Golf Club Atlas

GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture => Topic started by: Sean_A on July 26, 2011, 09:43:36 AM

Title: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Sean_A on July 26, 2011, 09:43:36 AM
I am thinking of breaking down and buying a zimmer frame for golfers.  What are the pros and cons of each brand?

Ciao
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Brent Hutto on July 26, 2011, 09:49:26 AM
A few guys I play with have the Clicgear and they look pretty cool. But the other day I picked one up (empty, no bag on it) and it seemed way heavier than my Sun Mountain. Both types are pretty bulky even when folded up although supposedly the Clicgear folds easier.

Given that I've owned two Sun Mountain speedcarts and liked them fine for my part I'd stick with that brand unless there's a compelling reason to change.

The one thing I purely hated about my original Sun Mountain one was the pump-air pneumatic tires (tyres?). There is no way I want to be held hostage to a flat when I'm a mile from the clubhouse out on the golf course somewhere. So I got rid of it after a few hundred rounds of good service and bought a BagBoy brand. It literally broke in two one day while I was pushing it up a hill, the handle part broke off right where it attaches to the frame and the cart only had maybe 150 rounds on it. Stay away from the BagBoy one.

So now I'm about 100 rounds into a Speedcart V2 with the solid foam rubber tires. It does have a bit more rolling resistance than bicycle type tires but I can't abide having to pump air into them when they go flat.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Sam Morrow on July 26, 2011, 10:15:46 AM
I played with a guy recently who had the Clicgear and loved it. I am very down on Sun Mountain though, my GCA bag (I've had for just a few months) is falling apart and when I contacted Sun Mountain they didn't seem to care.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Kirk Moon on July 26, 2011, 10:43:28 AM
I have owned both a Sun Mountain Speed Cart V2 and a Clicgear 3.

They are both excellent carts.  You would be happy with either one.

Differentiators:

Sun Mountain is easier to fold and unfold.  The price you pay for this is that it is larger when folded.  If you have small car with a small trunk, this might be important.  If you have a large vehicle (SUV, for instance) the difference is unimportant.  

The Sun Mountain holds the bag at a more reclined angle than the Clicgear.  It does this because it doesn't employ straps to hold the bag on the cart.  It uses adjustable arms that cradle the bag and that rely on gravity to keep it in place.  As a result, the clubs are hanging at a slighly less inclined angle to the ground (closer to horizontal) than on the Clicgear, making it very slightly harder to get at them.  Not a big deal, but something that bothered me a bit.

Neither use pneumatic tires, but the Sun Mountain tire is an otherwise standard looking tire - relatively narrow.  I believe that it is made of foam.  The Clicgear tire is a broad (perhaps 2" wide) surface covered with a thin layer of rubber.  I would imagine that the Clicgear has a larger surface area on the ground, which would tend to produce less weight per area in contact with the ground.  Difference would not be great, however.  I didn't find much difference between them when traversing boggy areas.

The Sun Mountain had a nice sling for putting a sweater or other item under the handle the the Clicgear doesn't have (because of the way it folds up.)  

Beyond that, its a draw.  Both have enough storage for whatever you might want to take.  Both have a decent brake.  Both steer true.  The Clicgear has a few more options than the Sun Mountain (things to hang off the cart, like a container for your laser, an insulated drink holder, etc.  The Sun Mountain has an option for a footstool attached to a leg if you want to sit (I have no idea if this works well or not.)
Both have nice umbrella holders that attach to the handle for rainy days and they work quite well.

I ended up giving my Sun Mountain to a friend and am using the Clicgear, mostly because of the "angle of the dangle" mentioned above, but every time I unfold and fold up the Clicgear I am muttering to myself about how nice the Sun Mountain was.  

Hope this helps.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Mike Benham on July 26, 2011, 11:50:37 AM

I suggest the Sun Mountain Micro Cart. 

