One thing that's true after years of helping thousands of customers regain their movement, is that investing in a mobility scooter can be life-changing. 

The majority of our customers rely on their mobility scooter to get through their everyday life with ease. In RICA’s UK-wide study of mobility scooter users, 74% of respondents said that without their scooter, they would be unable to make those essential. Daily journeys.

‘My mobility scooter is my only way of getting out and about on my own, as my walking ability is very restricted. Without a scooter, I wouldn't be able to get out of the house on my own at all.’
Francis, Mobility Giant customer

In the same study, nearly all respondents used their scooters on pavements, whilst a huge 45% travelled on roads. So, what's the difference between pavement and on-road mobility scooters? Is there a benefit to either one? And how do you know which one is right for you?

Technology for everyone 

You might have noticed a lot more mobility scooters driving along your high street in recent years. According to Fortune Business Insights, an increase in popularity is down to big brands investing heavily in product development. 

This has resulted in brands such as Pride Mobility developing scooters that not only look amazing, but perform amazing too.

As technology develops, as does the ability of a scooter to take you wherever you need to go, day or night. According to the Journal of Transport & Health, scooter journeys are not only for the pavements, they are in fact replacing short car journeys on the roads. 

There are two main types of mobility scooters that you need to know about: on-road and pavement, aka off-road scooters. Whilst there are many similarities, there are just as many differences between the two models.  
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Both are convenient, efficient and safe modes of transport. But how fast and how far you travel with them, is where the differences start to emerge. 

On-road versus pavement - what's the difference? 

On-road or pavement? There are many factors to consider - be it lifestyle, financial or simply logistical.

It can get confusing, and at times technical, so we have asked our warehouse manager, William, to help us out. 

On-road mobility scooters

On-road scooters are also referred to as ‘Class 3’ vehicles. Our customers love these scooters as they allow them to explore the world beyond the pavement, onto the road. They have a maximum speed of 8 mph, but drivers must adhere to a 4 mph speed limit when using pavements or pedestrianised areas. 

With a class 3 mobility scooter you get the best of both worlds - enjoy them slow on a pathway, or speedy on the roads. The ability to take these scooters onto busier roads makes them the perfect companion if you live off the beaten track, or just out of reach of local amenities. 

‘I can now access shops and local amenities, including the Health Centre - travelling at 4 mph on pavements, and a dizzying 8 mph on roads! My mobility scooter has made the impossible possible, and has enabled me to not only remain independent, but to access & enjoy day trips that were previously far too difficult to be involved in for my 78 yr-old legs.’
Tom, Mobility Giant customer

On-road rules when using your mobility scooter

The UK’s Department for Transport has provided guidance for those wishing to drive their class 3 mobility scooter on roads. Willaim has summarised the most important rules below:

- Motorways are out of bounds, but dual carriageways with a maximum speed limit of 50 mph are permitted 

- If using your scooter on main roads, amber lights must be flashing at all times

- You must adhere to the Highway Code, as outlined by the Department of Transport here

- Do not use cycle lanes and stay clear of bus lanes 

According to GOV UK, you don't need a licence or to pay road tax for your on-road scooter, even if you drive it on roads used by cars. However, it must be registered with the DVLA. 

Another benefit of driving an on-road mobility scooter is the ability to take it along rougher, more challenging terrains.

Groups such as the Disabled Ramblers and Access the Dales champion outdoor exploration - whatever your level of mobility. Both groups promote and host accessible walks (or should we say ‘scoots’!) with a community of supportive, like-minded people. This is because they understand the importance of enjoying the great outdoors, for both your physical and mental health. 

A study from the International Journal of Environmental Research & Public Health explored the benefits of getting outside on our mental health. The study found that exposure to nature could improve brain activity, cognitive function and sleep, whilst reducing anxiety, stress and even chronic disease. 

‘A long struggle with poor health had left me unable to walk any distance. We live in a bungalow beside a beautiful lake - it was one of the main reasons for buying our home - yet I hadn’t been near it for over a year. But since buying my mobility scooter, I’ve been able to get around the lake & it’s given me a renewed sense of freedom. As an enthusiastic ex-driver, especially of my Porsche, I have always been reluctant to use a wheelchair or buy a mobility scooter - but I was wrong. I now thoroughly enjoy my re-found freedom & I’m especially looking forward to the warmer weather.’ 
Mike, Mobility Giant customer

Pavement mobility scooters

Pavement, aka off-road mobility scooters are officially called ‘Class 2’ vehicles. They include pavement, folding and car boot scooters. They have a maximum speed of 4 mph, so you won't be able to take them onto main roads.  

Whilst they are simpler in design - think less gadgets and lighter frames - pavement mobility scooters are the top choice for those needing an everyday helping hand.

