Kart racers range anywhere in age from 5 years old up into the 60s!

Karts are very low to the ground with virtually no suspension. They range anywhere from 60” – 72” in length and 45” – 55” in width depending on what type. Again, depending on the style along with the different kind of motor, tires, etc., karts weight from 100lbs – 150lbs. The kart engine can have up to 30 horsepower and as little as 5.

The “go-kart” phenomenon began in the late 1950s as a fun and reasonable form of motorsports with casual parking lot events rapidly growing into organized competition on purpose-built tracks. Since then, the sport has spread around the world, forming a true “grassroots” of motorsports and spawning a multi-billion dollar industry. While the “go” in the name has long since been dropped by those involved with the sport, karting (properly spelled with a “k”) has gone on to become a primary recreational activity for an estimated 100,000 plus Americans annually.

Regardless of any aspiring driver’s age, experience or budget, there is a karting class for them. An excellent place to get started in this sport is at a nearby kart shop. A kart shop will help beginners get acquainted with what is happening in their area and provide valuable assistance in securing the right equipment to get started.

There is not a better way of introducing yourself to motorsports. It offers an excellent entry level for racing that is safe, economical and fun. From the beginner to the experienced veteran, it is a sport that involves the entire family. It teaches the humble way to enjoy a victory and continued success, as well as, overcoming defeat and moving on to the next race.

A lot of today’s most famous racers began their careers in competitive kart racing. They include Tony Stewart, Jamie McMurray, Sam Hornish Jr, Sara Fisher and Danica Patrick, to name just a few. Many others have made karting a life long hobby and/or career. It is not necessarily a stepping stone to higher levels of racing—some of the best racing in the world happens in karting.

Karting is a great way to grow as a family, a person and as a driver.


Ref: World Karting Association, www.worldkarting.com.