Stable,4 wide wheels, rolls effortlessly, is very compact in the folded position.



http://www.sunmountain.com/default.php?cPath=3471_3551_3385 (http://www.sunmountain.com/default.php?cPath=3471_3551_3385)

(http://www.sunmountain.com/images/G060013.PNG)
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: A.G._Crockett on July 26, 2011, 01:05:11 PM
Sean,
I've owned both; Clic Gear, hands down.  No contest.

1. The Clic folds down to approx. 2' square and stays in my trunk all the time.  The SM is huge by comparison, like adding a staff bag to your trunk.

2. The Clic is much, much more stable, and never falls over backward onto the handle; the SM does that routinely.

3. The Clic's handle seems to adjust more readily to different heights; helpful when you use the umbrella attachment.

The only advantage of the SM is that it is faster, and that only becomes interesting if you let it go on its own downhill.  Unfortunately, that is also when #2 above becomes an issue.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: J Sadowsky on July 26, 2011, 01:08:25 PM
Just to add into the praise for clicgear, I received one as a gift a few years ago, and I love it.  Because of the way it folds into a little robotic-looking box, it has been given the nickname WallE.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Garland Bayley on July 26, 2011, 01:15:48 PM
It is my understanding that the new Sun Mountain folds smaller than the Clicgear.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Mike Benham on July 26, 2011, 01:57:49 PM

Speed Cart V2:  15.75" x 16" x 37"     20 lbs.

Clic Gear:  13" x 15" x 24"   17 lbs.

Sun Mountain Micro Cart:  12" x 16" x 24.5"     12.5 lbs. 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Mark Provenzano on July 26, 2011, 05:21:19 PM
I own both a Clicgear 2.0 and 3.0, no issues. Couldn't be happier.

With a new-in-box 2.0 going for $129 + shipping on ebay, it's money well spent. 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Keith Doleshel on July 26, 2011, 07:49:10 PM
Take from someone who has worked in a golf shop for nearly 5 years now, Clicgear is the way to go.  I know many people who have had issues with Sun Mountain and wished that they had purchased a Clicgear.  Most of my co-workers who have purchased a cart have gone with Clicgear with no regrets. 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Mark Johnson on July 26, 2011, 10:04:53 PM
If u have a light bag, then clicgear by far.  Sn mountain will have a tipping problem.  For heavier bags, its a toss up
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: A.G._Crockett on July 27, 2011, 09:11:46 AM
It is my understanding that the new Sun Mountain folds smaller than the Clicgear.


The Micro does.  The V2 Speed Cart does not.  If there is a newer version of the Speed Cart that folds smaller, I can't find it on the SM website, and haven't seen it in the PGA Superstore.

I'll say it again: Having owned both, there is NO comparison.  That is NOT a knock on the Speed Cart, which is a very good product.  But the Clic Gear is cheaper, more stable, sturdier, folds up smaller, etc.  It is in every way superior to the SM.  It is as well-engineered as any product I have ever owned, golf or otherwise.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Ken Kearney on July 27, 2011, 09:26:37 AM
Clicgear...
I bought one last Christmas for my wife and it is absolutely brilliant. I purchased online and delivered in a few day. She moved from a battery powered cart to the clicgear.
Highly recommended by an "astute" golfer...


KK
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Mark Pearce on July 27, 2011, 09:49:52 AM
Sean,

have you dismissed Powakaddy?  Their pull product is a fair bit vheaper and strikes me as reasonably bell made (Disclaimer:  I don't own one, nor have I used one)
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Jerry Kluger on July 27, 2011, 10:09:31 AM
My club compromised about pushcarts and decided to have Sun Mountain Speed Carts available for members - we've had them for 3 years and they are used daily by members and have held up really well.  Our concern was ease of use and durability and we were not concerned about how they folded. 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Brent Hutto on July 27, 2011, 10:45:05 AM
What was the nature of the compromise, Jerry? If it's not too nosy for me to ask. Was there previously a policy against push carts?
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Brian Finn on July 27, 2011, 10:51:37 AM
Take from someone who has worked in a golf shop for nearly 5 years now, Clicgear is the way to go.  I know many people who have had issues with Sun Mountain and wished that they had purchased a Clicgear.  Most of my co-workers who have purchased a cart have gone with Clicgear with no regrets. 

