Power Base
The standout feature on the Q100 R is its ultra-compact size, with a width of just 21 inches and length of 39.5 inches, giving it a great turning radius and allowing it to fit into tight spaces that other powerchairs couldn't. The Q200 R is slightly larger at 22.5 inches wide and 42 inches long and thus has a marginally larger turning circle - however, it remains very compact compared to traditional rear-wheel drive powerchairs that tend to lack manoeuvrability.
The advantage of this improved size is that the Q200 R has much greater stability as well as traction thanks to its chunkier 14 inch drive wheels and 9 inch castors. This gives the Q200 extra muscle when riding over rough and uneven terrain, and it is also available with a top speed of 6 mph for those that prefer to travel faster. The 55 Ah batteries are much larger than you would usually find on a chair of this size, and provide a hefty range of up to 19 miles; the Q200 also easily fits into buses and trains to further extend the distance you can travel. The low-impact kerb climber is a popular addition, allowing you to climb kerbs of up to 4 inches (10 cm), even at low speeds or from a standing start - you won't need a run-up any more! The kerb climber's small wheel discreetly sits out of the way of your feet, rather than dominating the front of your wheelchair as traditional ones do.
Transport
The Q200 R is also ideal for transport in a vehicle, weighing a mere 3 kg more than the Q100 for a total of 98 kg - the fold down backrest and removable armrests and legrests help to make it the ideal companion for hoisting, without the need for an expensive heavy duty hoist. The Q200 is also fully crash-tested, allowing it to be used for occupied transport when tied down in a suitably adapted vehicle.
Standard Seating
Featuring the same seating system as the Q100 as standard, albeit with an improved weight capacity of 21.4 stone (136 kg), the Q200 offers a surprisingly array of adjustments to allow a perfect fit, and to further adapt it should your needs change over time. These adjustments include seat width, depth and height, backrest and seat angles, armrest height and side guard position, and the legrest width. The standard backrest is a 5-strap tension adjustable one, allowing it to be set to offer the comfort and postural support you require, and can be upgraded to the more advanced JAY Shape backrest should more precise support be required. Other accessories include a Sedeo headrest, lateral supports and the full Sunrise Medical Uni range of legrests - including elevating ones and amputee supports.
Sedeo Lite seating
The Q200 R can also be upgraded with the Sedeo Lite seating system, which is similar to the Sedeo Pro found on higher end models such as the Q500 R. This provides a much higher level of comfort and support, as well as a wider range of sizes for a perfect fit, plus further positioning accessories. Powered seating functions including tilt and recline can be added, meaning the Q200 R is a viable choice for people spending most of the day in their powerchair, which need the highest level of comfort.
Style
The Q-series has already won renown for its sleek, minimalistic look, and the Q200 R is no exception. It boasts a distinguished matt black frame, and can be personalised with one of three striking colour options - red, green or blue, or kept all-black. If you are getting the Q200 R in 6 mph, it comes with stylish LED lights that don't compromise the attractive appearance of your powerchair.
Our Verdict
Both the Q100 R and Q200 R have proven to be incredibly popular since they were launched. For a chair of its price range, the Q200 R offers a lot - an excellent drive outside, as well as remaining compact for indoor manoeuvrability, adjustable and comfortable seating, modern styling, and coming from a premium manufacturer. The main choice will be between the Q200 and the Q100, with preference really down to the balance of indoor vs outdoor driving you do, and whether powered seating functions are required.
Alternatively, if you require powered seating functions that aren't available on the Q200 R, then we would recommend looking at the Q300 R or ultra-compact Q300 R Mini.
