Golden Buzzaround EX 3-wheel: full-size comfort that comes apart

Now on our shelf: the Golden Buzzaround EX 3-wheel. Golden's pitch for the EX is simple: a full-size ride that still comes apart as easily as a lightweight scooter (Golden Technologies: Buzzaround EX 3-Wheel).

Who it suits

The EX 3-wheel is a good middle ground for a rider up to 350 lbs who wants a roomy, comfortable scooter for everyday use but still needs to load it into a car now and then. It has a high-back seat, comfort spring suspension and 9-inch solid tires, so it feels more substantial than a small travel scooter.

The three-wheel layout keeps it nimble. Its turning radius is 40.5 inches, and it is 45 inches long and 22 inches wide. Ground clearance is 4 inches, which helps with curb cuts and thresholds.

Key specs

Figures from Golden Technologies's product page:

• Weight capacity: 350 lbs
• Maximum speed: 5 mph
• Operating range: 18 miles
• Ground clearance: 4"
• Turning radius: 40.5"
• Length: 45"
• Width: 22"
• Weight of unit (assembled): 154 lbs
• Heaviest piece: 46 lbs
• Rear half weight: 36 lbs
• Seat with arms weight: 23 lbs
• Battery pack weight: 24 lbs per pack
• Seat width x depth: 18" x 16"

Range and taking it apart

Two U1 batteries power it, and Golden publishes an operating range of 18 miles on a charge, with a top speed of 5 mph. Range in the real world depends on your weight, hills and the weather, so plan your outings with a margin below that figure.

Assembled, the EX weighs 154 lbs. In pieces, nothing weighs more than 46 lbs; the rear half comes to 36 lbs, the seat to 23 lbs and each battery pack to 24 lbs. Those are manageable weights for many helpers, but not featherweight, so think about who will load it.

Small comforts

The high-back seat is 18 by 16 inches. An LED headlight and taillight help in low light, and Golden includes a cell phone holder, handy if you use your phone for directions or want it within reach.

How it compares

The EX 3-wheel and the four-wheel EX share their capacity, range, seat and battery packs. The differences are at the front: the three-wheeler turns in 40.5 inches against 54, and its heaviest piece is 46 lbs against 53. That makes the three-wheel version the easier one indoors and the lighter one to load. If you ride mostly outdoors and value a wheel at each corner, the four-wheel EX is the one to compare. For a little more capacity, the Buzzaround LX 3-wheel is rated for 375 lbs.

Before you order

• Lifting: check that the 46 lb heaviest piece suits whoever will load it.
• Range: compare your longest usual outing with the 18-mile figure and leave a margin.
• Turning: measure the tightest turn at home against the 40.5-inch radius.
• Trunk: compare the 45-inch length with your cargo area.

Still deciding? Try the free fit assessment, and see our shipping by state page for how delivery works where you live.

Warranty

Golden lists these terms in its scooter limited warranty (Golden scooter warranty):

• Frame: lifetime limited
• Drive train: 2 years
• Electronics: 2 years
• Batteries: 1 year
• Initial consumer only; warranty registration card must be on file with Golden for service
• Parts only: labor, service calls and transportation are the consumer's responsibility

Also on the shelf

Other Golden three-wheelers to compare:

• Golden Buzzaround EX 4-Wheel: the same EX on four wheels.
• Golden Buzzaround LX 3-Wheel: a Buzzaround LX three-wheeler rated for 375 lbs.
• Golden Companion 3-Wheel Mid Size: a mid-size Golden three-wheeler with a 19-mile range.

Compare every model side by side in our mobility scooters collection.

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See the Golden Buzzaround EX 3-Wheel on Faith Mobility.

Sources

• Golden Technologies: Buzzaround EX 3-Wheel
• Golden Technologies: Scooter limited warranty (PDF)