Your Guide to
Choosing the
Right Type of
Mobility Scooter

If you have decided that a mobility scooter is right for you, it's time to select the right one. But with all the different types and sizes, this can be an overwhelming task. Asking these questions is a good way to start to narrow down your options:

  • Does the mobility scooter's maximum weight capacity comfortably accommodate you?
  • Will you use the mobility scooter primarily on smooth, level surfaces or will it be used over rougher outdoor terrain?
  • Will you be traveling with your mobility scooter?
  • Does the mobility scooter's seating provide the size and comfort you desire?
  • Does the mobility scooter's performance offer the speed and range you need?
  • Does the mobility scooter's appearance match your style?
  • Does the mobility scooter offer additional safety or comfort features that set it apart?

To help in deciding the type of mobility scooter that best answers these questions for you, we have separated the mobility scooters into categories based on their size and primary use:

Compact Travel Mobility Scooters
Full Size Mobility Scooters
Heavy Duty Mobility Scooters

Compact Travel Mobility Scooters

Compact travel scooters are the smallest and least expensive category of scooter. They can be disassembled quickly and easily into several manageable pieces for transport in a vehicle, eliminating the need for a special vehicle lift or rack. When disassembled, the pieces are lightweight and easy to move, with the heaviest piece ranging from 30-40 lbs. This makes them perfect for loading in the trunk of a car and taking shopping or on vacation.

Portability means these scooters are smaller in size and feature lower weight capacities of between 250 and 300 lbs. These scooters also come equipped with smaller, “stadium-style” seats, rather than the automotive style captain's seats often found in larger scooters. These scooters also offer a lower top speed and shorter maximum range than larger units which makes them better for shorter trips.

See the Features of the
SPITFIRE SCOUT
Compact Travel Mobility Scooter
Advantages
  • Lowest cost
  • Disassemble for easy transport in standard vehicles (some strength and dexterity are required)
  • Lightweight
  • Small size ideal for indoor maneuverability
  • Flat-free tires for worry-free travel
Disadvantages
  • Not ideal for rough outdoor terrain
  • Stadium-style seating less comfortable for long trips
  • Limited battery range compared to larger scooters

Full-Size Mobility Scooters

These scooters offer a great combination of performance, size and comfort that make them a great option for many users. While larger than compact travel scooters, full-size models are still a good, manageable size for most users.

Full-size mobility scooters also include many other comfort and safety-related features, such as suspension for a smoother ride, safety lighting, enhanced seating options and weight capacity between 300 and 350 lbs. The larger batteries found in full-size scooters improve range over those found in travel scooters, making them perfect for longer trips around the neighborhood or for errands around town.

See the Features of the
VENTURA DLX
Full-Size Mobility Scooter
Advantages
  • Longer battery range than travel scooters
  • More comfortable Captain's seating
  • Additional safety features
  • Flat-free tires for worry-free travel
Disadvantages
  • Not ideal for rough outdoor terrain
  • Size not ideal for indoor use
  • Do not disassemble for transport, requiring a vehicle lift or special

Heavy Duty Mobility Scooters

Boasting weight capacities greater than 350 pounds, this category contains the largest scooters available. Dedicated to outdoor use, heavy duty scooters have larger, air-filled tires, high ground clearance, long range and a high top speed, making them the best for use outdoors and on rugged terrain. They also offer Captain's seating and full suspension for added ride comfort. These scooters are too large and lack maneuverability for indoor use and their weight makes transporting them a challenge.

See the Features of the
COBRA
Heavy Duty Mobility Scooter
Advantages
  • Longest battery range available
  • Comfortable Captain's seating available in choice of widths
  • Additional safety features
  • Large wheels and high ground clearance for handling outdoor terrain
  • Full suspension for more comfortable ride
  • Highest weight capacity
Disadvantages
  • Highest cost scooter category
  • Not for indoor use
  • Heavy weight and large size make transport more difficult

Additional Resources

MOBILITY SCOOTER OVERVIEW

A WORD ABOUT WHEELS