How To Pick The Right Mobility Scooter For Your Needs

If you value your freedom and independence, then a mobility scooter will be your best friend. But with so many options to choose from – ranging from mini to road-legal – how do you know which one is right for you and your lifestyle?

Take your time to think about it

Whether you want to pop to your local shop or ride into town, mobility scooters are a great way to get from A to B safely and comfortably. There’s so much more to it than four wheels and a battery – and just like any other vehicle, what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.

Some will want a scooter that is simple to fold away and pop into the boot of the car. Meanwhile, others will need something with a bigger range and an ultra-sturdy build to tackle longer journeys and uneven surfaces. Or perhaps you’re seeking a scooter that reflects your personality – it’s up to you to decide.

Mini/portable scooters

If you want something small and lightweight, a mini/portable scooter could be the right choice for you. They’re easy to fold and dismantle into a few parts, making storage and transportation straightforward. And they’re perfect for use around the home, too.

When it comes to weight capacity, they generally have a lower maximum than other types of scooters for mobility. They can usually handle up to 135kg or 21 stone. As for maximum range, you can expect up to 10 miles before you need to recharge the battery (depending on the model, of course). Remember, compact scooters aren’t suitable for use on the road.

Mid-sized scooters (Class 2 and Class 3)

When you go for a mid-range scooter, it will be able to cope with heavier weights – ranging from 135kg to 150kg (21 to 25 stone), depending on the model you pick. Top travel speeds tend to reach 6mph, and models of this size generally have a maximum range of around 20 miles. Oh, and any medium scooters in the Class 3 category (defined by the Department for Transport) can be used on the road, provided they are taxed. Road tax for Class 3 mobility scooters is FREE. You can read more on road-legal models further down in this post.

When considering whether this model is right for you, it’s worth remembering that these aren’t always as simple to fold or dismantle as compact mobility scooters, so they could be tricky to transport in smaller cars.

Big, road-legal scooters

Looking for a mobility aid that can cope with longer distances? And extra control over uneven surfaces? Our large, road-legal scooters can manage as up to 20-30 stone (or as much as 250kg) in passenger weight.

And when you buy a Class 3 scooter, you’ll be able to ride it on the road – you’ll need to make sure you get road tax before you do. They also come complete with lights, indicators and a horn.

These models tend to have bigger seats, providing extra comfort on those longer journeys. And what’s more, they can go for more miles on a single battery charge, too – usually up to 25 or 30 miles. You can expect to enjoy a maximum speed of up to 8mph, but there’s a 4mph limit on pavements.

It’s wise to think carefully about the size of these scooters before you commit to buying one – ask yourself if you have enough space to store them in a locked area.

Not sure what mobility scooter is right for you?

Feel free to give us a call – we’ll be happy to listen to your needs and talk you through your options.

We have an extensive range of mobility scooters from a great selection of brands (including Pride Mobility). And remember, when you come to us you’ll get a 12-month warranty for your peace of mind – plus free delivery as standard.