In this piece, we discuss:
Groups by Age
Karting divisions or classes (based on engine type and age)
Security
list of tools required to get going.
We provide one-on-one training and guidance. For scheduling and pricing, get in touch with us. We are situated close to Pat's Acres Racing Complex in Canby, Oregon, in the Pacific Northwest.
CLASSES AND AGE GROUPS FOR KARTING
Karting is a fun way for people of all ages to go racing and is a terrific family sport. The majority of kart racing clubs, organizations, and tracks provide the following age groups:
5-7 years old: Also known as "Baby Karts" or Micro Karts, these vehicles are commonly referred to as "Kid Karts" in the United States. Typically, a tiny (50cc) 2-stroke engine—like the one used on a chain saw—powers these. The Comer C50/51 2-cycle engine has been the most widely used engine. The Honda GXH50 4-cycle engine is used by many clubs and has become more popular since it is easy to maintain and tune. Before purchasing an engine, find out which series is most popular in your area. We have the Comer C50/51 and the Honda GXH50 in stock.
The Kid Kart class is a "participation" class here in the Pacific Northwest. The emphasis is on enjoyment, safety, and education; there are no points or titles. A parent's comfort level with their children can be matched by adjusting the throttle stops. Although we have adjusted engines up to 40 mph in this class (for experienced racers only), top speeds can vary but are often around 30 mph.
We are quite good at working with children, and we provide training. We turn them on without turning on the motor! Making sure they instinctively know which pedal is the brake and which is the throttle is crucial for safety. Younger children frequently don't know or forget in the thrill of their first driving experience. We go through a training procedure to assist children in learning in a safe manner.
7–12 years old: The 60cc 2-stroke Cadet class offers a dependable, reasonably basic engine from IAME or ROK that can reach speeds of over 50 mph. For this age group, there is also a 4-stroke Junior class called the Jr I Briggs & Stratton LO206.
For children aged 8 to 10, the Rotax series employs the MicroMax engine configuration; for children aged 10 to 13, it uses the MiniMax engine configuration.
The Cadet class was split into two age categories by SKUSA in 2016. Mini Swift is for ages 9–13, and Micro Swift is for children 7-9. The only distinction between them is that the Micro class uses the 16mm factory header, but both use our Mini Swift engine (see the IAME Engines page).
The ROK Cup USA now uses a similar concept. The tiny ROK engine is a competitive product that is reasonably priced (available on our Vortex engines page).
12 to 15 years old: One of the most fiercely competitive classes is the junior class. Using a full-size kart and a 125cc 2-stroke engine or a 100cc air-cooled 2-stroke engine (we carry three different brands; we can tell you which one would work best for you) in TaG, ROK, or Rotax, this is an extremely entertaining class. Club-level entry-level drivers with limited funds can also enroll in 4-cycle classes like LO206 Jr II.
Rotax Jr. Max engines feature a different cylinder sleeve, and TaG engines have an exhaust restrictor that can be easily removed to upgrade to the Senior class. On sprint tracks, the typical speed range is 65 mph.
Ages 15 and up: Not subject to the restricted exhaust, but comparable to the junior class. We call this the Senior class. There are four-cycle classifications like World Formula and LO206, as well as two-stroke classes like TaG, ROK, and Rotax. Speeds on sprint tracks frequently surpass 70 mph, and there are greater minimum weight limits.
Ages 32 and up: Some of the most entertaining racing takes place in the Masters class, which is highly attended. Larger frame drivers can compete by using a heavier minimum weight and having both light and heavy divisions. Sometimes, larger children (16 and up) who weigh more than the minimum weight requirements for their class are permitted to compete in the Masters class.
45 and older: In 2015, SKUSA launched the Super Masters division. Although we anticipated that the class would expand, it is still primarily a "Local Option" class that is being reviewed. This class expanded to certain other SKUSA events in 2018 and 2019.
