A Guide To Tyre Maintenance For Folding Mobility Scooters

Folding mobility scooters have become irreplaceable companions for individuals seeking independence and convenience. These devices offer newfound freedom, effortlessly navigating through diverse terrains and surroundings. Yet, at the heart of these smooth rides are often overlooked heroes: the tyres. In this maintenance guide, we delve into the realm of folding mobility scooter tyres and how you can maintain them for longer performance. 

Firstly, let’s talk about the different types of mobility scooter tyres available out there on the market…

Pneumatic (Air-Filled) Tyres:

Pneumatic tyres are similar to the tyres you find on bicycles or cars. They are filled with air and provide a cushioning effect due to the air pressure inside. Here are some key points that you should be aware of if you’re looking at a folding mobility scooter with pneumatic tyres:

• Comfort: Pneumatic tyres offer a smoother and more comfortable ride because the air inside acts as a shock absorber, helping to absorb bumps and uneven surfaces whilst riding on your folding mobility scooter.
• Grip: These tyres provide good traction, which means they can handle various surfaces, including rough terrain, gravel, and even slightly wet conditions, with better grip.
• Maintenance: While they offer a comfortable ride, pneumatic tyres require more maintenance. You will need to periodically check the tyre pressure using a gauge and ensure they are properly inflated because if the air pressure is too low, the ride might feel bumpy, and if it's too high, the tyres might be at risk of bursting.
• Flat tyres: Mobility scooters with pneumatic tyres are susceptible to punctures, which can lead to flat tyres. She might need to keep a spare tube or puncture repair kit handy in case of a flat tyre. Luckily, the size needed can be found in most bike shops or you may be able to get them with your mobility scooter from your retailer. 

Solid Tyres:

Solid tyres are made of dense rubber or foam and do not require air. They are essentially puncture-proof but come with some drawbacks so let’s take a look at some of their features:

• Maintenance: Solid tyres require less maintenance since there's no need to worry about tyre pressure, you won't have to check for leaks or punctures and so you will need to carry out fewer checks on your folding mobility scooter.

• Durability: These tyres are more resistant to punctures and flats, making them a good choice for those concerned about unexpected breakdowns. These tyres are much more common on folding mobility scooters due to their long lasting durability. See our best mobility scooter with solid tyres here.
• Ride Quality: While solid tyres are durable, they can provide a slightly less comfortable ride compared to pneumatic tyres as they don't absorb shocks as well, meaning the ride on your folding mobility scooter might feel slightly bumpier on uneven surfaces.

• Grip: Solid tyres might have slightly less traction on wet or slippery surfaces compared to pneumatic tyres but they are commonly used in most travel mobility scooters and so they are perfectly safe to drive with all year now. 

Now that you know a little more about folding mobility scooter tyres, consider your preferences and the types of surfaces that you usually ride on. If you value a smoother ride and are willing to do a bit more maintenance, pneumatic tyres might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re concerned about flat tyres and want lower maintenance, solid tyres could be more suitable.

Now let’s take a closer look into the maintenance steps you will need to look to carry out on your mobility scooter.

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  Check Tyre Pressure: So, if you have a folding mobility scooter with pneumatic tyres then just like regular bicycles or cars, your mobility scooter's tyres need to have the right amount of air in them. If the tyres are too soft or too hard, it can affect the scooter's performance and make it harder to control. There should be a recommended pressure range printed on the side of the tyre or listed in your product manual on its recommended pressure for optimum performance.

• Inflate Tyres When Needed: If the tyre pressure is too low, you’ll need to add air to the tyres using a pump. If the pressure is too high, you might need to release some air to get it within the recommended range. Maintaining the right tyre pressure is incredibly important for maintaining a smoother and safer ride on your travel mobility scooter.

• Inspect Tread Depth: The tread on the tyres is like the grip on your shoes as they help the tyres grip the ground better, especially on wet or slippery surfaces. If the treads are getting worn down and becoming shallow, it's time to consider replacing the tyres. You can often find replacement folding mobility scooter tyres at a local bike shop, online or reach out to your retailer who can recommend a suitable replacement.

• Keep tyres Clean: Don’t forget that keeping the tyres clean is also part of maintenance. Dirt and debris can build up on the tyres, potentially causing damage over time. Regularly cleaning the tyres will always help them last longer. As discussed above, the tyres need tread for better grip, however if they are filled with dirt and debris then the amount of grip on the tyres will be reduced.

• Store Properly: When your folding mobility scooter is not in use for an extended period like during the winter, then it is best to store it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Storing your folding mobility scooter this way. will help prevent any unnecessary deterioration of the tyres and ensure they’re as good as new for your next trip. See these tips for packing and storing your folding travel mobility scooter here.

So there you have it, the tyre story for folding mobility scooters. Now you’re equipped with the lowdown on pneumatic and solid tyre differences and the top maintenance tips for your mobility scooter, you can pick your perfect match.