The ground clearance of your new mobility scooter is something that should be at the top of your list. Each class of mobility scooter has options that will offer a higher ground clearance for you to traverse other terrains and so you aren't forced to stay on smooth paved surfaced. In this article we will cover your 10 best options with the highest ground clearance and suspension for tackling rough terrain.
Factors We Considered
- Ground Clearance
- Suspension
- Drive Range
- Top Speed
- Maximum Weight Capacity
What is Ground Clearance and Suspension?
Ground clearance is the distance between the bottom of the scooter and the ground. This is usually measured from the platform of the scooter to the ground. It isn't uncommon for the measurement to be taken from other parts of the scooter such as the motor or anything that may hang below the footrest platform. With the appropriate ground clearance you will be able to safely traverse rough terrains and without you will be stuck to sidewalks and other flat smooth surfaces.
Suspension is a system of shocks and springs that are built into your scooter. These allows your mobility scooter suspension system to absorb the shock of going over bumps instead of the rest of the scooter. This will increase your comfort as well as generate a smoother more relaxing ride overall. When you see the phrase full suspension this means both the front and rear wheels are fitted with the suspension system.
Frame and Wheels
Almost always a scooter with a high ground clearance and suspension system would fall into the off-road or rough terrain capable mobility scooter category. This means sturdy frames, suspension systems, and larger wheels that are need to traverse a variety of terrains smoothly. A high ground clearance is critical so you don't damage the bottom of your mobility scooter or get stuck while traveling on rough terrains. It is important to remember that a three-wheel scooter may provide better overall maneuverability than four-wheel, however they can tend me be less stable.
Usability
- Maneuverability. This is includes the ground clearance and turning radius. High ground clearance mobility scooters feature larger than average turning radius'.
- Speed and travel range. These scooters almost always go faster and travel farther on a single charge than your average mobility scooter.
- Battery life. This is a critical feature if you’re intending to use it outdoors and won't be able to recharge the battery.
- Size and weight. It is important to consider if your scooter will fit in all of the places you intend to go and how much weight will it need to carry. All-terrain scooters are almost always larger and heavier than your standard mobility scooter and usually require a vehicle transport system like the EZ Carrier EZCLA: Auto Fold Up Electric Lift.
Comfort
Since most people use their mobility scooter almost daily and for long periods of time it needs to be comfortable. These features should be considered:
- Adjustable seat
- Adjustable tiller
- Adjustable armrests
- Overall size and padding of the seat
- Enough room to accommodate your legs and feet
- Suspension system that minimizes shock
Safety Features
Your safety is of the upmost importance. Consider these features.
- Lights—headlights, brake lights, etc.
- Anti-tip wheels
- A horn
- Safety brakes
- Seat belt
- Rearview mirrors and reflectors
Transportability and Storage
Rough terrain capable mobility scooters have much larger frames and weigh far more than smaller scooters so considering how you will transport your new device important. Will you be able to transport your new mobility scooter to the places you plan to visit? Picking out a scooter you know for a fact you can transport will save you stress down the road.
Please remember that your rough terrain traversing scooter may not be used as often as people use a regular scooter. Be sure to purchase a scooter sized appropriately to your specific needs and lifestyle. you must be able to properly store it safe from the elements to protect your investment. They will take up a fair amount of room so be prepared to accommodate.
How to Choose the Best Off-Road Mobility Scooter for Your Lifestyle
There are many factors to consider when selecting an off-road mobility scooter with a high ground clearance and suspension. This depends on how and where you plan on using it and what your priorities with it are. We recommend giving your preferred scooter a test drive before making the final purchase.
It’s most important that you decide on a scooter that meets your specific needs and lifestyle. Below are four things to consider when picking out a new off-road scooter:
- Comfort: Research the specifications on things like convertibility, type of seat and total leg room. Since off-road scooters are built for spending substantial hours on in the outdoors, usually on non-paved roads, make sure your device is comfortable for this type of use.
- Storage space: If you require extra supplies when when out for the day you should consider a mobility scooter that features adequate storage space to accommodate your belongings.
- Drive range: If you plan to take your off-road scooter out for a ride you most likely won't have access to charge your scooter during your outing. Be sure to estimate the average distance you plan to travel while factoring in the weight of the scooter to determine a model with adequate battery life for your needs.
- Intended environment: High ground clearance mobility scooters aren't usually meant for use indoors and in tight spaces. Make sure you factor in your riding environment so you can purchase the perfect mobility scooter for your lifestyle and overall needs.
