Mobility Scooter Choices and Options
If you are considering a mobility scooter, and not sure where to start, we will explain the differences, important options to consider and how to select the best mobility scooter for your needs. Mobility scooters offer easy to use controls directly in front of the user, easy to read display and a slimmer design that does not resemble a traditional wheelchair. Finding the right mobility scooter for your needs does not have to be a challenging task. We will walk you through the choices of each type of mobility scooter to determine the features and benefits that best suit your needs. We carry all the top brands like Pride Mobility, Golden Technologies, Drive Medical, E-Wheels, and Glion.
Folding Mobility Scooters
All Star Medical offers folding mobility scooterswhich offer the user the ability to fold the scooter into a compact shape to easily store the scooter in the trunk of a car, the back seat or in the storage area of an SUV or van. A large number of first-time shoppers have the idea that a folding scooter would be much easier to handle and store compared to a portable compact scooter that disassembles into a few pieces. Be advised that folding scooters do have a 1 or 2 step process to fold, but the scooter is still, for the most part, still fully assembled and could be heavier to lift into the vehicle. Compared to a portable scooter that disassembles, the pieces are lighter and easier to lift, depending on the model you are interested in. While you are considering a scooter, pay close attention to the specifications of the heaviest piece when disassembled, or in the case of a folding scooter, the total weight when folded.
Portable Compact Mobility Scooters
Portable mobility scooters do not fold. Instead, they disassemble into 4 or 5 pieces, making them much more manageable to store due to the decreased weight of each piece. These scooters can have more comfort adjustments than a folding scooter, such as a swivel seat, height adjustable seat and adjusting the front tiller (handlebars) to different angles for arm comfort. Most of these scooters come in either 3 or 4 wheel versions (which we will discuss further below), and can have additional options such as a wider seat option, suspension of each wheel, larger battery upgrades, headlight and scooter color options. Portable compact mobility scooters normally have a weight capacity of 250 to 300 lbs. These scooters have been the most popular selection for our customers here at All Star Medical.
Length and Width of the Scooter
If you are unable to find any of these specifications on our website for the unit you are considering, please call us directly or you can always chat with us online, during normal business hours. 615-258-6045
Heavy Duty Mobility Scooters
All Star Medical offers a large variety of heavy duty mobility scooters, which are designed to support heavier weights, normally above 300 lbs. Again, some of these have 3 or 4 wheel options, but not all of them. We will discuss further below. Heavy duty mobility scooters also have wider seats, and most have suspension on the wheels for a smoother ride. There are some heavy duty mobility scooters that have the option to disassemble into 4 or 5 pieces, but be prepared for these pieces to weigh substantially more than the smaller compact mobility scooters.
Tips for Selecting a Mobility Scooter
Here at All Star Medical, we do everything possible to ensure each and every customer loves the scooter they purchase from us by educating them on all options available, determining where the scooter will be used and for what purpose. Below are tips for you to select the best scooter for your need.
Weight Capacity– This is crucial for determining which scooter fits your needs. The weight capacity is the total weight that the unit can handle according to the manufacturer. Selecting a scooter which does not support the user’s weight can void the warranty, and can cause costly repairs. The average weight capacity is 300 lbs. There are some options that have a weight capacity of 375 lbs and are still able to dissemble and easily be put in a car. We carry options that have a 400-500 lb weight capcity.
3 or 4 Wheel versions – At All Star Medical, most first-time shoppers normally state up front that they do not want a 3 wheel scooter because they do not want to “tip it over”. That is a misconception with 3 wheel scooters. Basic physics does tell us that more points of contact on the ground does provide a more stable unit. However, if you are under the weight capacity and DO NOT drive erratically around corners, 3 wheel scooters are very stable. 3 wheel scooters do have a tighter turning radius than 4 wheel scooters, making them more versatile for indoor or outdoor use. 4 wheel scooters are more stable, but since there are 2 wheels in the front, they have fenders over them, so foot room is limited. 3 wheel scooters do not have the fenders, so you have more foot room. As mentioned above, 4 wheel scooters do have a wider turning radius as well.
Seat Width – The dimensions of the seat are important based on the user’s measurements. Most seat DO come with adjustable armrests, so you can adjust them outwards or inwards for comfort.
