Golf carts are small vehicles that are very common in golf courses, resorts, and gated communities. They provide transportation for golfers during a round of golf, as well as for short trips around residential areas. Golf carts come in different sizes and seating capacities, from two-seaters to six-seaters. Knowing the width of a golf cart is important for several reasons. The width impacts the cart’s maneuverability on golf cart paths, ability to fit through gates and doors, and passenger capacity and comfort. Wider carts can fit more passengers but may be more difficult to drive on tight paths. Narrower carts are more nimble but restrict seating. Therefore, carefully measuring and selecting an appropriate golf cart width is an important decision. This guide will discuss the different methods for measuring golf cart widths accurately, typical widths for various golf cart models and brands, and the impacts that width has on golf cart functionality and use.
1. Types of Golf Carts
There are several common types and seating capacities of golf carts that come in different widths.Two-seater golf cart
Two-seater golf cart
Two-seater golf carts are designed for just a driver and one passenger. They have a single bench seat large enough for two adults. Two-seaters are very compact and have widths around 47 inches on average. This tight width allows them to easily maneuver down narrow golf cart paths and fit through small gates or doors.
Four-seater golf cart
Four-seater golf carts have room for a driver and three passengers. There are a few seating configurations for four-seaters. Some have two rows of seating with a full bench seat in the rear and smaller front seats. Others have perimeter-style seating with a full bench in the back and a small rear-facing seat across from the driver. Four-seater widths range from 47 inches for smaller units up to 52 inches for larger models.
Six-seater golf cart
Six-seater golf carts come with three rows of seats – a full bench in back, smaller middle row, and front driver/passenger seats. They are the widest type of golf cart, with widths starting around 55 inches and ranging up to 72 inches for extra large models that include expanded rear benches. The additional width provides more passenger and storage capacity.
2. Methods to Measure Golf Cart Width
Getting an accurate measurement of golf cart width is important when comparing different models and brands. There are a few easy methods and tools both professionals and amateurs can use to quantify this key dimension.
Use a Measuring Tape
The simplest way to measure golf cart width is by using a standard retractable measuring tape. For best results, have two people work together – one holding each end of the tape. Place the tape across the widest points of the cart, typically the outer edges of the rear tires or fenders. Make sure the tape is level and pulled taut. Read the measurement directly off the tape and record it. Retake the measurement a few times to verify accuracy. Using a quality steel tape measure instead of a cloth one provides greater durability and precision.
Utilize Measuring Wheels
Measuring wheel devices are another convenient tool for getting golf cart dimensions. These consist of a wheel attached to a counter that clicks off linear units as it rolls. To measure width, place the wheel perpendicular against one side of the cart and zero the counter. Carefully roll the device across to the opposite side, keeping it straight. The counter will display the cart’s width. Measuring wheels give very precise measurements that account for slight curvature or inconsistencies across the width.
Go High Tech with Laser Scanners
For professional golf cart dealerships or those desiring scientific accuracy, specialized measurement tools like laser scanners can quantify dimensions. These high-tech devices use lasers and complex algorithms to scan objects and determine exact width, length and other metrics. While costly, laser scanners give unparalleled precision measurements of golf carts from any angle.
3. Typical Widths of Popular Golf Cart Brands
When researching which golf cart best suits your needs, knowing the typical width dimensions of the major brands and models is key. Width can vary based on seating capacity, features, and overall size. Here are the approximate width ranges for some of the top golf cart manufacturers’ most popular models to use as a reference when comparing options.
Compact and Versatile Club Car Golf Carts
Club Car Golf Carts are known for their responsive handling and safety features. Their Precedent line features two compact models great for tight courses – the two-seater Precedent i2 is just 47 inches wide while the four-seater Precedent i4 comes in at 49 inches. For more capacity, the six-seater Precedent i6 spans 55 inches.
Polaris GEM for Narrow Passages
Polaris GEM specialized electric vehicles are street-legal in many states. Their two-seat GEM e2 and four-seat GEM e4 both measure a mere 49 inches wide. This allows easy movement through narrow community gates. Their e6 seats six across a 55 inch width.
Yamaha Drive2 QuieTech Go-Anywhere Ability
Yamaha Drive2 golf carts live up to their go-anywhere reputation with models from 47 to 60 inches wide. The two-passenger Drive2 Adventure and four-passenger Drive2 Explore are both 47 inches for maneuverability. The Drive2 Discovery spans 50 inches while the six-seat Drive2 Entourage reaches 60 inches.
