Do you have a mobility issue keeping you from enjoying life to its fullest? Are you searching the internet for reviews and information about the best electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters today, trying to narrow your search?
If you answered yes to either of those questions, you will enjoy our in-depth brand review of ForceMech power wheelchairs.
Fans of the brand refer to them as the “DeWalt of the Mobility Industry” because all their models come in the same unmistakable shade of bright yellow, which serves as a nice contrast to the cool-looking black horsehead logo on all their products.
Of course, a paint job and a cool logo don’t make a great mobility device, but they sure make ForceMech’s products look distinctive!
We were impressed with the company’s product line, and in the following sections, we’ll tell you exactly why. We’ll also tell you about things the company doesn’t do a great job at, as some of the shortcomings of the ForceMech power wheelchair lineup might be deal-breakers for you.
Even if that proves to be the case, you’ll agree that the ForceMech product line is well worth a second or even a third look as you decide which mobility scooter is right for you.
If the above has piqued your interest, let’s jump right in and examine these rugged, durable machines.
Key Features of the ForceMech Power Wheelchairs
ForceMech makes four machines, or, more precisely, two models, each with two variants. We’ll take a closer look at all four machines in the sections below, but before we dive into the particulars, let’s start with a broad overview of all four products in table format.
Forcemech Power Wheelchairs Comparison Table
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Primary Rating:
4.6
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Primary Rating:
4.7
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Primary Rating:
4.7
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Primary Rating:
3.9
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Top Speed:
4 miles per hour
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Top Speed:
4 miles per hour
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Top Speed:
5 miles per hour
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Top Speed:
5 miles per hour
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Max Slope:
12 degrees
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Max Slope:
10 degrees
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Max Slope:
12 degrees
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Max Slope:
12 degrees
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Max. Range:
12 miles
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Max. Range:
16 miles
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Max. Range:
16 miles
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Max. Range:
16 miles
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Overall Dimensions:
35” x 24” x 37”
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Overall Dimensions:
35” x 23” x 35”
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Overall Dimensions:
38” x 25” x 37”
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Overall Dimensions:
38” x 26” x 37”
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Collapsed Dimensions:
24” x 13” x 31”
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Collapsed Dimensions:
23” x 13” x 30”
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Collapsed Dimensions:
25” x 13” x 31”
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Collapsed Dimensions:
26” x 13” x 31”
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Seat Width:
17” x 17”
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Seat Width:
17” x 17”
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Seat Width:
17” x 17”
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Seat Width:
17” x 19”
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Seat Height:
19”
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Seat Height:
20"
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Seat Height:
19”
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Seat Height:
19”
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Armrest Height:
28”
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Armrest Height:
30"
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Armrest Height:
28”
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Armrest Height:
28”
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Min. Clearance:
3.5”
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Min. Clearance:
3.5”
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Min. Clearance:
3.7”
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Min. Clearance:
3.7”
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Front Wheel Size:
7” Diameter, 1.25” wide
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Front Wheel Size:
7” Diameter, 1.55” wide
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Front Wheel Size:
7” Diameter, 1.8” wide
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Front Wheel Size:
7” Diameter, 1.8” wide
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Rear Wheel Size:
8” Diameter, 2” wide
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Rear Wheel Size:
9” Diameter, 1.85” wide
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Rear Wheel Size:
12.5” Diameter, 2.3” wide
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Rear Wheel Size:
12.5” Diameter, 2.3” wide
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Turning Radius:
33”
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Turning Radius:
32”
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Turning Radius:
33”
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Turning Radius:
33”
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Motor Power:
180W
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Motor Power:
200W
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Motor Power:
250W
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Motor Power:
250W
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Controller Type:
Detachable omni-directional joystick controller
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Controller Type:
Connected omni-directional joystick controller
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Controller Type:
Detachable omni-directional joystick controller
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Controller Type:
Detachable omni-directional joystick controller
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Total Weight:
48 pounds
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Total Weight:
47 pounds
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Total Weight:
59 pounds
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Total Weight:
60 pounds
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Max. Supported Weight:
265 pounds
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Max. Supported Weight:
265 pounds
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Max. Supported Weight:
397 pounds
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Max. Supported Weight:
400 pounds
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Right off the bat, we see a couple of notable differences.
Max Supported Weight
If you weigh more than 265 pounds, the ForceMech Voyager series isn’t a good fit for you. While the ForceMech Navigator supports a maximum weight of 400 pounds, we’re not sure why the Navigator XL winds up with three extra pounds of supported weight—it’s such a scant difference that it seems like it must be a typo. Until we hear back from the company, we’ll leave the information as we found it on its website.
Power
All four models utilize the same basic brushless DC electric motor, although the power output varies considerably, as the chart indicates. They also use the same super lithium-ion battery packs and “intelligent” electromagnetic braking system, so they’re all very similar in handling.
Regarding total power, Navigator provides more of a “get up and go” factor and is 1 MPH faster than its smaller cousin, Voyager. But if portability is your main concern, Voyager wins the day, having a (slightly) smaller footprint and a lighter overall weight.