Weight of Heaviest Piece (when disassembled) – If you are considering a unit that disassembles, pay close attention to the weight of the heaviest piece to ensure it will be manageable for the person storing the unit.
Travel Range – This is the total distance a unit can travel on a full battery charge. A number of the scooters All Star Medical offers do have the option for a larger battery upgrade, for increased travel distance. Some of them can go up to a 35 mile range before needing to be charged.
Mobility Scooter Warranties
At All-Star Medical, **Pride Mobility** and **Golden Technologies** offer comprehensive warranties on their mobility scooters, ensuring customers receive top-tier protection for their investments. Here’s an expanded breakdown of each brand’s warranty coverage for mobility scooters:
**Pride Mobility Scooters Warranty**
Pride Mobility is known for providing industry-leading warranties to back their high-quality mobility scooters. Here’s what their warranties typically cover:
1. **Lifetime Warranty on Frame**:
Pride Mobility offers a **lifetime warranty** on the frame of their mobility scooters. This protects the structural integrity of the scooter, ensuring that if there are any manufacturing defects with the frame, Pride will repair or replace it for the life of the scooter.
2. **Electronics and Drive Train Warranty**:
The **electronic components** (such as controllers and chargers) and **drive train** (motor, brakes, and transaxle) come with a **two-year limited warranty**. This ensures that key parts of the scooter that affect functionality and safety are covered for repair or replacement.
– Some high-end models may offer additional coverage on these components or extended warranties that extend the two-year period.
3. **Battery Warranty**:
– The **battery** is typically covered by a **six-month** warranty. Batteries are consumable items, so this warranty provides protection in case the battery fails due to manufacturing defects within the first six months of purchase.
**Golden Technologies Mobility Scooters Warranty**
Golden Technologies offers equally impressive warranty coverage for their mobility scooters, focusing on ensuring long-term usability and support:
1. **Lifetime Warranty on Frame**:
– Golden Technologies provides a **lifetime warranty** on the frame of their mobility scooters. This warranty protects against defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring that the structural components remain durable throughout the scooter’s life.
2. **Drive Train and Electronics Warranty**:
– Golden offers a **two-year warranty** on the **drive train** (which includes the motor, transaxle, and brakes) and **electronics** (such as the controller and charger). This covers any defects that might occur within the first two years, ensuring key operational components are protected.
– For some models, an extended warranty option is available for even more comprehensive coverage.
3. **Battery Warranty**:
Golden Technologies covers the **battery** with a **one-year limited warranty**. Batteries are a consumable part of the scooter, and this warranty protects against early battery failure due to manufacturing defects.
**Optional Extended Warranties**:
Both **Pride Mobility** and **Golden Technologies** offer optional extended warranties for those who want additional coverage beyond the standard terms. This includes extended service plans for in-home labor and extended protection for electronics and motors.
**Exclusions**:
**Normal wear and tear**, **accidental damage**, or **misuse** of the product are typically not covered under these warranties.
– Repairs performed by unauthorized service providers or the use of non-original parts may void the warranty.
– The warranties are non-transferable and are valid only for the original purchaser of the scooter.
By offering comprehensive warranties, **Pride Mobility** and **Golden Technologies** ensure that their scooters are well-protected, giving customers peace of mind and support for years to come. All-Star Medical works closely with both brands to ensure that customers have access to the best mobility solutions and reliable warranty service.
++ Please note that some batteries like the lithium will have a different warranty length and other manufacturers will have different time frames as well.
Why choose All Star Medical?
All Star Medical is different from a number of ONLINE ONLY RETAILERS. We have brick and mortar stores in the Nashville, Tennessee area. We carry the largest selection of in-stock mobility scooters in the Middle Tennessee area. Our staff test drives each scooter. We take them apart, put them back together and are certified to service each and every scooter we sell. Our staff have daily hands-on experience with the mobility scooters we offer. Not in the Tennessee area? No problem. Our network of local service contractors allows us to provide in-home service for all of our customers with the service contracts through the manufacturer of your scooter of choice.
If you are ready to start your search for a mobility scooter, we can help you find the perfect model at the right price and provide you with the best customer support before and after your purchase simply by giving us a call or chatting online with one of our professional sales staff. All Star Medical DOES NOT have a commissioned sales staff. We believe in finding the right product for you, no matter the cost. Educating our customers on getting the right product is at the fore-front of our culture at All Star Medical.