E-Z-GO RXV – Customized Width Options
Known for smoother rides, E-Z-GO RXV golf carts range from 48 to 52 inches based on seating. Helpfully, E-Z-GO offers flexible manufacturing so buyers can customize the width. This allows tuning the carts perfectly for specialized needs.
4. How Width Impacts Golf Cart Performance and Use
Width is more than just a measurement – it directly affects how playable, comfortable and usable a golf cart is for different situations. Wider carts come with clear benefits but also some drawbacks to consider.
Improved Stability and Handling
Wider golf carts inherently have a more stable footprint and lower center of gravity. This makes them less prone to tipping on hills or uneven terrain. The wider wheelbase also aids in traction and braking, especially in wet conditions. Larger models can better handle off-road environments. However, width limits nimbleness on very tight paths.
Passenger Capacity and Comfort
Clearly, a wider golf cart allows fitting more seats and passengers. Four-seat models may squeeze in four adults abreast, while six-seaters have room to spare. Wider benches provide more hip and legroom, making rides more comfortable over 18 holes. But limiting passenger capacity can have advantages too, keeping cart weight and turf damage to a minimum.
Accessing Tight Spots
Narrower golf carts are invaluable when playing courses riddled with slim bridges, winding trails, or restricted gates. They easily navigate tight spaces other carts can’t. A sub-50 inch width opens many more course routes. But careful route planning is needed with larger groups to avoid bottlenecks.
Garaging and Transport
Storing and moving golf carts around also depends on width. More compact models fit in standard garages and require smaller trailers for transport. But the roomier capacity of wider carts may be essential for large families or those with lots of gear. There are always trade-offs.
5. Choosing the Best Golf Cart Width for You
When it comes to golf cart dimensions, width is one of the most important factors to evaluate. As we’ve discussed, cart widths typically range from compact 47-inch two-seaters to spacious 72-inch six-seaters. The width directly impacts cart maneuverability, seating capacity, ride comfort, accessibility, and transportation. Narrower carts handle tight spots better while wider carts offer more stability and passenger space.
Every course, community and family has unique needs when it comes to how they use their golf cart. Carefully balancing your specific requirements for stability, seating, accessibility and storage will point you towards your optimal width. Test driving different sized models is recommended to get a true feel for how width affects handling and functionality. Consulting with knowledgeable dealers can provide additional guidance.
With some research and reflection, you can select the ideal golf cart width for your circumstances. Having the right measurements for navigating your intended paths and terrain is crucial. Whether you demand passenger room or compact access, there is a golf cart width out there perfectly suited to moving you through your rounds and travels.
FAQs about How Wide is a Golf Cart
What is the standard width of a 2-passenger golf cart?
The standard width of a 2-passenger golf cart is generally between 47 to 49 inches. This more narrow measurement allows 2-seaters to easily maneuver down tight golf cart paths, fit through small gates, and adequately seat two adults side-by-side. Brands like Club Car and Yamaha offer compact 2-seat carts that meet this width specification.
Do golf carts come in different widths based on their seating capacity?
Yes, golf cart width tends to increase along with the seating capacity. 2-passenger carts are the narrowest, usually around 47 inches wide. 4-seaters come in widths starting at 49 inches up to 52 inches for models with more amenities. 6-seaters are the widest since they need to fit 3 bench seats across, with widths from 55 inches to over 60 inches. The expanded width provides more passenger leg room and stability.
What is the width range for a typical 4-seater golf cart?
The width of a typical 4-seater golf cart ranges from 49 to 52 inches. 49-inch models provide a compact footprint for maneuverability while still seating 4 adults. 52-inch wide 4-seaters offer more space for passenger comfort and accessories. High-end versions may reach up to 55 inches wide.
How can I measure the width of a golf cart if I don’t have specialty tools?
You can accurately measure golf cart width using minimal tools:
- Measuring tape – place across opposite sides of cart to get width
- Yardstick or wood plank – lay across widest points and measure length
- Laser measurement app – can calculate width using phone camera
Use flat, straight objects and repeat measures to verify accuracy. Measure across the widest points – usually the rear tires or fenders.
How much does the width of a golf cart impact its ability to maneuver on the course?
Width has a very significant impact on golf cart maneuverability and course access. Narrower Carts under 50 inches can easily navigate tight trails, elevated curbs, and restricted tunnels. Wider carts over 55 inches may not fit through small gates or tree gaps. Carefully examine the course to determine maximum width for access before purchasing.
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