ABLEDATA FACT SHEET SCOOTERS INTRODUCTION For years, people with mobility disabilities had one option in assistive technology: the manual wheelchair. The next step was the powered wheelchair; however, the type of chair used by a particular individual was determined strictly by the severity of his or her disability. Few if any other factors were considered; physical function determined whether someone used a manual or a powered wheelchair. The next major change in the wheelchair market was the recognition of wheelchair users as consumers with individual tastes and desires. Gradually manufacturers added a selection of upholstery fabrics and colors. And, as technological advances permitted, lighter, stronger, more attractive frames in a variety of finishes and colors were added to the range of choices to be made when selecting a wheelchair. Yet even with the addition of various options, wheelchairs were still wheelchairs. Only in the last 20 years or so, with the development of the powered scooter, has an alternative to the wheelchair become available. Early scooters were small, front-wheel drive models designed primarily for indoor use, with little power and limited range. Newer models, however, offer greater range and power and many are capable of traversing a range of outdoor terrains. Although most available scooters are three-wheeled, four-wheel scooters and scooters with the capacity to convert between three- and four-wheeled styles are also offered. This fact sheet examines the factors in determining whether a scooter is an appropriate mobility aid; provides an overview of the basic components of scooters; and explores the various models and options available. CONSIDERATIONS IN CHOOSING A SCOOTER The first consideration in selecting a scooter is to determine whether it will meet the needs of the potential user. The primary market for scooters is individuals with physical disabilities or health conditions which affect their ability to walk or limit their physical endurance. Typically, scooter users have some ability to walk, but are limited in distance or stamina--people with milder forms of cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, post-polio syndrome, stroke survivors, arthritis, and cardiac conditions, among others. Scooters are used to increase and extend the range of personal mobility and help conserve energy. Scooter users often have difficulty propelling manual wheelchairs, but do not require the sophisticated electronic controls and seating systems common in powered wheelchairs. A number of other physical factors must also be evaluated when determining whether a scooter is an appropriate mobility aid. A scooter user generally must be able to sit upright for extended periods and have sufficient seated balance to maintain an erect posture. Further, sufficient upper body and arm strength to master the controls and steer and maneuver the unit is required. In addition, uncorrected vision disabilities, or conditions which may cause confusion or memory loss or which inhibit proper safety awareness may render a scooter an unsatisfactory mobility aid. Other considerations in selecting a mobility aid include how and where the vehicle will be used, whether or not it will need to be transported, and if so, how it will be transported. Important factors are whether or not a scooter will be the primary mode of transportation, how far it will need to travel in between battery charges on a given day, and whether it will be used primarily indoors or outdoors, or in a combination of environments. The overall evaluation of all these factors will help determine whether a scooter is an appropriate assistive device for a particular individual in a specific set of circumstances. It should also be noted that persons considering a scooter for the first time or persons with new disabilities should seek the advice of their physicians, therapists, or other rehabilitation professionals in determining whether a wheelchair or a scooter is most appropriate for them, and/or what type of scooter best meets their needs. It is also important that a scooter under consideration be thoroughly tested and compared with other similar models, if possible in the setting in which it will be most typically used. Some manufacturers and distributors allow the user to take the scooter for on-site trials for a specified period. Such trials allow the user to more accurately determine whether the vehicle will perform as required in a given setting, and whether the controls, seating, and leg room are sufficiently comfortable for long-term use. As in comparison shopping for an automobile, it is advisable to test comparable models and their features. SCOOTER CONFIGURATIONS AND COMPONENTS As scooters have developed over the years, features have changed and options have been expanded. However, all models have a common set of components and characteristics. The base unit consists of a base platform to support the feet and batteries, the drive system (front- or rear-wheel drive), and the wheels. Other common elements include the seat, the seat post, and the tiller (steering and control mechanism). Base Unit The base unit is basically the body