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International Karting Industry Buyer's Guide

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A Guide To The World's Most Popular Motorsport.

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THE RACERS EDGE
01-01-01

HOW TO GET INVOLVED IN KART RACING

Kart Racing is the safest and least expensive form of open wheel motorsports in the world. Current statistics show that kart racing’s dramatic growth is due to an influx of new drivers from two groups. First are men and women above 30 years of age who have just discovered the sport. They come from all walks of life: professional and business people looking for some thrills and excitement, former motorcycle racers looking for new challenges and auto racing enthusiasts seeking a less expensive way to satisfy their urge to race. The growing popularity of motorsports has encouraged more people to experience the “rush” of speed on a racetrack.

Additional growth comes from children 14 years and under. Parents look to keep their children occupied and off the streets, and karting provides a wonderful family activity.

With the new “baby karts”, youngsters can start racing as early a 6-8 years of age. Karting has been proven to be a safe and effective way to build responsibility, and the reward of kart racing for scholastic performance may improve grades and attitude.

How does one get involved in kart racing?

THE BASICS: SPEED AND COST
Two questions normally arise at the outset:
1. How fast do karts go?
2. How much do they cost?

To answer the first question - AS FAST AS YOU WANT THEM TO GO!

For juniors drivers, the air/fuel mixture from the carburetor to the engine is restricted to keep speeds within a desired safety zone. Generally, junior drivers will reach speeds of 40-50 miles per hour (MPH) down a typical 600-foot straightaway, but of course, average speeds are lower.

The same engine without restriction will propel senior drivers at speeds up to 70 MPH on a straightaway, up to 120 MPH at major tracks such as Daytona International Speedway. The increasingly popular shifter karts are capable of reaching speeds in excess of 150 MPH. The major differences in speeds are attributed to track sizes and final drive gear ratios, which vary with the type of application.

Question #2. In terms of cost, the investment in kart racing depends on how much a racer can afford. New race karts can be found in a range of prices, but expect to pay in the neighborhood of $3000 - $4000 for quality entry-level equipment. Used equipment also varies in price, but a competitive race kart can generally be secured for around $1800.

INVESTIGATE BEFORE INVESTING
Before you make a financial commitment, it is best to explore the many options available before making your racing decisions.

Strong consideration should be given to attending one of the many fine racing schools across the country. First, a school provides first-hand experience on a race track to determine if you really enjoy the sport before investing your time and money. Secondly, a school will provide kart racing insight and knowledge in a compact period of time, leaving you well prepared for the outset of your racing career.

The first major decision to be made is: WHAT TYPE OF KART RACING DO YOU WISH TO ENTER?
Today, there are three basic types of kart racing:
1. Sprint Racing
2. Speedway or Oval Racing
3. Enduro or Road Racing

SPRINT RACING takes place on short twisty asphalt road-type courses with the driver sitting in an upright position. Each racer generally racers in 3 heats per race day with each heat consisting of 5-7 minutes of intense competition. Note: Shifter karts are similar in design and style to sprint karts with the exception that they are designed for the larger engine used in this type of karting.

SPEEDWAY OR OVAL RACING takes place on short clay, dirt or asphalt oval tracks with karts similar in style, but different in design to those used in sprint racing. Speedway/oval racing presents ever-changing track conditions to provide an excellent challenge to drivers and pit crews alike.

ENDURO OR ROAD RACING is an event testing machine and driver endurance. These races take place at famous tracks such as Road America (Wisconsin), Watkins Glen (New York) and Lowe’s Motor Speedway (North Carolina) and usually last 45 minutes to an hour.

Most kart racers begin with sprint or oval racing organized by a local club. Be sure to investigate all of the options available in your area to best suit your needs and interests. Just because there is a track nearby does not always mean it’s the right one for you. There are differences in personalities and rules at each facility, and a visit or two to each – armed with questions – is the best way to make a decision.

A visit to a track on race day and buy a pit pass so you can walk the pits. This will afford you an opportunity for an up-close look at race kart preparation and live racing action. As a newcomer you’ll want to ask questions of the karters, but please be aware that they are preparing for the next heat, so you’ll need to be patient.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE JOINING A KART CLUB
There are a number of considerations in determining which kart club to join. Following is a check list of questions to ask:

1. What is the racing schedule for the year?
2. What day is “race day” and what are the race times?
3. Which days can a driver practice and what are the times?
4. Do I have to be a club member to use the facilities?
5. What race classes are offered and how are they determined?
6. What are the ages, weights and engine types allowed?
7. What engine modifications are allowed?
8. Does the club have a tire rule? (Only specific tires allowed)
9. What is the membership fee?
10. What are the practice and race fees for members and non-members?
11. What safety equipment is required?
12. What types of fuel are legal or mandatory?
13. Does the club/track have a maximum noise level for karts?
14. Does the club qualify or draw for race positions and when is this done?
15. Does the club or track offer instruction or a school?
16. Does the club or track rent race karts?
17. How many heats does each class run and what is the format?
18. What is the racing order?
19. What is done to discourage rough driving?
20. Is there sufficient emergency equipment and qualified staff on hand during race day?
21. How soon can I start?

