Table of Contents
Introduction
For people with mobility issues, mobility scooters for offroad offer a practical and accessible means to move around freely and independently through challenging terrain. Choosing the best all-terrain mobility scooter might be challenging with so many alternatives on the market. In this definitive guide, we compare the Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4. These are two of the most popular all-terrain mobility scooters, to help you choose the best mobility scooter for your needs.
To ensure that the information presented in this comparison guide is accurate and authoritative, all claims and comparisons have been fact-checked and verified with official sources. Links to the official manufacturer’s websites for the Silverado Extreme and Afiscooter S4 have been provided, as well as links to other reputable sources in the mobility scooter industry.
Silverado Extreme & Afiscooter S4 Specifications & Performance Comparison Table
| Feature | Merits Silverado Extreme | Afiscooter S4 | Winner |
| Weight Capacity | 450 lbs | 500 lbs (up to 600 lbs w/ bariatric upgrade) | S4 |
| Max Speed | 9.6 mph | 11.2 mph | S4 |
| Range | Up to 55 miles | Up to 37 miles | Silverado |
| Turning Radius | 82.7″ | 90” for 180° turn, 45″ for 90° | Silverado |
| Seat | Swivel, Adjustable | Swivel, Adjustable | Tie |
| Ground Clearance | 5.1 inches | 5 inches | Silverado |
| Suspension | Full Suspension System | Full Suspension System | Tie |
| Battery | 2 x 12V 100 Ah | 2 x 12V 105 Ah | S4 |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty | 2-year warranty | S4 |
Silverado Extreme & Afiscooter S4 Advantages & Disadvantages Comparison Table
| Aspect | Merits Silverado Extreme | Afiscooter S4 | Winner |
| Terrain Capability | Superior off-road capabilities | Excellent off-road capabilities | Silverado |
| Suspension | Independent front and rear suspension | Full front and rear suspension | Tie |
| Seat Comfort | Orthopedic, fully adjustable seat | Orthopedic, fully adjustable seat | Tie |
| Storage | Rear basket, under-seat storage; cupholders | Exposed front glove compartment; cupholders Optional large rear box or basket | S4 |
| Lighting System | LED headlights, taillights, turn signals | LED headlights, taillights, turn signals, high/low beam headlamp | S4 |
| Maneuverability | Suitable for outdoor and off-road use | Suitable for outdoor and off-road use | Tie |
| Transport Ability | Bulky and possibly challenging to carry | Easier to transport if using a hitch lift or carrier | S4 |
| Adaptability | Better for rough and uneven terrains | Secure on rough and uneven terrains | Silverado |
| Aesthetic | Sleek and modern design | Sleek and modern design | Tie |
Performance: What to Look for in an Off-Road Scooter
The Merits Silverado Extreme is a fantastic option for off-road excursions thanks to its potent 650-watt motor and 10-degree slope rating. It can support 450 pounds of weight and go up to 55 miles at a maximum speed of 9.6 mph. Its turning radius is 82.7 inches, and its ground clearance is 5.1 inches.
The Afiscooter S4, in contrast, has a 1400-watt motor and a ground clearance of 5 inches. It can travel up to 37 miles on two 12V batteries and, with the enhanced engine kit, can go up to 11.2 mph. It is a great vehicle for off-road excursions, not least because of its 12-inch front and 16.8-inch rear tires.
Overall, the Silverado Extreme boasts a greater range, while the Afiscooter S4 features a more powerful motor and higher speed.
Which scooter is best?
- Weight Capacity Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
- Range Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
- Motor Power Winner: Afiscooter S4
Convenience and Comfort
Comfort and adjustability are two important elements to think about when it comes to fastest mobility scooters. Both the Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4 were created with the comfort of the rider in mind. The comfort and adjustability aspects of these two mobility scooters will be contrasted in this section.
The full captain seat in the Merits Silverado Extreme offers various adjustable features such as reclining, height adjustment, and flip-up armrests that can be tailored to accommodate different heights and widths. The seat can rotate and slide forward and back, and the headrest may also be adjusted up and down.
Additionally, the Merits Silverado Extreme provides an extra option to increase the seat’s recline angle up to 130-135 degrees. Those who need to nap or take a break on their mobility scooter during long excursions may find this function to be extremely helpful.
