Guide
Guide
Since last summer, Nadine has been travelling with the Tourer.
Not for a short trip, but over many days, across a wide range of situations, surfaces and modes of transport.
The Tourer accompanied her through cities and rural areas, over asphalt, grass and cobblestones, and through everyday situations that cannot be simulated. It became part of travel planning, spontaneous decisions and long days on the move.
Mobility does not end with good weather. For Nadine, who relies on a mobility aid due to a muscular disease, one thing matters above all: reliability – regardless of season, surface or situation. That is precisely why her test of the Tourer is so valuable. It did not take place under laboratory conditions, but in everyday life: while travelling, using public transport, in summer and in winter.
A key part of Nadine’s test was using the Tourer in public transport – from regional services to long-distance travel. This quickly highlighted how precisely dimensions are calculated in public transport environments.
On regional trains, the Tourer offered sufficient space to move safely within the aisle width. It also became clear that a maximum overall length of 1.20 m is crucial to allow any manoeuvring at all. Even a few additional centimetres would significantly restrict usability.
In underground trains, the so-called “barrier-free platform edge” proved to be the absolute limit. At low speed, the height difference could not be overcome – Nadine had to enter with momentum to manage the step. On buses, reversing onto the ramp was particularly challenging: the ramp is precisely calculated and space is extremely limited. For people with cognitive impairments, this situation can quickly become overwhelming.
In long-distance travel, especially on ICE trains, the Tourer fit millimetre-accurately – including the front basket – into the lift. Again, the rule applies: no longer than 1.20 m. At the wheelchair space, precise manoeuvring was required; one of the tables had to be folded up so that Nadine could reverse into the designated parking area. The situation was made more difficult by the carpeted floor and narrow aisle layout, with passengers passing very close by with their luggage.
A consistently positive aspect was the helpfulness of railway and regional transport staff. Employees actively supported boarding and exiting, particularly where structural differences in certain ICE models required unconventional manoeuvres to leave the train.
The Tourer is fundamentally suitable for public transport, but it requires experience, attention and vehicle dimensions that are precisely aligned with public transport requirements. Any change in length, ground clearance or manoeuvrability can be decisive.
In summer conditions, Nadine achieved up to 25 kilometres on flat terrain without any low-battery warning – a range that provides real planning security in everyday life.
Particularly impressive: the battery also demonstrated its strength in winter.
At temperatures of minus seven degrees Celsius and below, Nadine covered 12.5 kilometres,
including gradients of up to 14%, while consuming only one battery bar.
Her conclusion on battery performance is clear: stable, reliable and surprisingly strong – even in cold conditions.
The winter test revealed not only positive impressions but also clear limitations – and these are exactly what make the report credible.
Compared to Nadine’s powered wheelchair, the 6 km/h version of the Tourer reached its limits on snow and icy surfaces. In deep or compacted snow, the drive power was not always sufficient, and she occasionally needed assistance pushing the vehicle.
The suspension was also noticeable: on frozen ground, Nadine experienced significantly more vibration than usual. In addition, she had to hold the handlebars firmly to prevent sudden steering movements when crossing icy patches.
During her summer holiday, Nadine used the Tourer for many hours at a time – sometimes over 12 hours in one day. Even after long days, the seat remained comfortable, well padded and pleasantly breathable. The armrest-to-handlebar configuration stood out in particular: it allows the arm to rest comfortably while operating the throttle – a decisive advantage given limited shoulder strength.
On asphalt, the Tourer glides smoothly and quietly. Grass, sand and cobblestones are also manageable at adjusted speeds. However, sudden edges, tree roots or frozen uneven surfaces require increased attention, as the handlebars may react abruptly.
With proper preparation, the Tourer can also be used well in winter.
Equipped with a winter footmuff, two large blankets, a rain cape, control-unit protection and thick Gore-Tex ski mittens, everything fitted together seamlessly – seat position and handlebars remained easily accessible and comfortable.
For city trips, daily errands and well-cleared paths, the Tourer proved to be a reliable companion even in winter.
Overall, the Tourer performed very well at temperatures down to minus ten degrees Celsius, particularly in terms of battery performance, reliability and everyday usability.
For urban use, travel, public transport and well-maintained paths, it is a strong solution – a true all-rounder for everyday mobility needs. Its limitations only become apparent when demands go beyond typical daily use:
Anyone who regularly travels in winter outdoor conditions, on snow or very uneven terrain, should consider a more powerful model with larger wheels and improved suspension.
Today, a rollator is far more than just a walking aid. It represents mobility in everyday life, safety, and the ability to remain active and independent.
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