Turbocharged Mobility: Mirza and Jelena Take on the SPEED3X RS in a Wheelchair Evolution!

Written by:

Jelena Backović and Mirza Podžić

We were eager to test out the SPEED3X RS attachment as soon as we saw it. This electronic accessory, developed by our Slovenian neighbors and the business RTS Medical d.o.o., has the power to completely change the way that people with disability live their everyday lives. We took the plunge into trying this fantastic wheelchair attachment with a tinge of skepticism. We can now claim with confidence: “Welcome to a world where constraints are transformed into possibilities.” this comes after a number of experiences. Allow us to take you on an amazing adventure as we share our observations and evaluations of the SPEED3X RS. Please take notice that only active wheelchairs were used for our assessment. The SPEED3X RS‘s performance on common geriatric wheelchairs, which are intended for brief inside usage, is still an unanswered question.

Jelena’s review of SPEED3X RS 

As a wheelchair user, I must admit that at first, I was unsure about how easy and practical this marvelous device, the SPEED3X RS, invented by our Slovenian neighbors, would be to use in daily life. But, let me explain why this wheelchair accessory is one of the best inventions I’ve tried.

First up, the installation! I think we can all agree that the last thing you want after a long day is to be faced with complex mechanics. But I have good news: the installation of the SPEED3X RS is relatively straightforward once you get the hang of it, and with a little creativity, you can find solutions that work for your abilities. The installation itself can be a bit challenging if you don’t have strength and control in your arms, but once you get the gist of it, it’s smooth sailing. I’m almost there, but I still have a ways to go. 😉 There are a few basic steps needed for the installation: attaching the clamps to the front of the wheelchair, unscrewing the main red bolt, lifting the lever and steering wheel simultaneously so that the front small wheels of the chair are about 2–2.5 cm above the ground, then re-screwing the main bolt and removing the auxiliary wheels. Okay, this is a little challenging until it becomes routine and you figure out your way of handling these steps, but with a little practice, it’s as easy as 1-2-3.

Now, when we talk about riding, this baby rolls like a dream! Of course, as with any other vehicle, you have to adjust your speed according to the terrain. But, even on uneven surfaces, the SPEED3X RS gives you a smooth and secure ride. Even lower curbs are not a challenge for this little beast. I haven’t been able to climb higher 5-plus curbs with my wheelchair—or rather, my rear end—😉, but maybe with a bit more training, I will be able.

And the battery? Okay, let’s talk about the battery. A single charge can last you between 40 and 50 kilometers, which is more than enough for most of my daily adventures. Plus, the charger is compact and easily portable, so you can always bring it along just in case.

Comfort is something that’s always at the top of my list when I’m choosing any product. And, I have to say, the SPEED3X RS is truly comfortable and agile. It takes a bit of time to get used to it, but once you gain experience, it provides an amazing feeling of freedom and security.

When it comes to steering, it glides into curves smoothly and climbs hills easily. The handles are coated with non-slip rubber, providing a secure feeling when holding the steering wheel. It has five speeds and can reach up to 25 km/h. Though I feel most comfortable and safe at a maximum speed of 16 km/h, especially on obstacle-free bicycle paths.

You may reach the representative firm in BIH, KS Reha doo, whenever you need servicing or maintenance. You may also contact several businesses that sell and maintain e-bikes in case you want urgent tire and battery maintenance. Naturally, just like with auto repair and maintenance, it is best to get in touch with the authorized agent as they are familiar with all of this attachment’s tricks.

Considering everything that the SPEED3X RS offers, I think the value for money is outstanding. Yes, the price is high for our market and our capabilities, especially since health insurance doesn’t allocate enough for even regular wheelchairs, let alone for add-ons that improve the quality of life. You’ll need maximum help from friends and family, a loan, or to try to negotiate a credit payment with a contractual obligation. But the level of independence this device offers is priceless. I would also like to note that, despite its initial high price, the SPEED3X RS is, after comparing prices on the market in BiH, slightly cheaper than similar products on our market.

How does it affect daily mobility? This little gadget has given me a freedom that I was missing. I can cover great distances and do most of my chores without having to use public transportation, which in Bosnia and Herzegovina is often a problem for us wheelchair users.

And what about the design? It will appeal to fashion lovers too; the design is elegant and discreet, with the front part reminiscent of a classic e-bike.

