Wheelchair Diffusion Blog

Wijit by Superquad is a revolutionary driving and braking system for manual wheelchairs. It uses precision geared levers that amplify the user’s pushing power, while reducing strain on the user’s shoulders and upper body.

There are also some very cool features packed into this add-on that can go a long way in assisting those who are marginal wheelchair pushers or those who tire easily.

The built in braking system works much the same way by increasing leverage and applying the force to a disc brake tucked neatly away in the systems hub. The combination of the leverage from its levers, together with the disc brake system, allows users to have a fine degree of steering control, with the power to stop immediately.

Wijit provides three modes of wheel engagement: Forward, neutral and reverse. These are controlled from the driver mode shifter on the top of the handle right where the users hand is.

There are also some freebie benefits that you can leverage. The leveraged propulsion generates less wear and tear on the shoulders. The Wijit’s lever drive system and gearing provides a mechanical advantage, allowing users to travel further with less effort. Hands are situated away form those nasty and dirty wheels. A user can sit upright and propel and steer a wheelchair. And, this gadget looks like it might be some real fun cruising with.

Born out of necessity, this wijit is the brainchild of Brian M. Watwood, a world-class athlete and professional skier. Brian was diagnosed as a C5 – C6 incomplete quadriplegic as the result of an accident and confined to a wheelchair he could not operate. The rest is easy to figure out.

What do I like about this gadget? Although it may look odd and certainly not what we are used to seeing on a manual wheelchair, it is nonetheless very real world. It’s as real as limited independence faced by manual wheelchair users who do not have the strength or endurance to adequately push a wheelchair. It’s as real as the fact that 35% to 70% of all long term manual wheelchairs will suffer shoulder injuries and pain related to pushing a wheelchair. Some will suffer these injuries multiple times and for some the injuries will result in chronic debilitation or pain. What did I say I liked? Oh yes, less injuries and more mobility. Not a bad deal.

You can check out Wijit at the Superquad web site.