Axglo Trilite 3 Wheel Golf Trolley : On course review! (UPDATED : With Clicgear Comparison)

UPDATED : 13.01.2015 (With Clicgear Comparison) Scroll below!
 
Finally had the chance to take the Axglo Trilite to the course. So how did it fare? For the purposes of review, I will score the Trilite in the following criterias, Innovation, Visual Appeal, Performance and Value at the end.

Innovation:

I was in the market for a compact 3/4 wheel trolley. The Trilite when folded, was compact enough to fit into the boot together with my stand bag so that was a big plus (I drive a hatch back so the boot isn't too big and I wasn't keen on putting the trolley in the back seat after the round).

Some key Product Specifications here:

• Patented Glide – Folding / Unfolding Mechanism.
• Unique gliding system design that completely eliminates the occurrence of scratches to the body frame when opening and closing of the push cart.
• When folded the cart measures 28″ x 17″ x 11″, small compact size that makes it easy to carry or store away.
• The use of high strength industrial material gives a firm solid structure to the cart’s body and parts.
• Aircraft grade aluminum build with thickness of 1.5mm and above provides the golf cart with higher durability.
• Bag holding rack supports most golf bags of different sizes with adjustable bag strap to secure the golf bag.
• Adjustable handles to suit each user’s preference.
• Simple engage and release hand brake system.
• Large capacity console for storage of personal effects, golf balls, and other accessories.
• Maintenance free and airless wheels.

Took it out of the boot and it was really easy to unfold (see vid below).

So far so good.


Visual Appeal:

Seriously, what's there not to like about the Trilite visually? The Trilite comes in a modern design and is available in a number of fresh colors. 

When unfolded the word 'sturdy' springs to mind and although subjective, I personally think that it looks good. 

Performance:

For starters, the Trilite was easy to unfold and assemble. I was able to unfold it single handed (with my foot on the footstep of course)

Took out the stand bag and then placed it on the trolley.

Very nice fit and the straps kept the bag safely secure. The bag rack should have no problems securing a cart bag but I wanted to keep it light. (I have used it with my cart bag and had no issues)

I have read some comments online that on a very windy day, with a cart bag and the umbrella up, the cart could flip over. I suppose that's where a 4 wheel trolley would be sturdier but I doubt that we will see such windy days here in Kuching anyway.

The foam padded handle bar is adjustable and very simple to use. Set it to your desired height and lock the clip.

There is a storage console near the handle bar with enough space and was deep enough for a valuables pouch, handphone, balls or what have you. Convenient if you need to check or answer your phone, so you don't have to keep rummaging through your golf bag. The cover of the storage console is secured with two magnet bits and there are tee holders too. Beneath the console are two netted compartments for your score card or balls for instance.

On the side of the storage console is the simple hand brake system. Push the lever down to brake and then up to release. This was very useful indeed. I don't always find myself on the fairway and it really helped when I was pushing the trolley along uneven terrain, up and down slopes. Simply apply the brake when you want to take your shot and you won't have to worry about the trolley 'running' off.

The trolley itself was light, sturdy and the foam padded handle bar was easy to push around. It had just rained and the big wheels made it a breeze to roll smoothly through the wet fairway, rough and patches of muddy grass. 

Although there are two minor design 'comments' I would make. Firstly, I would have liked a clip of some sort on the storage console cover to hold the score card and perhaps an extra compartment like the Sun Mountain Micro Cart (but that is a 4 wheel cart and I haven't seen other 3 wheelers with an additional compartment anyway). 

Photo taken from my Golfspy.

The Trilite comes also with a beverage holder which hangs on by the side of the trolley and an adjustable umbrella holder which 'screws' into the handle bar. Didn't have to use both this time round but nice to have for future use. (I have since used the umbrella holder on several occasions and it is a must have accessory on any trolley)

When it came time to clean the trolley, all I had to do was hose it down (even easier with the water jet spray at the club) and the wheels (ridges and rim) were easy to clean. 

Value:

I was hoping to find a compact 3/4 wheel trolley below the price of RM500.00 (About USD$145.00). I managed to find one for RM490.00 so I was pleased it ticked the 'budget' box.

On to the ratings and score.