of the scooter. Generally it consists of a steel, aluminum, or composite frame with a fiberglass or composite floor to support the feet and batteries. Some scooter bases also include a shroud over the front wheel and drive head, creating a dashboard for the unit and giving the scooter a bullet-shaped appearance. As mentioned above, the base also includes the wheels and the drive train. In some scooters, the seat post is also part of the base. The base unit is the primary determinant of whether the scooter is designed for indoor or outdoor use, the vehicle's maneuverability, the size of its wheelbase, its ground clearance, its turning radius, and its overall dimensions. The base unit also determines the comfort and safety of the rider. When evaluating a scooter, it is important to be certain that the base can accommodate the user's needs. The floor should provide enough space to comfortably support the feet at a natural angle, and the overall dimensions should permit the controls to be easily reached and manipulated. Some manufacturers offer models with optional extended bases for tall people and/or shorter bases for small adults. Some models also offer optional extended footrests for those who wear leg braces or who have difficulty bending their knees. Evaluating the base for safety features, including its overall stability, is also important. A scooter should not tip easily during sharp turns or on inclines such as curb cuts (if the scooter is designed for outdoor use). Anti-tip wheels should be included as part of the frame to help support and stabilize the scooter. On front-wheel drive units, anti- tips are often located laterally just behind the front wheel because they generally lack the power for steep inclines. Because most rear-wheel drive scooters are intended to negotiate more rugged terrain, they are usually equipped with rear anti-tips to support the scooter on hills. Side anti-tip wheels are sometimes offered as options. It should be noted that lateral anti-tippers may cause difficulties on curb cuts and ramps. On some scooters, the base unit may be comprised of modular units or may otherwise be disassembled for transport and storage. These same features may also allow the scooter to be converted from three- to four-wheeled models and/or from indoor to outdoor use. Drive Train, Brakes, and Power System The drive train is an integral part of the base unit and provides either front- or rear- wheel drive for the scooter. Front-wheel drive is usually found on smaller scooters designed primarily to be used indoors or outdoors on flat, paved surfaces. The motor of the front-wheel drive scooter is located over the front wheel and drives only that wheel. Because of the motor and wheel configuration, front-wheel drive scooters are usually direct-drive units, eliminating chains and belts. However, this also means that the front wheel pulls the weight of the unit and the rider. Consequently, these types of scooters have a lesser capacity to move their load than do rear-wheel drive models, and are therefore less capable of handling hills, curb cuts, and other outdoor terrain. This is compounded by the fact that front-wheel drive models generally have smaller motors, causing them to have a shorter range, less speed and power, and a smaller rider weight capacity. These same factors, however, usually result in a scooter that is smaller than rear-wheel drive models and is more maneuverable, capable of fitting in tighter spaces, and are more likely to be compatible with van and bus wheelchair lifts. Conversely, rear-wheel drive scooters are powered by motors connected to the rear axle, either via a chain, a belt, a transaxle unit, or some combination. Because the scooter is driven by the rear wheels, they push the combined weight of the unit and the rider, rather than pull it. The combined weight of the rider, the motor, and the batteries over the rear wheels, generally create better traction than that usually provided by front-wheel drive models. The increased traction combined with the more powerful motors used on rear-wheel drive scooters results in better climbing ability. The units also have a greater maximum speed, a longer travelling range between battery charges, and a larger rider weight capacity. These scooters have a wider wheel base and a greater overall length, making them less maneuverable and rendering some models unsuitable for indoor use. They may also be too large for van or bus lifts. Front- or rear-wheel drive does not necessarily determine whether a scooter is powerful enough to meet the user's needs, nor does the horsepower of the motor. The torque of a motor is more often a determining factor. Most scooters use permanent magnet motors, some with lower torque than others. Lower torque motors frequently provide greater speed on flat, smooth surfaces, while higher torque motors may seem slow in that environment. However the higher torque motor will generally offer more power for climbing hills and negotiating other outdoor terrain. Again it is essential, when evaluating scooters, to be aware of the primary use for the vehicle. Brakes Most rear-wheel drive scooters utilize an electronic or