Are you new to racing, or do you have children that want to race but lack experience? Reach out to us for coaching and training. We instruct new drivers of all ages on how to enjoy the sport and drive safely. with trackside assistance during races and one-on-one tutoring at the track.
Karting offers a class for everyone, regardless of age, weight, or financial situation.
There are many different kinds of racing, including as pavement and dirt Speedway Ovals, but depending on where you reside, Sprint and Road are probably the two most popular classes.
Sprint: Usually conducted on a narrow course (often less than a mile in length) created especially for karting. a variety of turns, many of them are tight hairpin corners.
Road: Auto racing tracks host karting competitions. The shifter karts frequently reach speeds in the 120 mph range and employ different gears.
Karting offers a vast array of classes according to various engine types. Although choosing a class might be difficult, we've listed some of the most well-liked ones here with descriptions in the hopes that you'll find the one that works best for you. To find out what classes are popular in your area, we strongly advise looking into your local scene. Generally speaking, racing in a popular class with lots of competitors will be more enjoyable.
Touch and Go, or TaG, is a popular lesson in certain places but not in others. This class is one of our favorites, and we are the title sponsor of the O2s Championship Series, which features both TaG and Shifters in the Northwest. However, the degree of participation seems to fluctuate from year to year. Juniors and above use a 125 cc 2-stroke engine (around 27 to 30 horsepower), such the new X125T, the Vortex ROK, or the IAME X30 (all of which we carry). Although the engine is very pricey (between $2,000 and $3,000 for a full setup), it is also incredibly quick and simple to modify. When there is a high level of participation, this is one of the most enjoyable classes.
We give this class a medium-high rating for cost and a high rating for enjoyment.
World Formula: This is one of the more reasonably priced classes and a popular one at one of our local tracks, McMinnville. This class makes use of a about 212cc 4-cycle engine. 16–18 horsepower (the Juniors utilize the Animal, which has about 12 horsepower). Despite not being as quick as TaG, this is a more cost-effective choice (new competitive engines cost about $1200). This class is highly competitive and closely matched. Note: not many other regions still offer this class, but the Northwest Region does. Examine your local track.
This class receives a medium-high rating for fun and a comparatively low rating for cost.
LO206: A sealed engine and marginally less expensive than World Formula. A few years ago, this option was added to reduce the cost of racing. It has gained a lot of popularity nationwide. Torque out of corners is great, and the top end speeds aren't extremely high, making this a good class for novices. With this dependable engine, the amount of enjoyment rises as involvement quickly expands. There are about nine horsepower. For those who are new to the sport, we suggest this class as a wonderful place to start. We sell the long block for $669 and the short block for slightly over $300. Visit our Engines/LO206 page to view our Pro Accessories Kit, which includes everything you need (full engine, carb, clutch, pipe, sprocket, chain, fuel line, throttle cable, filters, brackets, etc.).
We give this class a low cost rating and a medium to high fun rating.
100cc A/C: The 100cc Air-Cooled 2-stroke class was a newer class that was established in 2019 and is actually comparable to an older class, the well-known KT100. With this speedy (22 hp) yet reasonably priced engine, we're witnessing rapid growth throughout the United States. It's a significant speed boost over the LO206 without significantly raising costs. These 100cc engines perform admirably on the same chassis as TaG or LO206. They are an excellent value for the money and a true kart racing engine that is yet quite easy to use. We have three brands that we sell. IAME KA100, X100AC, and ROK VLR.
We give this class a medium/low cost rating and a high fun rating.
With a 100cc air-cooled 2-stroke engine (ROK VLR), WORD Racing prepared Tony Kart.
Rotax: Up until 2015, when they released the new EVO package, the Rotax Max Challenge series saw outstanding growth at the national level. Attendance at Rotax events dropped to around half in 2017 compared to previous years, and ROK Cup USA and SKUSA have mostly replaced the class in 2018. The engine is a sealed, two-stroke, 125cc engine that costs roughly $3,000. The senior class has about 26–28 horsepower. Reliability, performance, and speeds are comparable to those of TaG. From about 2010 to 2016, Rotax was perhaps the priciest karting sport in America; yet, there were a few advantages that made the series worthwhile. The series had excellent organization and support. They established a fantastic championship series that qualifies drivers for Grand Nationals and Grand Finals events, and they had strong press coverage and participation at the larger events.