I received similar advice from someone at a local golf shop, and as a result I purchased a Clicgear 2.0 about 2 years ago.  I have since recommended it to many friends, all of whom are very happy with it.  I have not heard many negative comments from anyone on the Clicgear. 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Jerry Kluger on July 27, 2011, 11:06:57 AM
Brent: There were some members who did not want pushcarts while others didn't care so it was agreed that pushcarts would be okay but they wanted them to be uniform so the club purchased the carts and rents them to the members for $5 per round.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Kirk Moon on July 27, 2011, 11:45:30 AM
What was the nature of the compromise, Jerry? If it's not too nosy for me to ask. Was there previously a policy against push carts?
Speaking of which, can anyone enlighten me as to why so many private clubs still do not allow the use of push carts? 

They strike me as the perfect tool to encourage a player who is perhaps just a bit too old and/or out of shape to carry their clubs and who does not wish to employ a caddie (for various reasons) to walk the course.  IMHO, anything that encourages walking the course should be embraced as a good thing.

Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: David_Tepper on July 27, 2011, 11:53:55 AM
"Speaking of which, can anyone enlighten me as to why so many private clubs still do not allow the use of push carts?"

Kirk Moon -

Your comments have touched a nerve! Over the past few years, a number of the "better" private clubs in Northern California have purchased fleets of push carts for the members and guests to use, which I think is great. Unfortunately, there are still a few hold outs and one of them is where I play some of my golf.

I wish I had a definitive answer for you. I think push carts are still viewed in some quarters as being a little too "down market" and smacking of muni golf. It really is a shame.

DT    
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Adam Lawrence on July 27, 2011, 11:59:47 AM
"Speaking of which, can anyone enlighten me as to why so many private clubs still do not allow the use of push carts?"

Kirk Moon -

You comments have touched a nerve! Over the past few years, a number of the "better" private clubs in Northern California have purchased fleets of push carts for the members and guests to use, which I think is great. Unfortunately, there are still a few hold outs and one of them is where I play some of my golf.

I wish I had a definitive answer for you. I think push carts are still viewed in some quarters as being a little too "down market" and smacking of muni golf. It really is a shame.

DT   

I know that's the case, but can someone explain to me why it is so? I know I'm looking at this through UK eyes, but it seems barking. Because gentlemen take caddies?
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: David_Tepper on July 27, 2011, 12:05:03 PM
Adam Lawrence  -

I think private club golf culture in the U.S. (especially at the higher status private clubs) evolved where one either took a caddie, carried their own bag or rode in a cart (buggy). Somehow, push carts (trolleys) became identified with "down market" golf and that stigma still exists. I wish it were not the case.

DT
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Lou_Duran on July 27, 2011, 12:12:49 PM
At Great Southwest Golf Club, a "proleteriat", low-cost private, non-equity golf club where I was a member for 23+ years until the mid-2000s, push carts were prohibited allegedly because they conveyed a "muni" look.  I once posted pictures of the Rikshaw carts being pulled across the greens at Bandon Dunes and a list of world-class golf courses allowing the use of pullcarts on the bulletin board in the men's lockerroom and they were promptly pulled off by course management.  The primary reason that clubs don't allow pushcarts is the bottom line, profit, not the image they project.  A secondary reason is speed of play, an argument that has been rehashed here numerous times and not worthy of further discussion.

I'd like to get an inexpensive ClipGear, but so few people I play with anymore locally walk that I just carry my bag most of the time on the few occasions when I get to do it.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Brent Hutto on July 27, 2011, 12:13:13 PM
I am not saying this is true because I wasn't around back when riding carts were taking over the scene a few decades back. But purely as a disinterested observer here's what I can reconstruct of the history based on hand-me-down accounts...

