A Jack-of-All-Trades, But Master of Golf Carts?
Backyard Escapism, Inc. built its name on luxury outdoor living products, from sleek infrared saunas and modular outdoor kitchens to rustic wood-fired pizza ovens. Their mission has always been to turn backyard spaces into high-end retreats. Along the way, they decided to dabble in the golf cart business too. It’s an interesting pivot, to say the least. Let’s dig in.
A Side Hustle That Could Leave You Hanging
Their golf carts may be stylish and customizable, but they’re not the main focus of the company. Golf carts seem more like a side project for a business built around backyard design. That said, while offering variety can be a good thing but it might leave golf cart buyers without the same level of support given to their core backyard products.
For those considering a luxury golf cart, it’s worth keeping in mind that this isn’t their original wheelhouse. The risk? Support and quality control might not align with the premium expectations they’ve set in their other product lines. Proceed with caution—you’re stepping into a brand that’s juggling a lot.
With that said, let’s get into the nitty gritty of their golf cart review.
Backyard Escapism Inventory and Offerings
Backyard Escapism, Inc. brings a variety of electric golf carts to the table, with options to fit your crew—whether it’s a 4-seater, 6-seater, or even an 8-seater. These carts come with some features like lifted suspensions for a tougher look, big 72v lithium-ion batteries, built-in multimedia screens, and LED lighting.
When examining the market, it becomes evident that many golf carts are equipped with a 72V battery. Nevertheless, when contrasting a 72V “off-brand” Chinese import golf cart battery with leading U.S. brands, it is essential to carefully consider several potential drawbacks. Transitioning from this initial observation, evaluating the key differences ensures a comprehensive understanding of their implications.
72V Off-Brand Batteries
1. Quality and Reliability
- Manufacturing Standards: Off-brand batteries may not adhere to the stringent quality control standards typical of reputable U.S. manufacturers, potentially leading to inconsistent performance and reduced lifespan.
- Component Quality: Leading brands, on the other hand, frequently incorporate high-grade materials and cutting-edge technologies. For example, they often rely on Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) chemistry, which is particularly notable for its enhanced safety and extended longevity. Off-brand alternatives might use inferior components, affecting overall battery performance.
2. Safety Concerns
- Built-in Protections: Reputable batteries typically feature comprehensive safety measures, including overcharge, over-discharge, and thermal protection. Off-brand batteries may lack these safeguards, increasing the risk of malfunctions or hazards.
3. Warranty and Support
- Limited Warranty: Leading brands often provide extensive warranties, reflecting confidence in their products’ durability. Off-brand batteries may offer limited or no warranty, leaving consumers unprotected against defects or failures.
- Customer Service: Established brands usually have robust customer support networks. Off-brand manufacturers may lack responsive service, complicating troubleshooting or claims processes.
4. Performance Variability
- Capacity and Efficiency: Off-brand batteries may not deliver consistent voltage or capacity, resulting in shorter driving ranges and less reliable performance compared to leading brands.
In conclusion, although off-brand Chinese import batteries included with Backyard Escapism golf carts might seem like a cost-effective choice, they often fall short in critical areas such as quality, safety, customer support, compatibility, performance, and environmental sustainability.
Pricing and Financing: Is Backyard Escapism Worth It?
Price Comparison
Backyard Escapism calls their golf carts “luxury,” and their prices certainly reflect it. For example, their 6-seater “street-legal” electric cart sells for $13,999. Compare that to similar models from other dealers offering carts for $8,495 and up. Backyard Escapism doesn’t seem to be the most competitive, especially when similar options are available for less. Plus when you buy local… you can make sure you get the after service you may need.
Transparency
Sure, they list prices online, but it’s not the whole story. The final cost often depends on add-ons and customizations, making it tough to figure out what you’ll really pay. This lack of upfront clarity makes it harder to compare prices and decide if it’s worth the investment. Also, since they sell online, you will have to pay the shipping to get it to you. Which also ads to the risk of damage in transport.