If your definition of fun is very competitive and serious, we give this class a high rating for fun, but it also has a high rating for cost.
*Rotax has been undergoing some significant adjustments. Prices have been reduced, the EVO package has been greatly enhanced, and the cylinder manufacturing process has been modified (to keep engines more equal). However, given that the Rotax series is currently struggling in the US, it looks like it was too little, too late. The SKUSA version of TaG (X30) or the ROK Cup USA series are more options to think about.
Shifter: This is the class for you if you want speed! But this is not a beginner's class. Before advancing to the Shifter class, we advise starting in one of the aforementioned single speed classes, even if you have prior experience racing cars or motorcycles. These karts have a top speed of 115 mph on road circuits and 80 mph on sprint tracks. Driving them on a sprint track is challenging; in the S4 class at Pat's Acres, we shift almost 45 times in a 36-second lap. In braking zones, downshifting three gears in less than a second. It is not appropriate for novice karters attempting to grasp the fundamentals of kart handling and setup to hold on with one hand in a 3 G corner.
The total cost of the engine (new Honda or Vortex ROK or TM) is approximately $4–6k. The ROK is reasonably priced and dependable. Depending on the dyno and stock vs. mod class, Honda produces between 36 and 45 horsepower; the stock ROK is rated at 43 horsepower, while some KZ engines are approaching 50 horsepower. The KZ class (previously ICC) is the next step up from the Stock Moto and the ROK Shifter. Although there isn't much of a speed difference between the Vortex ROK and the stock Honda CR125, a well-built KZ engine does have a considerable power advantage, but the initial and ongoing costs are significantly more. In addition to requiring numerous rebuilds, it is not uncommon for a KZ engine to cost $7500 or more. If you have the money, they're worth it; if not, we'd go with the Honda or ROK, but in any case, it's still the finest value when it comes to car racing. The IAME 175cc SKUSA Shifter engine is an additional choice.
On the fun aspect (once you get the hang of it), we give this class an exceptionally high rating. On the expense factor, we give it a rating of somewhat high (like ROK or Honda) to very high (like KZ).
An Indianapolis kart with a Vortex ROK Shifter engine was prepared by WORD Racing.
Other: While there are numerous other classes, such as the vintage Yamaha KT100s, the ones listed above represent a tiny selection of the most well-liked ones in the United States. Additionally, there are TaG and Shifter varieties, so once more, we advise you to discover what's popular in your area. High horsepower and soft tires are generally associated with higher costs if cost is a concern. Conversely, tires with a harder compound and less horsepower are more reasonably priced.
Tech-Tip: Driver skill, track layout, and engine type all affect gearing. Although we have a gear chart, you should see what the drivers in your class are utilizing locally at your track. Gearing the kart to reach your maximum rpm close to the end of the quickest (and typically longest) straight is a good general rule of thumb. You might want to hit the rev limitation considerably sooner in some of the lower horsepower classes, particularly 4-stroke on a difficult circuit.
Equipment: Please read the safety instructions below before continuing to see what gear you'll need to begin racing.
Security
The driver and the track are two of the many factors that contribute to safety. Although karting is safer than many other sports, there are still some risks to be mindful of because it is a high-speed motorsport.
Track: To inspect the run-off and barriers at every turn, we advise you to stroll the track (while karts aren't using it, of course!). Verify that there aren't any hazardous obstacles, such as poles or trees. If so, safety barriers or soft haybales should be used to stop them. If there are any kart stands or vehicles (other from karts) on the circuit, do not drive.
