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Pink lightweight folding frame with quick-release self-propelled wheels, Frogs Legs suspension forks, and standard caster wheels. Mid-range backrest, Matrix Flo-Tech Lite seat cushion, and a folding footplate.
Weighing just under 11kg, my Quickie Xenon is lightweight, making it easy to fold, lift, and transport. It’s smart design features an innovative cross brace tucked neatly under the seat, making the folding mechanism almost invisible, making the frame resemble a rigid wheelchair. Due to my condition and my caregivers’ physical limitations, I needed a wheelchair that could support my lower back while still being light enough to fold and lift. This wheelchair perfectly meets that need.
After struggling to find a suitable wheelchair through NHS Wheelchair Services, I spent considerable time researching manual wheelchairs online. I was overwhelmed by the numerous options, but was attracted to the look of the Quickie Xenon. I reached out to Sunrise Medical for more details, and the following day, a representative contacted me to discuss my needs, the wheelchair’s intended purpose, and whether it was a good fit. They also answered questions about the cost and the possibility of trying out the Quickie Xenon before buying. Fortunately, my local mobility supplier, Alton Aids, had one available in-store, allowing me to test drive it and see if it could be transported easily. I also tried several other wheelchairs, but the Xenon was the best fit for me.
I was able to order a made-to-measure frame before choosing my preferred seat cushion, backrest, footplate, side guards, etc. I selected the Matrix, Flo-Tech Lite seat cushion from Invacare and a standard Quickie backrest, which was adjustable in height and angle. I also chose to have a bar going across the back of my wheelchair to make the backrest more rigid and supportive; it simply unclicks and hangs alongside the frame when folded. Even though I usually rely on a carer to push me, I still opted not to have any armrests so I could manoeuvre my wheelchair independently, which is very helpful in restaurants, theatres, etc. It also encourages me to sit upright rather than slouch or lean on an armrest.
I initially opted for the Carbotecture Forks attached to my front caster wheels, but quickly swapped them for Frog’s Legs suspension forks, as they provide me with a lot more comfort and absorb some of the vibrations and shocks that naturally occur when sitting in a wheelchair. Without these forks and caster wheels, I couldn’t sit in my wheelchair for very long, as I found the vibrations very painful. I also opted for the 12-spoke Spinergy Wheels, as I think they have a sleeker appearance compared to the 18-spoke version, but I have since switched to Loopwheels, which have eliminated a large percentage of the vibrations radiating through my frame. I also have one anti-tip bar at the back of my wheelchair, along with a tip assist that allows my carer to safely tip my chair when going up or down a small step or curb.
The various colour options available for the Quickie Xenon were a major selling point for me, as I was bored with having a standard black wheelchair that didn’t meet my needs or suit my personality. Now I not only feel physically comfortable in my wheelchair, but I genuinely love being in something I have designed and accessorised. In addition to the pink frame, I have decorated my wheels with the JML Wheelie Bright Lights, which not only add to my pink theme but are a big help when out in the dark. Lastly, I have cable-tied some craft flowers to the inner circle of my wheels, which attracts a lot of compliments as opposed to the usual stares!
To fold the chair, remove the seat cushion and lift the seat base until the lock clicks, securing the chair in a folded position. This lock ensures the chair stays folded, and you can remove the quick-release wheels to make it more compact for transport. While I usually keep the wheels on, removing them is beneficial when flying or using small cars and taxis. To unfold the chair, press the lever to unlock the frame and then push down on the seat base until it lies flat.
Overall, I highly recommend this wheelchair for frequent travellers or those with limited car space. It’s also ideal for individuals with fluctuating disabilities or medical conditions because you can easily adjust the backrest height and angle, footplate height and angle, and more using an Allen key. These small adjustments make a significant difference, and I’ve even made them in unusual places like Brooklyn Bridge in NYC and a boat in the middle of a lake in Florida!
