Power Base
The Quickie Q700 M Powerchair is the top mid-wheel drive performer outdoors in the Quickie Q-series range, with improved performance over the Q500 M. However, it is wider than the Q500 M, although mid-wheel drive keeps it manoeuvrable and allows it to turn on the spot. It is therefore aimed at those who particularly need high-level performance outdoors, but wish to retain a good measure of manoeuvrability for indoor use.
A modernised version of the renowned Jive M base, the Q700 M features unique Spidertrac 2.0 suspension that offers improved durability over its predecessor, and means that the Q700 M has none of the limitations outdoors that more basic mid-wheel drive powerchairs can have. Spidertrac 2.0 provides a stiffer, more responsive ride, as preferred by experienced powerchair users, with independent movement keeping all six wheels in contact with the ground. The Q700 M can smoothly climb up and down kerbs of up to 10 cm, and ascend gradients of up to 10°, whilst maintaining stability through the patented Quickie anti-pitch system.
Powerful 4-pole motors come as standard, and are available in speeds of up to 8 mph - though we would recommend 6.5 mph for the best torque. 60 Ah Gel batteries are standard, though 80 Ah Gel batteries are a common upgrade for a range of up to 25 miles. The optional Gyro-Tracking System automatically detects and corrects small deviations from your direction, giving you an easier drive - while this is more commonly used on rear or front wheel drive powerchairs that tend to go off-track on cambers, it remains useful on mid-wheel drive particularly if using special controls, or just wanting a more relaxing drive.
Seating
The highly adjustable Sedeo Pro seating system features on the Q700 M, which can be set-up precisely to your needs, with a wide range of support and positioning options giving you a perfect fit for outstanding comfort and support. The seating system is modular, allowing further changes to be made should your requirements change, ensuring that it will remain suitable for years to come. A large weight capacity of 25 stone, and adjustable seat widths (15 - 22 inches) and depths (16 - 22 inches) allow the Sedeo Pro seat to cater to a wide range of shapes and sizes.
The full Sedeo range of cushions and backrest options are available, and our preferred option is the Deep Contour back with flexible sides that “hug” you in place, forming to your shape. For those with more clinical requirements, the full range of JAY cushions and backrests and Whitmyer headrests can be provided, as well as positioning options such as lateral supports; third-party components can also be fitted if preferred.
As you would expect from a powerchair of this level, a full range of powered positioning options can be provided, whether your requirements be clinical, comfort or convenience. This includes a powered seat riser to allow you to drive at eye-level in social situations, and powered tilt of up to 50° for pressure relief and transfers. Lie-flat powered recline is also available, including an anti-shear option that helps to maintain your position and reduce friction when reclining. Recline is often paired with powered elevating and articulating leg rests - available as either a centre-mount footplate or individual swing-away legrests - to achieve a relaxed lying-down position ideal for sleeping. If spending longer periods of time in your Q700, we would strongly recommend considering the addition of powered positioning options, and can demonstrate these for you during your assessment.
Fully crash-tested, the Q700 M with Sedeo Pro seating is suitable for occupied transport in a suitably adapted vehicle. It also comes pre-prepared for a DAHL docking station, should you wish to drive your WAV from your powerchair.
Controls
Simple and reliable VR2 90 Amp controls come as standard on the Q700 M, which can be used to control up to two powered seating options. However, most people getting the Q700 M will opt for the much more powerful R-Net 120 Amp control system (a no-cost upgrade), which allows you to control more than two powered positioning modules, and which are much more expandable. More advanced R-Net joysticks are available, including high-definition LCD screens, with Infrared and Bluetooth connectivity to allow you to seamlessly connect to and control your environment - such as home entertainment systems, computers and smartphones.
The Link-It mounting system allows an endless combination of special controls such as additional switches, head and chin controls to be attached, and the clean design doesn’t compromise the appearance of your powerchair.
Appearance
The Q700 M is an impressive-looking powerchair - there's no two ways about it, and this is a powerchair you'll want to be seen out and about in. Style has been at the forefront of the design throughout, whether that be the minimalistic approach with hidden wiring and components, to the matt-black chassis, or even the Sedeo Pro seat's sharply-tailored upholstery. This can be complemented by your choice of seven colour inlays (green, black, blue, orange, red, silver and white), allowing you to customise your Q700 M - and which can even be easily replaced should you wish to change your style.
Our Verdict
The Q700 M fits into a bit of a niche nowadays - Quickie's Q500 M has recently been upgraded with improved suspension and larger drive wheels, meaning that the difference in performance is minimal. While the SpiderTrac suspension of the Q700 M is much more durable than the old Jive M's suspension, it doesn't have the same comfort or performance the Jive once had. For a truly off-road capable mid-wheel drive powerchair that is versatile enough for conventional everyday use, we would suggest the Magic 360, which is a far more capable off-roader than the Q700 M.
