Pre-Planning for a Custom Manual Wheelchair-Need Advice

Hey, y'all, I've been doing some thinking and recently decided that based on the reasons listed below, a custom made manual ultralight wheelchair is the best option for me vs. the Quantum I've had my eyes on since forever. The main sticking points for a manual chair over a powerchair are:

1. Since I already have a powerchair, it makes little sense to get another one right now. Plus it'll add versatility to my options on my mobility should a situation arise where powerchairs aren't allowed or getting around somewhere that makes more sense to bring a manual. (Like a cruise.)
2. It wouldn't 'Force' my mom (who drives me around since I don't drive) into a custom van (she loves her Blazer right now).
3. If me and my mom can't lift my portable powerchair in and out of the trunk for a while, the manual will be MUCH LIGHTER and I can probably get it in/out by myself (50 pounds for my powerchair vs. 20-ish pounds for the manual I'm considering.)
4. MUCH CHEAPER than my dream powerchair. (Quantum, which is around $20k vs. less than $10k for the manual.)

Listed below are the makes/models I'm currently looking at and the pros/cons of each one. If anyone here knows of these chairs, or any other important things to consider, please let me know so that I can make a well-informed decision. (Cause I find myself going back and forth from one option to another and saying 'Well, maybe this one makes more sense.') Thanks, guys. Ok so I have some general advice and happy to follow up any questions you have. I've been using a manual ultralight chair for 38 years so I have a good bit of experience as well as being involved in adaptive sports so I've seen a lot of chairs and a lot of options.

General Advice:
1. Minimize moving parts: this doesn't apply to a feature you need due to your particular disability but if there is a feature that you think is a nice to have but it adds moving parts, don't get it. For example, if you don't need a folding chair, don't get a folding chair. It just adds stuff that will break over time. There was a chair several years back that had shocks in the seat. Neat idea, absolutely terrible in real life.
2. Don't worry too much about straps, belts, bags, etc. The vast majority of those things can be purchased later if you need them so if you like a chair but it doesn't have a leg strap, you can add it.
3. Chair height: I see you list chair height in your cons quite a bit and most are limited to 18 or 19". There is a good reason for that. Once the chair gets taller you need bigger wheels. Wheels are a large part of your weight so the chair weighs more and is less stable the higher it is. Unless you have a very specific need for a higher seat height, 18 or 19 is going to be plenty. Basketball wheelchairs can only max out at 21" and that is a very specific use case, daily chairs are better off not being too tall.
4. I would not get a Carbon Fiber frame yet. It isn't common enough yet to get help if you needed it. In a pinch, titanium or aluminum chairs are relatively serviceable at a competent metal shop.
5. Color Anodizing rubs off.
6. Don't get one armed drive if you don't need it. You can push any manual chair with one hand once you figure it out.
7. If you're putting the chair in a vehicle yourself, you'll likely take the wheels off so you won't really be lifting the full weight of the chair. The wheels weigh more than you probably expect.

1. Minimize moving parts: this doesn't apply to a feature you need due to your particular disability but if there is a feature that you think is a nice to have but it adds moving parts, don't get it. For example, if you don't need a folding chair, don't get a folding chair. It just adds stuff that will break over time. There was a chair several years back that had shocks in the seat. Neat idea, absolutely terrible in real life.

I think I might've heard something about that chai, idk if it's still around

2. Don't worry too much about straps, belts, bags, etc. The vast majority of those things can be purchased later if you need them so if you like a chair but it doesn't have a leg strap, you can add it.

Yeah, the only straps I'd get on the chair are the seat belt and the calf strap.

3. Chair height: I see you list chair height in your cons quite a bit and most are limited to 18 or 19". There is a good reason for that. Once the chair gets taller you need bigger wheels. Wheels are a large part of your weight so the chair weighs more and is less stable the higher it is. Unless you have a very specific need for a higher seat height, 18 or 19 is going to be plenty. Basketball wheelchairs can only max out at 21" and that is a very specific use case, daily chairs are better off not being too tall.

Oh, okay, that makes a lot of sense. I think I just learned something new bout wheel height and seat height.

4. I would not get a Carbon Fiber frame yet. It isn't common enough yet to get help if you needed it. In a pinch, titanium or aluminum chairs are relatively serviceable at a competent metal shop.

