If you’re looking to transform your golf cart into an off-road machine, a high-quality lift kit is essential. Lift kits improve ground clearance, enhance suspension, and allow for larger tires—making them ideal for rough terrain, hunting, or trail riding.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- The top 5 off-road golf cart lift kits
- Spindle vs. A-arm lift kits—pros and cons
- Key factors like ride height, durability, and compatibility
- Expert recommendations for different needs
Why Install a Golf Cart Lift Kit?
Before diving into the best kits, let’s discuss the benefits of lifting your golf cart:
- Increased Ground Clearance – Avoid obstacles like rocks, roots, and uneven terrain.
- Larger Tires – Better traction and stability on rough paths.
- Improved Suspension – Smoother ride on bumpy trails.
- Enhanced Off-Road Capability – Ideal for hunting, camping, or rugged trail use.
For more on golf cart modifications, check out Golf Cart Resource, a comprehensive guide to upgrades and accessories.
Now, let’s compare the two main types of lift kits:
Spindle vs. A-Arm Lift Kits: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Spindle Lift Kit | A-Arm Lift Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Easier, less invasive | More complex, requires suspension changes |
| Ride Quality | Stiffer (less suspension travel) | Smoother (better shock absorption) |
| Durability | Good for light off-roading | Best for heavy-duty use |
| Cost | More affordable | More expensive |
| Best For | Casual trail riding, budget builds | Serious off-roading, rugged terrain |
Which Should You Choose?
- Spindle lifts are great for budget-friendly setups with moderate off-roading.
- A-arm lifts offer superior performance for aggressive trails and heavy loads.
Top 5 Golf Cart Lift Kits for Off-Road Performance
1. All Sports 6″ A-Arm Super Sport Lift Kit (Best Overall)
- Type: A-arm
- Lift Height: 6″
- Compatibility: EZ-GO TXT, Yamaha, Club Car
- Where to Buy: All Sports Manufacturing
- Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction for extreme off-roading
- Improved suspension geometry for a smoother ride
- Fits 23″ or larger tires
- Cons: More expensive than spindle kits
2. Jakes 6″ Spindle Lift Kit (Best Budget Option)
- Type: Spindle
- Lift Height: 6″
- Compatibility: Club Car DS, EZ-GO TXT
- Where to Buy: Jakes Lift Kits
- Pros:
- Affordable and easy to install
- Strong steel construction
- Good for light to moderate trails
- Cons: Not ideal for extreme off-roading
3. Rhox 6″ A-Arm Lift Kit (Best for Yamaha Carts)
- Type: A-arm
- Lift Height: 6″
- Compatibility: Yamaha Drive/G29
- Where to Buy: Rhox Golf Cart Parts
- Pros:
- Heavy-duty A-arms for durability
- Includes heavy-duty shocks
- Great for hunting and rugged terrain
- Cons: Limited to Yamaha models
4. SuperATV 7″ Dual A-Arm Lift Kit (Most Heavy-Duty)
- Type: A-arm
- Lift Height: 7″
- Compatibility: Club Car Onward/Tempo, EZ-GO RXV
- Where to Buy: SuperATV
- Pros:
- Maximum ground clearance
- Reinforced A-arms for extreme conditions
- Fits 25″ tires
- Cons: Expensive, may require professional installation
5. MadJax 5″ Spindle Lift Kit (Best for Small Lifts)
- Type: Spindle
- Lift Height: 5″
- Compatibility: Club Car Precedent, EZ-GO TXT
- Where to Buy: MadJax
- Pros:
- Retains factory ride quality
- Simple bolt-on installation
- Good for golf courses and light trails
- Cons: Not for aggressive off-roading
For installation guides and troubleshooting, petesgolfcarts.com offers helpful tutorials.
What to Consider Before Buying a Lift Kit
1. Ride Height
- 4-5″ lifts – Best for light trails and golf course use.
- 6-7″ lifts – Ideal for serious off-roading and larger tires.
2. Durability & Build Quality
- Steel construction – Best for rugged use.
- Powder-coated finish – Prevents rust and corrosion.
3. Compatibility
Ensure the kit fits your golf cart model and year (EZ-GO, Club Car, Yamaha).
4. Tire Size
Larger lifts allow for bigger tires (22″-25″), improving off-road traction.
Final Verdict: Best Golf Cart Lift Kit?
- Best Overall: All Sports 6″ A-Arm Lift Kit (durable, smooth ride)
- Best Budget: Jakes 6″ Spindle Lift Kit (affordable and reliable)
- Most Heavy-Duty: SuperATV 7″ Dual A-Arm Lift Kit (extreme off-roading)
FAQs
Q: Do lift kits affect speed or battery life?
A: Larger tires may slightly reduce torque but won’t drastically impact battery life.
Q: Can I install a lift kit myself?
A: Spindle kits are DIY-friendly; A-arm kits may require professional help.
Q: Do I need new shocks with a lift kit?
A: Some kits include shocks; others may require upgrades for optimal performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right lift kit depends on your budget, terrain, and cart model. A-arm lifts excel in off-road performance, while spindle lifts are great for budget builds.
For further customization, consider pairing your lift kit with off-road tires and wheels for maximum performance.
