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Tips For Buying a Mobility Scooter

By: Randy McIntire ... Click on author's name for more of their articles

Electric scooters are available in several distinct classes: three-wheel scooters, four-wheel scooters, portable "travel" scooters, and heavy duty scooters. There is some overlap in these classes, because travel scooters and heavy duty scooters are available in both three-wheel models and four-wheel models.
The key here is first to determine where you will use the scooter most: indoors or outdoors? Three-wheel scooters have a tighter turning radius and are generally more maneuverable than their four-wheeled counterparts, making them the ideal choice for those who would use the scooters indoors, such as in the home or shopping in stores. Three-wheel scooters are not suitable for use outdoors on uneven ground. Four-wheel scooters are more stable and typically have a higher clearance, making them ideal for outdoor use.
While it is tempting to choose a four-wheel model because of its versatility, remember that four-wheel models have a wider turn radius. Trying to maneuver around corners and turning in tight spots will be more precarious in an indoor setting on a four-wheel scooter. Once you've settled on how many wheels your electric scooter should have, you can determine what size is most appropriate for your needs. Your choices range from the more sleek portable models that can be disassembled for travel or storage up to the heavy-duty scooters that can accommodate a user of up to 500 lbs and travel at 10 MPH.
Each electric scooter available has its own unique set of specifications. The most important ones are weight capacity, turning radius, top speed, ground clearance, and distance per battery charge. The weight of the scooter itself is also a consideration, particularly if you plan to travel with it. Be sure the scooter you like has the weight capacity to support your weight and more ? If you buy one that just barely covers the weight load; the scooter will be under constant strain and may not last as long as you would like.
Having a smaller turn radius is always better because it makes the scooter easier to maneuver. A scooter's top speed is good to know, because the top speed is also an indication of the scooter's power. The more power, the better, because ideally the scooter should not struggle to carry its passenger up an incline or on uneven ground. Ground clearance is particularly important for potential four-wheel outdoor scooter customers. If you plan to take your scooter outdoors and off of paved surfaces, a ground clearance of at least three or four inches is optimal. Finally, you should know how far an electric scooter can carry you on a single charge. Most widely-available electric scooters can travel between 20 and 25 miles on a single battery charge. Of course, the more distance you can cover on a single charge, the better. It also makes sense to consider the weight of the actual unit, especially if you want to be able to bring the scooter along on vacations and will need to disassemble it for portability.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: Randy McIntire is the author of numerous consumer guides regarding electric scooters, specifically three-wheel scooters. For more information about mobility scooters and other mobility products, visit All Electric Scooters.

Note: The content of this article solely conveys the opinion of its author, Randy McIntire

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