If you’re considering getting a mobility scooter, it’s probably worth understanding the types of scooters that are on the market, so you get the mobility scooter that is most likely to match your needs. Disability scooters can come with many additional features and in three sizes: small, medium and large. The most popular type of mobility scooter continues to be portable scooters that can fold compact enough to fit in your vehicle.
Small Mobility Scooters
Small mobility scooters are the easiest scooters to transport and are commonly known as portable scooters. Almost all small scooters come apart in a few pieces allowing them to be stored and transported in your car boot with ease.
What’s more, small scooters are typically lighter, making them easier to assemble if you need support from care staff. The main consideration when thinking about purchasing a small mobility scooter is the maximum weight that these scooters can facilitate & the overall battery life.
Small Scooter Considerations
- Not suitable for use on the road
- Small, compact and lightweight
- Fold or dismantle for storage and/or transportation
- Can be used around the home
- Generally have a lower maximum weight capacity, usually up to 135kg or 21 stone
- Have a smaller average range that can be travelled without requiring the battery to be recharged, usually up to a maximum of around 10 miles.
Medium Mobility Scooters
Medium Scooters are the most common type of scooter still offering some of the features that small scooters give you but also allowing a bigger weight capacity and battery life. Also, a lot of medium-sized mobility scooters can be used on the roads (Class 3) which makes them ideal for popping out to the shops or visiting friends and family close by.
Most scooters in this range can travel up to speeds of 6mph although some scooters in this range can be dismantled easily the majority are harder to collapse and transport in your car boot. If you’re looking for a medium capacity scooter that can be portable, then feel free to speak to Aspire2 Mobility and we’ll be happy to advise on the best range of scooters to match your requirements.
If you do wish to use your mobility scooter on the road, however, they do need to be registered. We have a range of Class 3 scooters that can suit your budget and needs.
Considerations
- Most models will have a greater travel range than small scooters, generally a maximum of around 20 miles
- Some have a greater weight capacity, ranging from around 135kg to 150kg (21 to 25 stone), depending on the model
- Many have a wider turning circle than smaller models.
Large road-legal (Class 3) Scooters
Larger (Class 3) scooters are designed for longer distances and are perfect for people who live close to towns and villages and looking to maintain a level of independence. Not only that but all large scooters have a weight capacity of up to 30 stone (Maximum 250kg) in passenger weight.
The main downside of large scooters although being (Class 3) meaning you can ride them on the road once registered is the overall size of them which means you’ll need to have space to secure them in a safe area at home.
Furthermore, all Mobility large scooters are classified as Class 3 products by the Department for Transport so they must be registered with the DVLA. Aspire2 Mobility can help arrange this from one of our local showrooms.
Considerations
- Can be used on roads if registered
- Maximum speed of 8mph
- Generally, have larger seats and can carry more weight
- Generally have a greater battery range, meaning they can travel further between charging, usually up to 25 or 30 miles
- Require more storage space in a secure, locked area
- Include lights, indicators and horn
- Not easily transportable
Department for Transport Mobility classifications
Every mobility scooter is given a classification from the Department of Transportation which means in some cases you’ll be required to register your scooter before you can ride it on the road.
- Class 2 Scooter: These scooters can only be used on the pavement and have a maximum speed of 4mph. Recipients aged under 14 are restricted to Class 2 products only
- Class 3 Scooters: These scooters must be registered with the DVLA – Aspire2 Mobility can help take care of this process for you. Class3 scooters can travel up to 8mph, although by law must only be driven at 4mph on pavements.
If you still have questions feel free to visit one of the Aspire2 Mobility centres and our friendly staff will be more than happy to give you advice and help on choosing your next mobility scooter.
Adaptations and Scooter Accessories
There is a range of accessories and additions you might want to add to your mobility scooter. From replacing your battery with a longer life battery to adding in rain covers and carry baskets to make the trip to the shops easier. No matter your requirements we have a huge range of accessories online which can finish your mobility scooter.
As we always recommend you have mobility insurance for your scooter, if any additions are added you’ll also need to notify your insurance provider of these additions and any other potential modifications.
If you're still confused or have questions about the perfect scooter that would match your needs, then be sure to speak to one of our advisors online or visit our local showroom to see some of our scooter and accessories in person.
