The best way to make sure you get it right is to discuss your interests with the supplier, as they can provide knowledgeable advice that saves time and money. Though 98% of public transportation options offer accommodations for people in wheelchairs, sometimes you're going to need to venture off the beaten path; if and when that moment comes, the right wheelchair tires will make the ride a whole lot smoother. Kirk Williams is a photographer, filmmaker, athlete, travel junkie, entrepreneur and public speaker. Can you recommend solid tires? The main parts of a wheel consist of the tire, rim, pushrim, spokes, and hub. By putting on a wider tire, I have raised my seat almost an inch a huge change when it comes to chair setup. Smooth Roller: 3 Types Of Wheelchair Tires Explained, What To Look For In Performance Wheelchairs. In this article, we explore the many types of wheelchair wheels for manual and power models to get an idea of the best setup for your lifestyle. There are also tire materials to consider, as this plays a vital role in the rides durability, cost, and smoothness.
Copyright 2022 United Spinal Association, I give permission to connect via Facebook. Wheelchairs are more complex than just a comfy seat with wheels. Now that youve got wheel configurations down, its time to dive into the nitty-gritty. Note that when you put on wider tires, you may have to space them farther out so they dont rub on your side guards or clothes. New Mobility uses the information you provide to send only relevant content, and you may unsubscribe at any time. Honestly, foam-filled tires are ideal if you work outdoors in construction, factory, or agriculture. These tires are filled with poly-foam, use an inner tube and require a two-piece wheel. The tires inner tube is filled with solid foam or plastic typically made from urethane or polyurethane. Wheelchair users also sometimes ask where they can get a set, but that question requires a much more involved answer.
The reason for this is that the spoked wheels flex when propelled, producing a burst of energy that shoots the chair forward with increased velocity and less effort. For wheelchair tires, youll see a double-digit number and a triple-digit number. But. He is the founder. Pros Low rolling resistance for a wide tire Fast on road and still functional off-road High-pressure, Cons: Heavier weight Gray color and colored sidewalls Wide chair, What part does insurance play on the selection of tires? In my quest for maximum efficiency, I strive to always have the right tires on my chair.I use 1-inch high-pressure for urban wheeling and 2.1-inch knobby tires for off-road or snowy conditions. We're committed to your privacy. Best to submit for reimbursement if it matters. United Spinal Association is dedicated to empowering people with spinal cord injuries. Many people opt for two sets of wheels: one setup for indoors and pavement, the other for off-road wheeling. While flat-free tires are suitable for the outdoors, the shock absorption and traction are average compared to pneumatic. These days, most manual wheelchair frames are measured and built to fit narrow tires, so if you put a wider, mountain-bike-style tire on your chair, it will raise your rear seat height.Take a look at the side-by-side photos below where I show the same 559-rim-size wheels with both a opens in a new windowSchwalbe Marathon Plus (25-559) and a opens in a new windowKenda Small Block Eight (54-559). It also makes it challenging to maneuver around tight spaces indoors. Wheelchair and Scooter Tire Size Examples, For information about how to install your wheelchair or scooter tires, see our. Im currently using 2.4-inch knobby tires I got at a local bike shop, and they work fine.The one size Im not sure this hack works on is 24-inch 540 rims with a 1-inch tire as I havent had a chance to compare it with the diameter of a 2.1-inch mountain bike tire on the next smaller rim, 22-inch 501. Meanwhile, solid puncture-proof tires are known to be pricier, ranging between $10 and $50 per tire. The good thing about this system is that you know the tire will fit as long as the second number matches your wheel size. Here in the U.S., we follow the imperial system, which uses inches. Theyre light and offer above-average traction indoors or outdoors, providing a smooth ride with shock-absorbing benefits. That way, you can pop the off-road wheels on if youre going camping, on a hike or to your kids soccer game, without having to deal with the width and rolling resistance of off-road tires when you dont need them (see Rim-Tire Size Hack above for more info).It is common to use a size smaller rim with a knobby off-road tire to match the original-sized skinny tire/wheel diameter. But although popular, pneumatic tires do require a substantial amount of maintenance to keep the tire pressure where it needs to be since the air leaks over time. Click here to post on our forum>>, Types of Mobility ChairsWith the variety of mobility chairs available today, you have more choice and options than ever beforeRead more >>, Wheelchair Sports ActivitiesHere are organizations that champion an active lifestyle for wheelchair users Read more>>, Helpful Resource OrganizationsHere you will find a list of organizations that provide educational insights, research data, and support toRead more >>, Mobility Scooter Buying TipsHere is a summary of the types of mobility scooters and what to considerRead more >>, Portable Ramp OptionsThere are four different types of portable ramps that Read more >>. Some people may spend ample time outdoors running errands, working on a construction site, or playing sports. The second refers to the inner diameter of the tire. Electric wheelchair wheels tend to have thicker tires compared to manual models, which enhances safety and durability for moving over various surfaces while accommodating the weight of the chair and user.
