Choosing the best heavy duty mobility scooters for someone with obesity can be a minefield. There’s so much to consider and so many models to choose from.
Heavy-duty mobility scooters, also known as bariatric mobility scooters, are specifically designed to support large or obese individuals. These scooters provide enhanced durability, stability, and comfort, ensuring a safe and reliable mode of transportation.
In this article, we’ll explain the most important factors you’ll need to consider before buying your scooter.
Typically, a standard mobility scooter weight limit is 25 stone (159kg), whereas heavy-duty models can accommodate users weighing 26-32 stone (160-203kg) making them the perfect mobility scooters for obese people.
If you live with obesity, choosing the right mobility scooter is essential. It should not only support your weight but also meet your comfort and lifestyle needs. At Monarch, we specialise in mobility solutions designed for larger and heavier individuals, offering scooters that combine strength, comfort, and performance.
Heavy duty electric scooters are the most durable and reliable mobility aids and have been engineered with robust frames, high-powered motors, and enhanced suspension systems to provide optimal support, stability and performance.
Let’s take a look at the key factors to consider when choosing a heavy-duty electric scooter:
We recommend buying a mobility scooter with a weight capacity of at least 25lbs (11kg) more than your body weight. This will prevent excessive strain on the motor and battery, ultimately reducing the need for frequent and costly repairs.
A mobility scooter with a wider seat is essential for accommodating larger body sizes. The seat should be supportive and comfortable when sitting for longer periods of time. Leg rests, arm rests, and headrests should also be adjustable for optimal comfort.
High-powered motors ensure the scooters can support heavier weights while maintaining consistent speed and performance. Upgraded battery systems allow for extended travel distances without the need for regular charging.
Many individuals with obesity experience difficulty standing or walking for long periods of time. Purchasing a heavy duty scooter with extended battery range will offer greater freedom, independence, and peace of mind.
A high-quality heavy-duty mobility scooter for a large person should incorporate a sturdy frame and reinforced suspension system to support additional weight while ensuring stability and a smoother ride.
Larger, stronger and wider tyres help distribute weight evenly, improving stability and absorbing shock from uneven surfaces. They also provide better traction on all terrains, from gravel to road to dirt paths.
Larger scooters often require more storage space, so ensure you have adequate room for parking, charging and transport. You might want to consider a rain cover for outdoor storage or hoist or ramp for car access.
At Monarch Mobility, our heavy duty mobility scooters support weights of up to 32 stone and feature wide and comfortable ‘captain seat’ chairs, advanced suspension, and powerful motors.
The Storm is a road-legal heavy-duty mobility scooter that can support up to 30 stone (190kg). It offers a range of 24 miles and a top speed of 8mph.
It comes with an 18” large padded ‘captain seat’, 14” front and rear wheels, and options for air-filled or solid tyres, along with front and rear suspension, providing a super comfortable ride.
With road-legal certification and a reliable battery, this scooter is not only well-suited for longer journeys but it works well as a heavy duty off road mobility scooter too!
The Storm+ shares the same specifications as the Storm but includes the added feature of a hard canopy and rain cover, allowing you to use it in all weather conditions.
This road-legal heavy-duty mobility scooter has a weight capacity of 30 stone (190kg), a range of 24 miles, and a top speed of 8mph.
It features an 18” captain seat, 14” front and rear wheels, with options for air-filled or solid tyres, and front and rear suspension for a comfortable ride.
With road-legal certification and an efficient battery, this heavy duty mobility scooter is perfect for longer journeys.
The Vogue XL mobility scooter has a maximum weight capacity of 32 stone and delivers an impressive 30-mile range.
It features full suspension and a sturdy build, making it suitable for a variety of terrains. The 12” wheels with options for solid or pneumatic tyres help ensure a smooth ride.
This reliable scooter is perfect for those looking for an 8mph road-legal mobility scooter.
Choosing the best heavy duty mobility scooters for people with obesity can significantly improve freedom, mobility, and quality of life. Choosing a model with the right weight capacity, motor power, suspension, and comfort features ensures long-term satisfaction and reliability.
Explore Monarch’s selection of mobility scooters – which includes our heavy duty options – or contact our expert team for further details.
Take a look at our ultimate mobility scooter buying guide for more insight when buying a scooter.
If you can personalise a car, why not do the same with a mobility scooter? Mobility scooters can be both practical and stylish—customised mobility scooters are gaining popularity for a reason!
Customising your mobility scooter has numerous benefits, from a new stylish appearance to improved comfort that will support you on journeys of all sizes.