These everyday heroes are all about functionality, versatility and practicality. They are the perfect companion for your GP visit, book club or a spot of shopping. Pavement scooters can boost your independence and reduce the need to rely on others. 

According to a review in Frontiers in Public Health, having individual autonomy over your daily needs is vital for enjoying a happy, healthy life. Without independence, we run the risk of reduced quality of life and damage to our overall health. 

Getting out and about independently can also keep you connected with friends, family and your community. Having strong social connections is one of the best ways to prevent loneliness.

Official statistics from the UK Government show that around 4 million people in England feel lonely often or always. Campaign to End Loneliness explains that this ‘chronic loneliness’ can be the result of isolation, or a lack of social contact. The organisation offers lots of practical advice to stay connected, including spending time outdoors and finding a hobby or activity where you can meet like minded others. A mobility scooter can physically facilitate these activities to reconnect you to the wider community. 

Portable mobility scooters are great for days out or trips away. Depending on your chosen model, these scooters can either be collapsed into one compact unit, or broken down into smaller, transportable pieces that are easy to store. 

Taking time out, be it an exotic holiday or relaxing staycation, shouldn't be underestimated. Harvard Business Review explains that taking a break is extremely important for overall health and wellbeing. Having an adult time-out can unburden you mentally, and relax you physically, boosting your mood, creativity and overall energy. 

‘Since buying a mobility scooter from Mobility Giant things are looking up in my life. The scooter comes apart to be stored in my son’s car. Last month we spent a week at the YHA in Leominster. With my son walking beside me, I explored the town with its Priory, and even drove into cafés for refreshments. We visited the nearby market town of Ludlow and spent a pleasant afternoon in the grassy pathways of a country park with views of the Malvern Hills.’
David, Mobility Giant customer 

So which scooter is right for you?

According to Willaim, there are some key points to consider when deciding between an on-road or a pavement mobility scooter. These are personal and vary from your daily travel needs, to your current living environment.

Where you live and how much you want to explore your surroundings are important factors when considering an on-road scooter. An on-road mobility scooter will need to have the appropriate size, power and speed to match the changing terrains and ranges of your current and future journeys. 

Pavement scooters will be used closer to home, in and around pedestrianised areas with more accessible routes. Think about your daily routine and the journeys that these require. Consider how many activities will need to be accessible for a scooter once you arrive, or if you will need a collapsible scooter to store intermittently.

Another consideration is whether or not you plan to take your scooter on public transport, or transport it in a car. Pavement scooters, mainly car boot scooters, have the ability to be collapsed down into one neat unit so they can be stored on-board taxis, trains and even aeroplanes. This makes them perfect for holidays or nights away, so consider your future travel plans when making your final decision between on or off road scooters. 

How to know when you're ready to buy a mobility scooter

Now you understand the main differences between on-road and pavement scooters, you might be thinking about whether you need one yourself. William advises thinking about the journeys you currently take, and the adventures you’d want to embark on, if you had a scooter. From there, consider these three important points: 

Financial - what is your budget?  
Logistical - where do you need and want to use it? 
Practical - where can you charge it or store it when it's not in use. 

For an expert’s guide to deciding when it's the right time to buy a mobility scooter, see our blog post here. 

Our expert’s top picks 

Once you've decided between an on-road or a pavement mobility scooter, the next step is deciding which model to choose. 

William has rounded up his top 3 scooters per category below:

On-road favourites

William says, “with on-road you'll be looking at scooters that can travel up to 8 mph. You'll want a powerful scooter that can tackle tarmac, uneven ground and everything in between. If you have an outdoor-based hobby you might want a model with extra features, such as all-around suspension, on-board storage space or a canopy. Think all-terrain models, or a powered wheelchair. These scooters are larger, faster, stronger.”

Pride Colt Deluxe 2. A firm customer favourite, for good reason. 

TGA Breeze S4. Where comfort meets performance, an award winning scooter that exceeds expectations.

Rascal Vortex. For motorbike lovers who want a scooter that looks as impressive as it performs.  

Pavement favourites

“Pavement, or off-road models. need to be highstreet and pedestrian friendly, so you'll be looking at scooters with a maximum speed of 4 mph. Think smaller, lighter, collapsible scooters that you can travel around independently with.”

Kymco K-Lite FE. Lightweight, fully collapsible, completely user friendly - the ultimate car boot scooter.

Freerider Mayfair 4 Deluxe. Designed for small towns and big plans.

TGA Minimo Plus 4. The ultimate travel companion, home or away.

If you’re still unsure, our friendly staff are always available to provide unbiased advice. Give them a call on 01732 605614 and let them guide you personally and professionally.