Introducing the New SD Motion Drive

SD are back with a new product and I am really excited to be sharing more information with you all…

I was incredibly lucky to get my hands on the brand new Steering Developments Motion Drive wheels as part of their product testing.

Having partnered with Steering Developments and Access Your Life with the old SD Motion Wheels- I was expecting big things and these wheels did not disappoint!

They are now introducing a new faster, sleeker product which doesn’t compromise on functionality.

Disclaimer: 

Steering Developments make reliable, great quality products. I tried these wheels during the testing process and as with all pre-production products there were some minor teething problems, which Steering Developments assured me would be resolved before the launch date. 

With my previous experience with Steering Developments I have full faith these will be resolved before the release date.

Please note- I have only trialled the New SD Motion Drive for one day. As a product tester, I suggest that to fully review a mobility aid, I need to trial a product for an extended period of time in order to explore all areas of a product's capabilities.

This being said, my views align strongly with SD as a company and I believe their products are innovative, dependable and they are strong competitors in the power attachment industry.

(All views are my own)

With all the boring bits out the way let’s get straight into it!

It’s no secret I love my SD wheels. I’ve had my SD MotionDrive for two years now and still find myself recommending them to everyone I meet. 

When I heard the news of the brand new wheels, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on them!

If you’re anything like me you’ll want to know the full spec and the intricate details of the set- up. Towards the bottom of this post you’ll find a full comparison table of both the SD MotionDrive have and the new SD wheels.

For those of you who prefer to know the facts and could do without all the waffle …

To summarise..

The new SD MotionDrive wheels offer...

• Greater power

• More speed

• An Increased max load 

• A Lighter battery

• A Sleeker modern design

Steering Developments are currently taking demos with plans to launch VERY soon!

Introducing the New SD Motion Drive Wheels…

Overall thoughts:

Exciting! Upon sitting in the chair, this set up felt noticeably faster. When out with my dog I didn’t feel like she was waiting for me to catch up with her and I could get across grass and up hills with ease. If you’re considering power assist wheels and need a reliable attachment- I’d definitely consider the newer set.

Why you should trust my review:

How many people do you know who spend their evenings reading wheelchair specifications? I break products for a living. Not on purpose and this is not a great way to market myself I know… but seriously I’ve had the worst luck over the years when it comes to broken wheelchairs. When I came across SD’s indestructible products I felt as if I’d hit gold.

I’ve read the spec of most wheelchairs on the market and tried as many as I can get my hands on. If you’re reading this and have a powered attachment you want to put to the test I’m your girl.

Price:

Due to the customisation features of the product- Steering Developments advice contacting them directly for a brochure.

Available from:

Buy here

Length of Time owned:

Trialled for 1 day

Please note- I have only trialled the New SD Motion Drive for one day. As a product tester, I suggest that to fully review a mobility aid, I need to trial a product for an extended period of time in order to explore all areas of a product's capabilities.

Why I’m using it:

Due to the nature of my condition, I’m unable to self propel, having a joystick allows me to use my manual chair as a power chair but still navigate small spaces.

Similarly I’m able to get underneath tables and have specialised seating to support my joints.

I find the SD attendant control to be a game changer for my PA’s to support me when I experience health emergencies.

What I like and don’t like:

The new design is sleek and modern. I currently have black hubs on my SD and I love them.

The centre of gravity did feel a little off on the chair although the team assured me this can be changed and can be due to multiple factors including how the chair is configured, the settings, speed and the axle position. (Note this was a demo chair -pre launch)

There were times I felt a little bit tippy, however the chair has excellent automatic anti- tips which also swing away.

Due to the additional power of the chair I was able to get up hills with ease- Lena was impressed!

Comfort:

The best bit about this power attachment is how customisable it can be due to the fact it is fitted onto your manual chair, therefore it is an excellent option for those who struggle with chronic pain! 

Most components are adaptable including the ergonomic style joystick and the option to be mounted on the left or right.

