SmartDrive

A black power assist unit weighing about 13 lbs, which attaches to a bracket that clips onto the back of most manual wheelchairs, and is controlled by the user via a wristband.

In all honesty, this thing is a mess. It’s better than nothing when it works properly, as it does save your arms from continuous pushing, but it has so many flaws that need to be addressed.

I’ve been through more wristbands than I can count during the two years I’ve had it, as it seems to have a mind of its own. Sometimes, even when the device says it has a full battery, it simply won’t turn on, as if the battery is dead. That’s why the company keeps sending me new wristbands! I also find that the device doesn’t always stop when you tap, which can be quite dangerous. It’s also hard to tell if the battery will last all day, as it has so many other issues on top of not starting on a full charge!

I’ve had it for two years now and have never been able to use it on the grass, despite being told I would be able to. Maybe if you have a FreeWheel, it would work, but without any additional attachments, the device just tips me out of my chair onto the ground, and the smart drive rolls up under the chair. Our yard is pretty flat too, so this came as a huge shock.

It definitely doesn’t turn your manual chair into a power chair, so don’t let anyone try to sell you one by saying such things. If some of these issues were resolved, I would definitely try it again, as there isn’t any else that comes out on top for me in terms of size and weight! Obviously, it’s not completely useless because when it works, it’s great – especially on smooth surfaces – but it’s just not reliable enough for people to be using it full-time!