Almost everyone who comes to us wanting a car scooter asks for a folding one. It sounds like the easy option. But the real question is who will be lifting it into the car, and how strong they are. For many people, a portable scooter that comes apart is easier.
Browse all our mobility scooters.
The difference
A folding scooter folds down into one piece. Some fold at the press of a button.
A portable (dismantling) scooter comes apart into several pieces, usually the seat, the battery, the front and the back. You lift each piece into the boot separately.
Side by side
| Folding | Portable (dismantling) | |
|---|---|---|
| Getting it in the car | One lift of the whole scooter | Several lighter lifts |
| Weight you lift at once | 12 to 17 kg, even for the lightest | The heaviest single piece only |
| Comfort | Less padding, smaller seat | Usually more comfortable |
| How safe it feels | Lighter and less planted | Steadier |
| Speed of packing away | Quick, if you can lift it | A few minutes |
Why the weight catches people out
The lightest folding scooters weigh 12 to 17 kg. That's like picking up 17 one-kilo bags of sugar at once, or more than three 5 kg sacks of potatoes, and lifting them over the boot lip. If you have a bad back, weak arms or no one to help, that's a lot.
A portable splits into pieces you can manage one at a time.
Our honest view
We sell folding scooters, and some customers love them. But we don't tend to recommend them. They're less comfortable and they don't feel as safe as a good portable. Our customers' favourite portables are the Rascal Vierra, our most popular scooter, which you can also hire from Stratford Shopmobility, and the Motion Healthcare Alumina Pro. The Alumina Pro has the leg room of a three-wheeler with the stability of four wheels.
If neither is easy to lift
A car boot hoist from Mobility in Motion (formerly AutoChair) lifts the whole scooter into the boot at the press of a button. We can arrange a free demonstration at your home. Very small cars may not take a hoist.
Try before you buy
We'll bring scooters to your home and try them with your car. Book a free home assessment within 75 miles of Stratford-upon-Avon, or call 01789 339 738. Browse mobility scooters.
Frequently asked questions
Is a folding scooter lighter than a portable?
The whole folding scooter is often lighter, but you lift it all at once. A portable's heaviest piece is usually lighter than a whole folding scooter.
Which is more comfortable?
A portable, in our experience. Folding scooters save weight on the seat and padding.
Can I fit a scooter in a small car?
Most portables fit in a hatchback boot. Bring your car to a demonstration, or we'll try it at your home.
