Getting my kit from the van to my peg used to take multiple exhausting trips, but the Matrix 4 Wheel Transporter has completely changed that. I’ve used two-wheeled barrows in the past, and the strain they put on your forearms was uncomfortable, and on longer walks, I’d often have to stop and rest.
Straight away, I was impressed by how easy it was to set up. Once you’ve assembled the handles and rear trolley bag as one piece, it’s simply a case of slotting the handle into the main frame, attaching the wheels, tightening the hand wheels and it's good to go.
One of the best features is the adjustable extending frame (75cm to 100cm). It converts from a short-wheelbase barrow that’s compact and simple to manoeuvre. When more kit is needed, you just unscrew the hand wheels and extend it to give a longer-wheelbase with much more capacity.
It features a locking system that allows you to firmly lock the base of your seatbox in place, stopping it from sliding around during transit. It’s designed for Matrix seatboxes but is adjustable enough to accommodate most other brands.
Pushing it is effortless thanks to its height-adjustable handles. You won’t find yourself hunched over trying to force the barrow forward and the solid tyres mean I never have to worry about punctures.
The four-wheel design makes a huge difference in stability, even when I’m navigating rough and muddy paths. The waterproof storage bag is a nice touch as well, ideal for keeping the trolley together and stopping mud and debris from getting into the inside of the van or car boot.
Even though the transporter has a rear storage bag that easily takes my bait bucket, I did choose to purchase the Matrix Transporter Front Bag. This replaces the bar at the front of the trolley that the seatbox sits against and gives me a secure spot for my net bag containing my side trays and keepnets, which was the only bit of kit that didn’t sit quite right. With this extra attachment, everything stays in place, and I’m not constantly stopping to readjust or pick the net bag up because it has fallen off.
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Verdict
The Matrix 4 Wheel Transporter isn’t just a barrow. It solves a real problem, getting more kit to your peg in a single trip, and as we all acquire more kit, having a reliable barrow becomes more essential. For anyone who fishes regularly, especially on natural venues where long walks and uneven terrain are the norm, the Matrix Transporter is seriously worth a look.
Apart from the odd hand wheel coming loose, it’s stood firm, getting my gear to and from some distant pegs with no fuss. I have no reason to change it as I don't believe there is anything out there currently that has improved on the design, except maybe the power version. If you’re in the market for a 4-wheel barrow, the Matrix 4 Wheel Transporter is a great option.
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Tech Spec
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Provided in durable storage bag
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Storage size L75cm x W60cm x H25cm
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Frame compresses into compact size for easy storage
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Easy assembly
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Extending frame (from 75cm to 100cm)
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Seatbox locking system
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Height adjustable handles (from 88cm to 100cm)
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Ergonomic rubber handles
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Rear waterproof storage bag
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Solid tyres
Setting up the Matrix 4 Wheel Transporter is straightforward. Once the handles and rear trolley bag are joined, you just slot the handle into the frame, attach the wheels, tighten the hand wheels, and you’re ready. It folds down compactly and comes with a tough storage bag that helps keep my van tidy.
The adjustable frame (75cm to 100cm) is a smart feature. Use the shorter setting for light loads or extend it when you’ve got more kit. The seatbox locking system is solid and keeps everything secure without shifting. It’s made for Matrix seatboxes but adjusts to fit most others.
I added the Matrix Transporter Front Bag, which replaces the bar the seatbox rests against. It gives a secure place for my net bag, the only item that didn’t sit right before. Now everything stays put.
Pros
- Very stable
- Hard wearing wheels
Cons
- Can be noisy on rough terrain
Our pick of the alternatives
Having stood the test of time, the Preston Innovations Spacestation Shuttle is highly rated for its strength and durability. Available in two- and four-wheel versions, both come with a utility bag for carrying smaller items.
This was the original match fishing barrow and you will still see some of the original versions now and again, testament to their quality and reliability. The design hasn't changed much since then, due to their popularity, all that has really been upgraded is the fixtures and fittings to ensure that they still remain a firm favourite amongst anglers.
The adjustable legs with xl mud feet help keep the barrow stable and despite only having two wheels and we definitely found it easier to push compared to the four wheeled versions available, especially over loose gravel and roots!
The barrow will comfortably accommodate a seatbox, carryall and bait bag with ease and you can secure a holdall on top thanks to the bungee hook clips that are welded underneath the frame.
A whole host of add-ons is available, including adapters to securely hold any Preston seatbox without straps, a bucket loop, and a conversion kit to upgrade the two-wheel to a four-wheel shuttle. Secured using thumb screws, the whole lot comes apart easily for transportation.
Pros
- Easy to manoeuvre
- Very customisable
Cons
- Not as strong as some others available
With upgraded and strengthened construction, the MK2 version of the popular Map Extending Barrow is now even more durable. With an extending frame, extending handles and rear carry bag supplied as standard, there is also two sizes of front fitting bag to carry your nets and trays available separately.
Having owned this barrow for several years now I have to say it has been very impressive, yes I have lost the odd wheel screw and it has a bit of rust on it, but it performs as well as it did the first dayI bought it. The extending frame is great, as it allows you to tailor the barrow to the amount of gear you have, either use it in a more compact style or the elongated version. This sliding frame also makes it easier to get in and out of the car. The barrow itself isn't huge either despite its ability to carry a lot of gear and easily goes into my medium hatchback car without any issue!
The carry bag to the rear is great for carrying clothing, extra bait, tackle bags basically whatever will fit in it really, just be sure to put your box on the other end first or it is likely to tip up. You can buy an accessory bag for the front of the barrow and I would definitely recommend getting one as it is great for stink bags and nets. The Eva arms that come with the barrow are great for securing gear and you can use them to lock a seatbox down or cross them over to fasten your holdall into place and stop it falling off.
The only minor downside is the handles are a little low on the barrow, despite being adjustable so the best thing to do is turn them around so they face upwards. This makes it much easier to push the barrow and less stressful on your back! Apart from that this barrow is a durable, no-nonsense option and I plan on keeping mine for another 4 years as it has been a reliable partner on the bank!
Pros
- Very stable and the support arms are great for secruing a pole holdall
- The barrow bag is very spacious
Cons
- The nuts can rattle loose so make sure they are tight
The trolley comes apart very quickly, then packs up surprisingly small. A second bag is provided just for the wheels, to split the weight and keep the mucky part of the trolley away from your nice clean car interior.
To put the whole thing together from scratch took me less than five minutes, and I’m sure it can be done far quicker with practice. Anglers with bigger cars or vans will want to keep it assembled, but might find it difficult to lift, as the battery makes it heavy. Minus the battery, the Transporter is barely heavier than any other non-powered trolley. But is it powerful? Yes!
The trolley has three speed settings, which you switch between by pressing a button on the controller. Flat out at speed two will be fast enough for most people, while full throttle at speed three was so quick I was almost jogging behind it – even fully loaded!
I thought the Power Transporter was going to be good, but I was surprised at just how good! It’s easy to use, powerful, fast, very stable, and packs away easily. If you fish natural venues, regularly tackle long walks, or are struggling a little getting your gear to the bank due to age or health issues, this might just be the best product you will ever buy.
You can watch the full review of the Matrix Power Barrow on our YouTube channel here...
Pros
- Effortless transport gear to your peg
- Detachable battery for ease of charging
Cons
- Does take a while to setup so is best left constructed where possible
Author Jonathan Longden, is an experienced angler. With over 20 years experience in the tackle trade specialising in match and coarse fishing he has an extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. He currently occupies the role of digital content writer at Angling Times.