The majority of organizations mandate that drivers wear full abrasion-resistant driving suits, ankle-covering shoes (high performance racing socks are also advised), abrasion-resistant gloves, neck protection, and a full-face helmet that satisfies the most recent safety regulations. Although they are not usually required, rib protectors are strongly advised. If you don't wear one, you will undoubtedly hurt your ribs, which will reduce your enjoyment of the sport. Junior drivers must also wear chest protection, while adults are advised to do so. Above all, drive carefully and maintain your focus.
As stated in our disclaimer, you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.
List of equipment needed to begin karting
The key to racing is preparation. You have the option of hiring us to set up the kart and your track day or doing it yourself.
Kart: Rent (arrive and drive), New, or Used. We stock Tony Kart, iKart, and Italkart.
Note: "Rollers" are karts that are sold without an engine. They are referred to as "Completes" when they have an engine.
The helmet is brand-new. Used helmets are not advised since they may not exhibit impact damage, but their safety may be jeopardized. Our Pyrotect and Zamp helmets are both brand-new, reasonably priced, and safe. Additionally, we have Arai Helmets if you're searching for the best.
Race Suit: Abrasion-resistant kart racing suit (for small local races, some clubs allow you to get away with wearing heavy long pants and an abrasion-resistant jacket, although work pants and thick jeans are typically composed of cotton that tears apart when they come into contact with pavement).
We offer the Alpinestars, Tillett, Armadillo, and Ribtect brands of rib protectors with or without chest protection (adults can choose not to wear the chest protection, but children must). View our entire selection of rib protectors.
Gloves: either motorcycle road racing gloves or kart racing gloves. We suggest the leather road racing motorbike gloves for road racing, while the kart gloves are good for sprint tracks.
Kart racing socks: With a tall double cuff that keeps legs from chafing on high-top racing shoes, we created Aireator socks especially for karting. Additionally, they are made to wick away perspiration, improve pedal feel, and prevent slipping within the shoe.
Kart race shoes: While high-top wrestling shoes are OK, we advise (and some series need) kart-specific footwear.
Neck protection: Alpinestars and EVS are available for karters.
The tools used depend on the engine and chassis type. Metric hex wrenches and metric sockets/wrenches (including spark plug sockets) are the most widely used. If you know how to use it properly, such as not overtightening bolts, a torque wrench is useful to have on hand. Other useful tools are a soft blow hammer, a basic screwdriver set, a drill, a spring puller, an oil or water catch pan, and an impact driver. You can either pay us to change your tires or you'll require tire tools.
Air tank or air compressor
Tire gauge: a precise dial or electronic gauge. We provide both digital and analog versions of the Long Acres trademark.
Electrical tape and different sized zip ties.
Disposable gloves or mechanic gloves
Different sprockets: Find out from your local track what size sprockets the drivers in your class are using. To view the gear chart, click this link.
Utility jug for fuel and a measurement instrument for combining two-stroke oils
For the 4-cycle courses, we advise using the Dumonde Tech BHP chain lube. You might want a "sticky" lubrication for the 2-strokes that doesn't squirt off at high RPMs. We stock Motul and Amsoil.
Wheeled kart stand. We sell the Stiletto, RLV Heavy Duty, and Super Streeter.
Depending on the kind of kart, a hand-held starter may or may not be required.
Someone with a stopwatch or a lap timer or kart data gadget (Mychron, etc.)
Pop-up canopy provides protection from the sun or to stay dry
Food and drink cooler
A first aid kit and a fire extinguisher
Transport: You can pay us to store and move your kart, or you can pick it up in a truck, van, or trailer. A full size kart is about 55" wide and slightly less than 7' long, but it can be shortened by about 10 inches by simply popping off a wheel and one of the side pods. The front bumper includes two quick release clamps that allow it to be removed in a matter of seconds.
Spare parts vary depending on the kart type, but having the tie-rods, steering column, axle, sprockets, and chain is a good start. Having a spare set of wheels, one with practice tires installed and the other with racing tires mounted, is also a good idea.
