Ultimate Guide to All-Terrain Power Wheelchairs - What's the best type, models, etc?

For those with mobility issues, all-terrain power wheelchairs are a gateway to freedom.

Whether you want to roll on a sandy beach or explore a trail – the right all-terrain wheelchair can make it all possible. But finding a set of perfect off-road wheels is more challenging than you think. From comfort and range to performance and safety, you need to consider many things to find a wheelchair that suits your outdoor adventures.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything from different types of all-terrain power wheelchairs and their top models to what to look for when buying this big-ticket item.

Let’s get started.

Types of All-Terrain Power Wheelchairs

All-terrain power wheelchairs are larger than their manual counterparts and come with front, mid, and rear-wheel drive. Each wheelchair has pros and cons, and you should weigh them carefully when buying yours.

1. Front-Wheel Drive:

Although they might take some getting used to, front-wheel drive power wheelchairs offer excellent performance indoors. With a small footprint, these wheelchairs are great for tight spaces and sharp turns. The front wheel driver also helps distribute your weight, making it easier to get close to objects without losing balance. But outdoors, they may not perform as well on very rough terrain.

2. Rear-Wheel Drive:

With the drive wheel at the back, these chairs offer good stability and speed, making them ideal for rough outdoor terrain. They are also easier to control at high speeds. But the biggest draw is their large footprint, which can make it tricky to move around in tight spaces.

3. Mid-Wheel Drive:

Mid-wheel drive chairs offer the best of both worlds. With a drive wheel in the center, these chairs have the best-turning radius and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Basic models may struggle to handle terrains that are too steep. But top-tier models come with advanced suspension, which provides excellent stability and comfort on almost all terrains.

Top 5 Models of All-terrain power wheelchairs

Build My Wheelchair offers a range of all-terrain power wheelchairs, including these five top-of-the-range models:

1. Extreme X8 – 4x4 All-Terrain Power Wheelchair:

The Extreme X8 is built for the most challenging terrains, from building sites and stables to parks and farms. It's also the most compact 4x4 drive wheelchair on the market. Its robust motor and advanced suspension allow you to ride rough terrains with exceptional comfort and safety.

The wheelchair has power options like - a 12" seat lift, 45-degree tilt, power recline, lay down, and power elevating leg rests. It can be fitted with a full range of arm pads, straps, harnesses, restraints, and supports from Magic Mobility.

This powerful wheelchair also packs:

• Easy-to-use advanced controls
• Adjustable seating and backrests
• Headrests and mounts
• Adjustable leg rests with
• Fixed or adjustable footplates

2. Frontier V6 – All-Terrain MWD Electric Wheelchair:

The Frontier V6 is perfect for off-roading adventures, but its powerful mid-wheel drive also makes it perfect for indoor use. Its low-pressure tires provide a smoother ride and allow you to climb steep terrains with ease. It comes with all the power options in Extreme X8 but with better curb climbing and other off-terrain features.

It also comes with:

• Easily programmable advanced controls
• High ground clearance
• Adjustable seating, backrest, headrest, leg rests, and footplates

3. Magic 360 - All-Terrain MWD Power Wheelchair:

The Magic 360 truly lives up to its name, offering freedom on all terrains and in every direction. This mid-wheel drive wheelchair offers excellent maneuverability and comfort with power functions, including, a 12" seat lift, 45-degree tilt, power recline, lay down, and power elevating leg rests. It also features low-pressure tires, a powerful motor, and a robust suspension system to handle rough terrains effortlessly.

It has:

• Adjustable backrest, seating, leg rests, footplates, and headrests
• Easy to set up and intuitive advanced controls
• An anti-shear power recline
• RF remote with a stop switch for added safety
• Tackles urban, crossover, and off terrains
• Splash resistant

4. Quantum Rival Power Wheelchair - Three Power Function:

The Quantum Rival comes with three power functions - power tilt, power recline, and power footrests. These functions allow you to adjust your position easily to suit the terrain you are riding, reducing pressure points and increasing comfort.

The wheelchair offers excellent outdoor performance, with features like:

• TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems
• Maximum speed up to 6 mph (with 8 mph optional speed)
• 3.25" Ground Clearance
• 35.75" Turning Radius

It can be customized to fit the seating and positioning options you need.

5. Quantum R-Trak Rear Wheel Drive:

With a rear-wheel drive system, the Quantum R-Trak offers stability, comfort, and unmatched driving performance on all terrains. The large rear wheels deliver powerful traction and control, making it easy to move over obstacles. The R-Trak's superior automotive-grade Smooth Ride Suspension (SRS) ensures a comfortable ride, whether you are rolling around the curb or exploring a trail.

Its unique features include:

• 4-pole motors
• Maximum speed of up to 7 mph (3.5 mph when elevated)
• LED fender lights
• Advanced stability on rough terrains

Plus, you can get optional features like:

• 10" of power-adjustable safe seat elevation at speeds of up to 3.5 mph
• Quantum® backup camera
• Trilogy and Compact vent tray

What to Look for When Buying an All-Terrain Power Wheelchair

When choosing an all-terrain power wheelchair, you have to consider factors like:

1. Durable Tires: Durable, low-pressure, air-filled (pneumatic) tires or solid tires with deep treads are the unsung heroes of all-terrain power wheelchairs. These tires can handle rough terrains such as gravel, sand, and uneven paths without getting stuck or damaged.

2. Powerful Motor: Handling uneven terrain means scaling steep inclines, rough surfaces, and long distances without losing power. Usually, motors with higher wattage can provide more torque and power required to conquer these challenging terrains. Invest in a wheelchair with dual motors or advanced drive systems to enjoy your outdoor rides.

3. Better Suspension: Rolling on bumpy paths requires excellent suspension, which reduces your discomfort and prevents damage to the wheelchair. Many all-terrain power wheelchairs come with independent suspension for each wheel, offering unmatched comfort while exploring outdoors.

4. High Ground Clearance: Besides preventing your wheelchair from getting stuck, high ground clearance protects its underside from damage. We recommend wheelchairs with at least 3 to 4 inches of ground clearance to travel smoothly on uneven terrain.

5. Long Battery Life: Long battery life allows you to go on extended trips or adventures without worrying about running out of juice. Your all-terrain power wheelchair should have a range of at least 15-20 miles on a single charge.

6. Cost: All-terrain wheelchairs are a big-ticket purchase, but balancing the features and quality with cost can help you find a great option without breaking the bank. Compare different models within your budget to see which best fits your mobility needs. Also, you can look for financing options from local non-profits and agencies.

Conclusion

There you have it!

This guide should help you find an all-terrain power wheelchair that fits the bill.

Carefully weigh each factor, including tires, motor, suspension, ground clearance, battery life, and cost, when shopping for a set of all-terrain wheels. This will make sure you invest in a chair that gives you the freedom you’ve always dreamed of.

Feel free to seek advice from your healthcare provider and our mobility experts. At Build My Wheelchair, we can help you find an all-terrain wheelchair tailored to your needs.