Financing Options
They advertise flashy financing through Enhancify, with rates as low as 0% APR for 21 months. Sounds great—until you read the fine print. Not everyone qualifies for those rates, and approvals depend on credit. Plus, relying on a third-party lender can complicate the process, adding another layer of frustration.
Pricing Verdict
Backyard Escapism might have luxury vibes, but their higher prices, vague pricing, and less-than-straightforward financing leave much to be desired. Before diving in, it’s worth checking out local competitors who offer more transparent and potentially better deals.
Customer Service: A Reality Check
First Impressions
Backyard Escapism claims to offer 24/7/365 customer support via email, live chat, and phone.
Backyard Escapism However, the actual responsiveness and professionalism of their staff remain unclear due to limited customer feedback. This lack of transparency raises concerns about their commitment to customer service.
Knowledgeability
The company provides basic product information on their website. Yet, without substantial customer reviews or testimonials, it’s difficult to assess the staff’s expertise and willingness to assist. This ambiguity may leave potential customers questioning the support they’ll receive.
Support
Backyard Escapism offers a two-week money-back guarantee, a five-year warranty on lithium batteries, and a two-year warranty on the powertrain.
Backyard Escapism However, their return policy is riddled with exceptions, especially for custom or made-to-order products, which are non-refundable.
When searching for online golf cart dealers that offer an alternative with lifetime warranties, it’s important to distinguish between warranties on the entire vehicle and those specific to components like batteries or the powertrain. Here’s what I found:
Atlas Carts provides a lifetime powertrain warranty on their Gen 2 vehicles.
Titan EV Golf Carts provides a lifetime powertrain warranty on their lithium vehicles.
MammothEV Golf Carts provides a lifetime battery warranty on their vehicles.
Those are the only 3 companies I could find with lifetime battery warranties that might be worth taking a look at.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Quick Look
Pros
- Customizable Products: Offers a range of custom golf carts with stylish features like lifted suspensions, LED lighting, and multimedia screens.
- Diverse Product Range: Beyond golf carts, they provide outdoor saunas, kitchens, and pizza ovens, catering to various luxury outdoor needs.
- Financing Availability: Financing plans with advertised low-interest rates make big purchases more manageable for some buyers.
- Long Warranty Coverage: Lithium batteries have a five-year warranty, and powertrains are covered for two years.
Cons
- High Prices: Their golf carts are priced at a premium, often higher than comparable models from other sellers.
- Opaque Pricing: Customizations and add-ons can significantly alter the final price, making costs unclear upfront.
- Customer Support Concerns: Limited customer feedback leaves questions about the responsiveness and expertise of their service team.
- Complex Return Policies: Custom and made-to-order products are non-refundable, adding risk for buyers.
- White-Label Products: Golf carts appear to be white-labeled rather than made in-house, raising concerns about support and quality control.
Alternative Options
These alternatives offer a range of benefits, including customization, affordability, customer support, and service accessibility, allowing you to select a dealer that aligns with your preferences.
- GolfCarts.com or Cart Nation (Tennessee) – Primarily a hot tub retailer, they also sell golf carts, utilizing a direct-to-consumer model to offer competitive pricing and a diverse product selection.
- Golf Carts USA (Tampa, FL) – Golf Carts USA offers customizable golf carts with direct sales and nationwide shipping throughout the United States.
- GOAT Golf Carts (Meridian, ID) – GOAT Golf Carts, located in Meridian, provides customizable, high-performance golf carts with financing options and delivery available nationwide.
- Winter Recreations (Sauk Centre, MN) – Winters Recreation, based in Sauk Centre, Minnesota, provides a variety of new and used golf carts, accessories, and financing options, with nationwide shipping available.
The Verdict
While Backyard Escapism has a lot to offer in terms of style and variety, their weaknesses in pricing, transparency, and support make them a mixed bag. Buyers should weigh these factors carefully before committing.
Check out all my golf cart dealer reviews.
