Amazingly, this is the 10th generation of the Motocaddy S1 trolley. One of the best electric trolleys of the last decade, it's the brand's all-time best seller and was even the inspiration behind Motocaddy's now well-recognizable logo. With the introduction of the Motocaddy SE and the PowaKaddy FX1 last year, the S1 isn't quite the pure 'entry-level' model it once was, and it now sits about £150 higher than these out-and-out entry-level examples. So what has changed since the 2022 S1 trolley, and should you opt for the new S1 over an entry-level electric trolley?
To answer my first question, not a lot. However, that's not a bad thing. I gave the last version a full five stars in 2022, so I'm glad to see Motocaddy hasn't messed with the formula that has made the S1 such a success. The philosophy behind the S1 is ease of use, and that starts from the folding process. The super simple one-step folding system can be performed in the time it takes to say 'one-step' out loud. It's as simple as pressing one button and pulling the chassis up - and vice versa to fold it down. With the battery already housed in the chassis (more on that shortly), the S1 is ready to go before you know it. The chassis design is unrecognisable from the 2022 version, as is the battery design, though a new handle design and tire tread have been introduced this year.
We've established that not a lot has changed, so why would you go for this over something like the Motocaddy SE? Well, firstly, it has to be the battery. Like the 2022 version, the 2025 S1 uses Motocaddy's system, whereby the battery automatically disconnects when the trolley is folded down. Not only that, but it also exposes the charging point from the battery, allowing you to charge it while it is still housed in the trolley chassis. If you have access to a plug socket nearby where you store your trolley at home, it means, in theory, you never have to remove the battery from the chassis. You'll never forget to pack your trolley battery again! I love this feature for this reason and the fact that it means you can never accidentally leave the trolley and battery on when it's folded up, as it always automatically disconnects.
It's similar to the entry-level examples I gave above in the sense that it's not compact when folded away. That being said, it's not designed to be. The front wheel doesn't fold under the chassis, and it can't stand up on its own, so if you're looking for something more compact, something like the Motocaddy M3 or PowaKaddy CT6 might suit you better.
Another difference versus the entry-level options is the handle. The S1 benefits from an LCD widescreen display, which clearly shows key information like speed and battery life, while a USB charging port under the handle allows to charge any devices on the go. Adjustable Distance Control, where you can send the trolley to pre-set distances of up to 45 yards on its own, is another feature the entry-level options can't compete with.
On the course, I barely noticed the S1 - and that's a compliment. It blends into your golf routine seamlessly, all while doing the job of carrying your clubs perfectly. The motor is quiet and the knob on the handle is highly reponsive to commands. All of that means the knob in charge of controlling the trolley (me) can focus on the golf at hand. Coupling this on-course usability with how simple it is to fold away and the S1 represents the most stress-free electric trolley experience I've had. Those who play on hilly courses might want to invest in the S1 DHC, which uses Automatic Downhill Control to keep the trolley at a steady speed when going down steep hills.
I'm happy that not a lot has changed on the new S1. Back in 2022, this would've been considered an entry-level product, but the introduction of new trolleys like the Motocaddy SE has bumped the S1 up a level. That being said, it has clear features and benefits over the entry-level competition and will represent a worthy investment for any golfer looking to upgrade their current electric trolley or use one for the very first time. As with all Motocaddy products, the build quality is class-leading, and the S1 strikes a sleek pose on the golf course. If ease of use is your top priority from a golf trolley, look no further.