Comparatively, the Afiscooter S4 also has a full captain’s seat with flip-up armrests and a semi-reclining mechanism. The seat may be folded for convenient storage. Additionally, there are several customization options available for the seat, such as a 2-person seat that measures 33 inches wide.
The seat of the Afiscooter S4 may also slide forward or back, spin 360 degrees, and have its depth adjusted. For people who have trouble getting on and off their mobility scooter, this feature is particularly helpful.
Both mobility scooters offer steering assembly comfort adjustment functions. The adjustable delta tiller of the Merits Silverado Extreme can be moved up and down. Together with those features, it has a parking brake, a DC 12 volt outlet (for phone charging), a horn, turn signal buttons on each side, warning lights mode, and half-speed mode buttons.
Which scooter is best?
- Storage and Customization Winner: Afiscooter S4
- Adjustable Features Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
Suspension Systems: The Key to a Smooth and Safe Ride
The superb suspension systems on the Merits Silverado Extreme and Afiscooter S4 ensure a comfortable ride even over rough terrain. A full front and rear suspension is present on both the Afiscooter S4 and the Merits Silverado Extreme. Neither scooter sacrifices comfort when navigating uneven terrain.
The Afiscooter S4 also features a pneumatic system that allows it to be used on rough terrain, such as gravel or dirt roads. It also has a comfortable orthopedic seat, which provides additional lumbar support in terms of shock absorption, the Afiscooter S4’s suspension system slightly outperforms the Merits Silverado Extreme. This is due to the S4’s suspension system being created expressly for off-road use, making it the perfect choice for riders looking to conquer the toughest terrain. Although the suspension system of the Merits Silverado Extreme is likewise quite good, off-road riding is more appropriate for it.
The handlebars of the tiller assembly on the Afiscooter S4 have a comfortable ergonomic grip. Furthermore adjustable, the tiller component allows you to choose between forward and reverse operation. Additionally, it contains horn buttons on either side, turn signal switches, a light switch, a USB charging port, a half-speed, middle-speed, and full-speed switch, as well as manual and automated brakes.
In conclusion, the comfort and adjustment features of the Merits Silverado Extreme and Afiscooter S4 are both quite good. The Afiscooter S4 has more possibilities for seat customization (as in different seats on the scooter) whereas the Merits Silverado Extreme has more features for seat adjustment within its one seat offered. Both mobility scooters’ steering assemblies include identical comfort-adjustment features, however the controls differ just a little, with the Silverado having an edge.
Which scooter is best?
- Suspension System Winner: Afiscooter S4
- Tiller Assembly Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
Turning Radius and Maneuverability
The Silverado Extreme mildly outperforms the Afiscooter S4 in terms of maneuverability and turning radius. The turning radius of the Silverado Extreme is 82.7″, while that of the S4 is 90″ for a 180° turn. This makes the Silverado Extreme simpler to handle in congested areas like shopping centers and supermarkets because it is more maneuverable in intermediate space. However, bear in mind the difference isn’t huge, and both need a lot of space for turning, given their relatively large size.
Which scooter is best?
- Maneuverability Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
- Turning Radius Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
Price
The Afiscooter S4 and the Merits Silverado Extreme are both high-end mobility scooters, which carries a premium price tag. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that these scooters are an investment in your independence and mobility, and their high-end features make up for the price.
The Merits Silverado Extreme costs $5,338 at the time of writing, while the Afiscooter S4 costs $5,829. Remember that prices could change based on the merchant and any other fees or charges.
We do have financing plans available for these scooters so if this sum is simply too high, you can pay a monthly sum, starting at 0% APR. At the time of writing, we have plans for the Silverado Extreme starting at $253.75 per month and for the Afiscooter S4, plans start at $277.09. If one financing partner refuses you, we do have others that you can try. Between them all, you’re likely to be accepted provided you have a decent credit score of 650 or higher.
It’s vital to keep in mind that purchasing a high-quality mobility scooter can significantly improve your quality of life. It will enable you to preserve your independence, even though the higher price tag may be a factor for some. The Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4 are both fantastic options for anyone in need of a top-tier mobility scooter thanks to their cutting-edge features and capabilities.
