For many, racing go karts is just another day at the office but for others just getting started it can be a steep learning curve. Racing karts is just like any other kind of motorsport racing, it takes practice and lots of it. Starting at a young age there are numerous indoor go kart racing centers around the world and chances are there is one close to you that will let you brush up on your skills. Here are some tips we wanna share with you to help you improve your go kart racing skill set.
Sit Back in Your Seat
- While this seems trivial and elementary you would be surprised how many beginners and even more advanced drivers have a tendency to lean forward while racing. This affects the go karts acceleration negatively and thus means your lap time is going to suffer. Sit back in your seat and try to imagine your on a daily Sunday stroll.
Both Hands On The Wheel
- You have heard the saying about driving “keep your hands at 10 and 2 at all times. Well nothing could be more appropriate when it comes to racing go carts. You always want to have your hands even and balanced on the steering wheel so keep them between 10 and 2 or 9 and 3. Pretend the steering wheel is a clock and time it just right every time. Not doing so can mean an unstable race kart.
Braking
- Braking is very technical and can be difficult at time but you always want to “brake hard” and be quick with pedal on and off so you almost lock the wheels up. As you come up to the corner or turn you need to be releasing the brakes already. Braking while going into turns is cause for disaster.
Go Kart Racing Lines
- Fast kart racing can mean being overzealous when going into turns. You always want to keep a straight line as long as possible and keep the turn wide instead of turning early into the corner. Most drivers have a tendency to take the turn early and reduce their speed while extending lap time.
Keep It Straight
- It’s no secret that turning slows you down so keeping the cart straight as much as possible only ensures the fastest time. There is a very fine line between reaching the turning apex and losing control.
Tips & Warnings
- Go-kart racing is expensive so be sure to budget your practice accordingly. Practice makes perfect so get as much as possible.
- These kart racing tips are designed to help you as a beginner. Your going to be slow at first, everyone is so don’t sweat it. You will get better with practice.
- Don’t push yourself too fast or hard and certainly don’t rush into it. This can cause you to make mistakes and that leads to a crash.
- Make sure you wear the appropriate gear at all times. Helmet, eyewear, gloves, racing suit, etc….
- Always be supervised when doing any kind of go karting or racing