Why not embrace the growing trend of personalised mobility scooters to enhance your riding experience? You can easily customise your scooter at minimal expense to suit your personal preference and disability needs. Find out how modified mobility scooters can enhance your rides and choose the best options at Monarch Mobility.
Before deciding on any new mobility scooter modifications, evaluate what you need and want from your scooter. Are you looking for ways to upgrade its comfort? Or are you interested in accessorising it to improve its appearance?
Before committing to any alterations, highlighting considerations such as comfort, functionality, aesthetics, and safety is essential.
Why not make a list of your scooter’s priorities before starting the customisation process? That way, you can ensure that the customisations best suit your expectations and scooter wish list.
You can see not only your mobility scooter’s outward look but also its performance. When it comes to using your mobility scooter, ensuring it operates at its best is not just regular scooter maintenance, but also a guarantee to improve your daily routine.
Discover some of our favourite customisation options for custom mobility scooters.
Depending on your mobility scooter model and what is compatible, stronger batteries power your scooter with the energy it needs to last longer. To properly maintain and power your mobility scooter, a good quality battery is essential for your travels.
There are a few ways you can customise your mobility scooter with extra safety in mind:
It’s incredibly important to consider safety and visibility when riding your scooter, especially at night. Remaining visible is vital, especially for those using road-legal scooters.
With some of these safety features for your scooter, you can enjoy safer rides and ride at night with no limit on enjoyment for where and when you can go.
You can personalise the scooter’s look with custom paint jobs, decals, stickers and decorative accessories and truly make it your own.
Whether you want to add a modern twist for a stylish exterior or a vintage feel with vibrant colours, you can make your scooter personal with a new look.
By seeking the expertise of a skilled professional, you can ensure that your customised mobility scooter will look its best with a high-quality paint job.
You can easily enjoy these benefits when you choose to customise your mobility scooter. Whether you’re looking for aesthetic upgrades or functional add-ons, you can easily personalise your scooter to match your style.
Thinking about getting a basket, bag or rain cover for your mobility scooter? See what other mobility scooter accessories can help make life easier!
Monarch Mobility is one of the UK’s leading providers of mobility scooters. We realise our scooters are much more than mobility support and that they can bring so much enjoyment into people’s lives. This is why we offer a vast selection of high-quality mobility aids and accessories perfect for travelling wherever the wind takes you.
Start your customisation journey today and enjoy the process of making your mobility scooter uniquely yours.
Contact us today or browse the website for more ideas and products for making your own custom mobility scooter.
Discovering the perfect mobility scooter can transform your life, providing independence and the ability to explore the world around you. But with so many options available, how do you choose which mobility scooter is right for you? This comprehensive mobility scooter buying guide will look at what to consider when buying a mobility scooter. It will help you understand the different types of mobility scooters, assess your needs and environment, ensure maximum comfort, and navigate insurance and legal requirements. Let’s find the perfect scooter for your lifestyle:
Selecting the perfect mobility scooter starts with understanding the advantages and features of different types. Consider the types of mobility scooters below to see which aligns with your lifestyle and needs.
Class 2 mobility scooters are lightweight and compact scooters. They are designed for use on pavements, footpaths, and crossing roads. They are easy to manoeuvre and the right mobility scooter for you if you use public transport and use the scooter for running errands.
Many class 2 scooters can be folded and transported in your car, giving them the name ‘boot scooters’. Class 2 mobility scooters have a maximum speed limit of 4 mph to ensure the safety of you and others around you.
For those seeking a road-legal scooter, look no further than Class 3 mobility scooters. These scooters can travel at a maximum speed of 4mph on pavements and 8mph on roads. They are equipped with features such as mirrors, indicators, and other roadworthy essentials.
The primary advantage of a Class 3 scooter over a Class 2 scooter is the greater distance range and higher maximum weight limit, making them perfect for extended trips and accommodating larger users.
Folding mobility scooters are a convenient choice for users who travel by car, train, or aeroplane. These Class 2 scooters can be folded into a compact form, making them ideal for transportation and easy storage in your car boot. Their lightweight and portable nature makes them perfect for short trips.
Travel mobility scooters are designed with portability and ease of use in mind. These compact and lightweight models are perfect for short trips and indoor use, offering a maximum speed of 4mph. They typically feature safety enhancements such as anti-tip wheels, speed control systems, and electromagnetic brakes.
You can fold your scooter manually, but some travel scooters come with an auto-folding mechanism for added convenience during transport. This feature allows users to quickly and easily fold the scooter for storage or transport.