Which scooter is best?
- Price Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
- Financing Plan Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
Unit Weight & Transportation
Without the batteries, the Merits Silverado Extreme weighs 253 pounds as a unit; with the batteries installed, the weight increases to 387 pounds. The scooter’s weight has a great effect on how portable it is and easy to transport. The Merits Silverado Extreme may be difficult to carry and store due to its hefty weight. Users who frequently travel with their scooter may need additional help or equipment to lift and transport it, which makes it less convenient for them.
Similar to this, the Afiscooter S4 weighs 342 pounds overall, with a base weight of 238 pounds and an additional 52 pounds per battery. The Merits Silverado Extreme is heavier than the Afiscooter S4 and also significantly bigger. This makes it slightly more difficult to transport and store, however at these weights, transporting the scooter will invariably require a platform lift, carrier or trailer, with those extra pounds not making a significant difference.
One circumstance where that small difference can make a difference is if your car has limited tongue weight and the weight of a scooter and lift together is close to your maximum allowance. In this case, every pound can make a difference and a difference of 45 lbs can mark the difference between staying within your recommended limit or exceeding it. For instance, if your lift weighs 150 lbs, and your S4 scooter weighs 342 pounds, this results in a total of 492 lbs. This is under 500 lbs which is a common tailgate hitch limit. On the other hand, at 387 lbs, the Silverado would exceed 500 lbs making it harder to transport.
Comparing Dimensions: Merits Silverado Extreme vs. Afiscooter S4
Mobility scooter dimensions are quite important since they affect how easily the scooter can be carried and moved around in confined locations. The Merits Silverado Extreme is 61″ in length and 29″ in width overall. While the scooter’s dimensions provide the user plenty of room, they also make it rather bulky and possibly challenging to carry or store. Unlike a folding mobility scooter, the Silverado is a big scooter with 82.7″ turning radius which may make it difficult to maneuver in confined places.
On the other hand, the Afiscooter S4‘s overall width is narrower at 27 inches as opposed to the Silverado’s overall width of 29 inches. The Silverado, however, has a length of 61 inches as opposed to the S4’s 65 inches, making it slightly shorter overall. This facilitates movement in narrow spaces such as entrances. The Afiscooter S4 is a slightly better choice for customers who need to move or store their mobility scooter due to these dimensions.
In conclusion, the Afiscooter S4 has a somewhat smaller footprint and weight than its competitors, making it easier to move and maneuver in confined situations. It also makes it easier to transport if using a hitch lift or carrier.
Which scooter is best?
- Unit Weight Winner: Afiscooter S4
- Transport-ability Winner: Afiscooter S4
- Storage Winner: Afiscooter S4
Lighting and Safety
When it comes to mobility scooters, safety is of utmost importance, and both the Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4 include features that put rider safety first. Both versions offer full front and rear suspension systems that assist dampen shocks and bumps for a smoother ride, as well as automated electromagnetic brakes that consistently deliver stopping force.
Moreover, the Merits Silverado Extreme‘s automated speed decrease during turns helps to minimize rollovers, and its 5.1″ ground clearance guarantees a secure ride even on unpaved surfaces. The Silverado also offers a complete lighting system, which includes headlights, taillights, and turn signals to help drivers see one another and boost visibility in low light.
With headlights, taillights, turn signals, and a high/low beam headlamp switch to alter illumination levels dependent on the environment, the Afiscooter S4 also offers an outstanding lighting kit. The brakes and complete suspension system of the S4 combine to offer a safe and comfortable ride even on difficult terrain.
Overall, the Afiscooter S4 and Merits Silverado Extreme prioritize rider safety with their cutting-edge technologies, and their comprehensive lighting kits help assure visibility in low light. These models of all-terrain mobility scooters can keep you secure and at ease while you embark on your next trip, if you’re in the market for one. The Silverado Extreme has a slight edge in braking safety on inclines.
Which scooter is best?
- Lighting Adjustments Winner: Afiscooter S4
- Speed Control Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
Delve into the world of Afiscooter S series with this engaging video, showcasing the S4 along with its 3-wheel, dual-seat, and canopy configurations:
Battery and Charging
Battery life and charging are important considerations for mobility scooters. High-capacity batteries are provided with both the Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4 and deliver excellent performance and range.
