Adjustability
For new wheelchair users, it can take a while to develop your driving skills and work out the best set-up for your wheelchair. The Argon2's large range of adjustments allows us to set it up for a precise match to your current preferences, and then modify things down the line as you require more active qualities. The centre of gravity is infinitely adjustable with a sliding clamp (rather than drilled holes) allowing your Argon to be fine-tuned to your ideal balance between active or stable performance. The optional flip-up anti-tip allows you to switch between additional stability for those occasions when you need it, and can be flipped out the way for more active use, and to ensure it doesn't impede transfers.
Seating
The rear seat height can be changed in 1 cm increments to alter the angle or "bucket" of the seat, and the backrest is both angle adjustable and features tension-adjustable backrest straps, so you can find the ideal seating position. If your seating requirements are more clinical, then the JAY range of backrests, including the lightweight and supportive J3 back can be fitted to provide the postural support you require. The Argon2 has a weight capacity of up to 140 kg (22 stone) with the HD version, which is much higher than equivalent models, allowing heavier users to have access to a lightweight and active chair.
Frame
The Argon 2's frame is made of lightweight aluminium, offering strength and reliability as well as outstanding rigidity for a much more energy efficient drive than folding wheelchairs. A significant step up from the Quickie Life R, it features an open rather than box frame to minimise weight and ease transfers across your body. You can configure your Argon to suit a range of driving styles, and it can be set up to an active profile with a frame angle of 88° (EU 92°) and compact inset frame to aid manoeuvring. High-tech features include a hydroformed front castor housing to save weight and improve rigidity. Carbon fibre technology from the aeronautic industry is utilised, with ultra-light Carbotecture castor forks available, which are 50% lighter than aluminium and highly impact resistant.
Style
Quickie wheelchairs are renowned for their style, and the Argon2 is no exception. 32 frame colours are available (from "dark chocolate metallic" to "matt lime"), and can be contrasted with a choice of accent colours for components such as the castor forks, wheels, and handrims. If this isn't enough, custom graphics are also available through the Sunrise Medical Built 4 Me team, which we can arrange for you.
Our Verdict
A modern, active and reliable wheelchair, the Quickie Argon2 is the wheelchair of choice for those relatively new to active user wheelchairs but who want something a grade above the more basic and heavier models the NHS supplies. The range of adjustments allow it to be altered as you gain experience with self-propelling, so it matches your driving needs.
We would suggest trying the Argon2 alongside Ki Mobiliy's Rogue ALX, which is the equivalents in their range. Kuschall's K-Series 2.0, while slightly more expensive, is worth considering too, to get a feel for each of the leading manufacturers.
For more experienced wheelchair users, we would recommend considering models like the Nitrum, which while more expensive, offers further weight savings and the option for even more sporty and active profiles. Having said that, the Argon2 remains a popular choice for experienced users, being a mid-range affordable yet lightweight and rigid wheelchair.
