An Overview of Mobility Scooters

A mobility scooter is an electric mobility aid or auxiliary to a regular power wheelchair but configured so that it closely resembles or is equivalent to a normal motorized scooter. They’re also commonly called electric personal mobility vehicles (EPUV), mobility scooters, wheelchair scooters, power chairs, or even personal mobility vehicles (PMV). Other names also know these machines as walkers, canoes, go-karts, go boards, or simply “the scooters.” You can choose from many configurations such as electric powered, petrol-powered, or even “pet mobility” scooters. You’ll find that many of them are fully equipped with all the necessary features and accessories that can make them genuinely user-friendly.

 

The battery of mobility scooters is usually located in a place behind the seat. The weight of the battery will depend on its capacity and is typically smaller than that of an electric golf trolley. The electric scooter’s motor must be recharged every time the battery runs down to just below the “low” level. There is also the option of a removable battery pack to replace the older one.

 

There are also two main categories of mobility scooters; motorized and manual. Most manual scooters have to be ridden manually, but electric ones can be ridden with the assistance of a joystick device or a footswitch on the handlebars. There are many manufacturers of mobility scooters offering both models. It’s recommended that you shop around to get the best deal. Shop online first before heading to local stores for a test drive.

 

Both manual and motorized mobility scooters are fitted with a manual transmission or equipped with a transfer case. In a manual scooter, the rider sits on the seat and controls the scooter with either a joystick device or by shifting the handlebars. A lever on the side starts and stops the scooter, and there is a clutch on the belt that holds the chain and sprocket in place. A gasoline engine supplies the motor’s power, or an electrical plug can provide it. When the machine has run out of gas, the rider can leave the handlebars to control the tiller or use the footswitch to power the transmission.

 

The significant difference between an electric scooter and an electric mobility scooter is its handlebars. While the latter has no handlebars at all, the former has them. Since there is no need to control the direction of the scooter with the help of the handlebars, the driver has to keep his eyes on the front wheels. In this position, the driver can ensure that the tiller is in contact with the ground.

 

The electric scooters are not very comfortable to sit in for long periods, but they offer smooth rides and superb comfort. The battery of the mobility scooters needs to be recharged a few times a month. This rechargeable feature of the batteries allows users to go long distances without worrying about the condition of the batteries. The weight of the electric mobility scooters makes them easy to carry from place to place. They can be folded as well when not in use.