I rent an
ECV through Scooterbug while visiting WDW. Since I visit several times a year I am considering purchasing an ECV that is portable. Any suggestions on models? Would like something easy to disassemble and also that can be used on WDW transportation.
Some more info that might be helpful when folks make recommendations:
- how much weight can you lift? (Or will you *always* have a helper with you?) Trying to lift 50 pounds of wiggly child is all different from trying to lift 50 pounds of
scooter - and the kiddo will be easier to lift!
- 3 wheels or 4 wheels? (IMHO it doesn’t matter, but some folks have a strong preference)
- captain’s chair or low back seat? Are arm rests required?
- tiller or squeeze throttle?
- are there any accessories that are “must haves” (like cup holders, headlight, or USB port) ?
- are you open to super-light alternatives (but they tend to not be “plush”) ?
According to Disney’s rules, “…Devices must be manually or electrically powered and operated at a walking pace. Devices should be single rider and not exceed 36" (92 cm) in width and 52" (132 cm) in length.” Handy-dandy, that’s the size of the white box painted on the ground at Disney Resort hotel bus stops, so if a device fits in that box, it should fit on the bus. Obvi, the smaller the device, the easier it will be to park.
There’s a lot to Consider when you start looking at a personal mobility device. The one thing I will encourage you to do is this:
NEVER buy a device without personally test-driving it first.
Without telling the whole long and stupidly boring story, learn from me. I got lucky the first time, but the 2nd time I got burned. Badly. Even though I did tons of research, I talked to other owners of the device, did all my due diligence. And then the vendor basically tried to gaslight me, and tell me it was my fault. If I had not found other users online who were having the exact same issues I was, I would have believed the vendor. Moral of the story: Test drive it yourself. In person. Make sure it is everything you want it to be before you buy. Make sure it will fit in your vehicle. Make sure you can lift the heaviest piece yourself (if that’s something you plan on doing)
@Evita_W had a great suggestion just right up there; several folks here have done that with good results. That way you get to find out if you really like that scooter, and can deal with it while renting first from a reputable vendor.