Groups by Age
Karting divisions or classes (based on engine type and age)
Security
list of tools required to get going.
We provide one-on-one training and guidance. For scheduling and pricing, get in touch with us. We are situated close to Pat's Acres Racing Complex in Canby, Oregon, in the Pacific Northwest.
CLASSES AND AGE GROUPS FOR KARTING
Karting is a fun way for people of all ages to go racing and is a terrific family sport. The majority of kart racing clubs, organizations, and tracks provide the following age groups:
5-7 years old: Also known as "Baby Karts" or Micro Karts, these vehicles are commonly referred to as "Kid Karts" in the United States. Typically, a tiny (50cc) 2-stroke engine—like the one used on a chain saw—powers these. The Comer C50/51 2-cycle engine has been the most widely used engine. The Honda GXH50 4-cycle engine is used by many clubs and has become more popular since it is easy to maintain and tune. Before purchasing an engine, find out which series is most popular in your area. We have the Comer C50/51 and the Honda GXH50 in stock.
The Kid Kart class is a "participation" class here in the Pacific Northwest. The emphasis is on enjoyment, safety, and education; there are no points or titles. A parent's comfort level with their children can be matched by adjusting the throttle stops. Although we have adjusted engines up to 40 mph in this class (for experienced racers only), top speeds can vary but are often around 30 mph.
We are quite good at working with children, and we provide training. We turn them on without turning on the motor! Making sure they instinctively know which pedal is the brake and which is the throttle is crucial for safety. Younger children frequently don't know or forget in the thrill of their first driving experience. We go through a training procedure to assist children in learning in a safe manner.
7–12 years old: The 60cc 2-stroke Cadet class offers a dependable, reasonably basic engine from IAME or ROK that can reach speeds of over 50 mph. For this age group, there is also a 4-stroke Junior class called the Jr I Briggs & Stratton LO206.
For children aged 8 to 10, the Rotax series employs the MicroMax engine configuration; for children aged 10 to 13, it uses the MiniMax engine configuration.
The Cadet class was split into two age categories by SKUSA in 2016. Mini Swift is for ages 9–13, and Micro Swift is for children 7-9. The only distinction between them is that the Micro class uses the 16mm factory header, but both use our Mini Swift engine (see the IAME Engines page).
The ROK Cup USA now uses a similar concept. The tiny ROK engine is a competitive product that is reasonably priced (available on our Vortex engines page).
12 to 15 years old: One of the most fiercely competitive classes is the junior class. Using a full-size kart and a 125cc 2-stroke engine or a 100cc air-cooled 2-stroke engine (we carry three different brands; we can tell you which one would work best for you) in TaG, ROK, or Rotax, this is an extremely entertaining class. Club-level entry-level drivers with limited funds can also enroll in 4-cycle classes like LO206 Jr II.
Rotax Jr. Max engines feature a different cylinder sleeve, and TaG engines have an exhaust restrictor that can be easily removed to upgrade to the Senior class. On sprint tracks, the typical speed range is 65 mph.
Ages 15 and up: Not subject to the restricted exhaust, but comparable to the junior class. We call this the Senior class. There are four-cycle classifications like World Formula and LO206, as well as two-stroke classes like TaG, ROK, and Rotax. Speeds on sprint tracks frequently surpass 70 mph, and there are greater minimum weight limits.
Ages 32 and up: Some of the most entertaining racing takes place in the Masters class, which is highly attended. Larger frame drivers can compete by using a heavier minimum weight and having both light and heavy divisions. Sometimes, larger children (16 and up) who weigh more than the minimum weight requirements for their class are permitted to compete in the Masters class.
45 and older: In 2015, SKUSA launched the Super Masters division. Although we anticipated that the class would expand, it is still primarily a "Local Option" class that is being reviewed. This class expanded to certain other SKUSA events in 2018 and 2019.