Copyright 2005-2022 - Sowder Group LLC - All rights reserved. Simply put, a wider tire is a taller tire. He is the founder of Impact Overland, a travel blog that is raising funds to help supply wheelchairs to those in need. Which Wheelchair Tire or Scooter Tire Should I Buy? Recommended for off-road conditions where traction is critical, including snow, mud and sand. They stay fully intact and ready for action. Flat-free tires are almost 2x heavier than pneumatic, which can be anywhere from two to four lbs of extra weight, depending on the material. Pros Low rolling-resistance for a knobby Light weight for a wide tire Black sidewalls, Cons Mark floor and hands with black Only available in select sizes Not thorn resistant Wide. What is flawed with this system is that it measures the outside diameter of a tire, and the outside diameter changes based on the width of the inflated tire. Always consultwith a medical professional for all health-related issues. I hope that after reading this, you will be able to better understand the nuances of the various options for wheelchair tires and make an informed decision about which setup best suits your needs. The cheaper tires are made of low-grade rubber, while expensive models are made out of thicker, high-quality rubber that is reinforced on the sidewalls or has a high tire pressure. For the active individual, spoked wheels give you bicycle feels to improve sports performance through speed and maneuvering. In the 12 years since he sustained a C6-7 SCI, he has ventured all over North and South America in his custom-built Campervan. Recommended for on- and off-road use where you want off road capabilities without sacrificing a lightweight feel. These tires are smaller in diameter than the wheel and in effect stretch over the wheel frame. The self-propelling motorized wheelchair has quite a different wheelbase from the manual, featuring a front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and a mid-wheel. For example, the best wheelchair wheels for indoor use feature skinny tires with a light tread pattern that delivers a faster and smoother ride. Both numbers are in millimeters and the first refers to the tire width the bigger the number, the wider the tire. Do you see how much taller the Marathon is on the same size rim? Articles and images are copyrighted and may not be reproduced. This is the most common type of rubber tire for manual and power wheelchairs, distinguished by an inner tube that is inflated with air. They will look something similar to these numbers: 24 x 1-3/8", 37-540, 300-8, 410/350-4, 260 x 85, 300-4. Until recently, there were no agreed-upon standards on how to measure a tire, so we were left with a mishmash of measurement systems from different countries.
Thats one of the reasons weve reached a nothing-makes-sense world where a 25-inch wheelchair rim fits a 26-inch mountain bike tire.Fortunately, tire and wheel manufacturers across the world have finally gotten on the same page and use a two-number system that does a much better job of keeping your head from exploding.
Sometimes you can get them to cover tires, but not really worth the time and hassle since tires are so inexpensive. Alright folks, lets roll out! The wheelchair tires you choose must match your personal lifestyle; if they don't, you may get stuck with costly repairs or replacements. Ordering a new set of tires for your wheelchair or scooter is not as difficult as you might think. Cost is going to be a deciding factor in choosing your wheels, with size and materials playing a pivotal role.
