If you just want help in moving the clubs, you may be well satisfied with choosing from manually-controlled electric golf carts. If convenience is what you are after, and don't mind the extra cost, a Remote Control Golf Caddy may be what you are looking for. The good news is that the price gap between manually-controlled and remote-controlled trolleys has lessened in recent years.
With a manual-control electric golf caddy, the cart functions are controlled from a panel on the cart handle. And because you need to be close to the cart to advance it, freedom of movement is limited. With remote control, the golf caddy is controlled by a wireless device the size of a small TV remote. So, you have more freedom of movement; but, you'll need someplace like a pocket to carry the remote device.
In choosing the right electric golf caddy, I recommend first narrowing the choices to either Manual or Remote Control Golf Trolleys. This will make the research easier. When you've decided which of these paths you'd like to research, look at these major factors: 1) Performance, 2) Control Features, and 3) Drive System.
1.Performance - determines how well your electric golf caddy transports the clubs. Important parameters are Climb-Capability (in degrees of slope), OperatingRange (the number of holes you can play on a single battery charge, and Carrying Capacity (maximum carry weight). For Range you may see something like 18-27 holes which, usually means 18 holes on hilly and 27 holes on flat courses. Unless you plan to play only on flat courses, I recommend you look at electric golf carts rated a minimum of 27 holes. Regarding Climb-Capability -- for hilly courses look for a cart rated at least 20 degrees; 30 degrees is better. Regarding Carrying Capacity - look for carts rated at least 15 lbs. more than the maximum weight of your bag & clubs.
Performance Factors - Factors that determine electric golf trolley performance are motor size in Watts, battery power in Amp-Hours (Ah) and cart/battery weight. For most courses a motor rated at 175 Watts should be adequate. Battery power can vary from ~20 Ah to ~ 40 Ah. For hilly courses look for batteries rated in the 30-40 Ah range.
2. Control Features: Below is a listing of the more commonly available control features. Usually the more you get, the more you pay. Look over these features, separate them into categories 1) "gotta have," 2) "nice to have" and 3) "don't need," and make your buying decision accordingly.
a. Basic control feature choices available in Electric Golf Trolleys:
- Variable forward speed - Available on all
- Distance Advance - Allows the cart to be advanced in its current direction a pre-selected distance (e.g. 10, 20, or 30 yards). Especially helpful around the green where, after you've removed your putter, you can automatically move the cart closer to the back of the green toward the next hole.
- Speed Memory - The cart returns to your pre-selected walking speed each time it is re-started.
- Cruise Control - The cart maintains same speed going up or downhill.
- Electronic Brakes - A feature to help avoid "run-away carts."
- Free-Wheeling - Enables disengaging power and operate like a push cart
b. Basic Feature choices available in Remote Control Golf Carts:
- Turning (Left and Right) - Controlled remotely
- Reverse Direction - Controlled remotely
c. Advanced Feature Choices available in Electric Golf Trolleys:
- Torque Control - Enables smooth starts and stops - less jerking
- "Smart Start" - Starts at pre-set conditions
- Descent Control - Controls the speed of the cart during descent
- Automatic Shut-Off - Automatically shuts off trolley when no command received in 40 seconds; prevents run-away.
- Electronic Tracking - Cart's power and turns can be programmed to fit the characteristics of the course being played.
- Programmable speed settings - Allows one to pre-program personalized speed settings.
d. Convenience feature choices in Electric Golf Carts:
Battery Charge Indicator - for "peace of mind"
LED Displays - For a more "in control" feeling
Diagnostic Information - In case there is trouble
3. Drive Wheels:
- The drive wheel(s) may be front or rear. Older golf trolley designs often had front- wheel drives. These tend to have more slippage going uphill; however a positive point is they tend to tip over backwards less. For rear-wheel drive trolleys, a retractable anti-tip rear wheel is a must on hilly courses.
- Single or dual-drive wheels. Single drive wheels have less to control; however, power is generally limited to a single motor. Newer designs tend to be dual independent rear-wheel drive. These have more power than the older single-wheel designs and advances in control technology make coordination of independently powered wheels more affordable.
4. Other Factors: When satisfied that you understand these basic purchase decision factors then consider other factors such as those listed below:
A. Construction Design and Materials: Look for sturdy, but lightweight construction Tubular steel frames are the most rugged, but also weigh more. An aluminum frame is lighter than steel, but dents more easily. A titanium frame is light and strong, but more expensive. Models made of anodized aluminum alloy frame with titanium finish might be a good choice for the occasional golfer. The golfer who is on the course every day may want to consider a steel or titanium frame.
B. Component Materials: Steel bag supports are generally stronger and longer lasting than those made of ABS or other plastic materials.
C. Dimensions and Fold-ability: Check folded, unfolded dimensions to make sure the cart will fit into your car, and whether it is easy to setup and fold. Find a good match for your build and height. . The handle height should be comfortable reach.
D. Weight: You want the trolley to be light enough to lift in and out of your car by yourself. So confirm the total weight of the cart including the battery.
E. Handle: Consider the handle shape & design. Select a handle that allows you to grab easily and operate, especially if you are left-handed. Pay attention to where handle mounted controls are located (right, left, center).
F. Wheels and Tires: Wide tires tend to be more stable and are easier on the course. Pneumatic tires with tread slip less on wet grass. Trolleys with quick-release main wheels are easier to store and clean. Double-check to see if the cart can be easily pushed in a free-wheeling mode.
G. Accessories: The cart you select has optional accessories. Some of these may be included with the cart, and that is worth taking into account in your buying decision.
H. Warranty: Select a trolley with at least a one year warranty. Trolleys go through a lot during their life. Higher-end (and higher priced) trolleys are likely to have a 2-year frame/parts warranty. Better batteries come with 1-year warranty. Occasionally you will find a separate & longer duration warranty for the motor.
I. After-Sale Service: Customer service and technical support are also worth considering before buying your golf trolley. Check customer reviews to see whether the trolley is reliable and the dealer is reputable. Make sure that there is someone ready to assist you in case you need technical support. I have found that Sunrise golf carts provides a good selection, at excellent prices and superb customer service.
Summary:
Having read this you now have the main ingredients for making a good informed decision about which trolley to purchase. Good Luck and Good Golfing!
Larry Swanson is a golfer who regularly walks the course and can provide additional information about choosing the right electric golf trolley for you.
For an excel spread sheet comparing features and specifications of some electric golf trolleys, contact the author at info@sunrisegolfcarts.
Look for more information and articles and product selections at sunrisegolfcarts.com
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