You may be falling in love with karting but do you really know about go karts?. A go kart is a four wheeled buggy small or large that can be powered by a motor, electricity or simply pedaled. Pedal carts are for the younger generation generally, however there are adult pedal go carts and even competitions in some states. Go karting has been a famous sport all over the world. Several competitions are held and and witnessed by huge masses. There are a slew of racing leagues in the world that include the IKF (international Karting Federation), WKA (World Karting Association) and the IKWC (Indoor Karting World Championship) which caters to indoor racing.
GAS KARTS
Go carts may get their power from various suppliers. Each model and brand uses different motors. The most known name brand motors include Tucumseh, Honda and Briggs and Stratton. These have been commonly used because of their performance, reliability and durability over the years. The engines of the older model go-carts had 60 teeth sprockets which can run about 20 mph. Adult go carts that go off road have larger horsepower motors and large knobby tires for climbing hilly terrain. Children’s carts are more moderated with speed limiters that can be controlled by a parent or guardian. Street racing carts however can reach speeds of 160 mph and they are commonly referred to as Superkarts.
ELECTRIC KARTS
There are go-karts that come with both an alternator and electric start. By going with electric karts not only are you saving the environment but you are being energy effecient. A go cart that is powered by gas uses petrol which is not only expensive but a major pollutant. With electric go karts a charging will last you up to 2 hours or more in some cases. Those who are beginners or younger kids are more and more going with electric carts for safety and reliability reasons.
PURCHASING
If you are looking for a new cart then I highly suggest your local ATV or kart dealer. This ensures you get an adequate warranty with your new purchase. However, if you are a beginner then used go karts are the way to go. That way you don’t spend too much money on something you or your children might not like. The best places to look for used karts are local areas first. Check classifieds in the newspaper, local yard sales, flea markets and of course Craigslist. If you buy online be sure the cart is within a short driving distance so you can visually inspect it. Too many online buyers misrepresent their vehicles whether on purpose or by accident and the buyer ends up with a piece of junk.
Here are a few questions to ask a seller before you purchase any cart:
1. Why are you selling?
2. How old is the machine?
3. Has it ever been wrecked or rolled?
4. Can I test drive it?
5. Can I have a mechanic look it over
A cooperative and unassuming seller will agree to these things but here are a few things you can do to check out a buggy yourself. Look for any rust or dents on the frame or parts. This will tell you if it has been care for. Also smell the oil in the engine. If the oil smells like gas then you have an engine leaking and that means trouble so do not buy that cart.