Many of the answers to these questions can usually be found in the club or track rule book, which is given to new members, but should be available for review before joining a particular club. Above all, feel free to ask questions – most people will be happy to help you get started.

Once you find a club or program that appeals to you, it is in your best interest to join as soon as possible. Not only will this aid in becoming familiar with the club members, it could also save you money. Most clubs offer a discount on advance race entry fees to members, which could pay for the membership fee in a matter of weeks. Even if you don’t start racing immediately, clubs need volunteers to carry out race day activities. By doing this, you’ll learn about the club and racing, and other club members will appreciate your effort.

SHOULD YOU BUY NEW OR USED EQUIPMENT?

As you begin your search for a kart, be advised that many people in the sport have some equipment for sale. Whether new or used, it pays to carefully evaluate what’s being offered at what price.

A new kart is your best bet. A prominent chassis manufacturer was asked how long a chassis maintains its peak handling characteristics, and his response was “about 2-1/2 years”. The answer referred to the actual tubular frame of the kart chassis, because it can lose its original handling characteristics over time. Performance is hampered by bends in the chassis, metal fatigue and steady use.

Unfortunately, these problems are very hard to determine and can only be avoided by purchasing a new kart, usually from a kart shop. In addition, many people who purchase used equipment end up spending large sums of money to maintain or repair these karts – often more than they would have spent by purchasing a new kart initially.

If you choose to purchase a new kart chassis, you can be confident that you will be able to sell the kart as a later date. Because karting is the fastest-growing motorsport in the world, there will always be someone looking for the least expensive way to enter the sport. Newer karts are always easier to sell to racers and this factor, coupled with the peace of mind of knowing the kart’s history, are reasons enough to purchase new when you start.

If you can’t afford a new chassis, the alternative is a used one. There are ways to avoid being “stung”. If someone tells you “the kart has only been used once – to win a championship – and has never been crashed”, and wants only $400, you obviously must be skeptical, unless the championship was in 1988! With a little inspection, the general condition of most karts can be ascertained.

First, turn the kart upside down and look at the frame’s general condition. Missing paint is normal because karts are so low to the ground, but dents, large scratches, rust, cracks and re-welds often indicate abuse.

Next, with the kart on its wheels, check the steering column, spindles, tie rods and steering wheel for bends, welds or “hot marks” (from heating the metal to bend it back into shape).

With the kart on a level floor, turn the steering wheel in both directions to see if the front tires lift off the floor at the same height. This is a quick check for a bent chassis.

Now, spin the axle to determine if the wheels, sprocket hub, brake rotor and axle are bent. If so, this is usually a sign of a collision during the kart’s life, and it will be necessary to repair this type of damage. Next, check the brakes to make sure they will sufficiently stop the axle (and the kart).

If possible, start the engine with the kart on a stand and listen for vibration and unusual noises. Better yet, take the kart to a track for a test drive.

Another hint is to check with a local kart shop for an opinion of the kart model, the price and the availability of parts. Most shops will be happy to assist you in answering your questions, but don’t forget to patronize the shop and thank the personnel for their help.

Finally, remember that appearance is a good judging factor. Dirt and grime hides cracks and other problems, so beware of used equipment that is not clean. Competitive karters usually work on their own equipment to keep it clean. A shiny, clean kart is often a sign that the owner has taken pride in his/her vehicle and has nothing to hide. But, as always, “Buyer Beware”.

In your search, you may hear “Boy, have I got a deal for you!” There are deals out there, particularly from those who may be exiting the sport, but you have to be careful and you will usually get what you pay for. For reference, the price for a new 4-cycle package (kart, engine, clutch, exhaust, etc.) generally starts at about $2500-$3000. A new Yamaha or US820 package starts at about $3500-$4000. Keep that in mind when looking at used kart assemblies.

And one other thing… if a kart you are considering is loaded with options, or comes with many extra parts, you may want to find out the retail prices of these items at a local kart shop. One of the main attractions of buying a used kart is the possibility of obtaining spares and extras that are sometimes “thrown in”. While bargains can be found, outdated, worn out and unnecessary equipment is also on the market.

Examine the parts carefully to determine if they are worth the extra money. Remember, you’ll end up reselling (or trying to) anything you don’t need, and outdated or well-worn equipment is difficult, if not impossible to sell in a performance-driven market.

END

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