Shoprider Sirocco – Powered Wheelchair

Wheelchair Description:
An electric wheelchair weighing 78kg with 4 wheel suspension. Red and black frame with grey wheels. Height adjustable armrests, backrest and leg rests, which also swing away to make transferring easier. The joystick can also be moved to the side.

Battery Life:
Approximately 16 Miles

Source of Wheelchair:
Mobility Scooter Plus

Diagnosis:
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) & Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E)

Personal Opinion:
I originally purchased this wheelchair to use in the car, but it is a lot heavier than it looks, meaning you’ll probably need a lot of strength, ramps or a hoist to transport it. The chair is crash-tested which was a big selling point for me, yet it doesn’t come with a headrest. Then because of the chair’s rigid frame, the only thing stopping me from falling out was the seat belt! However, the suspension is surprisingly comfortable for an off the shelf, lower end chair.

Although it’s not great for anyone with long legs, as you can only lengthen the leg rests so much. I am 5’10” and the chair is way too short for me. It’s worth noting that you will need your own cushion and if you require a left-handed joystick you will have to specify this on your order, otherwise, you will end up with a right-handed one as I did!

Overall, I personally wouldn’t recommend using it on public transport, as the push handles and leg rests stick out quite far. Something I know from previous experience makes getting on and off much harder. It also cannot be charged whilst folded or with the batteries detached, which was disappointing to discover as the easy storage was another huge selling point for me. Also, the chair only lasted two years before needing expensive repairs.