Things to Consider When Buying a Mobility Scooter
Buying a mobility scooter is a big financial investment. Fortunately, buy a motor scooter near me and government programs like Medicare frequently cover the cost of a mobility scooter when it's medically required.
To ensure that they purchase the correct model, those who have disabilities that limit their mobility should be aware of about scooters and the options that are available to them. In the beginning, buyers should understand their individual requirements and objectives.
What to Consider
When it comes time to choose the right mobility scooter, there are numerous things to consider. There is no one size will fit all. The wrong mobility scooter could cause issues such as a bad fit, a low battery life, or even safety issues.
What do your parents intend to use the scooter for? Do they plan to shop or run errands? Or just take it for rides around the neighborhood? If so, a lightweight mobility device with a long battery life is the best choice. If they intend to travel on bumpy or uneven terrain, a four wheel scooter with bigger wheels could be the best option.
Also, keep in mind that your parent's physical health might change in the future, so you'll be able to determine if they will still be able to operate their mobility scooter in some months or even years. If not, they may need to upgrade their mobility scooter or think about the more permanent option of a power chair.
If possible, your parent should test out a couple of different mobility scooters before making a decision. They can feel how comfortable the seat feels and if they're capable of reaching the tiller. They should also sit in the driver's seat to ensure they're comfortable and that the scooter fits the person well.
Ask your local dealer about refurbished scooters. You can also inquire from rental companies if they have used scooters. It is essential to confirm the warranty and other information prior to purchasing an used scooter.
Seating
Some customers buy scooters with two seats in the hope of being able to carry friends or family members who want to accompany them on their travels. However, there can be privacy concerns if the people joining you will not be of a similar weight as this could result in bumping skin-to-skin against them, and could create problems with personal space. If you're concerned about these issues, it's recommended that you purchase a scooter that has a seat behind instead of one which has a front and rear seat.
With a scooter with two seats, you can not only enjoy the company of a relative or a friend, but also save money by not purchasing two mobility vehicles. You can also save on wear and tear as well as electricity by using just one scooter that you can operate and share costs for fuel.
There are many seating options available when shopping for a 2-seat mobility scooter. Some models have the driver's seat at the front and the passenger's seat behind. Others have both seats in the rear. The majority of premium and mid-range scooters feature this configuration, but some may only have an rear or front seat.
Another option is to purchase an electric scooter that has a power-operated lift, which permits you to effortlessly move the scooter inside and out of your vehicle. This will save you time and effort when it comes to preparing for your trip, as all you need to do is steer the scooter onto the lift platform and turn on the switch. After that, you can leave and when you're ready to return, you can reverse the process.
Wheels
The wheels on mobility scooters are a vital element of the vehicle and they can make or break your riding experience. Tires that are in good shape will provide a comfortable and smooth ride. Tires that are damaged or worn out can be dangerous. It is essential to check the condition of your tires frequently, and replace them when they are worn out.
There are three types of scooter tires that are: foam-filled, pneumatic, and solid. The foam-filled and solid tires are never flat, but are harder to maneuver than pneumatic tires. The majority of travel/portable Scooters have solid or spongy tires while the majority of full-sized and all-terrain scooters have pneumatic tires.
The tube that is inside pneumatic tires is filled with air just like the bicycle or motorbike tire. These are the most common type and can be fixed easily.
Tires are also available with liners that fit between the outer tire and the inner tube, giving protection against punctures. The owner's manual will tell you the recommended tire pressure. Inflating the tires to this value will ensure they last longer.
Most scooters are controlled by tillers which are T-shaped columns that rotate the front wheels to the left or right. Other controls like speed and turning signals may be on the tiller as well. Some tillers come with wraparound handles, called delta tillers, which are perfect for those with limited hand dexterity and strength.
Batteries
Having the correct type of battery for your scooter is vital. The right battery can help extend the lifespan of your scooter. It's important to remember that batteries will lose performance as they age. If you notice that your battery doesn't hold charge as well as it did before, it may be time to replace it.
A gel or AGM battery is a good option if you want your battery to last for a long time. These types of batteries have impermeable electrolytes and are airtight, making them more resistant to jostling. They also have a longer time to last than other lead acid batteries. They are slightly more costly initially however their long-term cost-effectiveness is worth it.
Another option is to select an lithium battery. They're more expensive at first however, they can last 10x longer than lead-acid batteries. They're also safe for travel in the air. They are backed by an IATA certification.
When purchasing the battery for your scooter, it's important to look for the model and brand name of the mobility scooter on the label. A generic or offbrand model of battery could cause damage to your scooter and cause it to not work properly. In the same way, if you have an older battery that was charged using an alternative charger, it might not work as well.
Contact the manufacturer to see whether your scooter requires a more powerful battery. They typically have a list of compatible batteries for their scooters. Ask the seller if they have any records of maintenance in the event that you purchase a used mobility device. These can assist you in determining the condition of the battery and whether it was recently serviced.
Safety
A scooter can be lifesaving for those who struggle to walk due to age or illness however, only if it's operated correctly. A mistake in the use of a mobility scooter could cause injury to the user and those surrounding them. To avoid this, it's vital to know what you should look for in a mobility scooter before buying.
Make sure the scooter comes with an operating manual that contains specific information about the model, such as safety guidelines and maintenance schedule. Keep the manual on hand for reference when you use the scooter.
Test the comfort of the scooter and determine if you're able to operate it comfortably with both hands. The scooter should be able to handle the weight you plan to carry.
Verify the ground clearance to ensure that the scooter is able to go over obstacles, bumps and more. Travel/portable models have less clearance than larger scooters, and some models with special features may have even smaller clearance.
Check the details of the history of repairs and maintenance if you're purchasing a used scooter. These documents could provide valuable information on the condition of the scooter prior to you buy it.
Consider purchasing a scooter security device like a wheel clamp, to deter theft. The device is attached to the wheel of the scooter and can't be removed without tools. It's a powerful deterrent against thieves.
It's a good idea also to get familiar with the area you're planning to travel through, particularly places where scooter users may have trouble. Learn about the locations of curb cuts and streets that don't have sidewalks, so you are able to avoid these areas when you go shopping or visiting friends.