Martin Hopley
By

The PowerBug Lite trolley is their entry level model that includes a whole host of features for a competitive price.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

It uses the same aircraft grade aluminium frame that has been on the GT range of trolleys for around 3 years now, so the £50 saving in price is because the lithium battery is the larger Lite version.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

At 2.2kg this is around twice the weight of the compact Mini lithium battery on the GT, but it still feels light as it is around the same weight as similar sized batteries in the market. The other difference is that the Lite lithium battery only comes with a 2 year warranty, whereas the Mini comes with 3 years. I particularly like the handles on the battery cover to make carrying and lifting the battery easier.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

The battery fits nice and snuggly into the tray so it is secure and once plugged in helps to power the 200W motor easily for 18 holes.

The frame of the PowerBug Lite is about the usual size for an electric trolley when folded and it seemed lighter than most to lift up and put in the boot.

When folded you will probably have to store it leaning against a wall or flat with the wheels on the ground as the Lite did not really have a balance point for it to sit vertically for those who might be storing it in their garage, although its Leaning Tower of Pisa impression gets full marks.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

To unfold you pull the holding clip in the centre back and then lift up the wishbone shaped rear support and unfold the main crossbar.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

You have to unfold the crossbar until it is straight and then insert the join into the connector on the wishbone, which is simple enough, but requires a bit of space to do and is not as slick to get up and down as some models.

After that you pull down the bag rests and use the elasticated bungee cords to secure your bag on the Lite trolley. It can accommodate most sizes of bags, although a tour bag would need to be placed sideways rather than front on.

There is a master on/off switch under the handle, but I am not sure how much you will need to use it as the click button on the top controls the power to the motor.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

The trolley is easy to manoeuvre and the oval plastic handle with a matt grip section is comfy to hold.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

Click the button on top once to start and turn to increase power. The button is reasonably compact and maybe recessed a little too much into the front of the handle, so the ergonomics mean that this is more of an index finger control than a thumb control. It is easy enough to use with one hand whilst holding the handle, although you may need man sized hands to cross the gap.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

What makes the Lite stand out is that it comes with an automatic distance function that PowerBug has branded VRAP or Variable Run And Park. This sounds like they came up with the acronym first, but whatever it's called, it allows you to send the Lite set distances of up to 50 yards in 10 yard increments before it comes to a stop.

This is for sending the trolley to the next tee whilst you putt out and is one of my favourite trolley features and normally you have to go up the product range in order to get this, so this is another tick for the Lite.

The medium width plastic wheels have good tread on them that could look a bit more premium, but they perform well and can be pulled out a notch to enable the Lite to freewheel if for any reason the power goes.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

The front wheel features an easy to adjust system that is on most leading trolleys now that means you can adjust the alignment if required to ensure it runs straight without having to get the screwdriver out.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

However price point is really why the Lite exists and in terms of value for money, the PowerBug does deliver. Not only do you get a lithium battery with automatic distance function, but accessory holders for a bottle and an umbrella are also included, plus wheel covers to keep the boot of your car clean.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

PowerBug Lite Trolley

It is great so see a manufacturer include an umbrella holder as that is one of the must have accessories for me, especially as this version does not get in the way when you fold the trolley down.

The trolley companies do very well out of accessory purchases, and there are more you can get for the Lite such as a device holder, so the £55 worth of accessories that are included makes the PowerBug Lite offering very attractive.

PowerBug Lite Trolley

The frame could be a little easier to assemble as moving the long crossbar around takes some getting used to and I might be tempted to go for the GT for the Mini battery for a smaller size if you travel around a lot, but you would then have to pay extra for the accessories if you wanted them.

However if you want a well spec'd, easy to use and value for money trolley, it's hard to look past the PowerBug Lite as it is well put together and manages to offer a good looking and functional trolley with a couple of nice extras like the VRAP to make it stand out from the others at the entry level of the market.

Golfalot Rating: 4 stars
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PowerBug Lite Golf Trolley

PowerBug Lite Golf Trolley - Product Details

UK LaunchApril 2018
UK Launch RRP£349
GolferMens, Women
Trolley TypeElectric
Wheels3
Wheelbase56 cm
Motor Power200 Watt
MaterialAluminium
Dimensions OpenWidth: 56cm, Height: 93cm, Depth: 84cm
Dimensions FoldedWidth: 56cm, Height: 33.5cm, Depth: 84cm
Weight With Battery11.1kg
Weight Without Battery8.9kg
Colour Options: Black, White
Manufacturer's WebsitePowerBug Website

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