There are so many mobility scooters online that picking the right one for you can be difficult. There are a few best-known brands. But instead of picking one brand to buy from, your focus should be on buying a scooter that fits your budget and needs. You must know what to look for when you start shopping. You should buy the product that ticks most of your boxes, if not all. Here is a quick guide with a few things to consider when purchasing the scooter.
Pay Attention to the Specifications
Specifications are what set scooters apart. There are some features you must have while others you can easily compromise. You must find a product that offers comfort and it's still highly efficient. As the intended user, you have all the say on what the scooter should look like. Here are some of the specifications to look for.
- Weight capacity
- Top speed. Expect the scooter to go up to 5mph if it’s a medial scooter
- Seat-to-ground height
- Find out if the scooter has an armrest for comfort
- Seat adjustments. Some products have seats that slide back and forth or rotate to help you find a comfortable position.
- Seat depth and width
- Overall width. You must measure the overall width to ensure it fits in all the tight spaces in your house.
- The total weight of the scooter is crucial if you plan to transport it
- Turning radius. The amount of space you need for a 180-degree turn matters
- Incline rating. This is an essential consideration when you have a steep driveway
- Braking system. You must choose between manual or automatic brakes. Automatic ones are considered safer.
- Travel range of a full charge
- Throttle system
- Tiller adjustment. An adjustable tiller can give you space between the steering and the seat.
- Ground clearance. Where there are small curbs to enter the garage, the space between the bottom of the scooter and the ground becomes very crucial.
When you master these specifications selecting the scooter for you, or a family member will be easy. Weights and measurements are the most important things. Get a weight capacity that is at least 30 pounds heavier than you. That will give you the best performance. When you weigh more than the total capacity, you will burn out the motor.
How Many Wheels Do You Want?
Scooters can either have three or four wheels. Some people prefer the extra stability four wheels offer, while others go for the three wheels because they are easy to handle, especially in narrow spaces. It all depends on how much maneuverability you want. There are fewer chances of tipping in a four-wheeled scooter because it's stable, but it can be less maneuverable.
Most people sacrifice ultimate maneuverability and go for the stable four-wheel model because of the extra support. This decision will come down to preference. Examine both models closely and, if possible, take them for a test before buying.
Application
Where and how you will be using the scooter matters a lot. When you start shopping, you will realize there are different types of scooters, and they are all used for different applications. For example, an indoor mobility scooter is not appropriate for outdoor use.
If you are going to be using it strictly indoors, check the scooter's width and compare it against the sizes of your doors and narrow hallways. If you are using it outside, consider getting something for all terrains unless you plan to stick to pavements only.
The full-size mobility scooter is excellent for outdoor use because it can travel longer and go faster. Heavy-duty scooters are great for adventure because you can easily navigate rough terrains. All these might seem like too many considerations, but they are necessary.
Folding mobility scooters are the best for traveling because you can easily fold and store them in your car. Travel mobility scooters are also meant for travel, but they don't fold. Do not select the first scooter that pops up. Do more research and consider all the available types of scooters.
You will have an easier time shopping once you decide how you will be using the scooter. If you plan to take trips and go far from the house, ensure the product you purchase can deliver that. Indoor scooters have a compact design to make movement inside the hose easy.
Look For Warranty Support from the Trusted Brands
Once you have figured out everything else, you can consider the brand or manufacturer and the kind of warranty support they offer. Some models have better warranty terms than others. This can help you narrow down your search even further. Customer support is essential when buying such a product. The manufacturers would be ready to help in case the unit breaks down by offering parts or helping you troubleshoot.
Brands that have been in the game for years tend to have the best warranty terms. They can back up their workmanship. Some mobility scooters offer better longevity than the rest. You can check reviews to determine which brands have the most durable models.
Some brands offer aftersales services when you need repairs later on. Those who ignore warranty terms during purchase find the hardest times when the scooter breaks down. If you visit the manufacturer's website, you can learn more about the product, warranty, and what their customer support looks like.
By the time you are considering the brand and warranty, you already have a few scooters that tick most of your boxes in terms of performance and high-quality parts. After choosing a brand, you can go to other things.
Accessories
When you choose a model, go ahead and find out the available accessories options. A great model should have accessories you can use to make the mobility scooter more personal and comfortable. You can even find upgrades on this, like seats if you want a wider one. Very few brands offer rain cover canopy to shield you from bad weather.
Some accessories include oxygen tank holders, cup holders, sidearm bags, and crutch holders. It's better to buy all these things from the manufacturer to save costs. Check the accessory page when you find the scooter you like. If there are barely any accessories, you can look for another model.
Aside from accessories they should offer some spare parts like extra batteries. You can elongate the lifespan of the scooter when you have access to genuine parts when you need repairs.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this guide is enough to help you buy a mobility scooter that fits all your needs. Remember to consider weight, measurements, and overall performance before anything else. Don’t let the many products online blind your judgment. Try to be as thorough with your purchase as possible. Not all the latest models have the best performance.
