Ever wondered about the drive wheels on a power chair? There’s front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and of course, mid-wheel drive! Each configuration has its own benefits. How do you know which type is right for you? We always recommend talking to your therapist and the ATP (Assistive Technology Professional) to determine which type of power chair best suits you. Of course, it won’t hurt to have a little background information on what’s out there. Read on for a greater understanding of mid-wheel drive power chairs.
Mid-Wheel Drive Electric Wheelchairs
True to its name, mid-wheel drive refers to the placement of the drive wheels in the middle of the electric wheelchair. When you operate a mid-wheel drive electric wheelchair, your center of gravity is almost even with the center of the drive wheels. This configuration results in a tight turning radius. Mid-wheel drive electric wheelchairs can do a total 360-degree turn. This exceptional maneuvering makes mid-wheel drive an ideal choice for use in the home.
When it comes to stability, mid-wheel drive electric wheelchairs are very stable. With six wheels on the ground, including four caster wheels and two drive wheels, this drive wheel configuration ensures greater stability and performance. Two caster wheels are located at the front of the power base and two caster wheels can be found on the back of the wheelchair base.
In addition to excellent maneuverability and stability, discover other great benefits of electric wheelchairs with a mid-wheel drive configuration.
A Narrow Electric Wheelchair with Mid-Wheel Drive
After having a few conversations with an ATP and therapist, you may decide that a mid-wheel drive wheelchair is best for you. The Edge 3 Stretto™ is a narrow wheelchair with a mid-wheel drive configuration. Not only does the Stretto offer the maneuverability of a mid-wheel drive chair, it also offers a smaller footprint. This narrow wheelchair width is 20.75 inches when 12.5-inch drive wheels are selected. When 14-inch drive wheels selected, this narrow wheelchair width is 21.75 inches. With a smaller overall width, the Stretto easily navigates through narrow doorways and around tight corners. The Stretto is also equipped with independent SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) for increased shock absorption and a more comfortable ride. The Stretto also comes standard with LED lights and a USB charger port and is available with iLevel® power elevated seating.
