Mobility scooters have been around since the 50s. First billed as electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters have since evolved into their own unique brand.
Modern-day scooters afford mobility to otherwise incapable individuals. They are of great importance and are on the rise in North America. Let’s take a look at the ten best mobility scooters to buy in North America.
What Does a Mobility Scooter Cost?
As with any product, there is a large range in cost. You can find mobility scooters for as cheap as $800 or as expensive as $4,000. Most sit around $1,500-$3,000.
What is the Best Mobility Scooter to Buy?
While no one mobility scooter works best for everyone, there is a stand-out in the following list. The Pride Go-Go Elite Traveler is one of the best mobility scooters on the market. It is a three-wheel scooter that is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre.
Types of Scooters
When it comes to mobility scooters, there are four main designs; three-wheeled, four-wheeled, foldable, and heavy-duty. Each design has different pros and cons.
Heavy-duty
Heavy-duty scooters like the Golden 4 Wheel Avenger are an excellent option for heavier people or people who need a durable scooter. These scooters are the largest but also usually the fastest and most powerful. They are a perfect option for extended outdoor use.
Three-wheel
Three-wheeled mobility scooters, like the Pride Go-Go Elite Traveler, are generally easier to manoeuvre than four-wheeled ones. They are slightly more compact but consequently usually have a shorter range. These scooters are a good choice for people who need to get around small areas.
Four-wheel
The four-wheeled mobility scooters, such as Pride 4 Wheel Victory, are sturdier than the three-wheeled design. They are larger, so they have a longer range and handle terrain more easily, but they cannot turn as tightly or fit in small spaces.
Folding/travel scooters
Foldable, also known as travel scooters, like Majestic Buvan 2021 Foldable Scooter, are exactly what they sound like. These are the smallest mobility scooters and fold up for easy transportation. They are also the least powerful scooters but are great for manoeuvring and storing.
Top 10 Mobility Scooters in the U.S.
Take a look at our pick of the top 1o mobility scooters available to buy in the U.S. in 2021:
| Name | Where to Buy | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Our Pick: Golden 4 Wheel Avenger | Check Price |  |
| #2 Pride Go-Go Elite Traveler | Check Price |  |
| #3 Pride 4 Wheel Victory | Check Price |  |
| #4 Golden Companion 2 | Check Price |  |
| #5 Majestic Buvan 2021 Foldable Scooter | Check Price |  |
| #6 Pride 4 Wheel Maxima | Check Price |  |
| #7 Zip'r Roo 3 Wheel Scooter | Check Price |  |
| #8 Dragon Mobile Foldable Scooter | Check Price |  |
| #9 Pride 4 Wheel Victory 9 | Check Price |  |
| #10 Majestic Buvan Lightweight Foldable Scooter | Check Price |  |
1. Golden 4 Wheel Avenger
The Golden 4 Wheel Avenger model is our top pick of mobility scooters to buy in the U.S. Firstly, it is a heavy-duty model which means it can hold weight, withstand long-term use and better yet handle trips outdoors.
This option can hold up to 500 lbs of user weight, has pneumatic tires for optimum driving comfort and which can tackle all sorts of outdoor terrain whether smooth or rough. Pneumatic tires require maintenance as the are like a bicycle tire but they offer the user a less bumpy, more smooth ride.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
- Top Speed: 7mph
- Wheels: Four Pneumatic 13″
- Dimensions: 57.5″x 24.6″
- Seat Dimensions: 17″x 20″
- Weight: 267lb
- Battery: 12v 55A 22NF
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Heavy-duty and high weight load
- Extra-large tires
- Contoured seat
Cons
- Large model
2. Pride Go-Go Elite Traveler
Next to top the list is the Pride Go-Go Elite Traveler mobility scooter. We chose this model based on its compact three-wheel design, ideal for those looking for easy manoeuvrability and easy disassembly.
