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How Fast Do Golf Carts Go?

Editorial Team
Editorial Team
how fast do golf carts go

Golf courses all over the world use golf carts, which are small vehicles that can accommodate two to four people. Although gasoline or diesel engines are also capable of powering them, an electric motor typically does. Several golf carts are available, including utility carts that allow for more cargo space and luxury models with added features such as climate control and stereo systems.

Golf carts provide a convenient way to get around a course while providing some leisurely activity. Also, they're a lot of fun to drive!

Learn all about golf carts, including how fast they can go and how to stay safe. To maximize your time on the course, practice at home with the best indoor putting green

The Top Speed of a Golf Cart

The weight of the vehicle, its load, battery voltage, motor size and power, wheel diameter, and tire pressure are just a few of the variables that can affect a golf cart's speed. The gross weight of those in the cart also plays a role in the top speed of a golf cart. And, of course, there's the terrain.

Most electric golf carts can reach 20 to 24 miles per hour. Of course, a higher-power motor can make a cart go even faster. Gas-powered golf carts are slower, with their average speeds closer to 18 to 20 miles per hour.

Golf cart owners should know that putting too much weight on their cart or going faster than the recommended top speed can hurt its performance or cause it to break down because it puts too much stress on parts like the motor or batteries. To ensure safe operation, users should always read the manufacturer's instructions before operating any electric golf cart to understand its capabilities and limitations regarding speed and acceleration levels based on the conditions present at any given time.

Safety Tips for Driving a Golf Cart 

Regarding safety, proper tire pressure is essential for a golf cart. Under or overinflated tires can affect the handling and stability of the vehicle, making it more challenging to maneuver and control. Before each outing, users should ensure that all four tires are inflated to their manufacturer’s recommended PSI (pounds per square inch).

Regular maintenance is also vital to the safe operation of a golf cart. This includes checking for any signs of wear on parts such as brakes and motors and regularly inspecting batteries for leaks or corrosion buildup. During routine maintenance checks, if any problems are found, they should be fixed right away by a qualified technician to avoid equipment breakdowns or accidents caused by broken equipment.

Golf Cart Modifications

Adding high-speed motors to golf carts is a common way for people to improve the performance of their vehicles. High-speed motors run on higher voltage and typically reach speeds close to 30 mph, depending on course conditions and weight. This can be especially useful for those who want to use their cart as a primary mode of transportation around town or in residential areas where other vehicles may be present—or get from one hole to another quickly.

When making changes to golf carts, it is also important to choose the right wheels for better traction. Off-road tires provide greater grip than standard street tires, which can help improve traction on uneven or wet surfaces like grassy hills or dirt roads. These tires also offer better shock absorption when driving over bumps or potholes, which helps reduce strain on parts like the suspension system and drivetrain components while providing smoother rides overall. Also, bigger wheels tend to have less rolling resistance than smaller ones, so the motor doesn't have to work as hard to keep them moving at higher speeds.

Gas vs Electric Golf Carts

Whether you choose a gas or an electric golf cart, you should know the different factors that come with each.

Cost

The cost of a golf cart is quite diverse, depending on the year, model, accessories added, condition of the cart, and more. Generally speaking, though, you can expect to pay up to $1,000 more for a gas-powered golf cart than an electric one.

Run Time

An average gas tank for a gas cart will offer you up to 120 miles, while electric carts can go anywhere from 30 to 40 miles on one charge.

Speed and Performance

As mentioned, electric carts can run from 20 to 24 mph right out of the box, while a gas cart can run up to 18 to 20 mph. There are a few speed upgrades you can do for a gas cart.

Modern 48-volt electric carts have more torque, if you need power, than gas models. However, if your cart will be put under heavy loads regularly, it might be better for you to invest in a gas model instead.

Reliability

Both electric and gas carts are incredibly reliable, yet the more modern electrics tend to last longer than their fuel counterparts. The number of parts on an electric cart is far fewer than a gas one, with only batteries and a few other components. In contrast, a gasoline model contains clutches, carburetors, pumps for fuel delivery systems, belts, valves for adjusting air-to-fuel ratios in the engine cylinders - and starters that get worn out over time.

Final Thoughts

Overall, deciding which golf cart type to choose comes down to personal preference. If speed is your primary choice, electric is the way to go. No matter what kind of golf cart you decide on, it's essential to keep up with regular checkups and inspections so that all components remain in good condition for safe operation.

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