Are you in the market for a mobility scooter but don’t know where to start, or what exactly to look for? Well, you first need to understand why you need the scooter, and where you intend to use it. Some mobility scooters are designed for indoor use (hence have a tighter turning radius) while others are meant for outdoor use, thus are studier, stable, and more comfortable. Outlined below are the top 10 things you should have in mind when shopping for a mobility scooter.
1. Your Storage Options
You will need storage space for the scooter. Does your garage have enough space to accommodate the scooter, and is there a socket plug for charging? If looking to keep the scooter outdoors, you then should make sure it is safe and secure, and at least ensure it is protected from weather elements.
2. Go For The Scooter You Need
Look for a scooter capable of fulfilling your needs. Class 2 mobility scooters, for example, would come in handy if only looking to make short trips and are portable enough to be taken on public transport or even a car. The larger Class 3 scooter can be driven on roads and is generally more powerful, larger, and heavier.
3. Personal Needs
More specific and personal needs should also come first when shopping for a mobility scooter. You might need a scooter with more legroom, a specialized seat, functions, or even softer suspension to avoid backaches.
4. The Number of Wheels
The type and number of tires are other factors you ought to be careful about. Although 3-wheeled scooters are more agile in small spaces, 4-wheelers provide additional stability. Mobility scooters come in either pneumatic or solid tires. While solid tires are tough and puncture-proof, they aren’t as comfortable as pneumatic tires. You might thus want to try them both first before making the final decision.
5. Where/How You’ll Use The Mobility Scooter
Will you be using your scooter indoors, outdoors, or off-road at times. If indoors, the scooter needs to be small enough to fit through the regular door.
6. Range
Mobility scooters have varying ranges. You thus should check to see how far you can go on a single charge before the battery dies. You also want to consider factors such as how old the battery is, your weight, and the terrain you’ll be riding on when calculating the range.
7. Test-Drive First
Compare different types and styles of scooters before settling for one. One of the best ways to determine the right one for you would be to hire a preferred one for, say a day. This will allow you to test it to the limit, making it easier to make a more informed decision on the purchase. Many people opt to rent mobility scooters.
8. Ask All The Right/Relevant Questions
Prepare a list of questions you’d wish to ask the supplier or retailer before making the order/purchase. Will the mobility scooter come assembled? How long will it take for it to be delivered? What is the warranty time or guarantee? Are spare parts available? These are some of the questions you might want to ask first before committing to the purchase.
9. Your Safety
You want to be assured of your safety when riding the mobility scooter. Whatever the reason is for getting one, it would be advisable to familiarize yourself with the scooter first before going for a long ride outside. Test driving the scooter for a few hours, or days, and having all the safety gear on, are some of the ways to ensure your safety.
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.
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