Scooters come in a wide variety of sizes and styles and choosing the right one can be confusing. There are currently over 200 models of scooters to choose from. And if you include colour options and other extras, there are over a thousand combinations. But the truth is, there are only three key decisions. And knowing these will keep you from making the wrong choice...

1. Scooter or Power Chair?

Scooters are different from Power Chairs in two basic ways. First, Power Chairs are operated by a joystick, which allows people with severe mobility impairment. Scooters, on the other hand, feature a steering column and accelerator lever. They are driven more like a bicycle. The second basic difference is that Power Chairs are designed to be the legs for the person operating it. They are favoured by those with more extreme mobility challenges. They have an extremely tight turning radium (virtually 'turn on a dime') and can comfortably navigate inside most homes, stores, and offices. While smaller scooters can also be operated inside, they are not as agile. Also, power chair wheels are underneath the seat, like a wheelchair.

2. 3- or 4-wheel scooter?

Scooters are available in 3-wheel or 4-wheel models. The one that is best for you depends on your needs.

3-wheeled scooters are smaller and mainly for indoor use. These scooters are generally less powerful than 4-wheel drive models, but are easier to maneuver in confined areas.

4-wheeled scooters are better suited for outdoor use. They travel well over all types of surfaces and they are more durable. The rule of thumb is generally 3-wheeled for indoor/outdoor use; 4-wheeled for outdoor only.

3. What size?

Both 3- and 4-wheeled scooters come in a variety of sizes, typically small, mid-size, and large. It all depends on you. A petite woman will need a much smaller scooter than a 250-pound man. But with larger size usually comes more comfort and stability.

The best way to determine the right size is simply by your personal comfort. The one that feels the best...

You might be wondering about lights, horn, bumpers, and other features...here is the truth... All of these should come standard with your purchase. And if they don't, you may not be dealing with a reputable dealer...

Why you should never pay for batteries and other "extras"

How far can a scooter go without batteries? Nowhere! So you may be surprised to know some retailers may charge you for batteries as if they were an "option". Next they will want to charge extra for tires, a seat, and a motor.

Understand, they do it for two reasons:

First, it allows them to advertise artificially low prices. The sticker price shows the "base" model. But by the time you add batteries, lights and a basket, the price is really much higher. They know that once someone commits to a sale, it is much easier to load it up with extra charges.

Second, these extras are the most profitable part of the sale. Some retailers even go a step further. They strip down a scooter that comes fully loaded from the factory, and then "up sell" you the extras you should have gotten in the first place.

At bare minimum, your scooter should come standard with batteries, front and rear lights, arm rests, bumper and a front basket. And many models come at their regular price with even more features. Read Part 3...

- by Shane Sparks

Canada Scooters
Toll Free: 1-866-383-7383
http://www.canadascooters.net