elctro-mechanical dynamic, regenerative braking system. This type of braking system works in tandem with the motor, first to slow and then stop the vehicle when the pressure is released on the thumb levers or the controls are otherwise disengaged. When the scooter is not being powered forward or in reverse, the brakes are engaged, thus preventing the scooter from moving. During the application of the brakes, excess power from the motor is channeled to the batteries, providing recharging. Because the brakes are engaged when the scooter is being actively powered, most scooters with this braking system are equipped with a clutch on the motor or another release lever to manually disengage the brakes to allow the scooter to be pushed in case of emergency. Some scooters also use disc brakes or disc brakes in combination with the braking system discussed above. Some scooters--usually front-wheel drive models--are not equipped with electronic or electro-mechanical brakes. In the absence of a brake system, a manual parking brake applied by lever to a rear wheel is provided. Manual parking brakes may also be offered either as optional or standard features on other scooters to provide extra braking on hills and inclines. Batteries Most scooters utilize 12- or 24-volt motors and electrical systems generally with one or two 12-volt batteries to power the drive train and controls. Twelve-volt systems are most frequently found on front-wheel drive scooters, and usually require one 12-volt battery, although two six-volt batteries are sometime used. Some manufacturers offer add-on units for 12-volt systems which allow them to utilize two batteries to extend the scooter's range between charges, although speed and power are not affected. Rear-wheel drive systems generally require two twelve-volt batteries to power 24-volt systems. These batteries are "deep cycle" batteries intended for wheelchairs and scooters and generally last between 12 and 18 months, although with conservation and regular charging, longer life may be achieved. Deep cycle batteries are designed to provide a steady supply of power and be discharged and recharged on a regular basis. Automotive and marine batteries, on the other hand, are designed to be starter batteries, providing short bursts of power only. Consequently, marine and automotive batteries should never be substituted for deep cycle batteries. There are three basic types available for use with scooters: Lead acid (or wet cell) batteries, sealed lead-acid batteries, and gel cell batteries. Lead acid batteries are the least expensive of the three types (usually ranging in price from $80-$100 each), but they also require the most maintenance. In addition to regular charging, electrolyte and water levels must be checked regularly, with water added frequently to maintain appropriate levels. Because these batteries are not sealed, there is danger of acid spillage and explosion if the batteries are not handled properly. Despite these potential problems, lead-acid batteries provide the benefits of a two- to six-month longer battery life and up to a ten percent greater running time than other battery types. Sealed lead acid batteries are maintenance-free versions of these batteries. Because they are sealed in cases, it is unnecessary to add water and the danger of acid spillage is reduced or eliminated. The cases are vented to prevent gas build-up that can lead to an explosion. Finally, gel cell batteries are the most commonly used battery type on scooters. They are sealed in their cases and require no maintenance other than regular charging. Gel cells are the safest of the battery types, with no danger of spillage and limited risk of explosion. However, gel cells are more expensive, usually ranging in price from $90 to $125, and may have a somewhat shorter life than other battery types. It should be noted that many manufacturers do not include the battery or batteries as part of the scooter; rather, they are considered extra-cost options. The type and size of battery used on a given scooter should be selected in accordance with the recommendation of the manufacturer. It is particularly important that the battery be compatible with the battery charger to be used. Lead acid and gel cell batteries require different types of chargers operating at differing amperage levels, so their charges should never be used interchangeably. However, dual chargers capable of charging both types of batteries are also available. While the batteries are frequently optional, the charger is usually included with the scooter as part of the purchase price. It may be an on-board internal charger built into the scooter's base unit or it may be an external charger that is totally separate from the unit. On-board chargers have the benefit of allowing the user to recharge the batteries during an extended use, although it may be necessary to carry a separate cord or an extension cord to connect the unit to an electrical outlet. However, should an on-board charger require repair, it is necessary to take the entire scooter in for repair. External chargers, on the other hand, require the user to carry extra equipment, but they also offer the