Kaki-Golf Rating:

Innovation - 4/5
Visual appeal - 4/5 
Performance - 4/5  
Value - 5/5 
 
Total Score - 17/20



Conclusion:

Overall, I thought the Trilite really performed to my expectations and I have no regrets with the purchase. An additional storage space and scorecard holder on the console cover (minor comments) would have given it a perfect score in my books. 

Quite curious now to check out the Clicgear and see just how good it is. Until then, another video!~

 

UPDATE : 13.01.2015

I have noticed from the visitor log that this entry receives a fair share of hits. So here's an over-due update.

A friend of mine has the Clicgear 3.0 and I have also had a look at the Clicgear 3.5+. Off the bat, both trolleys fold to a compact shape for easy storage. Unfolded, the Clicgear to me, looks the bigger / bulkier of the two.

The Clicgear 3.5+ weighs 18 pounds (8.16kg) while the Axglo weighs 12 pounds (5.44kg). So about 6 pounds (2.7kg) in difference.

The notable thing for me was that all three wheels on the Clicgear 3.5+ are big. More importantly the lead wheel is bigger then that of the Axglo, so the Clicgear 3.5+ was sturdier and easier to push around.

Visually (and personally), the Clicgear looks very modern and is very well designed making it a tad more appealing then the Axglo. So I have revised the score of the Axglo accordingly.

Now, if you are an accessory nut, then you won't go wrong with the Clicgear. There are a ton of accessories and add-ons such as a cooler bag, shoe brush attachment and even a nifty seat just to mention a few. Full range here.    

So overall, the Clicgear in my opinion edges the Axglo as the better, albeit heavier trolley.

BUT, bear in mind that the Clicgear will cost you more. Alot MORE. 

Last I checked, the Clicgear 3.5+ retailed for a hefty price of RM1,200.00 (USD$340.00). Even assuming you get a store discount of say 20% (RM960.00) that's still almost double the price of what I paid for the Axglo.

At the end of the day, both are good trolleys that serve their purpose. So the question really is how much are you willing to fork out? 

Paragon Pop-up chipping net

There's been a flurry of posts in the last few days and I hope I can keep it up. Anyways, bought a few items from MST, Aeon @ Midvalley when I was there earlier this week and also bought this chipping net which was on sale for RM49.00. 

Nifty little device and simple enough to set up. The smaller 'rings' make for a tougher target and are detachable. Made a short video too, a first for kaki-golf (Wootz!) so please don't mind the quality. The net wobbles abit but it comes with two metal pins which can be used to stick into the ground to provide sturdiness.

The way I see it, if I can put in 5-10 minutes a day just chipping, I should be able to hone in my short game. All I need now is some discipline...

Finding the right trolley.

You can't play once during the weekend and expect your game to improve. Which is why I have been trying to find the time to walk the course (9 holes) once during a weekday evening. Plus it's good exercise.

So far I have done it twice now. The first time with a friend's four wheel trolley and the second carrying my stand bag. Carrying the stand bag isn't too taxing and it does give a good work out. But I find there is less fidgeting and movement required with the trolley compared with the stand bag. (First world problems, I know.) 

Anyhoo, I had been researching for a bit now on trolleys and decided that I was in the market for a push trolley with either 3 or 4 wheels. The Clicgear 3 / 3.5+ was an obvious choice but even it's discounted price of RM890.00 / RM920.00 was unkind to the wallet. Plus, I was going to use it once a week at the most and couldn't justify the purchase. 

I should also mention that before I made my eventual purchase, checks at MST, Pan West, LT Sports (all in Kuching) revealed there was no stock of trolleys. Tis must be the season of walking. 

I was heading over to KL anyway so I was quite set on getting one there.

So, the check list.

1. Push Cart

2. 3 -4 wheeler

3. Light

4. Compact when folded and easy to use

5. Did it come with accessories?

6. Below RM500.00

With the price range in mind, I said a sad farewell to the clicgear and looked on. Considered the bagboy express DLX trolley which was available at Transview and was available at RM500.00 on the dot. (items 1,2,3,4 and 6 ticked). MST @ Midvalley had the 3 wheel Aerocart for RM399.00 but it was rather bulky when folded and didn't come with any accessories.

Then I had a look at the trolleys from Axglo and considered the 4 wheel flip and go cart. Pricier though. So I looked at the 3 wheel Trilite model which retailed for RM599.00 (RM690.00 at one shop I checked), still pricey but I liked how it included some accessories like the umbrella and beverage holder. Fortunately, I managed to find the Trilite for RM490.00 (All items ticked! comes with 1 year warranty too) from an online store, BestBallGolf.  