At private clubs mid-20th-century the norm was to use caddies. A riding cart was viewed as a low-class, cheaper replacement for the caddie. Eventually the riding carts became so popular that most clubs could not keep their members from demanding to use them. So at some point the clubs bought fleets of carts and rented them to the members as a (considerable) income stream that also satisfied the demand for carts from the members.

Now along come the popular three-wheel trolleys. They are viewed as a low-class, cheaper replacement for the riding cart as well as for caddies at the clubs which still offer them. Some clubs insist that trolleys not be used but eventually the demand from their members becomes so great that they buy fleets of trolleys and rent them to the members as a (small) income stream that also satisfies the demand for them from the membership.

Is this anywhere close to the reality? Or just what it looks like from a distance?
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Kirk Moon on July 27, 2011, 12:31:47 PM
"Speaking of which, can anyone enlighten me as to why so many private clubs still do not allow the use of push carts?"

Kirk Moon -

You comments have touched a nerve! Over the past few years, a number of the "better" private clubs in Northern California have purchased fleets of push carts for the members and guests to use, which I think is great. Unfortunately, there are still a few hold outs and one of them is where I play some of my golf.

I wish I had a definitive answer for you. I think push carts are still viewed in some quarters as being a little too "down market" and smacking of muni golf. It really is a shame.

DT    
Thanks David. I can see this is a somewhat hot topic here in the US.  It is a shame.  (Edit: I searched and found this thread -  http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,39230.35.html (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,39230.35.html) - devoted to the topic, so I can see that it has been hashed out before.  Apologies for the replay.)

I imagine that I am a not uncommon demographic in golf.  I'm 60.  A bit overweight.  Out of shape.  I play golf in part to get low level aerobic exercise in hopes of altering the aforementioned traits.  

I don't want to take an electric cart.  It defeats one of my main goals for playing.  

I would be happy to carry, but I am just not able to do it without becoming fatigued enough that my game starts falling apart on the back nine (perhaps some day this will not be a problem, but at the present time it is my reality.)  

I don't particularly want to hire a caddie for several reasons: 1) they aren't readily available, 2) I don't really want or need whatever information they might wish to impart to me - I like thinking for myself, 3) I don't want the added complexity of having to deal with managing a relationship with a stranger on the course when all I really want to do is get out and play and, 4) it adds a significant expense to the game that I don't wish to incur in order to walk the course.

In my experience, people (and institutions) that are very confident and comfortable with their status are less concerned with "maintaining an image" and do not find it necessary to create artificial barriers to separate themselves from the "riff raff".  An artificial defense of prestige smacks of insecurity, IMHO.  

The financial argument about electric carts vs. walking is understandable, but somewhat perverse.  I would like to think that private clubs, in particular, exist to meet the needs of their membership.  If my needs and desires (particularly when they are not unreasonable or irrational) cannot be met by the club because of perverse financial incentives or image related concerns, why would I want to be a member of that club?  

The speed argument seems specious to me for reasons stated above.  It is the player's speed of play, not the mode of transportation, that defines the overall speed of play.

BTW, in our area I notice that the Cal Club has its own fleet of push carts for the member's use.  The O Club won't allow them.  Not sure, but I think SFGC also doesn't allow them.  I commend the Cal Club for what I guess passes for "forward thinking" in this day and age.  

Shabby chic rules. Push carts now!  Denim next!   : )
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: JMEvensky on July 27, 2011, 12:39:07 PM
I am not saying this is true because I wasn't around back when riding carts were taking over the scene a few decades back. But purely as a disinterested observer here's what I can reconstruct of the history based on hand-me-down accounts...

At private clubs mid-20th-century the norm was to use caddies. A riding cart was viewed as a low-class, cheaper replacement for the caddie. Eventually the riding carts became so popular that most clubs could not keep their members from demanding to use them. So at some point the clubs bought fleets of carts and rented them to the members as a (considerable) income stream that also satisfied the demand for carts from the members.