Join United Spinal and get New Mobility the premier wheelchair lifestyle magazine free for one year. If any readers have, please let me know at info@newmobility.com. Bob Vogel. From wheelchair small wheels to high-performance tires that give the user more power and speed, there is a vast assortment of different types of wheelchair wheels designed to accommodate any lifestyle. Choosing the accurate wheel size and fit is what ties it all together, especially since most frames cant be adjusted to accept just any size. Honor Flight Fundraises To Get Veterans New Wheels, How to Choose the Best Wheelchairs That Fold, What You Ought to Consider When Buying a Wheelchair, Riding In Style: Functional Fashion For Wheelchair Users, 3 Things to Look For in a High Performance Wheelchair. Before we delve into the realm of rubber, foam, spokes, and tread patterns, its essential to have an understanding of how the wheelbase is set up on a wheelchair. Pros: Low rolling resistanceon hard surfaces Flat protection Lightweight Narrow chair, Cons: Sink into soft ground Slip in snow Harsh ride quality. d South America in his custom-built Campervan. If you look closely, youll notice the center of gravity changes along with the angle that the casters meet the ground. The problem is, I use the same rim for both, and the diameter of a 2.1-inch knobby tire is significantly larger than a 1-inch tire. (I am asking in California.). This means one set of tires or the other causes the back of my chair to be too high or too low, which throws off both seating position and the front caster angle.However, there is a hack to work around this. Expect tires to require regular attention and occasional replacement, as part of your wheelchair's ongoing maintenance needs. Be sure to inquire about this, as well as other wheelchair maintenance services, at the time of purchase. Do you know of a freeservice or event for mobility chair users? There are many other options out there, but hopefully this comparison will help you decide which style works best for you and your lifestyle.
Flat-free tires are complicated to change and tend to be expensive. The double-digit represents the tire width, while the triple-digit represents the wheel diameter. It doesnt matter if you run over a nail. Plus, theres always the risk of a flat tire that could leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. In some instances, a chair user or caregiver can remove and install a new tire with relative ease. These tires have a shorter lifespan and require more frequent maintenance than other types of tires. If you need to order a wheelchair tire replacement, look for the size and style numbers that are located on your existing/old tire. Common wheel size conversions are as follows:22-inch = 50124-inch = 54025-inch = 55926-inch = 590. Wheelchair tires come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, adapted to perform safely according to the users environment. Here are the three types you can choose from and their respective benefits. Always consultwith a medical professional for all health-related issues. You can also use your wheelchairs serial number to check the original wheel sizing from the manufacturer. You do get to enjoy a longer life with these, but youre better off going to the provider for help when it does come time to replace them. Although there are many types of wheelchair alterations available based on individual wants or needs, one of the most important aspects you must consider when purchasing a wheelchair is its tires. Before replacing your tires, its important to consult with your provider to determine your wheelbases exact measurements and configuration. ADVERTISING INQUIRIES | PRIVACY POLICY & USER TERMS | CONTACT USCopyright 2005-2022 - Sowder Group LLC - All rights reserved. Once again, the materials make the biggest difference, with foam-filled tires costing less than plastic. On the other hand, the best off-road wheelchair wheels, including wheelchair wheels for sand are wider, with a knobby tread that increases traction to prevent slipping and sliding. Wheel or caster type (single or two piece)? Your insurance provider and plans are what decides that.
