lbs and has a weight capacity of 300 lbs. It folds automatically to just 17″ (L) x 17″ (W) x 23.5″ (H). |
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Portable scooters may be taken apart so that lightweight components are easily lifted into the trunk of a car.The Drive Medical Scout 3 mobility scooter features quick and easy disassembly. The heaviest piece weighs only 29 lbs and the battery weighs only 20 lbs. |
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5. What maintenance is required?
All power scooters require regular care to ensure that they continue to function correctly.
Power scooters should be kept in a clean, dry place at room temperature.
Batteries should be recharged after every use, no matter how long it was used. Batteries should be kept fully charged and never drained completely.
Exposure to extreme temperatures can damage the electronics and plastics. The batteries and electronics should not be exposed to water or moisture.
The controller, seat and frame should be wiped clean as necessary with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
Daily checks:
Weekly checks:
Monthly checks:
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Final Thoughts
Overall, with this article I hope you can get to answer most of the questions you have about mobility scooters.
Whether indoors or outdoors, power scooters allow you or your loved ones to get around easily.
At HomeCare Hospital Beds we want to help you make an informed decision.
If you have any doubts on which power scooter is best for you, please contact our HomeCare Hospital Beds team so we can help you make the right choice.
Call us today toll free at 877-414-0002 or email us at info@homecarehospitalbeds.com.