Yeah, the only dedicated Carbon Fiber chair I've seen TiLite just came out with it and I'm too afraid to look at the price.

5. Color Anodizing rubs off.

Did not know that. So it's better to not get it?

6. Don't get one armed drive if you don't need it. You can push any manual chair with one hand once you figure it out.

Yeah, but I only have complete use of 1 hand so' that's gonna take some more thinking to figure out if I really need it.

7. If you're putting the chair in a vehicle yourself, you'll likely take the wheels off so you won't really be lifting the full weight of the chair. The wheels weigh more than you probably expect.

Will taking the wheels off take too much time vs. leaving them on? Plus, I'm opting for Spinergys vs. Mags because I read that they're easier for pushin, lightest weight, and I love that you can color the spokes. (AKA Spinergys are the Cadillacs of Rear Wheels.)

I think I might've heard something about that chai, idk if it's still around

Yeah, the only straps I'd get on the chair are the seat belt and the calf strap.

Oh, okay, that makes a lot of sense. I think I just learned something new bout wheel height and seat height.

Yeah, the only dedicated Carbon Fiber chair I've seen TiLite just came out with it and I'm too afraid to look at the price.

Did not know that. So it's better to not get it?

Yeah, but I only have complete use of 1 hand so' that's gonna take some more thinking to figure out if I really need it.

Will taking the wheels off take too much time vs. leaving them on? Plus, I'm opting for Spinergys vs. Mags because I read that they're easier for pushin, lightest weight, and I love that you can color the spokes. (AKA Spinergys are the Cadillacs of Rear Wheels.)

For the anodizing it's personal choice just letting you know it can scrape off depending how rough you are with your chair.

As for limited hand use, is it only your hand that is impacted or the whole arm? Pushing a chair is mostly arm work. The hands are responsible for some finer movements but I know plenty of folks with useless hands or no hands that can push a manual with no issues.

Taking the wheels off doesn't take but a second and makes putting the chair in a car infinitely easier. If you have hand issues look into quad release axles for the wheels so you have an easier time taking them off with reduced hand use. And yes 100% a spinergy fan. They are lighter and better made than everything else on the market. Other wheels are hot garbage. Have you had any custom chairs before? Are you looking for a rigid chair or a folding chair?
Depending on the back height and type of chair, the chair will fit into vehicles differently.

We did TiLite Aero Z for my daughter from an online vendor (wheelchair), but she got her first wheelchair before she was 3 and has had many since. So, we knew a lot about what we were looking for - things we liked and things we didn't or that didn't work well. The website also had a PT who worked with us by and video call. If it's your first custom manual chair, you probably won't know which options are the best for you and which are just added expense that won't really make a big difference.

As voxparse already mentioned, things like seatbelt type and calf strap can be added at any time. Some things can't be changed after ordering - like seat width and depth. Some chairs have more adjustability built in. For example, TiLite Aero Z and TiLite TRA have a lot adjustability and are good for any user. TiLite TR, CR1 and ZR have much less adjustability and are best for people who already know all/most of the parameters they need - because many of the settings need to be ordered on those chairs and can't be changed. I know people online who ordered a less adjustable chair and found it didn't work for them - more adjustability is better, especially in a first chair.

I saw you listed light up casters on at least one chair. If you want them, they can usually be ordered afterwards. But, my daughter had them on her old Quickie wheelchair and although they were cute, we ordered soft roll casters on her Aero Z - they are easier to roll and give a softer ride.
Another thing many people don't realize is that the weight listed for the wheelchair is the frame only. Everything else you add - tires, casters, seating, footrest add weight. That's one of the places you want to make sure the choices you make are things you actually need and will use. Otherwise, they are just added weight.
If you can, it's a good idea to at least visit a showroom where you can see some of the chairs. My daughter's manual chairs had always been Quickies, but when we actually could see and compare some chairs, the TiLites were a LOT nicer and more sturdy. She has swing away padded armrests. The TiLite ones are easy to swing away, but stay solidly in place when in use. That was important to her and really bugged her on the Quickies because they were 'wobbly'.

Another thing to keep in mind if you order online, you may need to install some pieces yourself. We had to install seatbelt, seatback hardware because they came from different factorie. That was not a problem for us since we are pretty familiar with the care and feeding of wheelchairs. Also important to know where you could get it serviced if needed.

