Choosing the best wheelchair tire is a critical activity in determining which one will suit you best. As you can expect, different wheelchair tires fit differently, making it critical to the device’s performance. Therefore, when reviewing wheelchair tires, there are different options to consider.
Table of Contents
Measurements
The size of a wheelchair is obvious because if it is the wrong size, it will not fit. However, to make it easier, the size of the wheel is normally printed somewhere on the wheel. The measurements are given in inches, and they include the diameter of the whole unit, not just the wheel. Apart from the diameter, the thread depth is also added to the measurement as the second figure, for example, 25” x 1.5”. The first figure 25” represents the diameter while 1.5” represents the depth of the wheel.
Wheelchair Tire Types
Wheelchair tires are made up of different types such as:
Solid
Solid wheelchair tires are made of different forms of plastic or rubber. These tires contain no air in the inner tube, making them less flexible to adapt to altering terrain.
Pneumatic
Air-filled or pneumatic tires are found on larger wheels of electric wheelchairs. They are lighter, when compared to solid tires, hence they maximize the efficiency of movement. Additionally, these tires have a deeper thread, increasing the grip for a more stable and comfortable journey.
Pneumatic Puncture Proof
Pneumatic puncture-proof tires are made for the same purposes as the pneumatic wheelchair tire. However, this tire has a puncture-resistant inner tube, which is mostly made of Kevlar material. It is also expensive and slightly heavier than the standard pneumatic wheelchair tire.
Maintenance
A properly air-filled wheelchair tire helps distribute the weight of the wheelchair and the user evenly across the tire’s thread pattern, contributing to its stability and agility. If the tire is under-inflated or over-inflated, it affects the handling, cornering, and stopping of the wheelchair. This might also cause the tire to wear off unevenly.
To make sure you fill the tires with the same right pressure, look at the printed measurements somewhere on the tire. Also, by using a manometer, you can see whether both the tires have the same pressure. This process enhances better driving performance, smoothness, maneuverability, speed, and control of the wheelchair.
Task
It is equally important to consider the type of tasks the wheelchair user is completing and how the tire actively and independently supports the engagement. The type or size of the tire should be able to handle the weight of the user, despite regular adjustments of position.
Environment
The surface on which the task is carried out is an important aspect of wheelchair tire maintenance. However, not all wheelchair tires are advisable for all surfaces. Ideally, the most efficient surface has a turning circle that does not require helping the wheelchair user to turn, regardless of the width or depth of the tire.