After the free upgrade we offer, two 12V 100Ah batteries power the Merits Silverado Extreme, which can travel up to 55 miles on a single charge. The batteries need to be fully charged for 8 to 10 hours. It is crucial to remember that different variables like user weight, terrain, and temperature can affect battery life.
The Afiscooter S4 has the option to upgrade to two 12V 105 Ah batteries. This upgrade provides a range of up to 37 miles on a single charge, similar to the Merits Silverado Extreme. The charging process also takes about 8 to 10 hours to complete. Standard batteries on the S4, it should be noted, are 75Ah each, which is less than the Silverado.
The user can monitor the battery life and prevent running out of power in the middle of a trip thanks to the battery level indicators on both scooters. It is crucial to remember that proper charging and upkeep can contribute to extending battery life and preserving the scooter’s functionality.
Onboard and Easy Access Charging Ports on Merits Silverado Extreme and Afiscooter S4
Both scooters have an onboard charger that enables the user to charge the batteries without removing them when it comes to charging. This is a useful feature that helps you save time and energy. Both models also feature charging ports that are simple to access, making it simple to plug in the charger.
In summary, battery life and charging are crucial aspects to take into account when selecting a mobility scooter. The range of the Merits Silverado Extreme is higher however range measurement can vary by manufacturer. Since this depends on testing methods, the Silverado might not have as much of an edge on the S4 as it would seem from reading each manufacturer’s specification.
It is also crucial to remember that battery life can change depending on usage and environmental factors. The scooter’s battery life can be increased and performance can be optimized with the help of proper charging and maintenance.
Which scooter is best?
- Range Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
- Battery Capacity Winner: Merits Silverado Extreme
Warranty: Your Coverage and Peace of Mind
The warranty is a crucial aspect to take into account when buying a mobility scooter. A one-year frame guarantee, a six-month battery warranty, and a three-month warranty on the charger, controller, and other electrical parts are all included with the purchase of the Merits Silverado Extreme. This covers parts in principle, though we currently have an offer where we are giving 1 year free labor warranty on all Merits products, Silverado included.
Afiscooters provide a more comprehensive warranty. You’re covered (besides for wear and tear and the batteries) for a full two years, bumper to bumper, with an in-home labor contract covering both parts and labor. The frame, shroud, and electronics are all covered by this thorough two-year guarantee on the Afiscooter S4.
The Afiscooter S4‘s maker, Afikim, also provides an additional year at $199 at time of writing, for a total of 36-months of in-home labor warranty.
The Afiscooter S4 offers a distinct advantage in terms of warranty. It has a longer warranty duration and a repair contract in addition to that. As a result, you can rest easy knowing that your scooter will be covered for labor and maintenance for a considerable amount of time.
Before making a purchase, it’s crucial to remember to read and comprehend the warranty’s terms and conditions. It’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered by warranties because some of them may contain limitations or exclusions.
Which scooter is best?
- Warranty Winner: Afiscooter S4
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Mobility Scooter for Your Needs
When contrasting the Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4, it can be said that each mobility scooter has pros and cons. The battery range, features, and braking of the Merits Silverado Extreme are exceptional. It contains a number of features that improve the user’s experience. Also, its sophisticated braking mechanism makes it simpler to control on rocky terrain and inclination.
The Afiscooter S4, in contrast, provides improved customizability, transport-ability, and general comfort. The scooter may be customized in many ways, and it is a superior choice for long-distance excursions because of its comfort.
While selecting a choice, it is crucial to take the user’s needs, environment, and way of life into account. In the end, purchasing a high-quality mobility scooter that is tailored to the user’s individual requirements will increase their mobility and raise their standard of living.
Why buy Silverado or S4 from Heavy Duty Mobility?
Our selection of mobility scooters at Heavy Duty Mobility includes the Afiscooter S4 and the Merits Silverado Extreme. To guarantee that our clients are completely satisfied with their purchase, we stand behind the products we sell and provide a thorough warranty. When you choose Heavy Duty Mobility, you can be sure that you’re getting a high-quality, dependable mobility scooter that will increase your independence and mobility.