This option is perfect for those looking for a mobility scooter to use at home and one which can easily move around things. It is light with no maintenance tires but isn’t suitable for those who need a heavy duty model or extra room at the front than others.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300lb
- Top Speed: 4.5mph
- Wheels: One Front, Two Back 9″
- Dimensions: 40″x34″
- Seat Dimensions: 17″x17″
- Weight: 86.5lb
- Battery: 18A
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy disassembly
- Great manoeuvrability
- Wrap around handle
Cons
- Limited legroom
3. Pride 4 Wheel Victory
The next model listed is the Pride 4-Wheel Victory. This 4-wheel option is a classic version of a mobility scooter with very good weight capacity – 400 lbs – average speed and four solid tires. This design is simple but effective in that it is not too large and not too compact.
Tires which are solid require no maintenance and so cannot puncture but they do reduce the comfort level of the user’s ride. A wraparound handle adds comfort and safety to the design plus easy disassembly which is always a plus.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 400lb
- Top Speed: 5.3mph
- Wheels: Four solid 10″
- Dimensions: 47″x22.25″
- Seat Dimensions: 17″x18″
- Weight: 185lb
- Battery: Two 40A
4. Golden Companion 2
The Golden Companion 2 mobility scooter is an all-round great buy in 2021. This option has four solid wheels and a good speed for everyday use whether you are getting around your house or running some errands.
Extras like side mirrors, armrests and a vibrant red colour make this option a all-rounder for many customers. Solid tires are maintenance free and cannot be punctured however they will not be suitable for all sorts of rough, uneven terrain.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
- Top Speed: 5.3mph
- Wheels: Four Solid, Non-Marking 10.75″
- Dimensions: 47.5″x23.5″
- Seat Dimensions: 16″x18″
- Weight: 194lb
- Battery: Two U-1
Pros & Cons
Pros
-
Wrap around handle
-
Auto-lock tiller
-
Side mirrors
Cons
-
Hard to transport
5. Majestic Buvan 2021 Foldable Scooter
The Majestic Buvan Foldable Scooter is ideal for those looking to bring their scooter with them while they travel or visit friends and family. It is compact and light enough to transport easily from place to place.
Of course a more lightweight and compact model will only allow for a maximum weight capacity of 265 lbs which is a lot less than other models listed. The folding mechanism plus an excellent top speed make this a great contender in our opinion.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 265lb
- Top Speed: 12mph
- Wheels: Two Front 10″, Two Back 8″
- Dimensions: 40″x 21″
- Seat Dimensions: Unspecified
- Weight: 63lb
- Battery: 36v 10A/36v 15A
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Three-speed levels of 3.75mph, 7.5mph, and 12mph
- One-year spare part warranty and 6-month battery warranty
- Foldable
Cons
- Small seat
- No armrests
6. Pride 4 Wheel Maxima
Yet another Pride model features on our list of top mobility scooters to buy in the US in 2021. This choice is simple but practical for a heavy-duty model. It comes with a large seat and an anti-tip safety feature too.
A high weight capacity is another plus but solid wheels again make for a bumpier ride. They are however maintenance free which gives you peace of mind when out and about. For those who are looking for a compact sized scooter this may be too wide for you.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 500lb
- Top Speed: 5.25mph
- Wheels: Four solid 10″
- Dimensions: 47″x25.5″
- Seat Dimensions: 18.5″x22″
- Weight: 265lb
- Battery: Two 22NF
7. Zip’r Roo 3 Wheel Scooter
As the name suggests the next model on our list is zippy for its lightweight size. Weighing only 90 lbs it is easily transported without too much hassle. The speed is not the fastest on this list but the positives of this option include a tight turning radius and easy disassembly.
