A review of the Permobil CK2S
By Robert M. Krauss

My chair, which I've had for about 4 months, is the Permobil CK2S. The Permobil CK2S is actually Permobil's Chairman 2K with the C2S (high speed) upgrade. It also has their Enhanced Steering Performance (ESP) system.

The chair comes with elevate and tilt functions; mine also includes the recline and leg-rest elevate options.  It is a front-wheel drive chair. I used a Chairman for four years before I got my Permobil CK2S. After spending a week back in the Chairman while the Permobil CK2S was being repaired, I can say that it is a great improvement. It is faster, its shock absorbing  suspension system makes for a more comfortable ride, and the ESP system greatly reduces the fish-tailing at high speed that is a problem for front-wheel drive chairs.

 

It seems ruggedly constructed, and is better looking. All in all, I have found it an excellent powerchair—manoeuvrable enough for crowded indoor use and powerful enough for getting around outdoors. It's top speed is around 7 mph.

Although there are chairs with higher top speeds on the market, I can't imagine going faster in New York City where I live, and most of the time I use the lower speed.

As a "high-end" chair, the Permobil CK2S is not inexpensive. It's also 
technologically complex--not the kind of thing you can take to local bicycle mechanic. Anyone considering the CK2S should give careful consideration to the DME-provider's ability and willingness to service the chair expeditiously.

>> Editor... Note!  I have no idea what a DME-provider is?

I have found Permobil's tech support to be excellent, but the two local providers I have dealt with have been disappointing.