Not for the faint-hearted….
We took some time out to visit Cyclone Mobility to try out the Batec Mobility powered wheelchair attachment. A piece of kit that, basically, converts a manual wheelchair into an electrically powered hand bike.
What an amazing invention! Designed by disabled people for disabled people and you can tell. If there is one way to put the fun into wheelchair using this is it. It’s like riding a go kart, with the controls of a motor bike, at speeds traditional power chairs couldn’t reach. We took them along the pavements, across roads and down a quiet country track to open up the throttle and see what they could do. At top speed they are not for the faint-hearted. Due to the low profile it feels as though you are going much faster than you are. However, if you like speed and adventure this is absolutely the piece of kit for you.
They are surprisingly easy to control and don’t take long to get used to. Clipping on and off the wheelchair took a few tries, but we soon got the hang of it managed it with ease.
Range of Attachments
There are plenty of options to choose from. If speed is something you’re after they have the Batec Rapid 2, with a top speed of 30 k/ph. The Batec Scrambler 2 is the off-road version that can still hit speeds of up to 28 k/ph. These are both large pieces of kit and you might need to consider size and weight. Go for the Batec Mini 2 if storage space is limited or you need more portability. The folding system makes it easier to carry and pack away.
Alongside this they also offer a range of customised controls to cater for clients who may struggle to use the traditional controls. And if there is nothing suitable for a particular client they will work with your OT to develop a solution if it is at all possible. Bringing the fun and breaking down the boundaries for as many people as possible. Music to an Occupational Therapist’s ears!