Go Karts

How to get started in go kart racing

Go kart racing can be a thrilling recreational activity or fulltime sport. All it takes is one high-paced lap around the track and you'll be hooked! Racing go karts is also a great way to ease into the sport of professional racing. One of the most famous go kart racers, Danica Patrick, has now reached the top of the Indy Racing League.

Want to become the next Danica Patrick? Here are some tips for getting started in the exciting sport of go kart racing:

• When to start - The majority of Formula One, Indy and Nascar racers started in go karts at a very young age. The Formula One racer and two-time world champion Fernando Alonso started racing go karts at the tender age of three. This doesn't mean you have to start racing this early, nor does it mean you can't start when you're an adult. Go kart racing is a great sport for all ages.

• Do some research - A good place to start is to surf the Internet. Websites such as gokartracing.com offer an introduction to the sport of go karting, including tips about tracks and information on go kart manufacturers.
• Visit your local go kart track - Watch a few go kart races to become familiar with the sport. Chat with the staff and ask them any questions you may have. During your visit, purchase a pit pass so that you are allowed to enter the pit area with all the drivers. Wander around the pit to experience what goes on, and talk with the go kart racers about what they like about the sport and how they got involved.
• Try it out - Rent a go kart and go for some laps around the track. If you love it and are still interested at this point, you are probably ready to commit your time and money to the sport.
• Purchase a kart - Whether your buy a new or used kart and which accessories you choose will affect the initial cost. It also depends on whether or not the kart comes with an engine. A 5 to12-year-old kart will cost about $500 to $1000 (without engine). The price of a 2 to 5-year-old kart will range in price between $700 and $2000 (which may or may not include an engine). For a new kart, expect to pay between $2700 and $3500 (includes engine).
• Safety gear - Besides the kart, you'll need to buy the required safety gear, which includes a full face helmet, a skid resistant driving suit, a neck collar and driving gloves. A rib vest or guard and driving shoes are beneficial, but optional. The total cost for safety gear will range between $250 and $1500.
• Get involved - Visit your local race track and signup for a go-kart racing league that is suitable for your age group. You'll start off racing kid karts and work your way up to adult race karts. The adult karts are larger and have more horsepower. Start with practice sessions before signing up for your first race.
• The first race season - Be prepared to pay for ongoing expenses, such as kart maintenance, track entrance fees and pit passes.

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