Are you confused by all of the go-karting options? You’re not alone. Many people are unsure which type of go-karting is right for them. Whether you’re looking for a fun family activity, a competitive sport, or a new hobby, understanding the different types of go-karting can help you make the right choice and have the best experience.
Types of Go-Karts
There are different types of go-karts for different age groups, skill levels, and racing preferences. Here are the main categories:
Kid Karts
Kid karts are designed for children 5-12 years old. They have smaller engines (usually around 60~90cc) and safety features like bumpers and lower top speeds. These karts are great for young drivers who are new to the sport.
Teenager Karts
Teenager karts are for kids 11-17 years old. They have slightly more powerful engines (usually around 125cc 2-stroke or 200cc 4-stroke). These karts allow teenagers to experience more speed and competition while still focusing on safety and skill development. For Wonderland Go kart, it is 200cc for teenagers, with 6.5 HP, and speed could be 52~70 km/h.
Adult Karts
Adult karts are for drivers 18 years and older. They use high-performance 250~450cc, 4-stroke engines. These karts are for people who take go-karting seriously and want to race at a high level. For Wonderland adult go kart, it is 270cc available, with 9HP, speed could be 60~80 km/h.
In summary, there are three types of karts based on age: Kids Karts, Teenager Karts, and Adult Karts. The type of kart you run will depend on your age, budget, and how serious you want to get – from rental racing all the way up to professional-level sprint and endurance racing.
Now that we’ve covered the different types of karts, let’s dive into the specific differences between kid karts and adult karts. This is important for parents or guardians who are looking to get their kids started in karting to make sure they get the right kart for their kids.
How Do Kids’ Go Karts Differ from Adult Go Karts?
Kids’ karts are different from adult karts in a few ways:
Engine Size and Power
Kids’ karts have smaller engines. They are usually about 60-125cc and produce a lot less power and speed than adult karts. Adult karts can have engines from 125cc all the way up to 450cc and can go over 100 mph. The difference in engine size and power is what allows kids to race go-karts safely without the dangers of higher speeds.
Size and Weight
Kids’ karts are smaller and lighter. They usually weigh less than 100 pounds and are designed for smaller racers. Adult karts are larger and can weigh over 200 pounds without the driver. The smaller size and lighter weight of kids’ karts make them easier for kids to handle and control, providing a better driving experience.
Safety Features
Kids’ karts have additional safety features like bumpers, lower top speeds, and sometimes require the driver to wear a neck brace. Adult karts focus more on performance than safety features. These safety features are important for reducing the risk of injury and providing a safe environment for kids to race.
Speed Limits
Most kids’ karting facilities limit the speed of the karts to 25-35 mph for safety. Adult karts at racing facilities do not have governed top speeds. Speed limits are important because they allow young drivers to experience karting without the danger of high speeds.
Age/Height Restrictions
Kids’ karts have age restrictions. Typically, kids need to be at least 8 years old to drive a kid kart. There are also height restrictions to make sure kids will fit properly in the kart. Adult karts do not have age restrictions, but some facilities have height restrictions. These restrictions are in place to make sure kids are big enough to drive the karts safely.
Racing Classes
While there are competitive classes for adult karting, kids’ karting is more recreational. Kids’ karting has classes with names like Kid Karts and Cadet Karts. The focus is on learning and having fun. Kids’ karting is a great way for young drivers to get started in the sport and learn how to race in a safe and supportive environment.
In summary, kids’ karts trade speed and performance for safety features and age-appropriate specifications to provide an exciting but controlled racing experience. This makes karting fun and accessible for young drivers while keeping them safe.
How Risky is Go-Karting?
Go-karting is generally safe as long as you take the right safety precautions. However, it is a motorsport and does come with some risks. Here are some things you should know about the risks of go-karting:
Common Injuries
Go-karting is pretty safe. Serious injuries are rare, but they do happen, especially when you’re going fast or racing. Injuries like bruises, sprains, broken bones, head/abdominal injuries, and burns are listed as possible injuries. However, if you do the right things to be safe, you can avoid getting hurt.
Causes of Accidents
The most common causes of go-karting accidents are hitting other karts or things on the track, spinning out, inexperienced drivers, things on the track, and mechanical problems. By understanding what can go wrong, you can take steps to stay safe and have a better time.