Now along come the popular three-wheel trolleys. They are viewed as a low-class, cheaper replacement for the riding cart as well as for caddies at the clubs which still offer them. Some clubs insist that trolleys not be used but eventually the demand from their members becomes so great that they buy fleets of trolleys and rent them to the members as a (small) income stream that also satisfies the demand for them from the membership.

Is this anywhere close to the reality? Or just what it looks like from a distance?

A pretty good synopsis.

I'd add only that pull carts were always seen at muni's and are still associated with them.Also,what Lou Duran said about the club revenue from carts can't be exaggerated.Clubs' entire annual budgets are now reliant on cart fees.To alter this is uncharted territory and nobody wants to go there.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: David_Tepper on July 27, 2011, 12:43:41 PM
Kirk Moon -

I agree with just about everything you say and you have summed up the situation pretty well. The Cal Club, Lake Merced, Monterey Peninsula CC and Sonoma here in NorCal have all made push carts available over the past few years. Regrettably, there are still holdouts.

I am 62 and still carry, but there are times when I would like to have the option of pushing a 3-wheeler if I was in the mood to do so.

DT    
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Kirk Moon on July 27, 2011, 01:00:03 PM
Kirk Moon -

I agree with just about everything you say and you have summed up the situation pretty well. The Cal Club, Lake Merced, Monterey Peninsula CC and Sonoma here in NorCal have all made push carts available over the past few years. Regrettably, there are still holdouts.

I am 62 and still carry, but there are times when I would like to have the option of pushing a 3-wheeler if I was in the mood to do so.

DT    
Good to know about Lake Merced, MPCC and Sonoma.  Thanks.

BTW, it was not my intention to bash on caddies.  In some circumstances they are invaluable.  And fun.  I just don't think it is reasonable to be forced to use them simply because push carts are not an option, particularly when the option is excluded for what appear to be relatively indefensible reasons.  It's all about choice.  When paying an arm and a leg to belong to a private golf club, choice would seem to be a reasonable expectation.   
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Brent Hutto on July 27, 2011, 01:12:12 PM
I would like to think that private clubs, in particular, exist to meet the needs of their membership.

The needs of the walking membership, the cart-riding membership or the non-golf-playing membership. My club has no problem with push carts so I shouldn't even be involved in this discussion but our membership is probably roughly 1/3 each of those three groups.

The non-golfers like people renting carts because it provides more money to subsidize the dining room and various social functions.

The cart riders don't seem to mind (much) paying their fees.

So that leaves us walkers to be viewed as free loaders by 2/3 of the club. And don't believe for a moment that they think anything else. Various "fees" and punitive "minimums" have been tried at times to equalize what the "other 2/3" thinks is our lack of contribution to the club's bottom line. None are satisfactory to the "other 2/3" (because they don't actually generate a significant amount of income) yet all of them piss off the most vocal of the walkers.

Me, I don't much care. I just pay the damned bill when it comes every month, show up and play golf, have lunch and go home. But the "needs of the membership" can not be defined by any one point of view, alas.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Kirk Moon on July 27, 2011, 01:25:03 PM
I would like to think that private clubs, in particular, exist to meet the needs of their membership.

The needs of the walking membership, the cart-riding membership or the non-golf-playing membership. My club has no problem with push carts so I shouldn't even be involved in this discussion but our membership is probably roughly 1/3 each of those three groups.

The non-golfers like people renting carts because it provides more money to subsidize the dining room and various social functions.

The cart riders don't seem to mind (much) paying their fees.

So that leaves us walkers to be viewed as free loaders by 2/3 of the club. And don't believe for a moment that they think anything else. Various "fees" and punitive "minimums" have been tried at times to equalize what the "other 2/3" thinks is our lack of contribution to the club's bottom line. None are satisfactory to the "other 2/3" (because they don't actually generate a significant amount of income) yet all of them piss off the most vocal of the walkers.

