Catalyst 5 Ultra Lightweight Wheelchair

The Catalyst 5 is Ki Mobility’s premier model in their folding frame option of wheelchairs. The Catalyst 5 from Ki Mobility is made from the ultra-light, high-strength 7000 series aluminum. This alloy dampens vibrations to provide a smoother and more comfortable ride. The 7000 series aluminum helps the Catalyst 5 to achieve a transport weight (frame, 5” poly casters, and upholstery) of just 12.8 lbs. and a standard weight of only 20.8 lbs. while still permitting up to a 300 lbs. weight capacity. Ki Mobility’s uniquely designed cross brace provides the feel of a rigid frame wheelchair with the convenience of a folding frame as well as long-term durability.  The Catalyst line offers a Dual Interlocking Cross Brace.  This design creates a frame that locks together so that it minimizes unwanted movement and maximizes the energy transferred in each of your pushes making your push as efficient as possible. The “Between-The-Rails” Seat Design has the seat frame tubing setting side-by-side rather than stacking them atop one another. Instead of the weight of the user resting on the cross brace the weight is transferred to the side frames. This prevents having to use heavy cross braces which add weight to other manufacturer’s wheelchairs. Even how the Catalyst 5 folds and unfolds is unique. A Power X-Hinge is an extending link from the frame to the cross brace that expands and contracts when the frame is opening or closing. The Power X-Hinge is so unique Ki Mobility has patented it. Another benefit of the Power X-Hinge is how it improves the frame’s structural integrity. The extending link provides the frame’s strength and rigidity rather than the seat upholstery.  Wheelchairs from other manufacturers need the seat upholstery to create the tension for a solid feel.  Unfortunately for other models the upholstery will sag over time and the frame will begin to feel loose. The Power X-Hinge works so well your Catalyst 5 will feel just as solid with or without the seat upholstery. Not to be forgotten are Ki Mobility’s one of a kind legrests. The legrests have a lifetime warranty but the functionality is what’s special. The legrests can be mounted or removed from any angle. No need to rotate all the way in or all the way out like those from other manufacturers. Personal positioning is also a feature of the Catalyst’s legrests with angle options of 60, 70, 80, and 90 degrees.

What Makes This Different

The Catalyst 5 has some features that separate it from the other models in the Catalyst lineup as well as other folding models from other manufacturers. The Universal Axle Plate is a primary feature of the Catalyst 5. The Universal Axle Plate allows you to select and set seat to floor heights in ½” increments. The Universal Axle Plates versatility also allows you to adjust your center of gravity over a 3” range. So can set your Catalyst 5 to easy to respond or steady and stable. A reclining backrest on an ultra-lightweight wheelchair is one-of-a-kind. The recline option offers a range of 0 to 65 degrees.  The Catalyst 5 offers Ki’s brand-new wheel, the Maxx Performance Spoke. The rim is made of a 6061 aluminum with straight steel spokes with a black satin finish.  The 18 steel spokes connect the high flange hub to the rim giving the Maxx Performance a highly rigid and responsive ride that gives you the most roll for every push you give it.

Why We Like It

Lightweight, durability, and unique features that are a result of pursuing new and innovative designs are all reasons to like the Catalyst 5.  All three can be found on the Catalyst 5.  The standout features are the Power X-Hinge, Universal Axle Plates, and Dual Interlocking Cross Brace which give the Catalyst 5 a rigid frame feel on a folding frame.