Safety at Recreational Facilities
Indoor/recreational go-kart facilities for kids and families are very safe. They have speed limits (usually under 25-35 mph), barriers to keep you on the track, and karts that are more like bumper cars. They say concussions are almost unheard of. These features make recreational go-karting a very safe and fun activity for families and kids.
Safety Equipment
Safety equipment is important. You need the right stuff like a helmet, safety harness, gloves, etc. to be safe, especially when you’re going fast. Tracks can do things to make you safe like having rules, safety meetings, making you wear the right stuff, maintaining their karts/tracks, and having people who know what to do in an emergency.
So even though go-karting is a motorsport and has risks, you’re not going to get hurt bad if you do the right things, especially at the places where you go with your family. The risks are lower there. You can’t make it 100% safe, but you can make it pretty safe by doing the right things and wearing the right stuff.
How to Not Be Scared When Go-Karting?
Here are some tips to help you get over being scared and feel more comfortable when you go-karting:
Start Slow
Go slow at first to get used to how the kart handles and how the brakes work. As you get more comfortable, you can go faster. Gradually working up to speed helps your brain and body get used to it.
Wear the Right Stuff
Wearing a helmet, gloves, and other safety gear makes you feel safer. When you know you’re protected, you’re not as worried.
Listen to the Safety Talk
Pay attention when they talk to you about the rules and flags at the track. If you know what you’re supposed to do, you’ll feel more comfortable.
Get Help
If you’re really scared, consider taking a lesson or have someone ride with you for a few laps. They can show you where to drive on the track and help you get better.
See Yourself Doing Well
Think about driving around the track smoothly and in control. This mental exercise can help you feel better about what you’re doing.
It’s Okay to Be a Little Scared
It’s normal to be a little scared. That feeling can help you focus. Don’t beat yourself up about it – even good racers get nervous.
Have Fun
Remember, driving a go-kart is supposed to be fun. It’s supposed to get your heart racing. Enjoy the experience!
The key is to start slow, do what you’re supposed to do to be safe, and take your time getting more comfortable by practicing and getting help. The more you do it, the less you’ll be scared because you’ll get better.
Is Go-Karting Safe for Beginners?
Go-karting is safe for beginners as long as you follow the rules and listen to what you’re told to do. Here are some things you should know about go-karting safety for beginners:
- Safety Equipment
You need safety equipment. Beginners should wear the right stuff to keep them safe like a helmet, gloves, and clothes that are appropriate for racing. Some tracks have gear you can use if you don’t have your own.
- Proper Instruction
You should be taught what to do. Beginners should get a safety talk and learn how to drive the kart before they go on the track.
- Simple Karts
Start with the simple karts. It’s best for beginners to start with the simple karts. They’re usually slower and easier to drive.
- Learn the Kart
Before you start racing, take a few minutes to learn how to operate the kart. Make sure you know where the pedals are and how to sit in the kart.
- Do What You’re Told
Follow the rules. Listen to the people who work at the track. They’ll tell you what to do. They’ll have signs that say things like “No Bumping” and “Let People Pass.”
- Stay Away
Don’t get too close to other drivers until you’re more comfortable with the kart and the track.
- Go Slow
When you go into the turns, slow down. Slower is better when you’re learning how to steer.
Even though there are some risks with go-karting, like hitting other karts or tipping over, that doesn’t happen very much, especially at places that are made for kids and beginners. If you follow the rules and wear the right stuff, go-karting is safe and fun for beginners.
Do You Brake in Go-Karting?
Yes, braking is important in go-karting. Here are some things you should know about braking in go-karts:
You need to know how to brake to control the kart and go faster. Beginners should brake gently and smoothly, not stomp on the brake pedal.
When you come to a turn, you should start braking before you turn the wheel. As you turn into the corner, you should ease off the brake. This is called “trail braking.”
If you hit the brakes too hard, you can spin out or slide, especially when you’re going into a turn.
As you get better, you can use the brakes to help you steer and go faster through the corners.
Proper maintenance of the braking system is essential for safety. Tracks and kart owners should regularly inspect and service the brakes to ensure they function correctly.
Braking is an important skill for go-kart drivers to learn. It helps you be safe and go faster.
In Summary
Go-karting is fun for people of all ages and experience levels. It’s important to know there are different kinds of karts for different age groups from kids to adults. Go-karting has some risks, but you can make it safe by doing the right things. Whether you’re scared to drive a go-kart or you want to get better, go-karting is an exciting way to spend your time. So put on your helmet, do what you’re told, and enjoy the fun of go-karting!
