to their bigger wheels, large motors and suspension systems: this gives them the ability to better handle uneven pavements and steeper hills. Mobility scooters can therefore be used as alternatives to the car within towns but outside cities; in ways that (aside from chairs with chunky powerwheel attachments) power wheelchairs cannot. Scooters are not replacements for wheelchairs; rather, they go easily over challenging ground where power wheelchairs struggle. Conversely, powerchairs have advantages over most scooters when it comes to fitting into accessible public transport systems. Scooters can be more affordable than powered wheelchairs. Recently, manufacturers have been modifying the appearance of scooters to appeal to users. There are now mobility scooters which look like short, thin, small cars, and others that look very much like motorcycles. This illustrates the stigma carried by mobility scooter users, and the requirement for all vehicles to handle all-weather conditions - which is still problematic for many disabled vehicles. Types of mobility scooters When it comes to mobility scooters they are typically categorized into the following categories: 3 wheel mobility scooters are lightweight and offer a great turning radius. They are designed for riders who keep on flat surfaces like a home or for shopping. These 3 wheel mobility scooters are typically the cheapest options. 4 wheel mobility scooters are more stable than three wheel mobility scooters and can be folding, travel, or heavy duty. Usually they are more expensive than a three-wheel mobility scooter, but offer better stability, longer battery life, and an increased weight capacity. Folding/travel mobility scooters fold up to provide easy transport. They are usually lightweight and compact. The do not offer a high weight capacity, nor the ability to go up steep hills, but are great for riders that are on the go. Heavy-duty mobililty scooter These scooters are large and offer a much more comfortable ride. They better handle uneven ground (ie normal pavements) and journeys where dropped kerbs are in short supply (ie most places). They can go up steep hills, off-road and have a battery that lasts longer, allowing for longer journeys. However they cannot fit into public transport or inside most shops (apart from warehouse venues). They can support riders over Limitations While a mobility scooter eliminates much of the manual strength problems of an unpowered wheelchair, its tiller steering mechanism still requires upright posture, shoulder and hand strength, and some upper-body mobility and strength, although