Have you ever wondered how your favorite racer got their start in motorsports? Or maybe you are just looking to have some fun and quality family time. Want to get involved in what many consider one of the least expensive forms of motorsports?If you have answered yes to any of these questions kart racing might be what you are looking for.

Classes:

The karts are split into different categories which make up the “classes”. The classes are set up to simply allow for competitive racing at various levels of investment. Classes are normally determined by age and choice of engine. Ages can range from 5 years old to 80 years old. All classes are required to meet a minimum weight rule. The minimum weight is the total of the kart and driver in race ready condition after each heat race. Karts are scaled as they exit the track after each heat race. An average kart weight about 150 to 175 lbs. without the driver. If your combined weight is not enough to meet the minimum weight you will be required to bolt lead weights on to your kart.

Karts:

A racing go kart is a purpose built racing machine, designed with one objective in mind. These true racing machines are direct descends of open wheel formula cars. As in any for of motorsports there is always more than meets the eye. The kart chassis used is a straight frame, built for sprint type road racing. There are many kart manufacturers, consult your local kart shop for which would be best for you. Things as simple as seat placement and proper driver fit can play a big role in proper kart handling. Each kart has a drive train which consists of a chain and centrifugal clutch. Different sized sprockets are available and can be changed to allow for different engines, tracks and conditions. Each kart is required to have a transponder which allows timing and scoring personal to record racing position and lap times.

Engines:

There are two different types of engines, one being 2 cycle and the other being 4 cycle. The main difference between the two engines is that 2 cycle do not use a valve train for compression and exhaust, while the 4 cycle uses a camshaft which utilizes intake and exhaust valves for compression and exhaust. The 2 cycle engine does not use oil in the crankcase for lubrication the oil is added to the fuel, while the 4 cycle engine has oil in the crankcase and not in the fuel.