Women & Golf's Tamsin reviews the Motocaddy S1 Electric Trolley - how much better is it than the orginal?
For over 15 years, the iconic Motocaddy S1 has set the benchmark for electric trolleys. The relaunched S1 for 2022 combines the class-leading performance and reliability that made it legendary, with a revolutionary new look and features.
What's new?
- One-step folding system
- One of the most compact trolleys
- The battery does not have to be removed from the frame to charge
- EASILOCK system for Motocaddy bags
What's in the Box
The simplicity of the setup was not lost on me. One box with everything included (plus warranty). The main frame is one piece with separate back wheels. The back wheels need to be attached first and they simply slide on with a simple release button in the spokes to secure them in place. You then click the orange latch on the frame to release the main arm and with a lift and push of the handle the trolley is pretty much ready to go.
It literally took 2 minutes.
Compact
Lots of trolleys are unwieldy and difficult to load into the car.
This easily fits into the boot of a Renault Clio & could go narrower by inverting the wheels.
I would say the main frame is a little heavy once the battery is in situ so be aware of this.
Fully loaded
It's a nice compact trolley and very sturdy. Despite a weighty bag of clubs, the trolley ran extremely smoothly (and quietly).
Unfortunately, it wasn't as stable without the bag so you would probably need to store it folded.
The handle bars are strong and the trolley easily turned/ manoeuvred. There is a a widescreen LCD display, nine-speed settings, speed indicator & battery meter. The speed of the trolley is quick and set it at 9 at your peril. 4 is more than sufficient.
An added advantage is the USB port under the handle so you can charge your phone on the course. This is particularly helpful if you are using a GPS on your phone during play.
Integral battery
Even though the battery is a little heavy, it is extremely easy to load onto the trolley. Even better it can be charged once in situ once the trolley is folded.
Motocaddy cart bag
It would seem silly not to review the bag that works alongside the trolley.
The bag includes nine spacious pockets, a dedicated putter well and an internal umbrella sleeve. There are 14-full length dividers, a waterproof rain hood, a towel hook and pen holder.
The anti-twist bag base enables maximum stability when placed on a Motocaddy trolley & the EASILOCK system allows the bag to lock into the bottom of the trolley with no need for a strap.
The dedicated putter well is a nice feature but if you have a jumbo-sized grip it will not fit & will have to go in one of the dividers. I also tried my own golf bag on the trolley and it held it in place admirably.
Motocaddy S1 Electric Trolley product information
- Features a 200W motor that will tackle even the steepest of slopes. Available in 18 and 36-hole models, the lithium batteries have a life span that is up to five times longer than a traditional lead-acid battery.
- A lightweight aluminum frame ensures easy transportation.
- The trolley is fitted with a nine-speed control dial, along with a pre-set distance function that allows you to send your trolley forward by 15, 30 or 45 yards.
- A unique memory feature allows you to pre-set your required speed.
- Fitted with an automatic cut-off charger to prevent the battery from overcharging.
- The trolley comes complete with a free accessory station.
- The trolley comes with a one-year warranty.
Looking for extra control on slopes?
The optional S1 DHC model takes the impressive features offered by the S1 and adds Downhill Control (DHC) technology to automatically adjust and maintain a constant speed while moving down a gradient for a smoother ride. It also features all-terrain DHC wheels and an electronic parking brake to handle the course with ease. It does come with a £50 premium on the price.
Cost?
Standard Lithium battery £599.99/€679.99 / Extended Lithium battery £649.99/€729.99. The S1 DHC is also be available in Graphite/Red at an RRP of £649.99/€729.99 for Standard Lithium battery and £699.99/€779.99 for the extended version.
Find out more about Motocaddy S1 Electric Trolleys here.
YOUR CHANCE TO WIN THIS TROLLEY & BAG
Normally, we would send the trolley & bag back to Motocaddy once we had done the review. Kindly, Motocaddy has allowed us to offer this trolley & bag in a competition. We want to mention that the trolley is nearly new as we have used it twice to conduct the review and you should be aware of this when entering. We have taken care of it, honestly and it will come completely boxed up. The bag is totally new and unused except for sitting on the trolley to take the top picture above.
Win the nearly new S1 electric trolley & Club Series bag from Motocaddy
Final Score
I liked the simplicity of the trolley in terms of load and go. If you don't have a locker at the club its space saving and easily transportable. The battery and motor are extremely powerful and its great to be able to charge the battery whilst in situ. The trolley was easy to drive and I liked the sturdy handlebars.
It's expensive but definitely a long-term investment.