Or, do you have a travel or vacation tip? Solid tires, sometimes called snap-on tires, can be difficult to install without assistance and require the proper tools. When you log in for the first time using the Facebook login button, Facebook shares your public profile information, based on your privacy settings. Recommended for a mix of street and off-road pushing, including gravel, grass and dirt. What Are the Benefits of Folding Wheelchairs for Senior Citizens? I spend a lot of time off the pavement, and the knobbies are easier to use on that type of terrain, I usually answer. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy. These types of tires can be difficult to install alone and require the proper tools. Clearly, there are a lot of factors to consider when selecting tires and every decision comes with trade-offs, but taking the time to consider your tire width, weight and rolling resistance can have a huge impact on your ability to navigate your environment.Check out these four common wheelchair tires all of which I have used and the pros and cons of each. If you want to change what type of tire you have, consider the following attributes: puncture resistance, ride quality, traction, rider weight, and maintenance.
High-performance wheels, on the other hand, are the tire elite. New Mobilitys newsletter delivers product news and pro tips from wheelchair users twice a month. Or, do you have a travel or vacation tip?
Typical types of wheel chair tires include the following. Things to consider when choosing tires include manufacturer requirements, body weight, ease of installation, replacement availability, style and size. The site publisher/owner is not liable foryour use ofsite information. That also means you dont have to check the tire pressure constantly, cutting down on the maintenance. Pros: Superior off-road traction Float over soft ground Rugged look, Cons: Higher rolling resistance Heavy weight Knobs can catch on clothing Wide chair.
Pneumatic tires go flat. You wont have to worry about sharp equipment taking out your trusty wheeled steed. Theyre also stiffer, so dont expect to glide smoothly over those surprise bumps. That doesnt mean its always a simple swap. filling the tire with air periodically), then go with the same type you already have. Similarly, you may need to make minor brake adjustments depending on the tire/wheel combo.For example, if youre currently using a 559 (25-inch) wheel with a skinny tire and you want to switch to the Kobra, you need to buy a 540 (24-inch) wheel to put the Kobra on to keep the chair angles close to the same. This results in a a more comfortable ride and better shock absorption than other tires. Whats neat about these tires is that they are puncture-proof. Some wheelchair companies provide a tire changing or maintenance service. Follow him and see his work on Instagram @kirkscamera and@impact.overland. Articles and images are copyrighted and may not be reproduced. New Mobility is the member publication of United Spinal Association, which is dedicated to empowering people with spinal cord injuries and related disabilities to live successful and fulfilling lives. WARNING: Many of the products carried by EnableYourLife.com can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Pneumatic tires are the most popular type of wheelchair tire because they are light weight and provide good traction. Its a style thing, sure, but theyre not just for style points. Every model is designed with the users specific needs in mind, from the materials to the capabilities of the tires on various surfaces. Wheelchairs are a blessing for those who suffer from mobility issues; whether they were born with disabilities or acquired them due to an accident, something as simple as a folding wheelchair can return some semblance of control to their lives. Home Wheels Types of Wheelchair Wheels and Tires.
You might want to consider solid wheels if youre outdoors quite often. I am often asked why I use knobby tires on my wheelchair. Knowing the size, tread pattern, and make and model of your wheelchair or scooter makes the process much easier, so locate that information before you begin: Selecting the right tire type depends on what the chair is being used for and what your preferences are. Usually nothing (unless ordering with chair or wheels). Pneumatic tires are the least expensive, which also accounts for their popularity. Write down all numbers found on any tire you are replacing so that the manufacturer can properly assist you. Remember how I said different widths change the outer diameter of a tire? If you are happy with the wheelchair / scooter tires you have and are able to properly maintain them (i.e. Once your account is created, you'll be logged in to this account. New Mobility is the membership publication of United Spinal Association, whose mission is to empower people with spinal cord injuries and related disabilities to lead successful and fulfilling lives. Which Wheelchair or Scooter Tire Should I Buy? Different Types of Wheelchair Wheels and Tyres, Wheelchair Wheels and Tires Cost Comparison, Final Thoughts: Types of Wheelchair Wheels and Tires, Influence of Varying Level Terrain on Wheelchair Propulsion Biomechanics, Tests of Two New Polyurethane Foam Wheelchair Tires, Tire Selection: Balancing Performance and Maintenance, Effects of Wheel and Hand-Rim Size on Submaximal Propulsion in Wheelchair Athletes.