Are you in the market for a new standard wheelchair but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Modern technology'has made owning a reliable wheelchair easier than ever, and people enjoy greater mobility and freedom thanks to wheelchairs. However, there are still some things to keep in mind to ensure that the wheelchair you purchase will be the best fit for you and your individual needs. Knowing what to ask yourself and the mobility specialist'will help you narrow down your choices.' Let's look at 7 things to ask and keep in mind before moving forward:'

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1. Looking for a Standard Wheelchair? First Decide on Manual or Electric (Power)

One of the first questions you should ask when shopping for a standard wheelchair is whether or not the wheelchair in question is a traditional manual wheelchair or a power wheelchair. You should know which type is best for your needs before you begin to shop for a wheelchair. If you have very limited mobility, are in need of extra assistance, or you have a health condition that hinders your abilities and'electric wheelchair'might be the best fit. If you need a wheelchair for a temporary injury or for occasional use only, a manual wheelchair might be the way to go. Of course, some people simply have a preference which leads them to choose one style over the other.'

2. What Are the Size and Dimensions?

Size is an important factor when choosing the right wheelchair. It's crucial that you pick a chair that will fit you. It can be very uncomfortable to sit in a chair that is too small, and if the chair is too large, you might find yourself slipping out of it. Choosing the right size will depend on your height, weight, age, etc. Keep in mind that you have many options when it comes to choosing a chair. There are custom made wheelchairs for children and adults of all sizes and shapes. It's also worth noting that different chairs have weight limits. Make sure you understand the limitations of any chair you're considering.'

3. Does the Wheelchair Have Adequate Arm and Footrests?

Ask about the wheelchair's arm and footrests and try them out for yourself before making a commitment. The foot and armrests should be sturdy and secure when you put your weight on them to get in and out of your wheelchair.' There are many foot and armrest designs to consider. Some are longer than others and some swing out of the way to make it easier for you to move in and out of the chair.'

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4.'Can I Store and Transport the Wheelchair with Ease?

One thing that many customers neglect to consider when purchasing a standard wheelchair is the ease of storage and transportation. It comes naturally to think about your mobility at home but being able to move your wheelchair from place-to-place matters as well.' You want to look for a wheelchair that will'fit in your vehicle'without difficulty and be lightweight enough to fold and unfold without trouble.' Make sure your wheelchair isn't too bulky or heavy to take in and out of your vehicle or set aside when not in use.'

5. Are the Wheels Durable?

Your wheelchair's wheels are  an important part to consider. They need to be durable and match your individual needs most. If you use your wheelchair outdoors often, you'll want to look for wheels with a more durable tire that can operate on various surfaces.' Look for tires that are low maintenance and won't require expensive repairs. For example, tires that are foam filled are less likely to go flat.' Consider the importance of grip and tread when looking at which wheels and chair are best. If you live or work in areas with slick surfaces (long winters with lots of ice, or slippery floors at your place of work), you'll need wheels that can provide traction.'

6. How Is the Chair's Back Support?

As an individual, the amount of support you'll need in your wheelchair will vary. Back support will be necessary depending on your size, your medical conditions, and your mobility.' If you require a lot of support, "tilt in space" wheelchairs will allow you to adjust the chair to fit a variety of positions. Discuss your back support needs with a professional wheelchair provider.'

7. Consider Your Own Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the wheelchair that you choose should be the one that you like the best. Aside from making sure it fits your lifestyle and your needs, choose a wheelchair that makes the best impression on you and that you're most comfortable with.' If you're going to be spending a lot of time in your wheelchair, you want to make sure it's the right one for you in every regard.'

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Other Questions to Ask When Buying a Wheelchair

• How wide is a wheelchair?
• How wide is a standard wheelchair?
• How to measure for a wheelchair?
• How wide is a standard wheelchair seat?
• How to fit a wheelchair to a person?
• How do I get a wheelchair?
• How to choose a wheelchair cushion?
• What is the best wheelchair?
• How to choose a wheelchair?
• Which wheelchair is right for me?
• Will you be using the chair inside or outside?
• What kind of terrain will you be traveling on?
• How will you transport the wheelchair?
• Are you in the wheelchair all day, part of the day?
• Will there be someone to help you with the wheelchair?

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