Are you new to racing, or do you have children that want to race but lack experience? Reach out to us for coaching and training. We instruct new drivers of all ages on how to enjoy the sport and drive safely. with trackside assistance during races and one-on-one tutoring at the track.
Karting offers a class for everyone, regardless of age, weight, or financial situation.
There are many different kinds of racing, including as pavement and dirt Speedway Ovals, but depending on where you reside, Sprint and Road are probably the two most popular classes.
Sprint: Usually conducted on a narrow course (often less than a mile in length) created especially for karting. a variety of turns, many of them are tight hairpin corners.
Road: Auto racing tracks host karting competitions. The shifter karts frequently reach speeds in the 120 mph range and employ different gears.
Karting offers a vast array of classes according to various engine types. Although choosing a class might be difficult, we've listed some of the most well-liked ones here with descriptions in the hopes that you'll find the one that works best for you. To find out what classes are popular in your area, we strongly advise looking into your local scene. Generally speaking, racing in a popular class with lots of competitors will be more enjoyable.
Touch and Go, or TaG, is a popular lesson in certain places but not in others. This class is one of our favorites, and we are the title sponsor of the O2s Championship Series, which features both TaG and Shifters in the Northwest. However, the degree of participation seems to fluctuate from year to year. Juniors and above use a 125 cc 2-stroke engine (around 27 to 30 horsepower), such the new X125T, the Vortex ROK, or the IAME X30 (all of which we carry). Although the engine is very pricey (between $2,000 and $3,000 for a full setup), it is also incredibly quick and simple to modify. When there is a high level of participation, this is one of the most enjoyable classes.
We give this class a medium-high rating for cost and a high rating for enjoyment.
World Formula: This is one of the more reasonably priced classes and a popular one at one of our local tracks, McMinnville. This class makes use of a about 212cc 4-cycle engine. 16–18 horsepower (the Juniors utilize the Animal, which has about 12 horsepower). Despite not being as quick as TaG, this is a more cost-effective choice (new competitive engines cost about $1200). This class is highly competitive and closely matched. Note: not many other regions still offer this class, but the Northwest Region does. Examine your local track.
This class receives a medium-high rating for fun and a comparatively low rating for cost.
LO206: A sealed engine and marginally less expensive than World Formula. A few years ago, this option was added to reduce the cost of racing. It has gained a lot of popularity nationwide. Torque out of corners is great, and the top end speeds aren't extremely high, making this a good class for novices. With this dependable engine, the amount of enjoyment rises as involvement quickly expands. There are about nine horsepower. For those who are new to the sport, we suggest this class as a wonderful place to start. We sell the long block for $669 and the short block for slightly over $300. Visit our Engines/LO206 page to view our Pro Accessories Kit, which includes everything you need (full engine, carb, clutch, pipe, sprocket, chain, fuel line, throttle cable, filters, brackets, etc.).
We give this class a low cost rating and a medium to high fun rating.
100cc A/C: The 100cc Air-Cooled 2-stroke class was a newer class that was established in 2019 and is actually comparable to an older class, the well-known KT100. With this speedy (22 hp) yet reasonably priced engine, we're witnessing rapid growth throughout the United States. It's a significant speed boost over the LO206 without significantly raising costs. These 100cc engines perform admirably on the same chassis as TaG or LO206. They are an excellent value for the money and a true kart racing engine that is yet quite easy to use. We have three brands that we sell. IAME KA100, X100AC, and ROK VLR.
We give this class a medium/low cost rating and a high fun rating.
With a 100cc air-cooled 2-stroke engine (ROK VLR), WORD Racing prepared Tony Kart.
Rotax: Up until 2015, when they released the new EVO package, the Rotax Max Challenge series saw outstanding growth at the national level. Attendance at Rotax events dropped to around half in 2017 compared to previous years, and ROK Cup USA and SKUSA have mostly replaced the class in 2018. The engine is a sealed, two-stroke, 125cc engine that costs roughly $3,000. The senior class has about 26–28 horsepower. Reliability, performance, and speeds are comparable to those of TaG. From about 2010 to 2016, Rotax was perhaps the priciest karting sport in America; yet, there were a few advantages that made the series worthwhile. The series had excellent organization and support. They established a fantastic championship series that qualifies drivers for Grand Nationals and Grand Finals events, and they had strong press coverage and participation at the larger events.
