All mobility scooters help with mobility limitations. But, outdoor mobility scooters have more specialized outdoor features. This means that they’re specifically designed for outdoor use.
If you’re eyeing to get one for you or your loved one, you should make sure that the scooter has outdoor features. This is why we’ve listed down all the key features you should look for in an outdoor mobility scooter and the reasons why you must do so. Let’s get started!
Features to Look for in an Outdoor Mobility Scooter
1. All-Terrain Wheels
Mobility scooters come in three or four wheels. But, it’s the type of wheels you want to look out for. If you plan to ride the scooter over rough and uneven terrains, look for a model with all-terrain tires.
These are bulkier and have tractions that cushions bumps and prevent slips. Ultimately, all-terrain wheels will offer you a comfortable and safe ride outdoors.
2. Long Drive/Travel Range
You don’t want to be running out of battery power while driving to your destination. Not only is this annoying, but it’s also dangerous, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar place and all alone. This is why you should always invest in a mobility scooter with the best battery life you can afford.
Outdoor scooters feature longer driving ranges than indoor ones. This is because it would be inconvenient to stop and recharge along the way. Most outdoor mobility scooters last for an average of at least 15 miles on a single charge.
But, your weight, the age of the battery, and the types of terrain you’ll be driving onto can affect the range. Heavier riders, uphills, and uneven terrains will drain the battery faster. This is because the motor has to work harder to move forward.
For the best driving experiences, consider a travel range of 19 to 25 miles. This is more than enough for a full day of outdoor driving.
3. Heavy Weight Capacity
When choosing a mobility scooter for outdoor use, make sure to check if the weight capacity is enough for your weight and any other extra weight.
Thankfully, outdoor scooters have higher weight capacity than regular mobility scooters. This is because they have sturdier builds and stronger motors that allow them to provide. Most outdoor units can carry an average of 300 lbs.
Consider your weight and then estimate how heavy the things you will bring with you might be. For example, you might need to carry water bottles, laptops, oxygen tanks, or groceries when you’re driving outdoors. Check if the scooter can carry them and your weight, without having any issues moving forward.
Always go for the scooter with the highest weight capacity, and that you can afford, to ensure a smooth ride.
4. Comfortable Seat and Adjustable Tiller
Comfort is one of the most essential benefits any mobility scooter should provide. You would want to enjoy a comfortable ride without hurting your back, neck, bottoms, and arms. One way to ensure this is to look for adjustable padded seats and adjustable tillers.
This type of seat will ensure that you’re seated at the proper height: with your knees at right angles when driving. While an adjustable tiller and armrests will ensure that your elbows are at right angles. This way you don’t have to strain your body while driving.
5. Full Suspension System
Get an outdoor mobility scooter with front and rear suspensions for more cushioning. These keep your tires in contact with the ground all the time. In this way, they reduce the impacts of bumps and prevent tipping, offering a smoother ride. Since you’ll be using the scooter outdoors, it must be able to move over any surface without any problem.
6. Higher Speed
Your outdoor mobility scooter should have a higher speed than an indoor one. This is due to the following reasons:
- There’ll be faster vehicles with you on the same road or path, like motorcycles or bicycles. You need to be able to drive fast to be able to keep up with them or at least avoid impeding their movements.
- You’re likely to have more clear stretches of path or road to drive on.
- You will need to travel greater distances to get to your desired destinations.
The average top speed of outdoor scooters is 8 mph, but some models can travel at a higher speed. Depending on the distance you usually go outdoors, it’s best to look for a scooter with at least that speed.
7. High Ground Clearance
Since you’ll be driving on different surfaces, the best scooter must have high ground clearance. The clearance will help you and the scooter avoid bumps and allow a smoother ride.
Good ground clearance for driving on a smooth surface or up wheelchair ramps is around 1.5 inches. But, for rough terrains, you need to look for a scooter that features a higher ground clearance than that.
8. Storage Options and Accessories
You need a storage option in your scooter so you have a place to put your things in. Most outdoor scooters can come with either front or rear baskets. They come in relatively small sizes but are handy enough as storage for your personal belongings when going on trips.
Another aspect of storage is the capability of the scooter to be stored in car spaces so you can carry them around when traveling. This means that you can disassemble or fold them into a more compact size so you can carry them easier. If you want an outdoor scooter you can bring on long travels, like in another state or overseas, then getting a portable outdoor scooter would be best.
Also, always look for accessories that will let you personalize the scooter. These can be USB charging ports, flags, and any other accessories you think you might need.
Conclusion
If you want a specialized outdoor scooter, make sure you look for the key features we listed above. Here’s a checklist for a quick summary:
- All-terrain tires
- Longer travel range (about 19 to 25 miles)
- Heavy weight capacity
- Adjustable padded seat and tiller
- Full suspensions
- Higher top speed (at least 8 mph)
- More than 1.5 inches of ground clearance
- Storage basket and accessories
For options that offer these features, you can check our wide variety of heavy-duty outdoor mobility scooter units. Find the right scooter that fits your outdoor needs!
