Looking to get into Go Kart/Shifter Kart Racing?

Question

Well I race motocross, but since moving to the city I get to ride less and less. We have a go kart racing track near us, which would allow me to race alot more, while still being around motorsports. I have no clue how to go about getting into this, and if it means anything im about 6' 175, 15 yr old. Any ideas? i.e., first kart, talking my dad into it? any help would be greatly appreciated...

thanks -hayden

Answer 1

Go to www.ekartingnews.com   and click on the "new to karting" section.  You'll get tons of info to help you get started.

Don't try to start out in a shifter.  Much better to get some karting experience before trying to race one of those.  At age 15, you have many options of what type of kart and class to run.  You can start in Juniors (age 12-15) if you want, or jump right into the "senior" classes (age 15 & up) with the adults.

I recommend you start out in a KT100 Yamaha kart.  Visit the local track and see what chassis are most commonly run.  You'll want the local support that comes from running what others are driving.  

As for your Dad..........tell him all about how wonderfully family-oriented the sport is (which is true).  Tell him about the emphasis on safety that karters have.  Tell him about all the new friends HE'S going to make at the track (which he will).  If he's mechanically inclined, point out to him how great it'll be working on your kart, and learning together with him.  And most important:  when you look at karts to buy, make him get in it and drive it.  He will be hooked and will likely want to buy one for himself as well.  

Good Luck, and have fun!!!!