In the late 60's the first mobility scooter was introduced to the general population and marked the beginning of an era where people who have difficulty walking are no longer restricted in the actions they can perform. A mobility scooter is a personal movement device that can greatly improve the independence and mobility of its rider. There are several different kinds of mobility scooters that are available today.

One of the most rugged and powerful models of mobility scooter is the heavy duty scooter. Heavy duty scooters have been thoroughly engineered to provide service over some of the roughest terrains around. Their dependability has earned them many rewards and some of the 4 wheel drive models can travel over terrain that most people wouldn't drive their car over. Heavy duty mobility scooters have a much higher weight capacity and also are incredibly stable and well balanced. They have a higher ground clearance than a traditional scooter has and also feature reinforced bumpers and larger more comfortable seats. While these scooters are great for the rugged outdoors, they typically are not as maneuverable in tight quarters as a traditional scooter would be.

If you decide that you do not need something as rugged as a heavy duty mobility scooter, then there are several other types available. A portable scooter is one type of mobility scooter that is very popular. It is often called a travel scooter because it is very easy to transport. Travel scooters can be broken down into several easy to manage pieces. When disassembled, the average person should have no problem lifting the individual pieces into the trunk of a car. One of the major advantages of these types of scooters is that you do not need to have a vehicle lift to transport it. This way you can go on vacation and do not need to worry about finding a vehicle that can carry it, because it can fit in almost any trunk or backseat. While portable scooters are great for traveling, they do have some drawbacks. A travel scooter usually has a shorter range, lower weight capacity, and fewer features than a non-portable scooter.

The two types of scooters described so far illustrate the two extremes of scooter design. In between are a whole host of reliable mobility scooters that are packed with interesting features and provide superior functionality. If you are considering investing in a mobility scooter then it is a good idea to figure out where you intend to use it, your weight requirements, and the range that you would typically need to travel on a daily basis. This will allow you to find a model that will fit your needs and provide many years of reliable and valuable service.

Mobility scooters can be a valuable way for people, who can not otherwise move or walk, to retain their independence and freedom. There are many brands to choose from and with the advent of online shopping, it is possible to get amazing deals and a very vast selection, without ever leaving the comfort of your own home.