Our scooters are built with characteristics that make them perfect for all sorts of riders and are intended to give a safe and enjoyable ride. We want you to choose the ideal option for you, whether you’re looking for a robust outdoor electric scooter models or an ultra-comfortable fastest mobility scooter.
The Merits Silverado Extreme and the Afiscooter S4 are just a couple of the many mobility scooters we offer. We carefully choose our products to ensure they satisfy our high criteria for dependability, safety, and performance. We only sell mobility scooters of the best caliber.
Our team of knowledgeable specialists available to assist you in finding the perfect mobility scooter for your specific needs. With their expertise and understanding of our products, they can provide personalized recommendations and guide you through the selection process. We can assist you in finding the ideal scooter, whether it’s for off-roading, daily use, or any other necessity.
Also, we provide financing alternatives and low prices to help you more easily afford the mobility scooter you require. While mobility scooters can be an expensive purchase, we make every effort to offer our customers options that are within their budget.
Choose Heavy Duty Mobility for Top-of-the-Line Mobility Scooters and Support
We provide top-of-the-line mobility scooters, expert guidance, reasonable pricing, and top-notch customer service. Our primary goal is to ensure your satisfaction with our products and services. We take pride in providing excellent customer service and are committed to going above and beyond to exceed your expectations. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or to locate the ideal mobility scooter for your requirements.
We trust that this comparison of the Merits Silverado Extreme and Afiscooter S4 mobility scooters has been useful. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or need more help deciding which mobility scooter is best for you. Our team of mobility specialists is always available to help you choose the ideal mobility scooter to suit your requirements.
Sources for Mentioned Features and Specifications
- Merits USA (manufacturer of Silverado Extreme) full Silverado specifications sheet and Silverado product page taken from manufacturer website, meritsusa.com.
- Afiscooters (manufacturer of Afiscooter S4) full S4 specifications sheet and S4 product page on manufacturer website, afiscooters.com.
Raphael Perlmann
Raphael is a highly experienced professional in the mobility scooter industry, having spent over four years in this direct field. He is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and has a passion for helping individuals make informed decisions about their mobility needs.
Throughout his years in the industry, Raphael has gained a deep understanding of the various models, features, and capabilities of mobility scooters. He is committed to ensuring that his customers have access to accurate and trustworthy information when making purchasing decisions. Raphael has sold numerous mobility scooters, and his firsthand experience with these vehicles allows him to provide reliable and valuable insights.
Raphael's commitment to customer service extends beyond regular business hours. He is always available to answer questions and address concerns, going above and beyond to make the buying process as easy and stress-free as possible. He provides honest and transparent information to his customers and takes pride in helping them make the best decision for their mobility needs.
Why buy Merits Silverado Extreme or Afiscooter S4 from us?
Pre-Selected Scooters
We only sell mobility scooters that have been pre-selected
Pre-selected to match our site’s mission – large, heavy duty, fastest and all-terrain. This means all our attention is where you need it to be, and you don’t have to go hunting through huge lists of products you aren’t interested in.
Price
We will not be beaten on any online price.
If you see a product advertised online for cheaper we will sell you the product for the same price or cheaper, provided that pricing is not in violation of the manufacturer’s minimum advertised pricing policy.
Free Shipping
All shipping for all products on our site is free of charge
We believe when paying for an item like a heavy duty mobility scooter, shipping should be free. We also offer White Glove Shipping as an optional service if necessary. Though White Glove Delivery isn’t cheap, we charge our customers what it costs us and don’t make any profit on this.
Excellent & Personal Customer Service
We are here for you every step of your journey
Our phone lines are staffed by humans, not robots, and it’s really easy to speak to a member of staff at all business hours, even on weekends. If the line is busy, we’ll call you right back.
Post sale Service
We are here to help if there are issues with the shipment or any issues with your scooter.
We will work with you over the phone or send out a technician to address your concern, depending on your scooter type and its associated warranty.
Relationships
Heavy Duty Mobility enjoys excellent relations with the manufacturer of its products.
This is an advantage to our customers, as manufacturers are often involved with the warranty process and answering technical questions.
