CRG West can provide you with everything you could possibly need to enter the world of professional or amateur kart racing, and a relatively modest budget can get you started.
Overview
Karting is the fastest growing form of motor sport in North America and is hugely popular around the world.
The majority of kart racers participate for pure enjoyment, however, for certain individuals it is a serious stepping-stone towards a professional racing career (most current Formula-1 drivers started their racing careers in karts, and many still drive karts between seasons to keep their reflexes and skills honed)
Kart racing is known around the world as one of the best breeding grounds for future racing champions. Karting has many different levels. The sport of karting ranges from local club racing for the recreational driver, to regional competition, National levels, and finally professional levels.
There are a number of different levels and classes in karting; there are classes at the Junior level for drivers ranging from ages 8 to 15, and also classes at the Senior level, for drivers ages 16 and up, each different class is defined by its engine horse power and brand. Even “kid karts” give children aged 5 to 7 the chance to get on the track and have fun. The most popular classes tend to be the spec engine classes because they ensure extremely equal racing and close competition. These types of karts are typically around thirty horsepower and can reach speeds of over 150 kilometers per hour. The highest class is known as the Shifterkart class, there are several different engine manufacturers involved in the Shifter class. The motors have six speed sequential gearboxes and approximately fifty horsepower. They can accelerate from zero to sixty in three seconds and reach top speeds of 230 kilometers per hour. Karts are purpose built racing machines.
Purchasing a Kart package:
- To the beginner, one of the most confusing aspects of karting is the vast variety of engines and classes to choose from. Before purchasing a kart package, the best advice we can give you is to visit or call CRG West to find out which tracks and local clubs are close to where to you live. This will help you determine a suitable class to race in, which will help decide the type of kart package you will need to purchase.
- As a beginner, a used kart in good condition is an option worth considering. The approximate price range for a used package is between $1500 and $5000. These costs can, however, be completely open-ended and can get more expensive in some classes of karting. You should also compare prices and options for a new set-up.
Other equipment:
- Purchasing a kart stand is a very good investment.
- A kart stand makes it much easier to maneuver your kart around the pits and makes working on your kart much easier.
- Safety equipment: When purchasing a kart you must have proper safety equipment.
- You will need a Snell approved helmet, race suit, rib vest, race gloves and shoes.
- Spare Parts:
- Include in your budget approximately $500 to $2,000 for additional spare parts, extra tires and professional engine maintenance for each season.
- Transporting your Kart:
- The back of a pick-up truck, a small trailer, or the back of a van will usually be quite sufficient to transport your kart to a race. CRG West offers transportation services to and from the track for race events as well.
- Storing your Kart:
- A shed or small garage will work well as a working/storage area for your kart. A kart can also be stored up-right against a wall, and therefore does not take up much space. CRG West offers storage services as well as Kart and equipment insurance. Keep in mind that most home insurance will not cover a go kart or equipment.
- Tools:
- As far as tools are concerned, a good set of metric wrenches will be most important.
At CRG West, we have a vested interest in our customers. We provide track side assistance at the race events to ensure that your kart racing experience is an enjoyable one.
For any additional questions or advice please contact CRG West. |
