Types of mobility scooters explained: your simple, definitive guide

With the many types of mobility scooters available on the UK market today, it’s very easy to be overwhelmed by all the choice and terminology!

That makes it difficult to decide on the best type of mobility scooter for you, so the aim of this article is to explain simply what these choices are. But we won’t leave you there. We’ll also give you some questions to help you make the right buying decisions.

What are the different classes of mobility scooters?

Under UK government legislation, mobility scooters are categorised into two classes – Class 2 and Class 3. Let’s explain each in more detail.

Class 2 mobility scooters

Class 2 mobility scooters have a maximum speed of 4mph and may only be used on footpaths or pavements (plus crossing the road is fine).

Other terms that may be used to describe mobility scooters that come under Class 2 include:

• Pavement scooters
• 4mph mobility scooter
• Small mobility scooter
• Portable boot scooter

Typical spec/features of a Class 2 scooter:

There are two main sub styles of Class 2 mobility scooter, both of which are designed to be transported in a car boot:

• Folding mobility scooters

These have a folding frame (either manual fold or auto fold) which allows you to fold them down to a compact size for transport.

• Dismantlable (or splitable) mobility scooters

These disassemble into 3 or 4 sections, each of which can be lifted into the car boot and then re-assembled ready for use.

Class 2 mobility scooters will generally have:

• A lower maximum user weight, typically up to 21 stone
• A smaller battery range, typically up to 15 miles

Things to know about Class 2 scooters:

• Class 2 mobility scooters can be used both indoors and outdoors.
• Insurance is not mandatory for Class 2 mobility scooters and you are not required to register it with the DVLA.
• Class 2 scooters may be a 3 wheel or 4 wheel mobility scooter.

Class 3 mobility scooters

Class 3 mobility scooters have a maximum speed of 8mph and can be used on roads. They can also be used on pavements, where they are limited to a maximum speed of 4mph (via a speed limiter button).

Other terms that may be used to describe mobility scooters that come under Class 3 include:

• Road mobility scooters
• 8mph mobility scooters

Typical spec/features of a Class 3 scooter:

Class 3 mobility scooters generally have:

• A higher maximum user weight, typically up to 28 stone
• A higher battery range, typically up to 25 miles
• Full suspension and a ‘Captain’ seat

Under UK law, features a Class 3 mobility scooter must have:

• front and rear lights and reflectors
• direction indicators that can be used as a hazard warning signal
• a rear-view mirror
• an audible horn

Things to know about Class 3 scooters:

• Class 3 mobility scooters must be registered with the DVLA. Insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended.
• Class 3 mobility scooters are not transportable in the same way as Class 2 scooters, unless you have a suitable size vehicle and ramp.
• Class 3 scooters are also bigger than Class 2 and require considerably more space to manoeuvre and store.

Which type of mobility scooter is best for you?

Now you’ve read up the info on what the different types of mobility scooter are, you may be thinking: which is best for me? So, here are two questions we’d encourage you to think about to help answer this:

• What do I want to be able to achieve with a mobility scooter? E.g. desired destinations
• Where can I store my mobility scooter?

If we were to give you a one-line summary of which class of mobility scooter is best for which type of use, it would be:

• Class 2 mobility scooters are ideal for days out, holidays and trips to the local shops.
• Class 3 mobility scooters are ideal if you want to regularly travel long distances, or where you’re only travelling from home and comfort is a top priority.

Summary

I trust this guide has given you a good understanding of the different kinds of mobility scooters available. As a next step, you may well want some more personalised advice, or to be able to test drive some models for yourself. We’re ready to help you with exactly this, so you can find the best mobility scooter for your needs. Why not get in touch or visit our showroom?

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