A mobility scooter is the perfect solution if you struggle to walk longer distances. It gives you that extra assistance and support whilst feeling safe and secure when out and about. It allows you to regain your freedom, maintain your independence and continue with your daily activities without the need to rely on someone else. Some of us have never used a mobility scooter before so it's understandable to have no clue what to look for or how to use it. Just like riding a bike, we wasn't born knowing how to ride a bike, we learnt. But it's very important to find the right scooter for you, as buying a scooter can be a big investment so you need to make sure it's right. If you're contemplating buying a mobility scooter but not sure what to look for, this blog will guide you in the right direction. It's not just the colour that you need to think about! There are many different types of mobility scooters on the market so you need to decide what you need from your mobility scooter. Here are 5 points to consider before buying a mobility scooter so you can find the most suitable scooter for you. 

Budget

Firstly, do you have a budget? You need to decide how much you'd like to spend on your mobility scooter. Or if you're unsure, think about what features you'd like it to have. If you're happy with a basic mobility scooter with simple controls and standard features, your budget can be a lot smaller. The price can also depend on what you'll be using it for and how often you'll be using it. Lightweight, smaller scooters are designed for short distances around town etc. However, if you're looking for speed and long distance, your budget will be slightly higher as this these features are likely to be found on the larger scooters, which tend to be slightly more expensive. So, you need to decide if you would like basic or luxury. Some mobility scooters come with the whole package from heated seats to Bluetooth and USB points, all the luxurious features you can think of. On the other hand, if you don't need the full package there are plenty of smaller, lightweight scooters on the market at a much cheaper price.  

Storage

One of the first things you should know before buying a mobility scooter is where you'll be storing it. A mobility scooter will last longer if it isn't exposed to all weather conditions. Mobility scooter should ideally be stored inside but for some of us, this isn't possible. If you'll be storing your scooter indoors you need to make sure you have enough space in your home to store the scooter. You must check the doors are wide enough and that you can easily access the property. Take measurements of the scooter before you buy it to make sure it fits. If storing the scooter inside is an issue, a travel/boot scooter will be more suitable. Travel/boot scooters can easily be dismantled into parts so you can store it inside, or in the boot of your car whilst charging the battery box inside. If you will be storing the mobility scooter outside you need to make sure it's safe and secure. Storing it in a lockable shed is ideal but if you don't have a shed or lockable unit you must make sure you have a suitable storage cover to protect the scooter from the weather to avoid damage. 

Distance & Speed

Some scooters have a wider range than others. Depending on which scooter model you choose depends on the speed and range. On average, a mobility scooter with a fully charged battery can travel between 8-15 miles depending on certain factors. This can be affected by your weight, terrain and battery age. Travel/boot scooters offer limited speed and range, with speeds of approximately 4mph and a range of up to 10miles. These scooters are ideal for short trips on flat surfaces. If you'll be using the mobility scooter on a regular basis or want to travel longer distances then a mid range scooter would be more suitable. These are usually more comfortable which is ideal for regular use. Mid range scooters usually have speeds up to 4mph but a range between 15-25 miles. If you need a faster scooter/ longer range then a 6mph/ 8mph road legal mobility scooter would be more suitable. This will give you the freedom to travel longer distances and allow you to travel on the road with a range of up to 35 miles on one battery. 

Weight

All mobility scooters have a weight limit. You must check the specifications before purchasing a mobility scooter to avoid problems with your scooter. The weight limit depends on the make and model of the mobility scooter. Lightweight, standard size mobility scooters can usually support a user weighing upwards of 17-25 stone, however larger users above 25 stone may require extra support found in heavy duty bariatric mobility scooters. If the user exceeds the weight limit, the scooter will use more power producing a shorter range. Exceeding the weight/ load also increases difficulty when riding up hills or bumps and wears the tyres faster, leaving the tyres to drag longer when braking. To avoid any issues with your scooter, make sure to check the weight capacity and specifications. 

Where?

Finally, you need to think about where you will be going with your mobility scooter. Will you be travelling? If you're planning on travelling with your mobility scooter then a portable travel/boot scooter is ideal. Travel scooters can be easily dismantled into multiple parts allowing you to fit the scooter in the boot of a car. If you'll be travelling abroad it's important to check the mobility scooter is airline friendly. Smaller scooters are designed for flat surfaces and won't travel as far as a larger scooter. If you'll be using the scooter for short trips on flat surfaces then a smaller, lightweight scooter will suffice. If you will be travelling long distances, over steep hills or bumpy surfaces then you will need to look at the larger road legal scooters as these have a much further range. 

When you are ready to start your mobility scooter hunt make sure to keep these 5 points in mind to ensure you find the most suitable mobility scooter for you.

Visit our showroom to view our huge range of mobility scooters. 

If you have any questions feel free to get in touch. 

147A Hilderthorpe Road, Bridlington, YO15 3HA

01262 375050 

enq@baylissmobility.co.uk