Lastly, transporting the SPEED3X RS is simple. Just fold it up, lift the clamps up, and it can fit on the back seat of a car.

To conclude, the SPEED3X RS is a revolutionary product for me that has changed my life for the better. It offers incredible freedom and independence, and the price, while high, is justified for the quality and functionality you get. I highly recommend this product to anyone who wants to enhance their mobility and independence. If you want more information and an accurate price considering inflation and the crisis, contact the representative in BiH, KS REHA, directly.

Ratings are based on the above review:

• Ease of use: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
• Powerful motor: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
• Long-lasting battery: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Comfortable handling: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Affordable price: ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
• Durability: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
• Service possibilities: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Compatibility with different types of active wheelchairs: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Aesthetic design: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Mirza’s review of SPEED3X RS 

The SPEED3X RS, an innovative electric attachment for wheelchairs, has become an indispensable part of my daily life. This practical innovation hails from Slovenia and has made significant improvements to how I get around.

Installation is a breeze: two clamps attach to the wheelchair frame, raise and secure the handlebars, and it’s ready to ride. When connected to a wheelchair, it’s operated just like an electric bike.

The SPEED3X RS handles various terrains with ease. Uneven ground is no issue; even smaller potholes don’t pose a problem. It goes up and down curbs without a hitch. Hill riding, although causing a bit more battery drain, also goes smoothly.

The battery lasts 50 km. Of course, your driving style affects consumption – if you’re driving a bit faster and more uphill, the battery life decreases. For me, with faster driving, the battery lasts 45 km, which is pretty good. Charging the battery takes 4 to 5 hours.

Thanks to multiple settings on the attachment, the ride is comfortable. The user can decide which side they want the throttle and brake; the handles are comfy and don’t slip due to sweaty palms. The brake is also light and there are no abrupt stops.

The 500W motor is ideal for a person in a wheelchair. It’s powerful enough to handle up to 120 kg. The top speed is 25 km/h, which is more than enough. A motor of this performance offers a pleasure ride.

The build quality is quite good; the user can choose where they want the throttle and brake, i.e., on the left or right side. The display is located in the middle of the handlebars. As for the display, it provides all the information except when switching to reverse, which in my opinion is one of the drawbacks of this attachment.

As for access to the battery and motor, it’s easy for repairs. The battery is removable with a key that comes with the attachment. The motor is in the wheel rim, so I believe access there is also easy.

The attachment is built so that breakage is very unlikely. Personally, in a year of riding, I’ve had one issue – the plate where the screw for securing the handlebar goes wore out because it’s made of aluminum. I replaced the plate with a steel one, and the repair took only 5 minutes.

When it comes to price, we have to admit that the SPEED3X RS is significantly pricier compared to other additional equipment used by people with disabilities. Even though its price is a bit lower than similar products on the market, it still represents a substantial financial expenditure for many. In an ideal world, social security should co-finance this product, as it provides users with significantly more independence in everyday life.

Ratings are based on the review above:

• Ease of use: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Powerful motor: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
• Long-lasting battery: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Comfortable handling: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Affordable price: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
• Durability: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
• Servicing options: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Compatibility with different types of active wheelchairs: ★★★★★ (5/5)
• Aesthetic design: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Conclusion

Our wish is to provide you with the best and most authentic review of the SPEED3X RS, we opted for an approach that includes both male and female perspectives. This dual approach allows us to give a balanced and comprehensive view of this product. We understand that there are always different perspectives when it comes to evaluating technology, and both female and male experiences, with their unique insights, are equally valuable and relevant.

Through these two viewpoints, we’ve been able to gain a deeper understanding of how the SPEED3X RS works in various contexts, with each perspective revealing its specific advantages and drawbacks. Moreover, this approach has enabled us to make the review as useful as possible for a wide range of potential users.

Ultimately, our goal isn’t just to review a product, but also to contribute to the understanding and awareness of technologies that can dramatically improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. We hope that through these reviews, we’ve provided useful information and insights that will assist you in deciding if the SPEED3X RS is the right option for you. And to reiterate: “For more information and accurate pricing considering inflation and the crisis, please contact the representation in Bosnia and Herzegovina of the company KS REHA directly and for potential users from the EU, please contact RTS Medical d.o.o.

NOTE: This review of the SPEED3X RS is not sponsored and is completely unbiased and authentic. We purchased the product with our own money, without any compensation from the manufacturer or the representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.