Me, I don't much care. I just pay the damned bill when it comes every month, show up and play golf, have lunch and go home. But the "needs of the membership" can not be defined by any one point of view, alas.
Enlightening.  Thank you.  I am in the process of looking for a club to join.  The one I am currently most interested in is a pure golf club that doesn't have social members (no pool, no tennis, no sun for that matter!).  It also happens to be one that allows push carts. I imagine that this is no coincidence. 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Jerry Kluger on July 27, 2011, 02:00:16 PM
I tried to get my club to consider electric hand carts to help those who want to walk but find some of the hills on #s17 and 18 really tough to push a cart up but they didn't want to spend the money.  So far as pushcarts go I think the stigma has passed at many clubs and more and more of our members are using them - I am still able to carry my bag.  I must admit that I am still a bit of a traditionalist, although some may call it a snob, when I find it in bad taste to change your shoes in the parking lot at a private club where every member must have a locker.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Brent Hutto on July 27, 2011, 02:06:16 PM
What do I know, I change my shoes at home before I leave to drive to the course!
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: JMEvensky on July 27, 2011, 02:18:57 PM

I must admit that I am still a bit of a traditionalist, although some may call it a snob, when I find it in bad taste to change your shoes in the parking lot at a private club where every member must have a locker.


I understand your point--one man's traditionalist is another's snob.

Here's the problem,IMO.You and I don't like to see guys changing shoes in the parking lot.Someone else finds wearing hats indoors classless.Same for denim and/or having your shirt untucked.

Back in the day,all of these "rules" and a million others were never questioned.This was just the way one acted at a private club.I'm not saying this was good or bad--just the way it was.

Now,pull carts are part of this generation war.To some,they scream "muni".To others,they represent one of the great joys of golf--walking.Neither side will ever convert the other.

It's tough to remain a traditionalist (snob) when clubs try to be everything to every member.Every member wants his own set of rules--and few clubs are willing to draw a line.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Jerry Kluger on July 27, 2011, 02:37:10 PM
I still believe that you should be courteous to others and if they would prefer that you act in a certain way then you should do what you can not to offend them - clubs have rules which can be changed but until they are it is best if everyone conforms to those rules otherwise each member will decide which rules to follow and which ones to not follow.  I believe that if you proposed that all rules of etiquette will be dispensed with at your club the vast majority would not find that acceptable.   
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: JMEvensky on July 27, 2011, 02:49:46 PM

I still believe that you should be courteous to others and if they would prefer that you act in a certain way then you should do what you can not to offend them - clubs have rules which can be changed but until they are it is best if everyone conforms to those rules otherwise each member will decide which rules to follow and which ones to not follow.  I believe that if you proposed that all rules of etiquette will be dispensed with at your club the vast majority would not find that acceptable.   


I agree completely.

I don't necessarily think the problem is with the members--the problem is with the clubs and their Boards.What seems to happen is that a few members don't like "this" rule--so rather than run the risk of a few resignations,a club changes the rule.Another few then don't like "that" rule,and the process repeats.

You end up with a million and one opinions of what constitutes that which is/isn't important.Nobody is really happy but nobody has resigned over what they consider a stupid,anachronistic rule.

The problem is that there's always somebody who thinks that some rule is stupid and anachronistic--and they're not shy about sharing their opinion.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Ken Moum on July 27, 2011, 04:31:59 PM
FWIW, when my wife and I moved to Topeka in 1998, one of the main criteria for choosing aplace to play was whether or not walking was allowed, and whether or not they'd allow her to use her electric motorcaddy.

The course we chose had a lot of other things going for it, but the fact that she saw several people walking with such devices on her first exploratory trip to teh course was a huge relief--because we wanted to join this club anyway.

Now we both use them, as do a number of others here, and the number of push carts sometimes amazes even me.

Back on topic, in addition to my Powakaddy, I have used a Sun Mountain V1 and V2, and pushed a Clic 3.0 at Prairie Dunes for two rounds. I also fooled around a bit with a friend's Sun Mountain Mini.

Given the furnace-like heat around Kansas these days, I find the umbrella option great, and use it with a Sun Mountain silver, UV umbrella to great effect.  But on all of them, the water-carrying equipment is horrible.  The Clic was the worst of all, dumping my water out when I needed it the most, on the back nine.