As always with models that are light in weight and compact in size the maximum user weight capacity is also limited. Please note the wheel type is not specified on this model.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 265lb
- Top Speed: 3.7mph
- Wheels: Unspecified
- Dimensions: 41″x19.5″
- Seat Dimensions: 14.5″x16.5″
- Weight: 90lb
- Battery: Unspecified
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy disassembly
- Tight turning
- Comfy formed seat
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
8. Dragon Mobile Foldable Scooter
Next on the list is a mobility scooter with a futuristic design and great folding technology. The design is lightweight and compact but again lessens the maximum user weight capacity. If you’re looking for a scooter with basic features and functions then this is a great choice for using occasionally, around the house or for daily runs to the store.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 330lb
- Top Speed: 12mph
- Wheels: Unspecified
- Dimensions: 38.5″x 21.5″
- Seat Dimensions: Unspecified
- Weight: 62lb
- Battery: Unspecified
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Brake light
- Comes in solid, multicolor, and custom colors
- Three speeds 3.75mph, 7.5mph, 12mph
Cons
- Small seat
- No armrests
9. Pride 4 Wheel Victory 9
The Pride 4-Wheel Victory 9 allows for easy journeys at an affordable price. A nice top speed with good weight capacity for the driver this model is traditional in design and practical too. Solid wheels allow for puncture free journeys but as mentioned earlier in the list this can mean a less smooth ride on your scooter.,
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 300lb
- Top Speed: 5.25mph
- Wheels: Four solid 9″
- Dimensions: 45″x 22.5″
- Seat Dimensions: 17″x 18″
- Weight: 177.5lb
- Battery: Off-Board 3A
10. Majestic Buvan Lightweight Foldable Scooter
The foldable Majestic Buvan Lightweight scooter offers a folding mechanism and a light frame for easy transport and storage. This alternative design features three speed settings and a cool set of headlights. As it weighs just 63 lbs it can be a little more unstable at higher speed options.
Specifications:
- Weight Capacity: 265lb
- Top Speed: 12mph
- Wheels: Two Front 10″, Two Back 8″
- Dimensions: 40″x21″
- Seat Dimensions: Unspecified
- Weight: 63lb
- Battery: 36v 10A/36v 15A
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Headlights
- Three speeds of 3.75mph, 7.5mph, and 12mph
- One-year spare part warranty and six-month battery warranty
Cons
- Less stable at high speeds
Top 5 Mobility Scooters for Under €1,500
These scooters can all be found for under €1,500:
| Name | Where to Buy | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Our Pick: Pride Go-Go Elite Traveler | Check Price | |
| #2 Majestic Buvan 2021 Foldable Scooter | Check Price | |
| #3 Zip’r Roo 3 Wheel Scooter | Check Price | |
| #4 Dragon Mobile Foldable Scooter | Check Price | |
| #5 Majestic Buvan Lightweight Foldable Scooter | Check Price | |
Accessories
While there are a near-endless number of scooter accessories available, an ideal one to invest in is the Scooterpac canopy. This canopy is a one-size-fits-all scooter cover that can protect you and your scooter from lousy weather.
The canopy is foldable and can be conveniently stored in a pouch behind the seat. It’s the convertible of scooters! The Scooterpac canopy is exceptionally durable and will remain securely attached to your scooter up to 20mph.
Initially, sizing the canopy on your scooter will take 10-20 minutes, but once it has been fitted, it only takes seconds to put on and off.
Benefits
There are several benefits to using mobility scooters over other mobility devices. For starters, they are cheaper than electric wheelchairs, and a lot of the time, they sell because they don’t look like wheelchairs. People tend to avoid using anything that makes them look disabled. Your granddad has probably needed hearing aids for a decade, for example.
Another benefit of mobility scooters is that they can be a better option for people who retain the ability to walk but lack stamina. Scooters offer a way to get around independently outside the home.
Thanks to their larger size, scooters can also accommodate larger people than wheelchairs, are sturdier, and generally have more storage space. It is also easier to swivel the chair than to move the footrests on a wheelchair.
Legal Issues in the U.S.
The U.S. is not known for providing financial aid for medical care, and it can be a tumultuous process to acquire some.
Medicare, personal insurance, the American Outreach Foundations, and Social Security and State Disability Assistance can cover some or all of the cost of mobility scooters if you qualify.
There are also grants and charities such as Numotion Foundation. These grants and charities are non-government groups that often work on a first-come-first-served basis and waiting lists.
There are many different options available for financial support for mobility devices. If you don’t qualify for one, you’ll probably qualify for another.
Limitations of a Mobility Scooter
Mobility scooters are a fantastic way to restore mobility to disabled individuals; however, they do come with some limitations. One major problem with scooters is that the user must have upper-body mobility. To operate the steering tiller, you need to be able to lift and move at least one arm with enough strength.
Additionally, scooters do not provide leg, back, neck, or head support like some wheelchairs do. Operating a scooter will be difficult if you do not have the strength or ability to sit up relatively straight.
