Mid-Handicap golfer who loves to share his rounds and experiences playing courses all around the UK in a hope that it will help others find those hidden gem golf courses.
I seek out golf courses that don’t get the credit they deserve and are often overlooked for the bigger more well known ones.
Golf carts are a common mode of transportation on golf courses and have evolved from being just a means of getting around the course to being used in various other settings. But, how fast can they go?
The speed of a golf cart can vary based on the model and terrain, but on average, most golf carts can reach speeds between 15 to 25 miles per hour.
How Fast Can a Golf Cart Go
The speed of a golf cart can range from 15 to 25 miles per hour, depending on factors such as the power source and whether it has been modified.
Golf carts, a common sight on golf courses and large properties, have speeds that vary based on several factors.
The standard electric golf cart generally reaches speeds of 12 to 14 miles per hour, whilst gas-powered golf carts can reach around 19 miles per hour.
However, with modifications such as speed codes, chips, or motor upgrades, some golf carts can reach up to 20 to 25 miles per hour.
It’s important to note that exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour may require the golf cart to be street-legal in some jurisdictions. Regardless of the speed, safety should always be the top priority when operating a golf cart.
Can I Increase The Speed of My Golf Cart?
Increasing the speed of your golf cart is indeed possible, though it often involves modifications to the motor or battery, and should always be done with safety in mind.
To increase the speed of a golf cart, owners often turn to modifications such as enhancing the motor, upgrading the battery, or changing the gear ratio.
For electric golf carts, one common approach is to use a higher voltage battery, which can provide more power and thus increase speed.
Read next – How Long Does a Golf Cart Battery Last?
Alternatively, the motor can be swapped for a more powerful one. For gas-powered golf carts, alterations to the governor or carburettor can help boost speed.
Changing the gear ratio is another method that can be used for both types of golf carts.
Though these modifications can increase speed, it’s vital to remember that they may also require additional changes to ensure the golf cart remains safe and stable at higher speeds.
Gas vs Electric: Which Type of Golf Cart Is Faster?
When comparing speed capabilities, gas-powered golf carts generally tend to be faster than their electric counterparts.
Gas-Powered Golf Carts
Gas-powered golf carts are often favoured for their speed and performance.
They generate more horsepower, usually around three times as much as electric golf carts, which allows them to perform better, especially on rougher terrains.
This extra power also enables gas golf carts to pull heavier loads, making them a popular choice for tasks that require hauling or towing.
However, it’s important to note that their speed and power come with increased noise and emissions.
Electric Golf Carts
Electric golf carts, while typically not as fast as gas-powered carts, do offer certain advantages. They run more smoothly and quietly, providing a near-silent operation that many users appreciate.
In terms of start-up acceleration and downhill slowing, electric golf carts often outperform gas carts. Additionally, their top speeds can be impressive in many cases, especially when modifications are made.
As a bonus, electric golf carts produce zero emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.
Find out – How Much Is a Golf Cart?
Are Golf Carts Street Legal?
In the United Kingdom, golf carts are generally not considered street legal unless they meet certain stringent requirements.
Under UK law, golf carts cannot simply be taken from the golf course to the road.
They are not designed with the necessary safety features or lighting suitable for night driving, making them unfit for general road use.
However, there is a possibility for a golf cart to be driven on certain UK streets, provided they meet all of the necessary requirements. This includes having a driver’s licence, and ensuring the golf cart is registered, licensed, and insured.
Moreover, the golf cart would need to be equipped with specific safety features such as rearview and side mirrors.
Despite these provisions, the standard golf cart as we know it is still largely unsuitable for public roads due to its design and construction limitations.
Therefore, unless a golf cart has been significantly modified to meet all legal and safety requirements, it remains primarily purposed for use on golf courses in the UK.
FAQs
Q: What are some popular golf cart brands?
A: Some popular golf cart brands include Club Car, Yamaha, and EZGO. These brands are well-known for their durability and performance.
Q: Can a golf cart go faster than its default speed?
A: Yes, it is possible to increase the speed of a golf cart through modifications or by using speed codes. However, it is important to note that modifying the speed of a golf cart can impact its safety and warranty.
Q: Is a gas-powered golf cart faster than an electric one?
A: In general, gas-powered golf carts tend to have higher top speeds compared to electric golf carts. However, electric golf carts are more energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly.
Q: What is the fastest golf cart in the world?
A: The world’s fastest golf cart has achieved speeds of over 100 miles per hour. However, this is a custom-built golf cart and not something you would typically find on a golf course.
Q: Are there speed restrictions for golf carts?
A: Yes, there are speed restrictions for golf carts, especially on public roads and golf courses. Many golf carts come with speed codes that limit their maximum speed for safety reasons.
Q: How fast can a street legal golf cart go?
A: Street legal golf carts are typically set to a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour. This allows them to be used on public roads where the speed limit is lower.
Q: Can I modify my golf cart to go faster?
A: Yes, it is possible to modify your golf cart to go faster. This can include upgrading the motor, changing the gear ratio, or making other modifications. However, it is important to ensure that any modifications comply with local laws and do not compromise safety.
Q: What is the average speed of a golf cart?
A: The average speed of a golf cart is typically around 12 to 15 miles per hour. This speed is designed for safe operation on golf courses and other designated areas.
Q: Can I customize my golf cart to increase its speed?
A: Yes, you can customize your golf cart to increase its speed. This can be done through modifications such as upgrading the motor, installing a higher voltage battery pack, or making aerodynamic changes. However, it is important to consider the impact on safety and warranty of the vehicle.
In Conclusion
The maximum speed of a golf cart depends on the type and model.
While some models can reach speeds up to 25 mph, others have a top speed of only 15 mph.
However, it is important to always follow local laws and regulations when operating a golf cart on public roads or courses.
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