Hoss R1 Balance Wheelchair with Joystick

Hoss R1 – Self-Balancing Electric Wheelchair with Joystick

The Hoss R1 is a self-balancing electric wheelchair that operates on two parallel wheels and is fully controlled by joystick.

The key difference compared with active balance wheelchairs is that the rider does not need to shift body weight to accelerate, brake or steer. The Hoss maintains its own balance.

How Is the Hoss R1 Controlled?

Vehicle movement is controlled through a joystick. Forward, reverse and steering commands are entered directly through joystick movement.

According to the manufacturer, joystick sensitivity can be adjusted to suit individual requirements.

This can make the Hoss R1 particularly relevant for users who want a highly manoeuvrable self-balancing vehicle but cannot or do not want to use active weight shifting for vehicle control.

No Weight Shifting Required

The manufacturer explicitly states that the Hoss balances itself. The rider does not have to maintain balance or shift body weight to control the vehicle.

This clearly differentiates the Hoss R1 from vehicles such as Genny Zero or Omeo, where body movement plays a more active role in driving.

Open Front Area

The Hoss R1 does not use a central steering column in front of the rider. Vehicle control is provided through the side-mounted joystick.

This leaves the front area comparatively open, which can be useful for transfers and approaching tables or work surfaces.

Key Hoss R1 Specifications

The manufacturer currently specifies:

• Maximum speed: up to 15 km/h
• Range: up to 60 km depending on configuration and operating conditions
• Maximum load: 120 kg
• Dimensions with stabilisers deployed: approximately 92 × 67 × 102 cm (L × W × H)
• Loading height: approximately 69 cm with backrest folded and armrests removed
• Ground clearance: approximately 8 cm
• Seat width: approximately 40–46 cm
• Seat height: approximately 54.5–57.5 cm without seat cushion
• Net weight: approximately 110 kg
• Maximum uphill/downhill gradient: 11% according to the manufacturer
• Charger: 5 A / 290 W

Actual range and vehicle performance depend on rider weight, surface, gradients, temperature, riding style and vehicle configuration.

Independent Stabilisation System

According to Hoss Mobility, the Hoss R1 uses an additional stabilisation system that operates independently of the main drivetrain.

Redundant gyro and acceleration sensors continuously analyse vehicle behaviour while the separate stabilisation system monitors the balance state and can mechanically stabilise the vehicle when required.

Made in Austria

The Hoss R1 was developed as an independent vehicle concept by Hoss Mobility and is engineered and produced in Austria.

The manufacturer uses small-series production with different configuration and customisation options.

Hoss R1 for Users with Reduced Trunk Stability

Joystick control can be particularly relevant for users who cannot or do not want to use active body weight shifting for vehicle control.

This does not automatically make the Hoss R1 suitable for every physical condition. Seating position, transfer, arm and hand function, body stability and safe joystick control must still be evaluated individually.

Hoss R1 or Genny Zero?

The main difference is the control concept.

With the Genny Zero, acceleration and braking are actively controlled through movement of the body's centre of gravity.

The Hoss R1, by contrast, is controlled entirely by joystick and does not require weight shifting for vehicle control.

Users with good trunk stability who prefer active body involvement may find the Genny Zero more suitable. Users requiring or preferring joystick-based control may find the Hoss R1 more appropriate.

Hoss R1 or Omeo?

The Hoss R1 also differs fundamentally from the Omeo.

The Omeo makes extensive use of body movement and weight shifting and can be controlled hands-free without a central steering column.

The Hoss R1 also provides an open front area but uses joystick control and does not require active body movement for steering.

Manoeuvrability in Everyday Use

The self-balancing two-wheel concept allows the Hoss R1 to manoeuvre in a very small area and turn on the spot.

This can provide practical advantages in indoor environments, shops, restaurants, lifts and other areas where space is limited.

Outdoor and Terrain Use

Hoss Mobility describes the R1 as an all-terrain electric wheelchair. Large wheels, ground clearance and seat suspension are designed for use on varied surfaces.

All-terrain capability does not mean that every surface is suitable. Gradients, wet conditions, snow, loose surfaces, obstacles and the rider's abilities must always be considered.

Up to 60 km Manufacturer Range

The manufacturer specifies a range of up to 60 km depending on configuration.

This is a manufacturer maximum and not a guaranteed everyday range. Rider weight, speed, terrain, gradients, temperature and other conditions influence actual distance.

MyHoss App

The MyHoss App is available for the Hoss R1. According to the manufacturer, it can be used to adapt control settings to individual requirements.

This includes adjustment of joystick response and sensitivity.

Transporting the Hoss R1

At approximately 110 kg net weight, the Hoss R1 is significantly heavier than some other balance wheelchairs. Transport should therefore be planned before purchase.

The manufacturer specifies a loading height of approximately 69 cm with the backrest folded and armrests removed.

Vehicle width, loading opening, boot height, ramp length, load capacity and possible lifting systems should also be considered.

Hoss R1 Test Ride

A practical test ride is particularly important because the Hoss R1 uses a different control philosophy from active balance wheelchairs.

A test can help evaluate:

• seating position and transfer
• joystick operation
• control sensitivity
• manoeuvrability
• handling on different surfaces
• comfort
• personal confidence
• suitability for everyday use

Funding by Insurers and Other Organisations

Where medically necessary, funding may be available through health insurers, occupational accident insurers or other organisations depending on the individual case.

Approval is always an individual decision by the responsible funding body.

PT Pro can provide technical product information, documentation and trial-related material relevant to an individual application.

Service and Long-Term Support

With a specialised electric wheelchair, long-term technical support should be considered alongside the purchase price.

Depending on the requirement, PT Pro provides consultation, test rides, accessories, spare parts, technical support and service for the Hoss R1.

Who Is the Hoss R1 Particularly Relevant For?

The Hoss R1 can be particularly interesting for users looking for:

• a self-balancing two-wheel concept
• joystick control
• no required weight shifting for driving
• an open front area without a central steering column
• high manoeuvrability
• high manufacturer-specified range
• indoor and outdoor capability

Whether the Hoss R1 is actually the most appropriate solution should always be determined according to the user's physical capabilities and intended application.

PT Pro – Hoss R1 Advice and Vehicle Comparison

PT Pro deliberately compares the Hoss R1 with other balance and electric wheelchairs such as Genny Zero and Omeo.

Our objective is not to recommend the same vehicle to every user, but to determine which control and vehicle concept is technically, practically and economically most appropriate for the individual situation.