Before choosing a mobility scooter, it’s crucial to assess your needs and the environment in which the scooter will be used. Factors such as usage frequency, user weight, terrain, storage capacity, and cost should all be considered.
Look at your personal requirements to find the perfect mobility scooter for you and learn the rules on where you are allowed to use a mobility scooter for stress-free travel.
One of the first factors to consider when choosing a mobility scooter is how often you will use it and for what purpose. If you plan to use your scooter for short trips or only occasionally, a travel or folding scooter might be the best fit. If you require a scooter for daily use or longer excursions, a class 2 pavement scooter or class 3 scooter may be more suitable.
The terrain and accessibility of your local area are important factors to consider when choosing a mobility scooter. Is your local area hilly or flat? Are there many kerbs or obstacles to navigate? It’s important to choose a scooter with the appropriate power and stability to handle your environment.
For example, a 4-wheel scooter with rear wheels designed for better traction may be more suitable for navigating curbs or steep hills, especially when the scooter slows down.
Storage and charging options are essential to consider when choosing a mobility scooter. Ensure that you have enough space to store your scooter and a power point nearby for recharging the batteries.
If storage space is limited, consider portable scooters, such as a travel mobility scooter that can be easily folded or disassembled for more compact storage.
Comfort is an essential aspect of choosing the right mobility scooter for you. By exploring seat options, legroom adjustments, and controls, you can customise your scooter to meet your needs and preferences.
Ensuring maximum comfort and customisation with accessories will enhance your scooter experience.
Finding the perfect seat is crucial for a comfortable ride. Mobility scooters offer various seat options, including swivel seats, captain’s seats, and adjustable backrests. These options cater to different needs and preferences, so it’s essential to explore each one to find the most comfortable fit for you.
Additionally, most scooters come with adjustable armrests, headrests, and lumbar support for added comfort.
Ensuring adequate legroom and proper positioning is essential for a comfortable mobility scooter experience. Consider seat height and forward slider adjustments to find the optimal leg positioning for you.
Adjusting the seat height can make it easier to access the controls while adjusting the seat position forward slider can help you find the perfect legroom for a comfortable ride.
Mobility scooter controls are located on the handlebars. When choosing a mobility scooter, ensure that you look at a range of controls and think about your upper body strength, grip, and dexterity before making a choice. Adjustable controls and tillers are important features to consider when choosing a mobility scooter as they can accommodate your preferences and any physical limitations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Understanding battery life and maintenance is crucial for keeping your mobility scooter electric motor running smoothly. By learning about different types of batteries, their lifespan, and upgrade options, you can make informed decisions about your scooter’s power source.
Proper battery charge and maintenance will help extend the life of your scooter and ensure optimal performance.
There are two primary types of mobility scooter batteries: lead-acid and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries tend to be heavier and more economical, but they have a shorter lifespan and require more maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, are lighter, more expensive, and have a longer lifespan with less maintenance required. Comparing these battery types can help you determine the best option for your mobility scooter needs. Find out more about charging your mobility scooter battery.
The average lifespan of mobility scooter batteries is typically between 18 and 24 months. Factors such as usage patterns, charging habits, environmental conditions, and the type of battery can all impact their lifespan. By understanding these factors, you can take steps to extend the life of your scooter’s batteries, ensuring smooth and reliable performance.
Regularly checking the battery’s charge level and charging it when necessary is important. Additional information is provided below.
If you find that your mobility scooter’s battery life isn’t sufficient for your needs, consider upgrading to a more robust battery. Some scooters, especially larger off-road models, can be fitted with more powerful batteries to enhance the range of your travels.
However, make sure to consider factors such as size, voltage, capacity, type, and compatibility when evaluating the potential of upgrading batteries.
Transporting your mobility scooter in a car is made easier with folding models. Depending on the size and weight of your scooter, you may need additional equipment like ramps or hoists to load and unload it from your vehicle.
Ensure that your scooter is properly secured during transportation to prevent damage or accidents, especially when you need to leave portable scooters unattended for a short period or use a scooter indoors.
Public transport for mobility scooters can vary depending on the transport provider and your location. Size and weight limitations should be considered when planning a journey with your scooter.
Contact the transport provider ahead of your journey to check restrictions and requirements.
Staying safe and protected while using your mobility scooter involves understanding the law around insurance. Although insurance for mobility scooters is not a legal requirement, it is recommended for your protection and safety.
Insurance options for mobility scooters include third-party coverage and policies that provide protection against theft or damage. It’s important to research and compare available mobility scooter insurance options to find the best coverage for your needs.