On my Powakaddy, I installed the sand bottle holders from one of these, now I can carry a quart water bottle, and a sand bottle.

(http://www.bagboycompany.com/images/product/large/20_1_.jpg)

Sadly, there's no way to install one on a pushcart.

Nevertheless, having pushed them all, I'd most likely buy a SM mini.

I would, however, love to see one of these new Bag Boys in operation.

(http://www.bagboycompany.com/images/product/large/85_1_yellow.jpg)
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Kalen Braley on July 27, 2011, 04:51:10 PM
Its funny how these sights on the golf course can be "OK"

(http://www.ssqq.com/stories/images/golfer%2002.jpg)

(http://thestevesgolfblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/steves-golf-swing-11.jpg)

(http://www.brobible.com/files/images/buzz/barkley-golf.jpg)

(http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/371/654/103328181_display_image.jpg?1283303111)



But yet, this is "Not OK":   ;)

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ooUKrvWNsQQ/Sigf6pcDaAI/AAAAAAAAAEs/j7yYqpzmIpU/s320/golf+push+cart.jpg)
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Garland Bayley on July 27, 2011, 07:03:54 PM
...
I'd like to get an inexpensive ClipGear, but so few people I play with anymore locally walk that I just carry my bag most of the time on the few occasions when I get to do it.

So why do you play a course if they won't let you walk?
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Lou_Duran on July 28, 2011, 10:02:05 AM
...
I'd like to get an inexpensive ClipGear, but so few people I play with anymore locally walk that I just carry my bag most of the time on the few occasions when I get to do it.

So why do you play a course if they won't let you walk?


At Great Southwest, after so many years of being an important part of my life, I quit playing tournaments and social events that required riding carts.  Being that golf is such a social endeavor and nearly all in my once very large group had either acquiesced or left, it took a few years, but I left the club.

Today, it is too awkward playing with friends and being the only walker in a foursome.  Though walking is an integral part of golf for me, it is obviously not for the vast majority of golfers.   And whether we want to admit it or not, riding carts are a hugely important economic factor for many golf clubs.  I may get to where golf loses its hold on me to the point that I stop playing, but it will likely be due to declining skills as opposed to not being allowed to walk (for the most part I can avoid those courses, but finding a walking game may be much more difficult).

Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: hick on July 28, 2011, 11:01:15 AM
I belong to a private club in Rhode Island that has Kangaroo carts. Half the members have these motor push carts, and the new ones have remote controls as well. we have a dedicated building for these carts. I am surprised more clubs do not go this route. you buy it and pay a fee to store it.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Sean_A on July 29, 2011, 08:29:21 AM
As I definitely use a light weight carry bag, it sounds like the Clicgear is my best option.  Thanks for the input folks. 

Ciao
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Sean_A on August 28, 2011, 03:38:11 AM
After haggling mightily with with a club pro I was able to buy a Clic Gear 3 at a good price.  I used it for the first time yesterday and was quite impressed even if I did feel a bit like I was pushing a zimmer frame around.  My ONLY negative criticism of the contraption is the umbrella holder is not adjustable.  This is a major oversight that will often mean I cannot use the holder.  Otherwise, a fine machine.  Thanks again for all the input.

Ciao
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: A.G._Crockett on August 28, 2011, 06:04:47 AM
After haggling mightily with with a club pro I was able to buy a Clic Gear 3 at a good price.  I used it for the first time yesterday and was quite impressed even if I did feel a bit like I was pushing a zimmer frame around.  My ONLY negative criticism of the contraption is the umbrella holder is not adjustable.  This is a major oversight that will often mean I cannot use the holder.  Otherwise, a fine machine.  Thanks again for all the input.

Ciao

Why would you not be able to use the holder?  I don't use my clic gear often; I mostly use it just for rainy days to get under the umbrella as I walk and not have to carry it.