Intended for city streets, asphalt and sidewalks, this tire offers decent flat protection. Hence, I set my chair up for my 25-inch 559 rims and keep my 24-inch rims with knobby tires in the back seat of my car for easy switching to match the conditions of the day.This same hack should work on a 25-inch 559 rim and 2.1-inch mountain bike tire matching up with a 26-inch 590 rim and 1-inch tire. Let me start by saying that tire size is confusing. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Like a bicycle tire, you can fix-up minor punctures with a patch kit, but this wont exempt you from having to replace the inner tube every couple of months due to wear and tear. But dont get too excited- these tires have their drawbacks, too. Others might stay indoors for the majority of the day, moving over smooth surfaces and needing to maneuver around furniture and through doorways. A 2.1-inch knobby tire mounted on a 24-inch 540 rim has a nearly identical diameter to a 1-inch tire mounted on a 25-inch 559 rim. Installation Guide for Wheelchair and Scooter Tires. The site publisher/owner is not liable foryour use of. Specialized wheelchairs might offer a different configuration, such as one small wheel in the front for playing sports. My activities tend to waver from urban wheeling to off-road, and living in California I frequently go from the temperate foothills to the snowy Sierra mountains.
In this system, a 1-inch wide tire that fits a 25-inch wheelchair rim is designated a 23-559, while a 2-inch-wide tire that fits the same rim would be labeled a 54-559 (see below for a list of conversions for common wheelchair sizes). Thank you for visiting Mobility-Advisor.com. Flat-free tires, also called foam-filled or airless tires, last longer but do not have the traction of a pneumatic tire. Well start with the traditional manual chair, which features two sets of wheels: However, remember this is the standard. They feature an inner tube that is filled to a designated amount of air pressure, based on the specific chair and user weight. Please seedisclaimer. This type of wheel is specially designed using lightweight materials for serious athletes or highly active individuals who constantly push the boundaries of their equipment for power and speed. Content is for informational purposes only and not for diagnosis or treatment of any kind. Regardless of the situation, there is a tire to make mobility a breeze. So, although you can enjoy outdoor activities with these tires (especially if you let the air out a bit to get a wider tire and full contact tread), always keep an eye out for sharp objects, such as nails and glass. Some model tires offer shock absorption similar to that of a pneumatic tire. Thats important for wheelchair seating. These tires are also made of rubber, except you dont have to deal with air. This is a big deal, as even a little extra weight can throw off a wheelchairs functionality. For more information about how to install your wheelchair or scooter tires, see our, Descriptions and links to common tools needed for removing and installing wheelchair and scooter tires, Step-by-step instructions for removing and re-installing wheelchair and scooter tires on one piece or two piece rims, Helpful videos showing use of various wheelchair and scooter tire installation tools, 2009-2022 Enable Your Life, Inc. | EnableYourLife.com, All trademarks, logos, and images are owned by their respective owners, Buying Guide - Wheelchair Tires / Scooter Tires. Wheel size, chair geometry and rolling resistance are just a few things to consider when selecting tires, and the simple act of putting wider tires on your chair can have a big impact on its fit and performance.My attempts to fully answer that question have become something bigger a guide to everything you didnt know you needed to know about selecting the right wheelchair tires for your life. An extra wheelchair tire is prudent to have on hand in the event of an emergency. The main factors determining the cost and uses are the materials, size, and configuration. Since most manual chair users roll on a skinnier tire, my knobbies stand out. The standard rear-wheel size 24 x 1 3/8 or 1 1/4 tire is typically priced between $10 to $45 per wheel. Think about your personal needs: are you frequently active or live in a place that has rough terrain, or do you spend most of your time at home?
wheelchair tires types