Tarmizi, the seller was friendly and super helpful. Told him that I didn't have transport, so he took the trouble to send it all the way to Midvalley. The trolley was brand new in box and after inspecting it, I was more then happy to make the purchase. BestBallGolf also sell the 4 wheel Axglo and other golf accessories too like grips, balls etc so definitely worth checking out. 

Ta-dah! (Spent RM10.00 at KLIA to wrap it up)

In other news, MST @ Aeon, Midvalley are having a sale at the moment and had some PUMA attire up for sale. Shirts and Shorts below RM100.00. I Like!

Needless to say, I bought 2 shirts and a pair of shorts to add to my ever growing collection of PUMA gear. Good selection and discounts on Bell and Page attire too.

Haven't unpacked the Trilite yet so I will do a more detailed review when I bring it down to the course.

RBC Heritage 2014

So what did we learn from day 4 of the RBC heritage? You can 3 putt from 4 feet on the 17th hole, hole out from the green side bunker on the 18th for birdie and still win.

But in all seriousness Matt Kuchar deserves a break. I am not particularly a fan of his but finishing top 10, 7 times in his last 10 starts (I think, including losing a lead and then the subsequent playoff recently) and not win will drive even the best of us nuts.

Well done.

TPG 1 rises!

The weather was fantastic today and the boys were ready. And what a pulsating day it was. TPG 1 teed off against Team Spartan and emerged victorious (3-2)! Absolutely stoked that the boys performed well. 

Unfortunately, our brother team TPG 2, lost to team HKH Red, to set up (you wouldn't have guessed) a rematch with TPG 1. What are the odds. So, we take to the fairway once more on 3.05.2014 for round two of the TPG battle. It's go time! 

In the meantime, I need to sort out the mechanics of my swing if I am going to contribute anything.

SCC Match Play : Day 1

It was storming in the early morning today and was still drizzling by the time I made my way to the course. Good thing it cleared before we teed off.  Had a decent night of sleep and was all revved to go. It was going to be a good day of golf, or so I thought. 

Our team (clad in red) had the first tee time of 7.00am and kicked off at the back nine (Jungle Nine). First two singles, followed by the 1st, 2nd and 3rd doubles (4 balls). 

I was paired with Gerald today and we filled in the slot for the 3rd double. Gerald's drive found the right side off the fairway and was safe. I stepped up to the teebox and teed up with my hybrid as I usually do and found the right side off the fairway and it too looked safe. All seemed well, but for some reason, we couldn't find my ball. We concluded that it must have found its way into the hazard on the right side (unlikely and unlucky) and I took a drop. 

Taking my third on this tricky par 4, I opt for the safe play and lay up. As I took my shot, my eyes were tracking my ball as it took flight and to my horror, it took a nasty bounce off the buggy track as it landed and veered towards the hazard again! Tragedy. Another drop, and finally on the green in 5. 2 putts more and I card an ugly 7. Horrible start. Thankfully everyone else made bogey and we were all square at the first. 

Suffice to say, the first hole pretty much set the tone of the day and I struggled to stay in contention. A few holes were good but my game has been haunted with inconsistency of late and it's made for challenging golf. Good thing my partner was in fine form, carding a number of pars at crucial moments. Even then, we only managed to finish the game square (no thanks to me). Much to our chagrin, we were the only group to do so as Team TPG 2, romped to a 4 - 0 victory. 

In spite of the result, I have to say, I did enjoy myself and it was an exciting experience playing matchplay golf. Playing with Gerald as a duo for the first time was just as fun. Helping each other read putting lines, fist bumps and encouragement were the order of the day. 

It also helps that our opponents, Ng and Nandong though formidable were very friendly and jovial. So it made for a fun and competitive atmosphere.

Oh and a good lunch always helps to soothe the pain.

So, to the losers pool we go where we will face off against team Spartan tomorrow. Victory will ensure we move on to the next round. I won't be in the line up due to another engagement, but I will be dropping by to support the boys. Tough day today but we learn to laugh at ourselves and rest to fight another day. Hopefully tomorrow will be much better for the team. 

It's Go Time!

Are you ready?