Mobility Scooters With The Best Ground Clearance And Suspension
|
|
Make |
Model |
Ground Clearance |
Full Suspension |
 |
Golden Technologies |
EX GB148 |
4 inches |
Yes |
 |
Merits Health |
Pioneer 10 K0899 |
4 inches |
Yes |
 |
Golden Technologies |
Eagle GR575 |
5 inches |
Yes |
 |
E-Wheels |
EW-66 |
4.5 inches |
Yes |
 |
E-Wheels |
EW-46 |
4.5 inches |
Yes |
 |
E-Wheels |
EW-11 |
5 inches |
Yes |
 |
Merits Health |
Silverado Extreme |
5.1 inches |
Yes |
 |
E-Wheels |
EW-54 |
5 inches |
Yes |
 |
Shoprider |
Enduro XL4 |
4 inches |
Yes |
 |
Golden Technologies |
LX GB149 |
4 inches |
Yes |
Golden Technologies Buzzaround EX
The Golden Technologies Buzzaround EX mobility scooter wirelessly disassembles in seconds in just 4 easy steps. This makes transporting the Extreme from one destination to another a breeze. Just fold down the seat to remove it, take the battery pack out, remove the basket, fold the tiller down, and then your EX is ready to go. The EX is one of two disassembling scooter on this list with the other being the Buzzaround LX.
The Buzzaround EX offers portability without compromising power or longevity. The EX features an extended drive range and is one of the fastest in the Buzzaround series. The EX features large durable 9" front and rear wheels. Which raises the deck of the mobility scooter to a generous 4" ground clearance allowing you to off-road. You will have added comfort because this scooter includes front and rear suspension. This will also allow you to traverse a variety of terrains. It comes with a one-year in-home service agreement at no additional charge to you.
| Turning Radius | 56" |
| Weight Capacity | 350 lbs |
| Drive Range | 18 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
Merits Health Pioneer 10
The Merits Health Pioneer 10 heavy-duty mobility scooter features an impressive 500 lb weight capacity that can accommodate most users. You can also ride in extreme comfort in its standard 22" high back sliding captain's seat. You can also go the distance with this heavy-duty mobility scooter since it features a 32-mile range on a full charge which is far above industry standard.
Feel safe driving your Merits Health Pioneer 10 heavy-duty mobility scooter with its half-speed control which allows you to slow down as needed. This is a pre-setting on the upper dashboard that provides extra safety during use. This mobility scooter is also as solid as a rock with its one-piece frame making it ultra strong to tackle any terrain. Rest assured as the Pioneer 10 comes with a one-year in-home service agreement at no additional charge to you.
| Turning Radius | 62" |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs |
| Drive Range | 32 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
Golden Technologies Eagle
The Golden Technologies Eagle is stylish yet features rugged off-road design. It is built for high performance and maneuverability. The Eagle offers front and rear suspension for smoothly traversing outdoor terrain and offers outstanding climbing ability. It features a full lighting package, a built-in speaker with Bluetooth, USB port, an adjustable tiller, 13” pneumatic tires, and a luxury high-back Captain’s seat for extreme comfort.
With a 500 lb. weight capacity, up to 23 mile range (up to 32-mile with optional 75 AH batteries), plus a water-resistant storage compartment that comes standard, the Golden Eagle offers everything you need to enjoy the great outdoors. It also comes with a one-year in-home service agreement at no additional charge.
| Turning Radius | 69" |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs |
| Drive Range | 23 Miles or 32 Miles w/ Upgraded Battery |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
E-Wheels EW-66
The E-Wheels EW-66 two-seat recreational mobility scooter by EWheels is perfect for you and another passenger to get around. This scooter is wonderful for use around town, sightseeing, walking the dog, or just cruising the neighborhood. Featuring a 35-mile drive range and a top speed of up to 15 mph you can go the distance with this two passenger mobility scooter.
The EW-66 also features an incredible 600 lb. weight capacity to accommodate most pairs. This recreational mobility scooter is ready to take you and your co-pilot almost anywhere you need to go. Some standard features are a remote key fob, anti-theft alarm system, heavy-duty tires with sleek aluminum rims, electromagnetic brakes, and shocks on all three wheels for the smoothest ride over multiple terrains.
| Turning Radius | 76" |
| Weight Capacity | 600 bs |
| Drive Range | 35 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
EWheels EW-46
The new EWheels EW-46 four-wheel recreational mobility scooter has a maximum speed of 13 MPH and can travel up to 35 miles on a full charge. The scooter’s design enhances both driving performance and your riding comfort. The EW-46 mobility scooter is equipped with a front and rear spring suspension, electromagnetic brakes, and an adjustable captain's seat. The EW-46 mobility scooter stands out from all other brand scooters in looks alone. The throttle is a twist-throttle design that enables variable speed control by the user. The EW-46 has a 4.5" ground clearance to aid in handling a variety of rough terrains. It also comes with a front bumper made of steel to protect you from the unexpected accidents and running into things.
| Turning Radius | 73" |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs |
| Drive Range | 35 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
EWheels EW-11
The E-Wheels EW-11 recreational mobility scooter is a euro style scooter that will be sure to turn heads This mobility scooter includes max performance with a top speed of 18 mph and a driving range of 40 miles on a single charge. It also features a unique seat that has enough room for a rear passenger to ride along with you. The padded backrest and footrests will ensure your passenger rides comfortably.
