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International Karting Industry Buyer's Guide

GO KARTING!
A Guide To The World's Most Popular Motorsport.

Kart Expo International

- RULE-MAKING AND SANCTIONING ORGANIZATIOINS –

In the United States today, there are six major rule-making organizations: International Kart Federation (IKF), International Racing Association (IRA), Karters of America Racing Triad (KART), Superkarts! USA (SKUSA), Small Engine Racing Club of America (SERCA) and World Karting Association (WKA). There are also a number of regional sanctioning bodies many of whom pattern their rules after one or more of the major associations. 

The ASN/Canada FIA is the principal sanctioning body in Canada. In most other countries, kart racing is governed by CIK (Commission International du Karting), a Swiss-based organization, for all international events. Many countries have their own national motorsports organization under which karting is governed many times using the CIK rules as a guideline. 

Sanctioning bodies set racing rules, suggest track design, establish kart and safety standards and determines other procedures to keep racing safe and enjoyable. The organizations offer classes or racing divisions usually determined by participant age, chassis/driver weight and engine type, to make competition in the sport as fair as possible. While their rules and class levels are similar, in most cases organization rules are not completely compatible with each other. In addition, classes offered by one may not be available in the other. This is to suggest that before deciding on a class or traveling to a race track, check with that track or club to make sure of their guidelines or affiliation.

Most clubs use some or all of a particular sanctioning organization’s rules and guidelines. However, because of special circumstances, club member preferences or other factors, there may be some differences between national organization rules and the actual procedures used at a particular race site. These are called “local option” rules and will differ from track to track.

Additionally, the major organizations make insurance available to the tracks and club via sanctioning and entry fees. As a racer or member of a pit crew, you will be required to pay an entry fee or purchase a separate “pit pass” to be allowed to enter the pit area. For safety purposes, a pit pass keeps unauthorized visitors from entering the pits. Part of the entry or pit pass fee is set aside to pay for insurance coverage and track upkeep.

In addition to sanctioned tracks, there are many non-sanctioned or so-called “outlaw” tracks around the country. This designation means that the track operators or clubs have opted not to be under the sanctioning umbrella or insured by a major organization. Outlaw tracks are then obligated to obtain their own insurance programs to protect the drivers, the pit crews, spectators and themselves.

Can a racer join these organizations? Of course! Individual membership in a racing orgainzation is the backbone of the orgainzation. But, remember, it is not mandatory to belong to any major organization to race karts on a local level. However, at some national events, it will be necessary to become a member to compete. If in doubt, check with your local kart club. The major organizations offer memberships which usually include an annual rule book, membership card, patch and perhaps a monthly magazine or newsletter. 
 
 

- WHICH CLASS SHOULD YOU RACE? – 

The next step in getting involved in kart racing is to determine which class or division to race. Most clubs break down racing classes by engine type, age group and experience and the combination of minimum weight of the driver and kart 
chassis/engine. 

Most tracks offer a novice class, which is the best place for a new karter to start. Although many people feel that they will immediate become the next Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart when they step into a kart for the first time, most karters soon learn that consistent success requires track time and practice. Racing in a novice class for at least a few races allows a new driver to strengthen his/her skills with other drivers of similar experience before racing with veterans.

For a complete description of available classes, of which there are many, refer to the “Tech Manual” offered by each of the sanctioning organizations.
 
 

- WHERE TO SHOP –

As with any sport, you will need reliable karts, equipment and accessories along with expert service and support. You have a choice of many manufacturers and kart shops to choose from and most logically you will deal with someone in your area. 

Where do you find your suppliers? Following are good sources of information:

1. The Yellow Pages – Look under “Go Kart”, “Karts, motorized” or “Carts”.

2. Local Kart Clubs – Kart clubs are usually familiar with all the kart shops and manufacturers in the immediate vicinity. Additionally, they can provide referrals to reliable sources that have established track records in business.

3. Advertisements – Scan the ads in kart racing magazines and study the product offerings. Contact dealers and manufacturers and ask them to send product literature. In many cases, their ads will also refer to a web site, which will usually display their products.

4. The International Karting Industry Buyer’s Guide – Available from this site, the guide is a comprehensive directory listing 375 product categories with nearly 2,000 company listings. You can contact individual manufacturers, distributors or dealers.  Many time manufactures will not deal directly with the general public, but will refer you to their nearest distributor or dealers – just ask them.

You may wish to associate yourself with one supplier or do business with multiple sources. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as you search for the right products to meet your needs or desires. Keep in mind that knowledgeable salespeople, quality products, timely service and repair capabilities can be vital to your racing success.

Additionally, convenient store hours, the availability of credit and the helpfulness and friendliness of employees will factor into your selection of who gets your business.
 
 

END
 

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