Choosing the perfect mobility scooter can be a life-changing decision, providing you with newfound independence and the ability to explore the world around you. Understanding the different types of scooters, assessing your needs and environment, ensuring comfort and customisation, and navigating insurance and legal requirements, can give you an advantage when buying a mobility scooter.
Browse our range of mobility scooters online or contact a member of our team, who are happy to help you find the perfect mobility scooter to suit your needs.
Mobility scooters are a fantastic way for people with limited mobility to maintain their independence and enjoy everyday outings. They’re reliable, stylish – and in many cases, road legal too. But sometimes, a few thoughtful extras can make them even better.
From added convenience to improved safety, there’s a wide selection of mobility scooter accessories available to suit every need. Whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, here are some of the top accessories to consider.
If your mobility scooter is stored outside, a rain cover is an essential accessory. It protects the scooter from the elements – including rain, snow, and UV rays. Even scooters that are stored indoors can benefit from a dust cover to keep components clean and the scooter looking its best.
Most covers are made from waterproof polyester and are available in various sizes to suit different scooter models. Keeping your scooter covered means your seat stays dry and your scooter stays protected, ready to go when you are.
Learn about the different ways to store your mobility scooter whether indoor or outdoor.
Modern, ultra-lightweight scooters like the Genie Ultralight or Supa Carbon Lite use lithium batteries for compact design and performance. An in-car battery charger allows you to charge your scooter’s battery on the move, ideal for ensuring your scooter is ready to use when you reach your destination.
Monarch Mobility’s in-car lithium charger is suitable for batteries from 7A to 15A.
A quick-release mobility scooter basket is a must for anyone on the go.
Perfect for shopping trips or carrying essentials, they’re practical and have an easy to fit bracket that slots neatly onto the front of your scooter.
Many baskets also come with a folding design, allowing you to easily store the units when not in use.
A specially designed mobility scooter bag attaches to the rear of your seat and provides extra storage for things like groceries, medication, or jackets – keeping your hands free to drive safely.
With their soft materials and ergonomic design, you can enjoy longer rides with ease knowing these storage options are perfectly designed for scooter users.
Some bags are designed with hi-vis elements for added visibility and safety. Others feature holders for walking sticks or crutches – ideal if you need support when walking short distances.
Don’t let your mobility stop you from exploring.
Whether a soft travel case or a travel holdall, a mobility scooter travel case will help protect your scooter from scratches and scuffs during travel.
It also makes transportation easier, whether you’re travelling with your mobility scooter on a cruise, flight, or road trip.
With a mobility scooter trailers, you can enjoy travelling for longer without struggling for storage space. From carrying shopping to giving your furry friend a ride in its own dog-friendly trailer, the adventures you can have with your scooter are endless!
Whether navigating a kerb, accessing a building, or loading your scooter into a vehicle, a mobility scooter ramp can be a game-changer.
It provides a smooth, secure track and gives you greater freedom and flexibility to access a wider range of places.
Lifting a mobility scooter into the car can be tough – especially if you’re doing it alone.
A portable mobility scooter hoist like the Altas 4 from Monarch Mobility is a practical solution. Lightweight, easy to assemble, and capable of lifting up to 40kg, it’s ideal for use with folding mobility scooters and doesn’t require permanent installation in your boot.
Whether you’re looking at buying a mobility scooter for the first time, or fancy updating your existing scooter, take a look at the accessories available – they can make all the difference!
Explore the full range of Monarch Mobility Scooter Accessories or contact our friendly team to find out how we can help make your scooter even more suited to your needs.
Power wheelchairs, also known as electric wheelchairs or powerchairs, are an excellent way to improve mobility and independence. They have a battery or electric motor and can be easily manoeuvred using a joystick.
Choosing a power wheelchair can be complicated—it’s not a case of one size fits all. Several factors to consider include storage, usage, budget, and individual mobility needs.
In this guide, we’ll look at the different types of electric wheelchairs available for your needs so you can make an informed decision before buying a powerchair.
Your level of mobility may influence how you get in and out of a power wheelchair, as well as any extra features you may need.
If you can walk short distances and stand and sit with relative ease, you likely won’t need assistance to get in and out of a wheelchair. However, if you sometimes struggle to go from a sitting to a standing position, it might be a good idea to opt for a wheelchair with an adjustable seat height, putting less strain on your muscles and enabling you to slide from the chair to another seat, such as a car, sofa or bed.