Controller Type
We were curious why the ForceMech Voyager R2 is the only model in the company’s lineup without a detachable controller. The R2 is ostensibly more advanced than the base model, Voyager. So, we can’t fathom why the company decided to give the R2 a fixed controller, reducing its versatility, but the company has remained silent on that point.
Portability and Footprint
The Voyager models aren’t any heavier than many conventional wheelchairs, which makes them super convenient. Suppose you opt for either of the Navigator models. In that case, they’re heavy enough that a person with a mobility issue may have difficulty loading and unloading the scooter into a transport vehicle.
Even so, all four machines present a reasonably small footprint when folded. You’ll find no difficulty storing them in a full-sized SUV or truck, and most hatchbacks will easily accept them. However, storage for transport could pose a problem if you have a mid-sized sedan or smaller.
Note: ForceMech’s models are constructed using a durable, long-lasting aluminum alloy, which should withstand everyday use.
Color
As to the color – as Henry Ford used to say about the Model-T, “You can have it in any color you want, as long as it’s black.” The same goes for all of ForceMech’s products, except their chosen color is bright yellow. That’s more than just a marketing gimmick, though. The company says they chose the color because it’s easy to spot in the dark, making it a small safety innovation worth noting.
With the basics out of the way, let’s dig deeper than the chart and see what each of the four models offers beyond raw specs here in our ForceMech brand review.
Comfort
All four of ForceMech’s scooters are reasonably comfortable, but none have a headrest, which could cause long-duration sitting problems. Of the four, only the ForceMech Navigator XL has anything resembling a headrest, and in its case, all you get is a padded “roll bar” where your head would rest, which isn’t the most comfortable option.
Since there’s no headrest, there’s no way you can buy extra padding for it. Though theoretically, you could get creative and do a bit of DIY modification and rig something that might serve as an acceptable headrest.
Even then, if you’ve got to spend most of each day on the scooter, this one will leave you wanting. It’s great for short-to-medium-duration sitting, to a maximum of about 5-6 hours at a stretch, but after that, the lack of a headrest will make it increasingly uncomfortable.
Regarding general comfort, all four models’ seats and seat backs aren’t bad and certainly more comfortable than your average wheelchair. However, if you plan on using the thing for extended periods, then adding aftermarket cushions for the seat and seat back will be a good investment.
Adjustability
All four models’ armrests and footrests can be height adjusted, giving you a great deal of latitude in configuring your wheelchair to provide a better “fit” for you individually, which translates into a more comfortable ride. Note that none of the seats on any of Forcemech’s models recline. They are in a fixed position, set to a 105-degree angle.
On-Board Storage & Extras
All four of Forcemech’s scooters have a built-in safety belt and a convenient storage basket to fit under the seat.
We love the under-seat storage because it’s convenient for the person sitting on the scooter and easy to get to. We wish all companies would make under-seat storage a standard feature, but alas, most don’t, so kudos to Forcemech for giving us a generous amount of storage space just where we like to see it!
Another thing that’s worth a special mention here relates to batteries.
If you’ve read our Roundup Review of the Best Wheelchairs for the Elderly, you may remember that we called special attention to the fact that Forcemech scooters can go up to 25 miles on a single battery charge. This may make you wonder why the numbers listed in the chart above are far less than that.
There’s a delightfully simple explanation: The figures above reflect the travel range using a single battery, but all of Forcemech’s products were designed such they can hold two batteries. If you purchase a second battery for your scooter, you can safely double the range figures in the chart above. Note, however, that the default configuration of Forcemech’s products will see them delivered with but a single battery, so if you want the extended range, you’ll have to buy your second battery separately.
Great Handling Indoors and Out
One of the things you’ll be pleasantly surprised at is how well all four of ForceMech’s models handle various terrains. The joystick controller is intuitive and easy to master, and even on the smallest, lightest model (the base model Voyager), the motor is powerful enough to get you over a wide range of terrain.
We will note, however, that if you plan on using your scooter mostly outdoors, you might want to look more closely at the ForceMech Navigator models. They have larger rear wheels and offer more raw power, both key to navigating more challenging terrain.
Lest we oversell it, it’s important to note that although ForceMech’s scooters are rugged and durable, and the Navigators are especially adept at handling outdoor terrains, these aren’t ATVs.
While the ability to handle a twelve-degree slope is nothing to scoff at (that’s the maximum recommended slope for three of ForceMech’s four models, as noted in the table above), these scooters do have their limits. Take on a terrain that is too challenging, and you’ll need a rescue, so start modestly and be sure help is nearby if you’re experimenting on the terrain you haven’t used the scooter on before.
All four models have very similar turning radius, with the Voyager R2 turning one inch tighter (32”) than the others (33”). Even so, sometimes small differences make all the difference, so consider carefully how you plan on using the scooter and whether or not that one-inch smaller turn radius is important to you—because it might be!
