Rear-Wheel Drive Power Chairs

Traditionally, this drive-wheel configuration is best known for offering the highest top speed and performing well at high speeds. RWD power bases track very straight, which can be beneficial when driving at high speeds and with non-proportional input devices. In addition, a RWD handles aggressive terrain well and is considered to have good stability.

The primary disadvantages to a RWD power wheelchair include the overall size of the wheelchair’s footprint and the turning radius. For example, when maneuvering around a corner the entire wheelchair must clear the corner before turning, thus requiring more space than the other configuration of bases.