All power wheelchairs have footrests that can be moved outwards or flipped up out of the way when you sit or stand. Moving the footrests when you stand will prevent a trip hazard, leading to a possible fall; plus, you will not be tempted to put your weight on them, which could cause the chair to tip over. Many powerchairs also have flip-up or removable armrests to support movement.
You might also need to consider your weight and height when picking an electric wheelchair to ensure optimal comfort.
Will you use your electric wheelchair indoors, outdoors or both? Will you want to travel long distances in your power wheelchair? What are the rules for using a powerchair?
Some powerchairs are suitable for indoor use only, but others can be comfortably used indoors and outdoors. For powerchairs that will be used outdoors, keep in mind your local terrain. Are the pavements flat and easy to access? Are there any steep hills? Do you need to access uneven tracks?
If you expect to regularly travel long distances in your powerchair, you should check the chair’s battery range and make sure you charge the battery regularly.
Electric wheelchairs have traditionally been rear-wheel drive, with the driving wheels located at the back of the chair. This offers more comfort and better performance when outdoors and at higher speeds. However, they are less manoeuvrable in small indoor spaces.
Front-wheel drive power wheelchairs offer great indoor and outdoor performance. The driving wheels are located at the front of the chair, ensuring a better turning circle, which is ideal for compact indoor spaces. They also offer better traction outdoors for a smoother ride. However, they can be trickier for beginners to drive.
Mid-wheel drive powerchairs have the drive wheels in the centre of the chair, with additional smaller wheels at the front and back. They offer superior stability and a better turning circle; however, they can struggle on uneven terrain.
Your comfort is of the utmost importance in electric wheelchairs, especially if you spend a long time in a powerchair or require additional postural support. Padded seats, backrests, footplates, and armrests can all help with your comfort, enabling you to stay in the powerchair for longer.
Most electric wheelchairs have a standard seat size, so it’s important to try before you buy. Likewise, while padded seats come as standard, you may wish to upgrade to a thicker pad for additional comfort. Padded or moulded seat cushions can also keep your body aligned so you are not leaning to one side.
If you have more complex needs, you may need to opt for a more high-end electric wheelchair with adjustable seats and additional features.
It’s important to think about how and where you will store your power wheelchair. An electric wheelchair should be stored in a secure and dry place close to a power outlet so that the battery can be charged. You will also need to avoid blocking a fire exit or creating a trip hazard.
If the chair is stored outside, you should get a waterproof cover or keep it in a shed so that rain, wind, or heat will not damage it.
Your storage place should preferably be level to the ground or have ramped access so you can easily move it in and out.
If you need to transport your powered wheelchair in a car or on public transport, you might want to opt for an electric folding powerchair.
Most powered wheelchairs can be adapted and customised to fit your individual requirements.
Electric wheelchairs will have padded seats as a standard feature, but if you are using the chair for most of your day, you may want to invest in extra padding and support for your lower back to help relieve pressure on joints and muscles. There are plenty of cushions, seats, backrests, and supports to suit your individual needs and preferences and keep you comfortable and supported in a power wheelchair.
You may also want to consider a belt or harness, which can assist with alignment, maintaining an upright posture, and improving your safety when using a chair. A harness that secures around your shoulders and torso supports your upper body; you can also attach straps that hold your legs in place.
Standard powered wheelchairs have a basic range of seating height adjustments, whereas a configurable electric wheelchair can be made to measure, providing the best possible fit for optimal comfort.
The cost of an electric wheelchair depends on its size, battery and features. Prices can start from around £1,500.
It’s essential to make sure that whichever electric wheelchair you choose suits your individual needs. If you are unable to afford an electric wheelchair, you may be able to gain funding from Motability.
When choosing an electric wheelchair, you will also need to consider the costs involved in charging the battery, as well as maintenance and repairs.
Powered mobility devices offer many benefits to users, but there are also risks of accidents due to lack of practice before using them.
It has been found that basic training to improve driving skills and awareness of scooters or power wheelchairs greatly reduces the chance of accidents.
Learning to use a power wheelchair includes operating and controlling, manoeuvrability, awareness and safety, and legal requirements for using an electric wheelchair. Power wheelchair users must have a minimum visual acuity of 6/24; any lower and you will not be eligible to drive a powered vehicle such as a mobility scooter or electric wheelchair.
We hope we have helped you better understand the range of considerations needed when selecting a power wheelchair. At Monarch Mobility, we can provide advice and support when choosing the most suitable electric wheelchair for your needs. Contact us for more information or for a free home demo.
At Monarch Mobility, we proudly offer the largest range of mobility equipment in the UK.
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Monarch Mobility Ltd, Boothtown Road, Halifax, HX3 6UB