Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R Push Cart
Believe it or not, there was a time when nimble, efficient, and foldable push carts didn’t exist in golf. Nowadays, that almost seems to be the standard when it comes to the high-end push cart market. A major player in this evolution is the Sun Mountain Speed Cart series which was initially introduced in 1999. The new Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R is the latest iteration of this highly-popular push cart lineage. With its three-wheel base and folding design, the Speed Cart V1R is available in ten different colors and a great option for the walking golfer.
Setup
As far as push carts go, the Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R is one of the easier carts I’ve dealt with. All it takes is essentially two lever flips. Just flip the middle lever, to unfold the cart. It’s at this point that the two side wheels deploy. Lock the lever back in place, unlock the second lever to flip the single front wheel forward, then flip down the base for the bottom of your bag. Done. Now just throw your bag in the adjustable brackets, pull the top and bottom elastic straps tight, and off you go. Of course, if you purchase any additional accessories, now’s the time to attach all of those. It’s worth noting here that the V1R comes with a standard cup holder attachment as well as umbrella holder, which clips under the console/tray when not needed.
Tear down is just as easy. Detach the elastic straps, remove your bag, fold the bottom base up, then flip the lever to fold the front wheel back, flip the second lever to fold it in half, and put the Speed Cart V1R back in your car. Fast and easy.
Built-In Storage
I find getting storage right with a push cart is somewhat tricky. You need enough space to make certain items easily accessible like a drink, rangefinder, some tees, maybe some extra balls, your phone, and possibly your wallet and keys. There’s enough built-in storage on the Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R without going overboard. The console/tray has a transparent lid and comfortably fits the basic valuables like your wallet and keys, some ball marks, etc. More importantly, it’s a great resting spot for my beloved blueberry Nutri-Grain bars that I don’t want to get smashed. Additionally, the tray has six tee slots, an elastic band to slip a scorecard under, and a slot to hold your cell phone. Last but not least, the Speed Cart V1R comes with a cup holder that attaches to the side of the tray.
The mesh “headcover tray” (I’ll refer to as a net) is larger than previous Sun Mountain push carts thanks to a new larger handle. With its larger profile, the net comfortably fits a larger drink bottle and whatever headcover you pull off a club for your next shot. Of course, you can easily toss in whatever accessories you prefer to keep in this spot. This tends to be where my “found” or “not to be used” golf balls go until reaching the trunk of my car.
Should you require more storage, Sun Mountain offers a wide range of add-ons like coolers, bags, and nets.
On-Course Performance
I’ve found that there are two high-level criteria that I consistently consider for a push cart’s performance. One of those criterion is isn’t so much about pushing the cart around the golf course, but before you even get there. Being able to comfortably store the push cart along with my golf bag is crucial. Though the Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R is on the longer side at 37 inches when folded up, its folded profile is still somewhat slim at 13 inches. This fits between my bag and the edge of my trunk with ease. Likewise, the Speed Cart V1R takes up minimal space standing on end in a narrow-ish space in the garage.
The second criterion is, of course, how well it rolls up and down the golf course. Featuring a new larger handle with a wide grip range, the Speed Cart V1R allows for easy handling on any terrain. The wheelbase is wide and sturdy with good balance that won’t easily topple over on uneven lies. This also helps the V1R track effortlessly around the course.
Being lighter weight makes a big difference as well. Some research tells me the Speed Cart V1R’s 17.95 pounds is one of the lighter 3-wheel push carts on the market. I didn’t think this would be all that noticeable to me throughout my round, but it actually made a huge difference and was a distinct standout for me.
I should also point out that a handful of different bags fit nicely on the Speed Cart V1R. Though my Sun Mountain H2NO Lite Speed stand bag was a perfect fit, other brands will still comfortably fit in the brackets and allow for easy club removal and replacement.
Final Thoughts – Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R Push Cart
This review was actually (somehow) my first foray into Sun Mountain push carts. I’ve seen them used plenty, and I’ve known people that have sworn by them, but this was the first time I’ve used one for myself. I have to say that I was pretty impressed. The Speed Cart V1R is quick to setup with a nice, smooth, easy roll on the course. Additionally, the Speed Cart V1R’s $269 price tag is one of the more affordable you’ll find in the premium push cart market.
Sun Mountain Speed Cart V1R Push Cart Features
- Wheels: 3
- Weight: 17.95 lbs.
- Folded Dimensions: W 37” X H 16” X D 13”
- The redesigned handle allows for a larger mesh headcover tray.
- Built-in bracket holds the Speed Cart seat or an industrial sand/seed bottle holder.
- Mesh basket comes standard.
- Improved upper and lower bag brackets easily adjust to hold your bag.
- Folds in two easy steps.
I have an older V2 model that also has a mesh pouch lower on the frame that can handle extra clothes, etc. Is there such an accessory for the V1?
There’s a link in the review to their accessories page that has everything they offer. I personally don’t have any of the add ons, but that should help you out.
I have this Sun Mountain Speed cart, however, it is missing the upper and lower elastic bands that are supposed to hold my golf bag in place. Are these bands still available?
Can’t say I know for sure, but Sun Mountain does a pretty good job making replacement parts available. Check out their website and if you don’t see what you’re looking for, reach out to their customer service group.
where do I get repair.
brake cable and or brake handle.
in Vancouver canada
Sun Mountain’s customer service is excellent. Reach out to them through their website, or I think they have a number to call there too. They’ll get you squared away.
I love my GX model but after 2.5 years for the current one, the left rear wheel broke. Unfortunately Sun Mountain does not have access to replacement colored units so now I push a cart with 2 red wheels and one black one.
I kind of like the idea of that. A custom ride, if you will!
I might have to do that with my push carts going forward…and I’m not trying to be funny!
Bill,
A taller than average golfer here at 6’1″ and a change. How tall are you and did you find the handles to be too low causing you to hunch over. Floor to handle max height would be appreciated (haven’t found info online or see one in store).
I’m 6′ and didn’t find there to be an issue with handle height.
Thanks!