A good rule of thumb is that the Voyager products are, on balance, better for mostly indoor terrains, and the two Navigator models are more adept at handling outdoor terrains while still being a breeze to use indoors.
A Slight Learning Curve, Minimal Assembly Required
Assembly-wise, the only thing you’ll have to do when your ForceMech arrives is mount the controller, although if you buy the Voyager R2, you won’t even have to do that.
If you have to mount the controller, you’ll be done in less than five minutes. Drop the battery into place (or batteries, if you’ve bought a second), and you’ll be ready for your first ride.
There is a slight learning curve, and you’ll want to spend at least a few minutes getting the hang of the joystick controller and familiarizing yourself with how the machine handles (this is true regardless of which model you choose to purchase).
A good general guideline is: If you’ve ever played a video game, plan on spending about five minutes mastering the controls. If you haven’t, plan on spending ten to fifteen minutes. That’s it. It won’t take most people much longer than that to feel comfortable driving the scooter around.
Pros & Cons of ForceMech Power Wheelchairs
As you can see, there’s much to like about ForceMech’s products. Other than mentioning that you may want to buy an aftermarket seat cushion, we haven’t had the first negative thing to say, which may lead you to wonder what the catch is.
Well, here’s where we’ll be giving you the bad news. Although ForceMech gets all the big stuff right, the details tend to trip them up, and details matter.
In no particular order, here are some of the things you may not like about ForceMech’s products:
None of these are deal breakers individually and even collectively; you might not find them a big deal, but some people will. We wanted to mention the various shortcomings so you’d have all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.
ForceMech Power Wheelchair Reviews Conclusion
We love the ForceMech power wheelchair lineup! The company’s struggles are entirely forgivable and relatively easy to work around. While it’s true that we’d rather not have to rig fixes on an expensive product, we’re “Do It Yourselfers” anyway, so that doesn’t give us pause.
We understand, however, that not everyone will feel that way, so we’ll close by saying that ForceMech makes really good, solid products but falls short of greatness because of the little things it gets wrong.
If, after reading this ForceMech brand review to the end, you find that you’re not bothered by the shortcomings, then we recommend its products (any model) without reservation.
If you’re looking for something with a bit more polish in the details, another brand is probably a better “fit” for you.
Recommended Reading
Foldawheel PW-1000XL Power Wheelchair Review
We evaluated the Foldawheel PW-1000XL, which is sturdy and nearly excellent. It is a power wheelchair perfect for active users.
Medline Excel Extra Wide Bariatric Wheelchair Review
We evaluated the Medline Excel Extra Wide Bariatric Wheelchair. It is solid, supports 500 pounds, and is ideal for big and tall users.
References & Resources
- Forcemech, Official Brand Website.
- Mobility Scooters Versus Wheelchairs, Disabled-world.
- The Power of Power Wheelchairs: Mobility Choices of Community-dwelling, Older Adults, NCBI.
Hello, I read your review on the ForceMech navigator. Thank you. I am trying to compare it with other HD portable electric wheelchairs. Fold and go (their web sight seams to be down now! Very concerning as it was a company saying it’s employees actually use wheel
chairs! Electra 7HD, Eagle HD (which I read may be by the same manufacture? A name I can not find) Have you reviewed any of these or other light weight portable electric wheelchairs? I could really use your help there doesn’t seam to be any place to go and test out these chairs? Sincerely Anna Marie
Hello Anna Marie, and thanks for your question!
We have not written a review on either the Electra 7HD or the Eagle HD, but we did some research to be able to answer your question completely.
You’re quite right, the Eagle and the Electra appear to be made by the same manufacturer. Of the two, the Eagle HD appears to us to offer the better value and the most bang for the buck.
Comparing them with the ForceMech Navigator, they are highly similar, with the key differences that jumped out at us being as follows:
• The ForceMech chair has slightly larger rear wheels and is probably more capable of handling a broader range of outdoor terrains, although this difference is likely to be nominal.
• The ForceMech Navigator is also significantly faster, boasting a top speed of 5 miles per hour, versus 3.75 for the Eagle and Electra.
If speed and outdoor handling are the things that matter most to you, we’d recommend the Navigator over them.
On the flip side though, as we mentioned in our review, the entire ForceMech product line has some small but non-fatal design flaws that make it somewhat difficult/cumbersome to transport, while the two models you brought to our attention don’t appear to suffer from those shortcomings.
On top of that, ForceMech’s products only come in one color, while you can get the Eagle or the Electra in a variety of colors. That’s a small thing, but if it’s important to you, then that does move the needle in the direction of either of those.
All three chairs have a virtually identical maximum supported weight limit and can handle up to twelve-percent slope grades, but the Eagle and the Electra offer more “extras” (cup holders, oxygen tank holders, and the like), and they have better range and are also marginally lighter, which makes them relatively more comfortable to transport.
Based on all of that, we’d have to give the slight nod to the Eagle HD when choosing between those three products, with better range and ease of transport being the two things that won us over. We’ll put both models on our list to review!