benefit of easier repair or replacement, as well as the capability of charging the batteries away from the scooter, an option that can be particularly useful during travel because the batteries can be maintained without removing the scooter from the van or automobile. Wheels and Tires The size of the wheels and tires on a scooter have a direct affect on the scooter's ability to surmount obstacles and its stability. Scooters are generally equipped with six-, eight-, or ten-inch wheels, although other sizes may also be used. Some models use the same size wheels both front and rear, while others may have smaller wheels in front and larger rear wheels. Smaller wheels are generally found on front-wheel drive scooters intended for indoor use. As a rule, the intended use of the scooter should dictate the size of the wheels and tires. The larger the wheels, the more stable the unit. Similarly the larger and wider the tires, the greater the unit's traction and capacity to manage such obstacles as curb cuts and uneven outdoor terrain. Those same tires, however, may make it more difficult to maneuver the scooter in tighter indoor spaces. Several types of tires are available for scooters. Manufacturers generally offer a specific tire as standard equipment, with others available as extra-cost options. Pneumatic tires include air-filled tubes and are similar to those found on automobiles. Air pressure should be checked regularly to maintain proper levels, and tires may need to be replaced if punctured. The addition of an anti-flat compound before inflation reduces the risk of tires going flat. They provide good shock absorption when properly inflated. Foam filled tires are similar to pneumatic tires, but include foam inserts rather than air-filled tubes. These tires cannot be deflated and, therefore, require less maintenance. They may be more expensive than pneumatic tires and may not offer a consistently comfortable ride. The least expensive tire option is the solid rubber tire. These tires require the least maintenance, but provide minimal shock absorption and are intended primarily for indoor use. Other issues in tire selection include color and tread depth. Most tires are available in black or grey rubber. Black tires are generally less expensive and have a longer life than do grey tires. However, grey tires are specially treated to prevent the marking and scuffing of floors and walls that is common with black tires. Tires are also available with differing levels of tread. The deeper the tread, the greater the scooter's traction and ability to handle such outdoor surfaces as mud, gravel, and grass. However, the treads do tend to track dirt and debris indoors. Low-tread or treadless tires eliminate this problem, but should be confined to indoor use or limited outdoor use on paved surfaces. Seating The most common seat found on scooters is a chair-style seat similar to those found on boats. The basic seat is molded hard plastic or fiberglass, but most manufacturers offer a padded-seat option, usually with a choice of vinyl or fabric upholstery. Vinyl upholstery is frequently less expensive, but because it is a slipperier surface, it may not be the best choice for those whose disability makes it difficult to maintain position or balance. Until recently, there were few other options in seating on scooters. Unlike wheelchairs, scooters did not offer custom seating or positioning options. More manufacturers are now offering more ergonomically designed seats, lumbar supports, and separate cushions. In rare cases, manufacturers offer custom-design and fitting with positioning options similar to those found on wheelchairs. Seats are usually post-mounted to the center or rear of the base, and most swivel up to 360 degrees with stops at every 90 degrees using a manual lever beneath the seat. A powered seat is a common option. The mechanism is usually controlled from the dashboard or control box and uses power from the battery to rotate the seat. Some powered seats also elevate, allowing the user greater access to counters, cupboards, etc. As with most options, powered seats add to the scooter's final cost. Another consideration is the draw of power from the battery; frequent use of the power seat during the course of the day may reduce the scooter's range. Some seats also allow for forward and rearward adjustment to better accommodate the user's needs. In addition, some scooters are equipped with folding seats or seat backs and/or removable seat posts for transport or storage. Armrests are another consideration in seating. Some scooters offer armrests only as an option; others offer fixed armrests as standard with flip-up armrests available. Whatever the type, they are generally constructed of rigid plastic with padded upholstery optional, although some armrests feature a rigid plastic base with padded, upholstered inserts. Whether or not armrests are padded and whether they are fixed or not should be determined by the user's needs in transferring to and from the scooter and whether the armrests will help with balance while seated. Padding may make it more difficult to grasp the armrests and fixed armrests may make it more