Access Ramps are designed for use by scooters and wheelchairs. The ramps can be temporary or permanent. In a van, for example, a ramp is used temporarily for passenger/equipment transfer. In certain locations where there is frequent use, a permanent solution may be required.
New ramps should comply with local requirements. For example: The "ADA Wheelchair Ramp Requirements" are a good guideline: "The maximum slope of a ramp in new construction shall be 1:12. This means for every 1 inch of rise, the run or the length of the ramp must be 12 inches. Therefore, if the rise is 2 inches, then the run must be 24 inches, and so on. The maximum rise for any run shall be 30 inches."
Aluminum is the preferred material for use in ramps because of its durability, lightweight portability and resistance to rust.
Use the chart below to determine your ramp requirements. The EasyTravel manufacturer's specifications are that the EasyTravel Active8 can climb an 18% incline with a rider of 250 lbs. All other EasyTravel models can climb a 10% incline with a rider of 250 lbs. The specifications assume sufficient traction on the incline. For example, a wet wooden ramp provides very little traction, regardless of the incline.