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Relox Robotics Range Picker climbs a 14% grade hill at Talking Stick in Arizona.
August 05, 2025 By Jessica Peguero

Built for the Climb: How the Range Picker Handles Hills

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Here in Colorado, we know a thing or two about climbing. Whether it’s hiking a Fourteener, grinding out switchbacks on a mountain bike, or just hauling our own bodies up a set of stairs at altitude, steep terrain is part of our daily lives.

That’s why we have a special appreciation for our flagship product, the Relox Robotic Range Picker™.
No, it wasn’t born in Colorado (this hard-working machine was designed and built in Sweden), but it shares our rugged, mountain-loving spirit. And just like us Coloradans, it’s not afraid of a good climb.

Recently, we were invited to put the Range Picker to the test in Arizona, on a 12–14% grade driving range slope. This is the kind of incline that will get your heart rate up if you’re walking it. The result? Smooth, confident, no-hesitation hill climbing. You can view a bit of our drone footage on our Linked Post.


A Little Context for the Flat-Landers

I grew up in a state that’s mostly below sea level, so I know this comparison isn’t top of mind for everyone:

OPA Blog Images 1920x1080 RP Slope Context v2

  • 5% grade = moderate incline (typical road slope)

  • 10% grade = steep for walking or biking

  • 12–14% grade = very steep — challenging for most vehicles, runners, and cyclists


So… How Does It Do That?

The Range Picker is more than just a robotic golf ball collector — it’s a highly engineered, all-weather, all-terrain machine. Here’s what gives it mountain-goat-level climbing skills:

  • Dual Brushless DC Motors with Planetary Gear Drive – Designed for low speed with high torque, giving it the muscle to carry up to 100 lbs. of balls without slowing down.

  • Heavy-Duty Tires – Built to grip in all weather and on all types of driving range terrain.

  • Lightweight Build – At just 410 lbs. fully loaded (310lbs + 100lbs of balls), it’s surprisingly light for a ball-picking machine. This means it’s easier on turf compared to most traditional picking carts and robots.


Colorado Tested, Range Approved

While the Range Picker’s Scandinavian engineering is impressive on paper, nothing beats seeing it in action, especially on a slope that would challenge most people (and machines).

It’s one thing to say your equipment can handle a climb.
It’s another to roll up to a 12–14% hill and watch it cruise to the top like it’s no big deal.


Want to See It in Action?

If you’re curious about how the Relox Robotic Range Picker could handle the terrain at your facility, let’s talk. Whether you’re in the mountains, the desert, or anywhere in between, we can show you exactly what it can do.

📍 Proudly headquartered in Colorado.

About Author

Jessica Peguero

I’m a designer, marketer, and business owner who thrives on innovation, storytelling, and coffee. As co-founder of OnPar Automation, I’m passionate about creating solutions that help businesses grow. Inspired by purposeful ideas, people doing good, and the beauty of nature, I channel these influences into both my work and life—where my two little girls constantly remind me of what truly matters.

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