Tilite
TiLite is an American manufacturer of ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs, renowned for its “made-to-measure” approach and pioneering use of titanium. Based in Pasco, Washington, the company was acquired in 2014 by Permobil, a global leader in advanced mobility solutions.
Their key philosophy and technology unlike standard wheelchairs, have every TiLite frame built from scratch based on the user’s specific measurements. TiLite is best known for using aerospace-grade titanium, which offers the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metal, superior shock absorption, and extreme durability against fatigue. Their Creative Mobility Division (CMD) employs a specialized team to work directly with engineers to design one-of-a-kind solutions that go beyond standard order forms.
TiLite offers three primary frame materials across several iconic models:
- Titanium Series: Includes the TR (rigid dual-tube) and ZR (rigid mono-tube), designed for maximum performance and a smooth ride.
- Aluminum Series: Models like the Aero Z and Aero T providing TiFit customization in a more economical but still high-performance package.
- Carbon Fiber: The CR1 released in 2023, is their latest flagship, featuring an aerodynamic tube profile and weighing only about 9 lbs (transport weight).
- Pediatric Options: The Twist and Pilot are designed specifically for children, with built-in adjustability to “grow” alongside the user.
Historically, TiLite began in 1988 as Ti Sport Tech, a manufacturer of high-performance bicycle frames and golf shafts. After identifying a need for better material science in the mobility industry, they shipped their first custom wheelchair in May 1999.