difficult to transfer. Tiller The tiller is the control and steering mechanism for the scooter, usually containing the controls to drive the scooter forward or in reverse, as well as steering the front wheel or wheels. Most scooters offer one type of standard tiller with other controllers available as options. Possibilities include thumb levers, loop handles, joysticks, and others. Thumb levers are the most common controls, allowing the user to keep both hands on the handle bars while using the left thumb to power the scooter in reverse and the right to power the scooter forward. The amount of pressure applied to the lever will determine the speed of the vehicle (unless it is equipped with a proportional speed control). Consequently, a fair amount of hand control is necessary for safe operation. Finger control levers or a joystick may be alternatives. Some manufacturers may also be able to adapt controls to user requirements at extra cost. The tiller itself is often an upright post attached to the front wheel. However, it is also becoming common to find flexible, accordion-style tillers which can be adjusted for height and/or position. This not only enables the user to place the tiller in the most comfortable position while driving, but also allows it to be moved up and out of the way during transfers. In the absence of a dashboard or shroud over the front wheel, a control box with the key lock, battery level indicator, speed controller, and other features may be affixed to the tiller handlebars. Since a joystick controls both speed and direction, scooters equipped with them generally do not have the post-and-handlebar tiller; the joystick is usually attached to an armrest or to an armrest extension, with a choice of right or left mounting. While this frees the space in front of the user and may accommodate easier transitions for some, the lack of handlebars may make transfers more difficult for others. Other Features and Accessories In addition to the standard features common to all scooters discussed above, manufacturers offer a variety of standard features and optional accessories. Most scooters are equipped with a key lock for turning the scooter on and off, thus conserving battery life and preventing unauthorized use; a battery-level indicator (an indispensable asset if the scooter is not charged daily or in situations of extended use); and a proportional speed controller to limit maximum speed. A wide range of accessories also are offered on most scooters, such as crutch and cane holders, oxygen carriers, front and rear baskets, trailers, headlights, tail lights, horns, canopies, and others. Some manufacturers even offer sidecars to allow an additional passenger. As when purchasing a car, options and additional features increase the base cost of the unit, but accessories should be evaluated in light of their capacity to create a mobility aid which provides maximum user independence. At the same time, it should be kept in mind that some options may decrease battery life, maneuverability, and/or travel range. Transportation Whether a scooter is designed to be used primarily indoors, is intended to be the user's primary mobility aid outdoors, or it is used both indoors and outdoors, it may be necessary to transport the scooter. If a van with a lift or public transportation is to be used, it may be advisable to consider a scooter with a narrow wheelbase and smaller overall profile in order to be certain that the scooter can be accommodated by the lift and be sufficiently maneuverable to be used on buses and other public transit vehicles. If the scooter is to be transported by automobile, it must be able to be broken down into smaller components. Some scooters are comprised of modular components or are designed with take-apart frames. At the very least, a scooter to be transported by automobile should have a removable seat post, seat, batteries, and tiller (or a folding tiller). It should also have a folding seatback. How many components the scooter needs to break into depends upon several factors, including whether it will be transported in the trunk or in the back seat and how much space is available; and how heavy the individual components are, how much the user can lift, and whether a lift or loader can be used. Beyond the Purchase Once a scooter has been selected, there are other factors to be considered. First, be certain that a warranty is offered and know what the terms of the warranty are. If the scooter is purchased from a local dealer, determine whether the store has trained service technicians capable of performing routine maintenance and repairs. Be certain that parts such as batteries, tires, chains and belts, and electronics are stocked on the premises and do not have to be ordered from the manufacturer, causing delays in getting the scooter back on the road. If the scooter is purchased directly from a manufacturer, learn whether repairs can be made locally and by whom. Wherever maintenance is performed or repairs are made, the work should be done by someone authorized to do it under the terms of the warranty. FUNDING SOURCES Funding for scooters, as with other assistive devices, is dependent upon