I was particularly impressed with the attendant control - it’s a clear improvement from the original SD Motion Drive, providing a smoother stopping motion.

I use my current SD with my own seating system (e.g cushion backrest). To allow for the most comfortable ride, I would personally suggest using this set up on a rigid frame and slightly larger castor wheels. Though the difference may be marginal for some, for those with joint instability, I believe it would make a large difference and allow for hours of fun.

Appearance:

The sleek black joystick features an updated and easy to read display, also featured on the pull lever operated attendant controller.

 A matching black compact Li-Ion battery and charger contribute to its sleek appearance. The all-black upholstery adds style and a premium look while maintaining user comfort. The optional battery bag provides a modern look. 

Personally I would opt for the mounted battery, which is still an option with the new SD wheels. (This is because I can’t go anywhere without a huge backpack full of stuff I don't need!)

Comparison to others on the market:

Being a power assist fanatic, I think this set up needs to be on your radar.. With flight safe documents, adaptability and excellent customer service, this product does not disappoint.

Having alternative wheel options allows for great customisation.The solid tyres are filled with slim slime to be puncture proof which is a great option for city living.

If you work a 9-5 but love being outdoors, the option of the all-terrain off road tyres could be the perfect solution. 

I'm aware there are new products on the market that offer similar features that I am yet to try, however having been a customer of SD for two years now I can confidently say their excellent customer service and after-care would keep me as a customer.

What problems does it solve?

This product is excellent for manoeuvring around small spaces due to the ability to quickly switch between manual and power modes and it’s small turning circle. Though products are incredibly reliable- feel at ease knowing SD hold stock in the UK are therefore able to fix products much quicker than market competitors.

Who is this product best for:

Those who cannot self propel long distances but needs don’t suit a full powered wheelchair. You have a small space to store your chair or your disability/condition can fluctuate.

Is it an updated or upgraded model?

Yes- New SD Motion Drive

Battery life or spec?

See table below

Use/ Installation: 

Fitted onto your manual chair at SD’s workshop in Hemel then delivered to your home address in the UK.

Simply press the ‘on’ button on the joystick and off you go. Switch easily between manual and powered modes with yellow levers positioned next to the wheels.

Speak directly to Steering Developments if you may require specific reconfigurations or adaptations of the joystick.

Links to videos:

Worth buying?

Yes

Faff factor?

The chair is best kept in one piece, however it does split into multiple components for ease of stowage. This includes removal of both wheels, battery, and joystick. 

Revisited thoughts/ updated review: Pending upon longer trial

Comparison: OLD VS NEW

SPECIFICATION	Original SD	New SD 16 inch	NEW SD 24 inch
(including drive unit, frame, battery,  and user)	145kg	180kg	180kg
Maximum Slope Angle	6 degrees	10 degrees	10 degrees
Maximum Speed	6km/ hr	6km/ hr	8.5 km/ hr
Travel Range​ (when weight is 100kg and travelling  at 6km/hr)	27km min 16 km (NMh) (When weight is 75kg- 6km )	20km min (When weight is 100kg- 6km/h)	25km min (When weight is 100kg- 6km/h)
Unit Weight	15.3kg	14.3kg	15.8kg
Battery Weight	3.4kg 2.9kg	2.4kg	2.4kg
Battery Type	Lithium Ion/ Nickel MH	Lithium	Lithium
Capacity	25.2V 10.08Ah (5h) 254Wh Ni- NMH 24V 6.7Ah 160.8Wh	36V 6.75Ah (5h) 243Wh	36V 6.75Ah (5h) 243Wh
Battery Position	Right Drive Unit	Right Drive Unit/ Back Pack	Right Drive Unit/ Back Pack
Battery Size	143 x 78 x 223.6	163.5 x 86 x 259.5	163.5 x 86 x 259.5

For more information including information on the brake system, Drive control and tyre pressure see Steering Developments manual or contact sdmotion@steeringdevelopments.co.uk