Seating and Controls
The Quantum Aspen Powerchair bridges the gap between "boxed" and fully prescriptive products in Quantum's range, the TB Flex seating system offering many more seating and control options than the Fusion's Ion seat but not as many as the fully configurable Synergy and Tru-Comfort seating systems found on other Quantum chairs. Seat widths of 15 - 22" and depths of 15 - 20" are available, and the firm seat base allows for more specialist cushions to be attached if desired. The standard tension adjustable back can be upgraded to a high-back padded one if needed, while postural supports such as laterals and headrests can be added. A choice of armrests and legrests are also available.
Powered positioning options exist for the Aspen, including powered tilt and recline, while manual tilt comes as standard and attendant controlled manual recline is also available. The Aspen comes with a VR2 joystick, but can be upgraded to advanced R-Net controls or Quantum's Q-Logic controls if desired.
Drive Base
The Aspen features independent rear suspension for a smoother ride, as well as chunky front castor wheels. Its compact size makes it usable indoors, although as a rear-wheel drive chair it will never match the manoeuvrability of a mid-wheel drive model. It is capable outdoors, and features a 4 mph top speed and a range of up to 15.7 miles from its 55 Ah batteries.
Our Verdict
We have found that for entry-level prescriptive powerchairs, the mid-wheel drive Q4 with TB Flex seat is more popular due to its improved manoeuvrability. However, for those that are comfortable with rear-wheel drive and want a good level of seating for all-day use without too much expense, the Aspen is a solid choice.
The Quickie Q100 R and Q200 R are similarly priced rear-wheel drive powerchairs that are more compact as well as having the more configurable Sedeo Lite seating available on them, so we would suggest considering them alongside the Aspen.
