News Summary
Local entrepreneurs in Halifax have launched Scratch Bike, a company that introduces specialized e-bikes designed for golf courses. This game-changing concept aims to enhance golfers’ experience, offering a balance between walking and traditional power carts. With a unique design that prevents damage to the greens and impressive performance, Scratch Bikes are set to revolutionize how golfers navigate the fairways. As they attract interest from both players and golf managers, this innovation promises to bring a new level of excitement to golf in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia Entrepreneurs Unveil Game-Changing E-Bikes for Golf Courses!
In a delightful twist for golf lovers in Halifax, two local entrepreneurs, Mike Bardsley and Noah Connolly, have launched a revolutionary idea that could change the way we navigate the greens. Meet Scratch Bike, a Halifax-based company that aims to enhance the golfing experience with their specialized e-bikes tailored specifically for use on golf courses.
Goodbye Power Carts, Hello E-Bikes!
For years, golf courses have seen a preference for traditional power carts, but Bardsley and Connolly recognized an opportunity to introduce an exciting alternative. Their tagline nicely sums it up: “There’s walking and there’s carting. Scratch Bike is the perfect middle ground.” With a focus on improving physical activity while still enjoying the luxurious comforts of golf, these e-bikes serve as a fantastic compromise between walking and riding around in a cart.
The Spark of Inspiration
The inception of Scratch Bike has a charming backstory. The idea sparked during a casual round of golf, where Bardsley and Connolly, who both worked at a local advertising agency, realized that while golf is about skill and strategy, it can also be a pretty sedentary affair, especially when using power carts. With that thought in mind, the duo went on to establish Scratch Bike over a year ago, working through the cold winter months to bring their prototypes to life.
Four Prototypes in Action!
Currently, four prototype bikes are being field-tested at various golf courses throughout Nova Scotia. These e-bikes come equipped with a unique slanted rack for golf bags, cleverly designed to fit comfortably while also preventing any damage to the greens. The bikes feature robust, fat tires with a generous four-inch base, providing amazing traction on softer surfaces like grass and dirt. That’s right — no more worrying about leaving tire marks on the fairway!
A Balanced Ride
The e-bikes are built with both convenience and fun in mind. Riders can choose to pedal as they normally would or utilize the electric motor for some extra push when needed. The motor is limited to a speed of approximately 15 to 18 kilometers per hour, similar to power carts, offering a smooth and speedy golfing experience. Battery-wise, the e-bikes boast an impressive range of up to 80 kilometers on a single charge, perfect for those extended day-long rounds of golf. Plus, with a handy thumb throttle, golfers can enjoy a breezy ride without even pedaling!
All About Safety and Style
Safety is a top priority, and these e-bikes come fitted with high-powered LED headlights for those sunset rounds that can stretch into the twilight. Not just a passing fad, Scratch Bikes have sparked serious interest among golfers and course managers alike. Potential partnerships are on the table, as golf courses across the province contemplate the positive impact these bikes could have on their operations.
Hitting the Fairways with Confidence
Eric Tobin, the general manager at Oakfield Golf and Country Club, has noted that the specially designed tires won’t cause turf damage, further solidifying the case for e-bikes on the course. Although these e-bikes may fit best with resort-style golf venues rather than traditional walking courses, even the most casual golfer can appreciate a ride that’s sporty yet responsible.
Eyes on the Horizon
With their sights set on the wider market, Bardsley and Connolly plan to take their innovation beyond Nova Scotia, eyeing golf destinations in the United States such as Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach! Scratch Bike will also be featuring their product at the PGA of Atlantic golf industry convention in Charlottetown this November, eager to catch the attention of the golf community.
Younger Golfers are Excited!
An enthusiastic response has already been noted among younger golfers who see these e-bikes as a thrilling addition to the golfing experience. Bardsley hopes that Scratch Bikes will become a local pride and joy, adding excitement and a touch of novelty to rounds of golf in Nova Scotia.
With innovation like this, golf in Nova Scotia is sure to get a little bit more thrilling! So, get ready to trade in those power carts and say hello to the future of golfing with Scratch Bikes!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Highlights from the 2025 PGA Merchandise Show
Additional Resources
- SaltWire: Golfing on an E-Bike
- Wikipedia: Golf
- Nuvomagazine: Fox Harb’r Resort
- Google Search: E-Bike Golf Courses
- Lonely Planet: Getting Around Nova Scotia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Bicycle
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
