Karting is the most dynamic form of motor sport in the world. Simple in concept and easily accessible to the average Australian, it has grown since 1958 to become a professional, well-organised sport in every state and territory of Australia. The instinctive thrill of driving a racing machine capable of incredible performance at relatively little cost, remains one of the main attractions of kart racing today.

Karting has developed into a diverse sport today with 100 circuits nationwide that run every kind of karting event from a club day through to international championship races. There are events held somewhere on every weekend of the year, giving endless opportunities for you to race or just practice as often or as little as you wish. Karting is an incredibly diverse pastime attracting weekend hobby racers through to professional drivers.

The kart itself has developed immensely and remains the centrepiece of the sport. Basic, although impressive in appearance, a modern racing kart is a highly developed, sophisticated racing machine. Every component on the kart has been specifically designed, tested and manufactured to be a vital part in the performance and reliability of a kart at full racing speed. The main part of the kart is the chassis or ‘frame’ which is designed to flex at specific points. This allows the kart to corner at the best possible speed under the given track conditions. The kart also has a number of adjustable components, which alter the karts handling.

The engines used are purpose built for kart racing. The entry level, beginner classes use identical engines of equal performance and are quite reliable. The more advanced classes use faster engines that offer increased performance. The tyres used are also purpose made for racing.

Popular Kart Classes

The following are the most popular engine/chassis combinations for each of the classes.

Each class is required to use an approved control tyre. E.G. Rotax uses a Mojo tyres. Please check with the AKA or local kart supplier for the appropriate class tyre.

Chassis

Faster classes and heavier drivers require stiffer chassis. The chassis stiffness needs to match the power of the engine and the weight of the driver to achieve optimum performance. The chassis stiffness is primarily determined by the chassis tube thickness, ranging from 28mm through to 32mm. Other factors include torsion bars, rear axle stiffness and diameter.

The fastest drivers around the world use chassis made from Italian Chrome Molly. The Italians produce the best Chrome Molly in the world and is the main reason why almost all of the world’s fastest karts come from Italy.

Engines

Most of the engines used today in karting are high performance; purpose built, 2-stroke 100cc or 125cc engines.

The engines range in power from a restricted Yamaha J that produces around 5.5 HP and is capable of 90pkh, through to Yamaha Clubman S (18HP) to the new 125 CC TaG (Touch and Go) engines with push button start such as the Rotax and Leopard capable of 150Kph. Yamahas engines are around $1300. The 125CC engines cost more at around $3200 but have the convenience of easy start and longer engine life.  125CC restricted class uses a special restrictor plate on the exhaust of 125cc engines to reduce power - excellent for new and experienced karters.

Kart engines have been designed for high power and some can achieve 23,000 RPM. To maintain optimum performance, engines require rebuilding. The following is a guide is typical.

Recreational drivers typically will drive for a total of one hour in one full day. This could equate to years of driving for the average recreational driver between engine rebuilds. Racers typically drive for a total of thirty minutes on a race day spread over four or five races.

What costs are involved

Running costs include: daily practice license, fuel, lubes and consumables such as tyres, chains and sprockets.

TaG (Touch and Go) or Direct Drive?

Most karts fall into one of these categories.

TaG provides the convenience of an electric starter motor and a clutch. As the name implies, just press the start button and go. In Australia, a B grade license is required.

Tag Restricted - Entry level class with the convenience of a 125cc push button start. This class uses uses a restrictor plate (cost around $35) on a standard TaG engine, which limites the power to 18 HP. Once a B grade license is achieved, the restrictor may be removed.

Direct drive (Yamaha engine) is popular all over the world. These karts have fewer parts and are lower in cost to purchase. Direct drive karts however need to be push-started, which can look quite acrobatic if done by the driver. Usually, the kart is started with the driver seated and a helper pushing the kart until the engine fires. 

Clutch - A clutch can be added to most Direct drive motors. An external battery operated started is required to start the engine. Clutches will be compulsory for all Australian karts in 2009.

Shifter/Open Performance  - provides the highest performace and require a high level racing license. These engines are started externally or by pushing the kart.

New or Used

One of the biggest costs in karting is rebuilding an engine. Used karts are often sold at a time when the engine needs major work. Do not believe anyone that says, “The engine has low hours on it”. Verify it for yourself. Ask the seller for the contact details of their engine builder and then call them. Engine builders are a friendly bunch of people and want your future business.

Reputable kart resellers do not jeopardize their credibility by offloading karts that need a lot of attention. Used karts sold through shops are more likely to have straight chassis and engines with genuine hours. Dealers offer a big advantage in that they provide ongoing free information. This information will help you obtain the most value out of the sport and quicker lap times. On the other hand, a person selling their kart through the classifieds do not want repeat business. Watch out for those seemingly cheap deals. You could end up with more trouble than you bargained for. A supposedly bargain kart purchased privately could end up costing substantially more than one from a shop once all the hidden costs are added in.

Is the frame bent? An expert may be needed here. Things to look out for are

• Is the front wheel alignment the same on both sides?
• Is the caster and camber the same on both sides?
• Lift the rear of the kart and then put it down slowly whilst looking at the bottom of the tyres. Do they both touch the ground at the same time? Do the same with the front?

European, Australian or Chinese