If your definition of fun is very competitive and serious, we give this class a high rating for fun, but it also has a high rating for cost.
*Rotax has been undergoing some significant adjustments. Prices have been reduced, the EVO package has been greatly enhanced, and the cylinder manufacturing process has been modified (to keep engines more equal). However, given that the Rotax series is currently struggling in the US, it looks like it was too little, too late. The SKUSA version of TaG (X30) or the ROK Cup USA series are more options to think about.
Shifter: This is the class for you if you want speed! But this is not a beginner's class. Before advancing to the Shifter class, we advise starting in one of the aforementioned single speed classes, even if you have prior experience racing cars or motorcycles. These karts have a top speed of 115 mph on road circuits and 80 mph on sprint tracks. Driving them on a sprint track is challenging; in the S4 class at Pat's Acres, we shift almost 45 times in a 36-second lap. In braking zones, downshifting three gears in less than a second. It is not appropriate for novice karters attempting to grasp the fundamentals of kart handling and setup to hold on with one hand in a 3 G corner.
The total cost of the engine (new Honda or Vortex ROK or TM) is approximately $4–6k. The ROK is reasonably priced and dependable. Depending on the dyno and stock vs. mod class, Honda produces between 36 and 45 horsepower; the stock ROK is rated at 43 horsepower, while some KZ engines are approaching 50 horsepower. The KZ class (previously ICC) is the next step up from the Stock Moto and the ROK Shifter. Although there isn't much of a speed difference between the Vortex ROK and the stock Honda CR125, a well-built KZ engine does have a considerable power advantage, but the initial and ongoing costs are significantly more. In addition to requiring numerous rebuilds, it is not uncommon for a KZ engine to cost $7500 or more. If you have the money, they're worth it; if not, we'd go with the Honda or ROK, but in any case, it's still the finest value when it comes to car racing. The IAME 175cc SKUSA Shifter engine is an additional choice.
On the fun aspect (once you get the hang of it), we give this class an exceptionally high rating. On the expense factor, we give it a rating of somewhat high (like ROK or Honda) to very high (like KZ).
An Indianapolis kart with a Vortex ROK Shifter engine was prepared by WORD Racing.
Other: While there are numerous other classes, such as the vintage Yamaha KT100s, the ones listed above represent a tiny selection of the most well-liked ones in the United States. Additionally, there are TaG and Shifter varieties, so once more, we advise you to discover what's popular in your area. High horsepower and soft tires are generally associated with higher costs if cost is a concern. Conversely, tires with a harder compound and less horsepower are more reasonably priced.
Tech-Tip: Driver skill, track layout, and engine type all affect gearing. Although we have a gear chart, you should see what the drivers in your class are utilizing locally at your track. Gearing the kart to reach your maximum rpm close to the end of the quickest (and typically longest) straight is a good general rule of thumb. You might want to hit the rev limitation considerably sooner in some of the lower horsepower classes, particularly 4-stroke on a difficult circuit.
Equipment: Please read the safety instructions below before continuing to see what gear you'll need to begin racing.
Security
The driver and the track are two of the many factors that contribute to safety. Although karting is safer than many other sports, there are still some risks to be mindful of because it is a high-speed motorsport.
Track: To inspect the run-off and barriers at every turn, we advise you to stroll the track (while karts aren't using it, of course!). Verify that there aren't any hazardous obstacles, such as poles or trees. If so, safety barriers or soft haybales should be used to stop them. If there are any kart stands or vehicles (other from karts) on the circuit, do not drive.
