Going Up And Down Ramps - Excel 100 Technical Manual

If you alone on the pavement wish to go up, you should move your weight as far forward as possible by bending
forward. Then you must provide a so-called 'Wheelie', to get the front wheels on to the curb, to allow you to climb
the curb (see Figure 3, under the heading "Warnings for safe use). You can only perform this action if you have
practiced it with a trained expert.
Going down the pavement:
If you want to go down the pavement, we advise you to do this with an attendant. The attendant should move the
wheelchair forward to the curb. Then the user should lean back so the instructor can tilt the wheelchair to find a
balance point. When the wheelchair is balanced the attendant can move the wheelchair slowly off the curb. When
the wheelchair is off the pavement, the attendant can let the front wheels back onto the ground.
If you want to independently go off the pavement, you should do this in reverse (Figure 11 shows what not to do).
You can do this only if you've practiced with an expert.
4.3

Going up and down ramps

Most people can climb short slopes by themselves. This of course depends on your body strength, stamina and the
gradation of the slope. Inspect the slope always for risks, such as holes or slippery and uneven surfaces before you
drive off. If you can not see the slope, ask someone to inspect it for you.
Warning:
A slope of more than 5 degrees can be dangerous to descending or climb. Remember that the friction
of your hands to grab the push handles is the only way to brake while driving.
Most people develop their own methods to drive up slopes through practice. Sit with your upper body slightly
forward as you climb the slope. Should it be necessary to stop on the slope, then avoid unexpected movements that
tilting forward as you may cause further climbs (Figure 12).
If you want to climb a relatively steep slope, we advise you to use the assistance of a supervisor.
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