Another problem with mobility scooters is their size. Many public buildings are designed to accommodate wheelchairs, but they may not have the space for scooters. Elevators, narrow hallways, sharp turns, and small bathrooms are just a few of the issues you may face in public spaces.
Think of a restaurant you like, the space between the tables is relatively small, and while there are spaces for wheelchairs, you can’t exactly pull a scooter up to a table.
Similarly, most homes are not designed to accommodate full-size scooters. If you have stairs, a small bathroom and kitchen, lots of furniture, or even a raised front door, you may find traversing your home impossible.
Finally, mobility scooters are more difficult to transfer people in and out of. In a wheelchair, a person can be rolled up to their bed and lifted out from the front. It is much harder to get around the seat and steering column of a scooter.
Designs & Features
Here’s a quick overview of general mobility scooter specs.
How Fast do Mobility Scooters Go?
The speed of mobility scooters depends on the make and brand. In the U.SClass 2 mobility scooters cap out at 4mph, while Class 3 mobility scooters can reach 8mph.
If you buy a foreign brand or get the scooter customized, it can go much faster.
How Far do they Go?
The range and battery life of a mobility scooter are significantly dependant on the design. Portable and foldable scooters generally only have a range of about ten miles before they need recharging.
Midrange models can usually travel between 15-25 miles. Longrange scooters can do up to 45 miles on a single charge.
What Voltage are Mobility Scooters?
Mobility scooters use two 12v batteries.
What Type of Batteries do they Use?
Scooters use lithium batteries. These batteries weigh 50% less than previous ones but have a lifespan of four to ten times longer.
How Long do Mobility Scooters Take to Charge?
Charging mobility scooter batteries overnight is the best idea as, depending on the model, they can take anywhere from six to ten hours to charge fully.
How to Make them go Faster?
There are three main ways to make mobility scooters go faster. The first is to upgrade the battery. If the battery is old or not very good, it will be slow.
The second way to speed up your mobility scooter is to get a tune-up. Just like any other engine, scooters need regular service.
The third way to increase speed on your scooter will void the warranty. If you are good with mechanics or know someone who is, you can remove the speed limiter. It will most likely show you where this is right in the manual.
How Long do Batteries Last?
On average, lithium scooter batteries will last three years before you need a new one.
How to Service Mobility Scooters?
Finding a place to get a mobility scooter serviced can be difficult. Usually, physical stores that sell scooters will also offer repair and maintenance services. There are also specialized shops that service medical and disability equipment. You should take your scooter for a checkup every year or so.
✅ Can You Take A Mobility Scooter Out In The Rain?
There are no issues with taking a mobility scooter out in the rain. Depending on how heavy the rain is, you should drive slower and more cautiously. You may also want to invest in a rain cover, like the one mentioned above.
✅ Is A Four-Wheel Scooter Better Than A Three-Wheel Scooter?
In the scooter game, there is no better or worse, just what you prefer. Three-wheel scooters are generally cheaper, smaller, offer more legroom, and turn tighter. On the other hand, four-wheel scooters are more stable, sturdy, and better on a variety of terrains.
✅ What Is The Best Scooter For Seniors?
The best mobility scooter for seniors is the Komfy 8. It has an easy-to-use wrap-around handlebar, fold-down armrests, a super comfy seat, simple operation, and so much more.
✅ Do I Need A Number Plate For My Mobility Scooter?
Mobility vehicles, including scooters, are not classed as motor vehicles. You do not need plates. You don’t even need registration, insurance, or a license to use one.
✅ What Is The Difference Between A Class 2 And Class 3 Mobility Scooter?
Class 2 mobility scooters are generally smaller and lighter than Class 3 scooters. Class 3 mobility scooters are made for longer distances and rougher terrain, such as paved paths and roads, while Class 3 scooters are primarily for indoor use.
Class 3 scooters also have a maximum speed of 8mph, while Class 2 scooters can only reach 4mph.
✅ What Is The Speed Limit For Mobility Scooters?
The speed limit on mobility scooters varies by location. In parks and on trails, the speed limit is usually 5mph, while on sidewalks, on pavement, and in parking lots, the speed limit is generally 4mph.
If you plan to take your mobility scooter indoors, the limits also vary by store. Most retailers prefer a slower pace of around 2mph. This is to give other customers time to react to and prevent mishaps with the merchandise.