Match play golf. It's exciting and nail biting stuff. Just look at the Ryder cup or the recent Eurasia cup. Winning, squaring or even getting a half is exhilarating. The annual Samarahan country club match play event begins tomorrow and will see 16 teams vie for the top prize.

Lucky to have the chance to be a part of the event this year, representing team TPG United 1. 

Early tee off tomorrow. Game hasn't been as sharp as I would like but we're going out for the win. As fate would have it, our first opponent happens to be our 'brother' team TPG United 2. Talk about luck.

Hoping for good weather and a good outing tomorrow.

Let's bring it home boys!

More to come tomorrow.

Missed Cuts and phone calls.

So Phil missed the cut at Augusta (last one was yonks ago back in 1997). To me it was disappointing more then shocking. Disappointing, because Phil's a great guy and has the skills to boot. Ask any golf fan who they would rank as the Mr. Nice Guy and most would say "Phil." Less shocking, because Phil just hasn't been in form. 

Anyways, the Golf Channel has posted a transcript of a 'conversation' between Tiger and Phil right after Phil misses the cut. It's hilarious.

"Phil: Hello? 
Tiger: [laughing] Dude! That … was … hilarious! 
Phil: Whatever, man. At least I showed up. How’s that backache of yours? 
Tiger: It’s killing me, because I’ve been laughing all afternoon. You know, I saw you playing today. And I’ve got to tell you, you spend more time in the sand than David Hasselhoff!  
Phil: Oh, come on. That joke’s older than your winless streak here at Augusta."

Masters 2014 - So Tiger's out..

(Wrote this earlier and who would have thought. Bubba joins an exclusive club with his second green jacket and Jordan spieth. Runner up finish in his 1st masters. Came close but Bubba played so well. Golly. And what about Rickie?~ I said he wouldn't contend but I am stoked he had such a good finish)

...but that doesn't mean the Masters 2014 will be any less fun / intense to watch.

The 78th edition of the Masters kicks off at Augusta on 10.04.2014. With Tiger now out of the picture, Scott and Rory are now firm Favorites it seems. 

Although, failing to capitalize a 7 shot lead at Bay Hill brings back memories of his melt down during the Open not long ago, but we know how he bounced back. He is the defending champ after all and had a stellar '13 season. Two in a row? Rory's had a good start to the season as well, the much needed win in Oz (was a healthy dose of confidence and he has played well so far (1 top 10 finish this year after 2 events) But between the two, I reckon Scott has a better chance of retaining the green jacket.

But there are other notable contenders in Phil (who hasn't won this year and has had some niggling injuries), Jason Day (who hasn't played after winning the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship due to injury), Dustin Johnson (Has 1 win, but just withdrew from the Shell Houston Open after carding a first round 80), Zach Johnson (a win at the Tournament of champions and a couple of top 10 finishes), Bubba (who's been playing well, has won this year and who can forget 'that' shot at the 2012 Masters) and a bunch of others (Keegan Bradley, Jason Dufner, Justin Rose, Webb Simpson - all have won a major in recent years.) who have a decent chance. (I want to say Sergio, cause he's come close at the Majors a number of times in the past, but can't really see him contending)

Personally, I would love to see Phil or Rickie Fowler win. Phil's such a great guy, but isn't carrying the form to win. Then again, he's currently T18 at -4 through round 1 of the Shell Houston Open, so who knows.  Rickie (I know, I know..) on the other hand has a new coach and did have that encouraging 3rd place finish at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. But he just hasn't been playing well this season (missed the cut at Bay Hill-ouch). Still a great guy nonetheless and always fashionably dressed. Would be a pleasant surprise to see him in contention.   

Then there are the underdogs. 

I have a funny feeling that one of these guys just might surprise everyone come Sunday. Guys like Jimmy Walker, who has an impressive 3 wins this season, 4 top 10's and is currently leading the FedEx cup standings, or 'top 5' player, Patrick Reed, playing in his first major, has 2 victories this season including the recent win at the World Golf Championships-Cadillac Championship), Harris English (1 win, 6 top 10's in 2014) Henrik Stenson(awesome 2013, slow 2014 so far with 1 top 10 finish) or even sensational rookie Jordan Spieth. I think they have just as good a chance as any to slip on the green jacket.  

Can hardly wait. The weekend's here and its time to hit the fairway. 

Who do you think will win?