Welcome to the World of Karting
We will try and give newcomers to karting some idea on how to get started and what to look for before going motor racing.
Even if you never intend to race it would be best that you buy a kart designed specifically for racing. The classes of kart listed in the classes section will serve you best as a beginner. Because they are designed for high speed, racing karts that are built tough.
Competition rules prohibit suspension and so racing chassis designs involve few components and handle extremely well.
When shopping for a kart the best place to start is a kart track on a race day.
While there may not be any karts for sale, there are lots of people who are all to willing to answer your questions. This gives you a good look at the different classes of karts and may help you know what to look out for.
Most Karting shops sell both second hand and new karts along with a range of spare parts.
Try the classifieds (The Trading Post is a good place to start), as well as local papers.
When buying a kart privately it is best to buy something that is still in use.
Karts that are being sold because nobody uses them any more are usually old and out of date.
Safety rules can change over time and what may seem like a bargain may end up costing a lot in new tyres, side pods, nose cones, exhaust pipes and engine rebuilds.
Most regular kart racers will not sell an engine with the kart chassis unless they are changing to another class or quitting karting altogether. Getting an engine "blueprinted" is a major cost (almost the price of the motor again). If you buy a new engine, after running it in it will have to be blueprinted to become competitive. For this reason most karters prefer to keep their old engines and only buy a new chassis.
Below is a list of things to look for when buying a kart:
What parts may need to be replaced
Does the Kart have Hydraulic brakes
Is the Kart of Modern frame design
Availability and price of parts
Engine positioning
Cracks in welding and chassis components
(Prices are approximate)
Second Hand Kart Chassis
Fit for purpose (Race ready) - No Motor $800 -$1900
New Seat
(if the one on the old kart you buy doesn't fit you) $60 - $140
Brand new Chassis
This should include tyres, exhaust and a custom fitted seat. $3200
Motor
Brand new motor
The price of the motor may or may not include the exhaust system so check for this when shopping around. $1000
Motor Blueprint
I.e. : Supe up motor to make it go fast. (If you want to race). $ 400
Motor Parts
Engine Gasket kit $20
Piston rings $20
Carburetor Kit (Gaskets, Needles, Springs etc.) $16
Trailer
Box trailer (6" x 4.5") - (not to rusty) Refer to local classifieds
Covered trailer - Refer to karting magazines and classifieds
Safety Wear and Equipment
Helmet (How much is your head worth?)
Driving suit, $120 and gloves $45
Running expenses
Tyres (set of 4 Bridgestone YEQ)
Oil and Petrol
Drivers Licence
Licences are required at all AKA affiliated tracks Licence fees pay for the administration of the sport, and injury insurance.
Basic (Practice only - no racing - must be a member of a club)
Full Licence (Required for racing - must be member of a club) $139
.
Club membership
Single Membership $75
Family Membership $90
Race Entry
Members and Non Members $25 second entry $15
Unfortunately finding an insurance policy to cover the kart is not easy. You can inquire with CAMS in your state as they often act as a broker for companies offering similar policies on race cars.
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South West Kart Club South West Victoria's Premier KARTING Club |
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