| Since its invention in the early 1960's, the popularity and | | | | smooth terrain but become more problematic on |
| technological advancement of the personal mobility | | | | uneven or rough terrain. |
| scooter has risen consistently to the point now where | | | | 3) Shopping - These are great for shopping due to |
| they are the choice for those with limited mobility | | | | their tight turning radius. |
| around the world. Along with the rise in popularity and | | | | 4) Lower length of time in use - Built for lighter duty |
| technology, sheer number of choices in the category | | | | than 4 wheel scooters, the run times on 3 wheel |
| has risen dramatically as well to the point where it's | | | | scooters are more limited. |
| now a wise move to run a personal needs | | | | 5) No balance issues - # wheel scooters are generally |
| assessment before making a purchase to ensure that | | | | stable but if balance is an issue, a 4 wheel might be |
| needs are being met in the most cost effective | | | | the better choice. |
| manner possible. | | | | Considerations for the 4 wheel scooter: |
| One of the first assessments has to be the physical | | | | 1) Use locations are relatively close to home - If this is |
| condition and capabilities of the potential buyer. Physical | | | | the case, a 4 wheel scooter can be driven to its area |
| limitations are the first determinant of whether a 3 | | | | of use due to its longer battery life and hill climbing |
| wheel or a 4 wheel mobility scooter will provide the | | | | capability. If a 4 wheel scooter requires transport, it will |
| optimal solution for the buyer. | | | | have to be done via a lift or a trailer. |
| Another assessment is the type of use that the | | | | 2) Outdoor use - With two wheels up front, the 4 |
| mobility scooter will be predominantly designated for. | | | | wheel scooters have a much wider turning radius |
| Issues such as the types of terrain the scooter will be | | | | which can make indoor use inconvenient. |
| driven on, the distance the scooter will be driven, and | | | | 3) Weight of the rider - Once a rider's weight goes |
| whether there are hills would be important factors in | | | | over 300 pounds, a heavy duty 4 wheel scooter |
| the decision process. | | | | becomes the best (and only) option. |
| The following are a few considerations for the 3 and | | | | These are just a few of the considerations to take |
| four wheel mobility scooters: | | | | into account when contemplating the purchase of a |
| The 3 wheel: | | | | personal mobility scooter. Other considerations, such as |
| 1) Portability - The 3 wheel scooters can be broken | | | | the length of time a rider can sit comfortably, can |
| down for transport in the trunk of a car. If the | | | | actually rule out scooters altogether if back support is |
| predominant uses of the scooter are going to be at | | | | required after a short period of time. In that type of |
| locations some distance from home, portability will be a | | | | situation, an electric wheelchair can serve as a much |
| consideration. | | | | better option. |
| 2) Generally flat terrain - These are fine on flat and | | | | |