The majority of organizations mandate that drivers wear full abrasion-resistant driving suits, ankle-covering shoes (high performance racing socks are also advised), abrasion-resistant gloves, neck protection, and a full-face helmet that satisfies the most recent safety regulations. Although they are not usually required, rib protectors are strongly advised. If you don't wear one, you will undoubtedly hurt your ribs, which will reduce your enjoyment of the sport. Junior drivers must also wear chest protection, while adults are advised to do so. Above all, drive carefully and maintain your focus.
As stated in our disclaimer, you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.
List of equipment needed to begin karting
The key to racing is preparation. You have the option of hiring us to set up the kart and your track day or doing it yourself.
Kart: Rent (arrive and drive), New, or Used. We stock Tony Kart, iKart, and Italkart.
Note: "Rollers" are karts that are sold without an engine. They are referred to as "Completes" when they have an engine.
The helmet is brand-new. Used helmets are not advised since they may not exhibit impact damage, but their safety may be jeopardized. Our Pyrotect and Zamp helmets are both brand-new, reasonably priced, and safe. Additionally, we have Arai Helmets if you're searching for the best.
Race Suit: Abrasion-resistant kart racing suit (for small local races, some clubs allow you to get away with wearing heavy long pants and an abrasion-resistant jacket, although work pants and thick jeans are typically composed of cotton that tears apart when they come into contact with pavement).
We offer the Alpinestars, Tillett, Armadillo, and Ribtect brands of rib protectors with or without chest protection (adults can choose not to wear the chest protection, but children must). View our entire selection of rib protectors.
Gloves: either motorcycle road racing gloves or kart racing gloves. We suggest the leather road racing motorbike gloves for road racing, while the kart gloves are good for sprint tracks.
Kart racing socks: With a tall double cuff that keeps legs from chafing on high-top racing shoes, we created Aireator socks especially for karting. Additionally, they are made to wick away perspiration, improve pedal feel, and prevent slipping within the shoe.
Kart race shoes: While high-top wrestling shoes are OK, we advise (and some series need) kart-specific footwear.
Neck protection: Alpinestars and EVS are available for karters.
The tools used depend on the engine and chassis type. Metric hex wrenches and metric sockets/wrenches (including spark plug sockets) are the most widely used. If you know how to use it properly, such as not overtightening bolts, a torque wrench is useful to have on hand. Other useful tools are a soft blow hammer, a basic screwdriver set, a drill, a spring puller, an oil or water catch pan, and an impact driver. You can either pay us to change your tires or you'll require tire tools.
Air tank or air compressor
Tire gauge: a precise dial or electronic gauge. We provide both digital and analog versions of the Long Acres trademark.
Electrical tape and different sized zip ties.
Disposable gloves or mechanic gloves
Different sprockets: Find out from your local track what size sprockets the drivers in your class are using. To view the gear chart, click this link.
Utility jug for fuel and a measurement instrument for combining two-stroke oils
For the 4-cycle courses, we advise using the Dumonde Tech BHP chain lube. You might want a "sticky" lubrication for the 2-strokes that doesn't squirt off at high RPMs. We stock Motul and Amsoil.
Wheeled kart stand. We sell the Stiletto, RLV Heavy Duty, and Super Streeter.
Depending on the kind of kart, a hand-held starter may or may not be required.
Someone with a stopwatch or a lap timer or kart data gadget (Mychron, etc.)
Pop-up canopy provides protection from the sun or to stay dry
Food and drink cooler
A first aid kit and a fire extinguisher
Transport: You can pay us to store and move your kart, or you can pick it up in a truck, van, or trailer. A full size kart is about 55" wide and slightly less than 7' long, but it can be shortened by about 10 inches by simply popping off a wheel and one of the side pods. The front bumper includes two quick release clamps that allow it to be removed in a matter of seconds.
Spare parts vary depending on the kart type, but having the tie-rods, steering column, axle, sprockets, and chain is a good start. Having a spare set of wheels, one with practice tires installed and the other with racing tires mounted, is also a good idea.
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