an individual's eligibility for medical, social services, income support or vocational assistance from any of a number of different resources. Depending upon the terms of the policy, some medical insurance providers cover a portion of the cost of a scooter with a doctor's prescription and justification of medical need. Additional funding sources include community agencies, community organizations, and churches. Further information on resources and methods of funding assistive devices is available from the Assistive Technology Funding & Systems Change Project, a project of the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) run by the United Cerebral Palsy Associations, Inc. Individuals requiring information and technical assistance on funding may call 800-827-0093 (voice) or 800-833-8272 (TT) or fax 404-919-8305. Information about resources is also available in an ABLEDATA "Fact Sheet on Funding Assistive Technology." CONCLUSION Scooters offer individuals with mobility disabilities an alternative in personal mobility aids. For some a more attractive, less "medical" appearance is an important factor. For others, greater flexibility is a primary consideration. For those not requiring the sophisticated electronics or seating systems of a powered wheelchair, the smaller price tag is attractive. Whatever the reason for considering a scooter, models should be carefully evaluated for their capability to accommodate the user's disability and meet the requirements of the intended use. First-time purchasers are advised to consult with a physician, therapist, or other rehabilitation professional to determine whether a scooter is the best option, and what features are required. For those seeking information on assistive technology and available features, the ABLEDATA database provides information about more than 21,000 products for people with disabilities. Included in the ABLEDATA database are descriptions of scooters currently available in the United States, as well as information about scooter manufacturers and local distributors. ABLEDATA can be reached by calling 800/227- 0216 or 301/588-9284. Information specialists are on hand to assist callers locate the information they need. For a small fee, ABLEDATA can provide patrons with computer printouts of information on specific wheelchairs listed in the database. Costs are determined by the size of the database search requested. ABLEDATA also has a series of Fact Sheets on assistive devices. Included is the "Funding Assistive Technology" Fact Sheet discussed above. Other titles include "Manual Wheelchairs," "Powered Wheelchairs," "Wheelchairs for Children," and the "Informed Consumer Guide to Wheelchair Selection." Contact the ABLEDATA office for a complete list of titles and prices. ABLE INFORM is a computer bulletin board service (BBS) that allows computer users to search ABLEDATA themselves and to download information obtained from those searches. ABLE INFORM can be accessed via modem at 301/589-3563 (8-1-n), or through the Internet. (Telnet to FedWorld.gov, select option G, select option 1, then select system #115 to connect.) There is no charge to use the BBS, although callers from outside the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area will be charged by their telephone company for a long distance call when calling on commercial telephone lines. SCOOTER MANUFACTURER CONTACT INFORMATION Alpha Mobility, Inc. 4265 Kellway Circle Dallas, TX 75244-2033 214/407-8400 or 800/749-5444 Amigo Mobility International, Inc. 6693 Dixie Highway Bridgeport, MI 48722-0402 517/777-0910 or 800/821-2710 Braun Corporation 1014 South Monticello P.O. Box 310 Winamac, IN 46996 219/946-6153 or 800/843-5438 Bruno Independent Living Aids 1780 Executive Drive P.O. Box 84 Oconomowoc, WI 53066 414/567-4990 or 800/882-8183 Burke Mobility Products P.O. Box 1064 Mission, KS 66222 913/722-5658 or 800/255-4147 C F Struck Corp. W51 N545 Struck Lane, Box 307 Cedarburg, WI 53012 414/377-3300 Everest & Jennings, Inc. 1100 Corporate Square Drive St. Louis, MO 63132-2908 314/569-3515 or 800/235-4661 Electric Mobility Corp. #1 Mobility Plaza Sewel, NJ 08080 609/468-0270 or 800/662-4548 Golden Technologies, Inc. 159 Penn Avenue Exeter, PA 18643 717/883-7423 or 800/624-6374 Hugh MacMillan Rehabilitation Centre 350 Rumsey Road Toronto, Ontario M4G 1R8 Canada 416/425-6220 or 800/363-2440 Invacare Corporation 899 Cleveland Street P.O. Box 4028 Elyria, OH 44036-2125 216/329-6000 or 800/333-6900 Leisure Lift 1800 Merriam Lane Kansas City, KS 66106 800/255-0285 Medical Resource Companies of America 4265 Kellway Circle Addison, TX 75244 214/407-8400 or 800/583-6565 Mobility Manufacturing, Inc. 5555 S. Country Club Road Tucson, AZ 85706 602/889-8636 or 800/767-2668 Motovator 1732 Border Avenue Torrance, CA 90501-3601 310/320-5941 Optiway Technology, Inc. 50 Norfinch Drive Downsview, Ontario M3N 1Y4 Canada 416/739-8333 or 800/514-7061 Ortho-Kinetics, Inc. W220 N507 Springdale Road P.O. Box 1647 Waukesha, WI 53187-1647 414/542-6060 or 800/558-7786 Pride Health Care, Inc. 71 South Main Street Pittston, PA 18640 717/655-5574 or 800/457-5438 Voyager, Inc. 68102 US Highway 31 Lakeville, IN 46536-973