I suppose if the angle of the holder is way, way off at the position that you like the handle, you could loosen it (on the 2.0 there are two screws that hold it on the handle) and get it just right.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Sean_A on August 28, 2011, 06:35:42 AM
AG

With wind about its important to tilt the umbrella into the wind or else too wind gets under the umrella.  This results in rain hitting me and the umbrella being lifted.  I noticed  the electric trollies had adjustable umbrella holders and I was jealous - heavy sigh.

Ciao 
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: PThomas on August 30, 2011, 04:36:56 PM

I must admit that I am still a bit of a traditionalist, although some may call it a snob, when I find it in bad taste to change your shoes in the parking lot at a private club where every member must have a locker.


I understand your point--one man's traditionalist is another's snob.

Here's the problem,IMO.You and I don't like to see guys changing shoes in the parking lot.Someone else finds wearing hats indoors classless.Same for denim and/or having your shirt untucked.

Back in the day,all of these "rules" and a million others were never questioned.This was just the way one acted at a private club.I'm not saying this was good or bad--just the way it was.

Now,pull carts are part of this generation war.To some,they scream "muni".To others,they represent one of the great joys of golf--walking.Neither side will ever convert the other.

It's tough to remain a traditionalist (snob) when clubs try to be everything to every member.Every member wants his own set of rules--and few clubs are willing to draw a line.

of course I dont do it, but I'm STILL waiting for someone to explain exactly why changing shoes in the parking lot is considered such a heinous act
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: PThomas on August 30, 2011, 04:39:03 PM
Its funny how these sights on the golf course can be "OK"

(http://www.ssqq.com/stories/images/golfer%2002.jpg)

(http://thestevesgolfblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/steves-golf-swing-11.jpg)

(http://www.brobible.com/files/images/buzz/barkley-golf.jpg)

(http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/slides/photos/000/371/654/103328181_display_image.jpg?1283303111)



But yet, this is "Not OK":   ;)

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ooUKrvWNsQQ/Sigf6pcDaAI/AAAAAAAAAEs/j7yYqpzmIpU/s320/golf+push+cart.jpg)

well said Kalen...maybe next time you can add in pictures of guys with shorts with knee high socks, guys wearing really out of date clothes,e tc...
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Paul Nash on August 31, 2011, 01:40:51 AM
Sean - I think there is an optional adjustable umbrella holder! More bucks I am afraid but it is better!!
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Howard Riefs on April 18, 2012, 11:08:06 AM
Any new opinions/experiences on the Sun Mountain vs. Clicgear debate?  I'm considering buying a push cart for my wife.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Pete Balzer on April 18, 2012, 12:31:32 PM
Howard,
Just ordered my wife the SM Micro. The main factor in my decision was the ease of use (folding/unfolding), weight, compact folded area (trunk space).
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Stephen Davis on April 18, 2012, 01:52:43 PM
Howard,

I think they are both extremely nice, work very well and are easy to fold and unfold. I purchased the Clicgear 3.0 and couldn't be happier. For me the deciding factor was all of the extras you can get to customize the Clicgear. Really you can't go wrong with either one.
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Andrew Brown on April 18, 2012, 03:39:20 PM
+1 for the Clicgear 3.

On the recommendation of a friend who had a 2.0, I had it purchased in the USA and shipped to me in Norway. A risky way to purchase, but pleased as punch with its performance and practicalities.

It helped me with my back pain problems that made carrying my bag difficult. But you don't exactly feel like a man, nor does one look cool, pushing it around.  ;D

Andrew
Title: Re: Sun Mountain Or Clicgear?
Post by: Ken Moum on April 18, 2012, 03:57:42 PM
My ONLY negative criticism of the contraption is the umbrella holder is not adjustable.  This is a major oversight that will often mean I cannot use the holder.  Otherwise, a fine machine.  Thanks again for all the input.

Ciao

Paul is correct... Clic makes an adjustable umbrella holder that screws into the fitting and allows quite a bit of angle.

(http://www.clicgear.com/images/clicgear_umaj.jpg)

K