This scooter features front fork suspension and dual rear shocks which make for an all-around smooth ride on multiple terrains. Ample storage space in the rear storage compartment allows you to bring your belongings with you. The EW-11 drives with a twisting throttle and includes hand breaks for quick stopping and going. Cruise in style with this fun and fast recreational mobility scooter.
| Turning Radius | 90" |
| Weight Capacity | 400 lbs |
| Drive Range | 40 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
Merits Health Silverado Extreme
The Merits Health Silverado Extreme heavy-duty mobility scooter boasts an impressive top speed of up to 9.6 miles per hour getting you around quickly while in style. The Silverado Extreme features full suspension with shock absorption for traveling over rough terrain wherever you may be. It also gets up to 55 miles on a full charge which is way above the market average.
The Merits Healthy Silverado Extreme heavy-duty mobility scooter combines both quality and style. This device is equipped with extra storage including a front basket and a storage space beneath the tiller to carry your personal belongings. The generously-sized Captain's seat features flip-back armrests that are also adjustable in both height and width making it perfect to customize to your specific fit. The seat can also be either lowered or raised to your desired position to provide an extra level of comfort.
| Turning Radius | 82.7" |
| Weight Capacity | 450 lbs |
| Drive Range | 355 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
EWheels EW-54 with Canopy
The EWheels EW-54 goes up to 15 mph and can travel up to 43 miles on a single charge which is above industry standard. The recreational scooter features large pneumatic wheels and an impressive 5-inch ground clearance enabling you to tackle even the roughest terrain. The EW-54 Coupe features a twisting throttle for variable speed control by the user as well as three different speed settings for your safety/
There is a push-button to flip the scooter into reverse mode, a cruise control setting, and a comfortable foot brake for your convenience. This recreational mobility scooter also features rearview mirrors, turn signals, high and low-beam headlight settings and even hazard lights for added safety. Not to mention the windshield and roof for all conditions travel. It is not standard for mobility scooters to have covers nor can a lot of them be fit for them. This makes the E-Wheels EW-54 a unique choice to add to your fleet.
| Turning Radius | 90" |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs |
| Drive Range | 43 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
Shoprider Enduro XL4
The Shoprider Enduro XL4+ is a heavy-duty four-wheel mobility scooter with a 500 lb. weight capacity which can accommodate the majority of users. It has a delta-style tiller which houses the controls for the lighting system, turn signals, wigwag, and horn. It features a dual-purpose wig wag paddle which allows the user to push forward or pull back on the drive lever depending on dexterity for ease of driving. The unit comes standard with a 20" seat that can accommodate most riders. The seat can also swivel and recline to add to your comfort and ease of use. It also features a full suspension to allow for smoother ride operation over rough terrains.
| Turning Radius | 72" |
| Weight Capacity | 500 lbs |
| Drive Range | 25 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
Golden Technologies Buzzaround LX
The Golden Technologies Buzzaround LX four-wheel mobility scooter is the latest addition to the Golden Buzzaround scooter line over the past year or so. This new mobility scooter is one of the industry's only full-time scooters that is also fully portable for travel. When we say portable for travel we mean it wirelessly disassembles into small of pieces with ease. With an impressive weight capacity of 375 lbs., it will hold almost every potential user.
The Buzzaround LX features a USB charging port to ensure your other electronics will remain powered during use. The Buzzaround LX comes standard with U-1 batteries for up to 18 miles on a single charge. The comfortable captain's seat features a full back and adjustable headrest for your comfort. You'll also have a higher 4" ground clearance and suspension for smooth travels over rough terrain.
| Turning Radius | 54" |
| Weight Capacity | 375 lbs |
| Drive Range | 18 Miles |
| Safety Lights | Yes |
| Suspension System |
Yes
|
Summary
We hope you have learned something by reviewing what we consider the top 10 mobility scooters with the highest ground clearance and suspension. If you are interested in related articles our mobility experts have compiled a great list of mobility scooters that are airline approved and best lift chairs for seniors. Not to mentions our experts have reviewed some of the industries best scooters such as the Buzzaround CarryOn, EV Rider 4AF, and the Transformer 2.
Our team of mobility experts here at Suncoast Mobility are available by email at info@suncoastmobility.com or by phone at 727-537-6275. Please call or email at anytime. We cannot wait to assist you in selecting your new off-road rough terrain capable mobility scooter to continue your adventurous lifestyle. Call or email us today to take advantage of your special discount.