Lifetime 51550 Portable Basketball System with Shatterguard Backboard Review

Average Overall Rating

Lifetime portable hoops are known to be top quality basketball equipment and it shouldn’t come as a surprise that this Lifetime 51550 portable hoop has followed closely in the steps of its successful predecessors.

This portable hoop provides a considerable number of features that might interest you. If you are not quite sure about the suitability of this hoop, then read on to find out whether it’s worth your time and money.

Who is this Portable Basketball Hoop for?

This portable basketball hoop is specifically designed for kids. This is just the right kind of hoop for starters who want to have fun and nurture their balling skills. This might not be the gateway to NBA stardom, but it can pass for a gift which provides your kid with plenty of opportunities and the convenience to play and have fun.

 

Basketball Backboard

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The backboard comes in a decent size. It offers opportunity for great play, but not fantastic rebounds as you would from a permanent backboard. This portable basketball system has 48 inch backboard which produces fairly impressive rebound scope.

However, the backboard seems to be quite small and lightweight. Plexiglas has been used and this provides reasonable protection from aggressive play and hard shots.

In addition, the polycarbonate backboard comes with fade-resistant graphics which ensures that the hoop retains its good looks after several years of use.

 

Pole and Lift System

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This hoop comprises a 3 piece section pole which measures 3 inches in diameter. The pole features a powder-coated and rust-resistant finish which ensures it remains sturdy for several years.

It seems that Lifetime figured that dunking above the rim play is a popular part of today’s basketball and that is why Lifetime 51550 comes with the height adjust feature.

Basically, this mechanism enables players to make height adjustment by lowering and raising the backboard from 8-10 feet by using one hand. The height adjustment mechanism works well, and so players of any age can enjoy the game their height notwithstanding.

 

Base

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The base unit is sturdy and provides good stability when filled with either sand or water. Unlike in-built ground hoops anchored in concrete, this Lifetime 51550 hoop rolls smoothly on wheels.

This allows you to move the unit to your desired location, the back yard, basement, or the court in preparation for the game. You will only be required to fill the 31-gallon base with your choice material before play. Remember, you might need anti-freeze in wintery conditions to allow water removal if need be.

 

Rim

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If you admire above the rim play, then you will be glad to note that Lifetime 51550 has a slam-it rim designed for players who like throwing down.

The Steel rim incorporates a spring compression mechanism which gives way when excess pressure is exerted when dunking, thus, securing the backboard from further damage. Also, the rim is held up by 1/2 inch braces and features welded net hooks which fits standard weather proof nylon net.

 

Installation

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Well, assembly is not quite simple but bearable. The good thing is that assembly instructions are pretty straight forward, and thorough. In this case, there should be no problems with setting up the unit after purchasing it.

This portable basketball hoop requires at least two people to complete the assembly in less than 2 hours. There is no indication for extra tools for installation apart from the basic tools- screw drivers for fixing the screws in place.

Overall, the assembled unit actually comes out clean and seems stable for such a portable unit. You can trust this hoop to provide good performance to match the level of play of maturing kids.

 

Why should you invest in this Portable Basketball Hoop?

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• It has a sturdy 31-gallon base unit.
• Bottom wheels make the hoop portable.
• Shatterproof polycarbonate backboard provides durability.
• Clear instructions for quick and smooth assembly.
• Good packing of small parts/hardware for easy identification.

 

Summary

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Overall, this portable basketball hoop is good for the pricing. It certainly meets the expectations of many young players. The assembly is smooth resulting in a sturdy unit.

Lifetime 51550 Courtside comes with a five-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. This is a great buy which is recommended for anyone searching for decent portable basketball hoops.

 

Features

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Specifications

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Pros Holds up against aggressive play from youngsters. Includes a wrap-around pad to protect kids from smashing their head into the pole. Kids can dunk due to the Slam-It spring loaded rim. Speed shift system is good for fast height adjustment.	Cons The backboard is sturdy enough for youngsters but may be a little weak for older children.

Customer Reviews

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