Different Types of Scooters

Four main types of mobility scooters feature either three or four-wheel designs.

· Portable/Travel: This scooter is made with lightweight aluminum and can be folded and stored in the trunk of a car or an airplane.

· Full-Size: This model is ideal for larger body types, carrying a weight capacity of 500 lbs.

· All-Terrain: With a reinforced undercarriage and wheel system, you can travel over rugged terrain for long distances without a hitch.

· Mid-Size: With this model, you still get a larger capacity build without sacrificing portability.

Next up, let’s take a look at what to consider when selecting a mobility scooter.

Comfort and Safety

Probably the two most important elements of a mobility scooter are how comfortable it feels to operate for long periods and also how well it’s designed to prevent accidents.

Start with the scooter seat and backrest, taking into account which elements are a priority. For example, do you prefer a high-back chair with a headrest for added spine support? Or do you prefer a very specific recline angle?

Most scooters feature adjustable seats and armrests, which gives the user more flexibility to customize their fit.

Some models even come with rotating seats that make it easier for users to get on and off the scooter. This is ideal for someone who finds it challenging to stand and hoist their legs over the seat.

The leg positioning also needs to be observed, especially for taller users who benefit from plenty of space to stretch out between the footwells.

Shorter users should check that their feet can touch the floor of the scooter. If not, a height-adjustable foot box can be added to improve stability and comfort.

Other points of comfort to note include the following components:

· For a smooth ride, the scooter should have features such as full suspension, pneumatic tires, and large wheels.

· If you suffer from conditions such as arthritis that affects the hands, opt for ergonomic grip handles and a curved tiller that improve grip and cushioning for safe control of the scooter.

· For night-time safety, LED lights are incredibly bright and more power-efficient than standard lights.

Portability

If you’re an avid traveler, then portability is going to be your main focus when you select mobility scooters.

Lightweight is the name of the game here, which is determined by the materials used and whether the scooter can be folded or disassembled.

Scooters that can be taken apart produce parts that weigh around 33 lbs each, which is light enough to manually carry instead of relying on an expensive vehicle lift.

Batteries are also critical to note for travel. If you are interested in a lightweight power setup without sacrificing range, lithium-ion batteries are the way to go.

Do bear in mind that portability trumps comfort, so don’t expect any luxury features or plush seating with lightweight models!

However, if comfort is high up on your list and you’re an occasional traveler, you might prefer a mid-size scooter. It’s heavier, but you can still dismantle it for storage.

Full-size scooters that are not foldable or dismantlable might require a ramp, lift, or adapted van to be transported.

Storage Capabilities

How much space do you have available in your home to store your mobility scooter?

While people do keep scooters outdoors, the most ideal solution is to provide indoor storage where the scooter is fully protected from the elements.

Cold and hot temperatures deteriorate the battery life, and other factors such as humidity can cause corrosion.

If you live in a small apartment and do not have the space for a scooter, consider a canopy for scooters. This is designed for storing these devices outdoors and shielding them from rain.