Mobility Scooter Weight Capacity - Does it Really Matter?
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A common question for us here at Betty and Bertie is whether the weight capacity of our mobility scooters is important. The answer is yes!
Mobility scooter manufacturers take the time to rigorously test the mobility scooters before they go to market, so it's important that these weight limits are abided to if you want to get the most out of your scooter.
Being within the range can prevent:
- Loss of power when driving the mobility scooter.
- Damage to the mobility scooter.
Overall performance can be affected significantly if the rider of the scooter exceeds the weight capacity because it puts a lot of stress on the motor. If the rider is significantly under the weight limit, performance will be optimised, so it's always worth considering this when purchasing a mobility scooter.
You should always test the scooter on different terrains and inclines before purchasing it. Although the scooter might drive well on a flat road, difficulties with the scooter will be noticeable when a person exceeds the weight limit and is driving over rougher terrain or up steep inclines.
Being within the weight capacity of a mobility scooter will ensure that the scooter can reach top speeds, a good range and can withstand different terrain such as grass and gravel.
The Dangers of Exceeding the Capacity
Whilst exceeding the capacity can affect the performance of the scooter and risk damaging it, it's also a concern particularly when the scooter is a 3 wheel one, such as our Lupin model. There is a much higher risk of tipping over where this is the case, and although there are protections in place such as anti-tip wheels, this might leave the rider feeling unsafe or cause damage to the scooter.
There are many mechanical disadvantages to overloading the mobility scooter, such as damage to the batteries and suspension. All of these can damage the mobility scooter long term, requiring more maintenance on tyres, replacement batteries if they fail, a weakened frame and even motor failure. This can be expensive to repair, so it's important to stay within the capacity to ensure the mobility scooter is kept in the best condition for as long as possible.
What about our scooters?
Zinnia - The Auto Folding Mobility Scooter has a maximum load capacity of 125kg / 19.7 stone / 275 pounds.
Lupin - The Easy Folding Mobility Scooter has a maximum load capacity of 100kg / 15.7 stone / 220 pounds.
Higher Weight Capacities
In November we have a new version of Lupin landing called Ren with a maximum load capacity of 165kg.
For more information on this please call us on 0800 999 6606 or email us at info@bettyandbertie.com.