Karting

mark180227 · 23-07-2007, 11:57 AM

who here is involved with go karting, karts etc.

im looking at getting my own kart, something to learn in and get the hang of it. Maybe later down the track joining a club and doing some races.

just keen to see if any body on here is involved and can give me some pointers.

cheers guys

Bucket · 23-07-2007, 03:56 PM

In my experience....2 Strokes Have Far better acceleration/response while 4 Strokes have better top end speed/sound

I've raced

a Single Engine 2 Stroke (Top Speed of approx 80) (Most fun in general)
Single Engine 4 Stroke (Top Speed of 85) (good inbetween)
Twin Engined 4 Stroke with a top speed of about 110Km/h+

(best top speed)

Outbackjack · 23-07-2007, 04:23 PM

I would join a club and then get a kart. Everyone should do time in a well set up kart. Its a good way to learn the principles of good vehicle handling. And its the most fun you can have with your trousers on!!

:

R0BD0G · 23-07-2007, 05:17 PM

racing at greer park u need to be in the club to race...i think

krt10 · 23-07-2007, 06:35 PM

i race dirt karts. 10th in aus at the moment. got the aussie titles coming up in october so ill be hoping to go a few better.
there is always karts for sale at the clubs and usually the people selling them dont mind giving you pointers.

i highly recommend kart racing as it is a cheap and fantastic way to go racing.

heres a few pics from my club

rodderz · 23-07-2007, 07:36 PM

Buy a 2nd hand Yamaha KT100S or 100J, they are getting on now but are still pretty quick and are great for learning kart setup and driving skills, you could get a decent one for a bit over $1000 now I'de reckon.

Driving isnt the only part, it's also a great challenge setting up your caster/camber, track width, seat heights and using different geared sprockets in order to suit a track and your style (as well as weight and height). Be wary that there are karts to suit your height and weight also. Go to a few local tracks and ask at kart stores for advice, there's a lot to take in.

Once you're up to speed you can think about getting a newer or new one, but keep in mind that although karting is inexpensive compared to car racing, it definately isnt cheap when you factor in rebuilds, tyres, spares etc.

Van D · 23-07-2007, 07:46 PM

I always wanted to get into it. Me and dad were both gonna get a kart a few years ago and race at Oakleigh (I think it's there?).

Still gonna get one when I have some spare cash!

krt10 - What's the dirt racing like? Are there many clubs around? (i'm in Vic). Looks like some good times.

krt10 · 23-07-2007, 08:15 PM

popinfresh there is 12 in SA, 4 in WA and 1 in NT ( thats all i know of) i have never heard of dirt kart racing on the east coast. if there is its not under the AIDKA ( Australian independent dirt kart association) title.
as for the racing, i love it . the racing is very competitive, it does get rough though but its all worth it.
dirt racing is much cheaper than road racing mainly because you dont go through as much tyres and nominations are cheaper.

the only draw backs with dirt racing is that it is restricted to dry weather because the track turnes to slush when its wet. also lots of precautions need to be taken about keeping dirt out the engine. i speak from experience. my air filter came off during the slow down lap after a race. ruind the whole motor. i had to strip it down and replace everything ( piston, ring,conrod,big and small end bearings,seals and get the scored out the cylinder walls) expensive.

ive been racing for about 4 years and i have learnt a hell of a lot about racecraft. as there is weight classes it is very even and it all comes down to how you set up the kart for the track and your driving skills. i have also learnt a lot about 2 stroke motors. i rebuild my motor myself now as i have had to do it a few times and it cost a lot to get it done professionally.

i am thinking of changing to road karting in the near future as that is where my heart is.