Frequently Asked Questions
Is a self-balancing mobility aid suitable for me?
A balance wheelchair is an innovative device about which there is still much unknown. We call it a wheelchair because it is intended as a mobility product for people who cannot walk or walk poorly. A balance wheelchair can be a solution for all kinds of disabilities including: spinal cord injury, MS, muscular diseases, Spina Bifida, ALS, amputation and osteoarthritis. In theory, the age of the user does not matter, as long as there is sufficient physical and mental condition to be able to use a balance wheelchair. There are active and passive balance wheelchairs so there is a suitable solution for (almost) everyone. If in doubt, feel free to contact us.
How much trunk balance do I need?
The technology of the chair allows you to ride on two wheels, the technology keeps the balance. Don't worry, you don't have to balance yourself, the machine does that for you. The technique does make sure that you stay perfectly balanced 100 times per second, so you don't fall over. How much trunk balance you ultimately need depends on the model you choose. With the most active models you need reasonably good torso balance, with the most passive models you need no torso balance at all and you can be fully supported in the seat.
Which model fits me best?
We distinguish between different balance wheelchairs:
Active balance wheelchair:
This balance wheelchair actively involves the user in driving. Moving the weight of your upper body forward or backward allows you to drive or brake. Steering left or right is done with the steering bar. Using an active balance wheelchair, such as the Bi-Go, Genny and the Freee, therefore requires some torso stability.
Passive balance wheelchair:
This balance wheelchair is very easy to control by means of a joystick. So you don't really have to do anything yourself. Thus, good trunk stability is not a requirement to be able to drive this type of balance wheelchair. An example of a passive chair is the Hoss Mobility balance wheelchair.
Electric wheelchair with balance technology:
This last type offers even more options than an active or passive balance wheelchair. These power wheelchairs are very easy to operate using a joystick and have an ADL rehabilitation seat. That means that this seat is completely custom ordered for the user and offers very many possibilities for customization and extra support. Both suitable for the more and less limited user, allowing one to sit comfortably all day long. The balance mode and stair walking function make the iBOT and the Scewo BRO unique in their kind and offer unprecedented possibilities.
Want to know which model really suits you best? Then we always recommend a test drive in our Experience Center under professional guidance. The best way to find out which product is most suitable for you is to experience it yourself. We have many different models so there is a good match for everyone.
Will the balance wheelchair be reimbursed by the municipality?
The Netherlands has the WMO, which is a law for anyone with a disability who needs help, for example, to continue living at home or to participate more independently in society. This law is implemented by the municipality. Until now, a balance wheelchair is not yet included in the standard core range of aids provided by the municipality. If you can properly substantiate your specific needs, which cannot be met by a standard aid but can be met by a balance wheelchair, then it is indeed possible to make a claim under the WMO. In that case, you can claim a customized provision.
In recent years we have seen a clear trend that more and more municipalities are beginning to see the benefits of the 2KERR products and are moving towards WMO provision or PGB assignment. Many of our clients have gone through this process and through their experiences we have built up a lot of knowledge to help you with your application.
If you have a work-related question it is possible that in cooperation with the UWV a solution can be offered. We also have experience with this at 2KERR.
Of course this is different for each country, would you like to know more about the possibilities in your region or country? Feel free to contact us.
Can the balance wheelchair travel easily in the car?
In most models of balance wheelchairs, the backrest and/or the armrests can be folded, allowing for compact transportation. The easiest way to transport a balance wheelchair in the car is by using ramps. Here you use the driving power of the balance wheelchair to drive it into the car. See the video below.
The compact size of the balance wheelchair allows it to fit into many standard car models with a spacious trunk. Just make sure you don't have a sunken trunk, because then you can get the balance wheelchair into the car but then you can't get it out anymore.
Another option is to have a compact trunk elevator installed, which allows you to effortlessly lift the balance wheelchair and then turn it into the trunk. You can arrange this through car adjustment company.
Can I use a balance wheelchair on the beach?
A balance wheelchair can get around on various surfaces, including the beach. The standard wheels will get you a long way, but if you really want to drive through the loose sand, we recommend choosing wide tires. For example, the Enduro wheelset is suitable for this, with the extra wide tires with a deeper profile you can ride even easier on all terrains. The slightly smaller rim in combination with wider tires provides more grip and more shock absorption, so you also ride around more comfortably. There are also even wider tires available, but these are very impractical in normal use. Of course, we can advise you well what is the best solution in your situation. Please note, with any solution it is possible that you will get stuck in loose sand, so common sense is also important!
Can I take a balance wheelchair with me on vacation?
Want to go on vacation by car, camper or caravan? You can easily take a balance wheelchair with you by using ramps. Are you planning to go on vacation by plane? Then keep in mind that airlines often have very strict rules, especially with regard to the Lithium-ion batteries they carry on the plane. Because of this, it is normally not possible to take a balance wheelchair with you. Only when it comes to an iBOT wheelchair, there are possibilities. Because the iBOT is developed in such a way that transportation in an airplane is possible and a certificate for this is also provided.
When you go on a plane trip, you can use a special flight case. This is available from us for our customers. You can drive the balance wheelchair in this flightcase so that it can be transported safely during air travel. Check this page for customer experiences and tips for traveling with a balance wheelchair.
Does a balance wheelchair need to be insured?
If you want to use the mobility aid on public roads, you are required to take out third-party insurance. In addition, it is certainly advisable to take out third-party liability insurance so that you have better coverage in the event of unexpected damage.
We can advise you on this and bring you into contact with a suitable party who understands our products.
How much maintenance does a balance wheelchair need?
The maintenance required varies by product but we recommend bringing your product in for maintenance at least once a year. This will help you prevent problems and increase your chances of safe use and riding pleasure. When you drive more than 1500 km per year with your balance wheelchair, we advise you to contact us so we can perform the maintenance sooner.
It is also possible to take out a maintenance contract which covers most wear parts and you benefit from a pick-up and delivery service. Feel free to ask for the conditions and/or more information.