Are you intrigued by the karting world but confused about the rules, licenses, and requirements? You’re not alone. This comprehensive guide aims to answer all your frequently asked questions about go-karting, from the types of karts to the legal requirements for racing. Read on to become an informed karting enthusiast ready to hit the tracks in 2023.
Table of Contents
Some Frequently asked questions about karting and minimum age.
What is Karting?
Karting is a form of motorsport that involves racing small, open-wheel vehicles known as karts. It’s a popular activity that serves as a stepping stone to higher levels of motorsport, including F1 racing. Indoor karting tracks offer a controlled environment, ideal for beginners, while outdoor tracks provide a more authentic racing experience.
Do You Need a Licence to drive go karts?
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a driving licence to start karting. However, if you’re looking to participate in competitive karting events, you’ll need a competition licence from Motorsport UK. To get your first licence, you’ll have to pass the ARKS test (Association of Racing Kart Schools), which includes both a written and a practical exam.
What is the Minimum Age for Karting?
The minimum age for karting varies depending on the type of kart and the specific track. Generally, children must be at least 8 years old to participate in “Bambino” karting events and at least 12 for “Cadet” events. Always check the minimum ages and heights required by the specific kart track you’re interested in.
What Types of Karts are Available?
Various types of karts are available, each offering a unique karting experience. From electric karts known for quick acceleration to petrol karts that offer higher top speeds, you have plenty of options. Some tracks even offer “arrive-and-drive” karts, allowing you to experience the thrill without owning a kart.
Is a Go-Kart Road illegal to drive?
Go-karts are not road-legal in the UK. They cannot be driven on public roads without a valid MOT test and must meet specific “construction and use” regulations to be considered road-legal. Driving a go-kart on the road without meeting these requirements is illegal.
How to Start Karting?
Starting karting is easier than most people think. You don’t need a driver’s licence or a kart to begin. Many local clubs offer “arrive-and-drive” sessions where you can rent a kart and safety gear. Once you’ve gained some experience and perhaps taken the ARKS test, you can consider buying your own kart and safety equipment.
What are the Legal Requirements for Karting?
If you’re karting on private land or a designated kart track, there are generally fewer legal requirements. However, for competitive karting, you’ll need a competition licence and must adhere to the rules set by Motorsport UK. These rules cover everything from the type of helmet you must wear to the specifications your kart must meet.
Can You Kart in a Car Park?
Karting in a car park is generally not recommended due to safety concerns. Most car parks are not designed for karting and lack the necessary safety features like barriers and marshal points. Always use a designated kart track for your karting activities.
Do You Need to Book in Advance?
For most karting tracks, prevalent ones, it’s advisable to book in advance. This ensures that you have a slot and that the necessary karts and safety gear are available. Some tracks also run special events on public holidays, which may require pre-booking.
Is it Okay to Wear Fancy Dress While Karting?
While the idea might seem fun, wearing fancy dress is generally not allowed on kart tracks for safety reasons. You’ll need to wear specific safety gear, including a full-face helmet with a visor, and a race suit that meets the track’s safety standards.
Is 14 too late to start karting?
Absolutely not! Fourteen is not too late to start karting, and many successful racers have begun their karting careers in their teenage years or even later. Karting is a sport that caters to a wide range of ages and skill levels. Whether you’re interested in karting as a hobby or considering it as the first step in a motorsport career, starting at 14 gives you plenty of time to develop your skills.
Advantages of Starting at 14
- Physical Readiness: At 14, you’re likely more physically developed than younger kids, which can be an advantage in handling the karts.
- Mental Maturity: The mental aspects of racing, such as strategy and focus, are often easier for slightly older beginners to grasp.
- Quick Learning: Teenagers often pick up new skills quickly and may find it easier to understand the technical aspects of karting, such as kart setup and maintenance.
- More Opportunities: At 14, you’re eligible to participate in more advanced karting classes, which may not be available to younger kids due to safety concerns.
- Potential for Growth: Many professional drivers didn’t start karting until their teenage years and have gone on to have successful careers in motorsports.
Things to Consider
- Initial Costs: Karting can be expensive, especially if you want to compete at higher levels. Make sure to discuss the financial aspect with your parents or guardians.
- Time Commitment: Like any sport, becoming proficient at karting requires a significant time commitment for practice and competition.
- Learning Curve: While you may be competing against individuals who have been karting for several years, don’t be discouraged. Everyone progresses at their rate, and what’s important is your improvement and enjoyment.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety. Ensure to use all the required safety gear and follow all safety guidelines provided by the track or karting organization.
Is the age of 18 too late to start karting?
No, 18 is not too late to start karting. Whether you’re interested in it as a hobby or a stepping stone to professional racing, karting is accessible to people of all ages. Many successful racers began in their late teens or even later. What matters is your dedication and willingness to learn.
is go-karting an expensive hobby?
Go-karting can be both affordable and expensive, depending on how involved you get. Casual “arrive-and-drive” sessions at local tracks can cost around $20-$50 per race. However, owning a kart and participating in competitive events can cost thousands annually for equipment, fees, and travel.
Is 22 too late to start karting?
No, 22 is not too late to start go-karting! Here are a few key reasons why:
- Physical Ability – At 22, you’re still young and likely in good physical shape. Karting requires endurance, reflexes and strength to handle the G-forces, all of which a 22-year-old should have. Your stamina and reaction time will be much better than if you were starting in your 30s or 40s.
- Learning Ability – While kids can pick up racing skills quickly, adults can bring discipline and analytical thinking to absorb training faster. You can rapidly develop racing techniques and motorsport engineering insights with focus and commitment. Karting schools offer specialized adult programs to fast-track your learning.
- Career Options – If aspiring to be a professional racer, 22 does make that path more challenging. But plenty of top drivers like Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen, and Lewis Hamilton only started racing around 20 years old before progressing to Formula 1. With dedication and talent, professional karting ambitions are still viable.
- Experience Benefits – Regardless of pro ambitions, having some life experience and maturity can actually help you appreciate and excel in karting. You’ll have better judgment, decision-making skills and the ability to implement what your coaches teach you.
- For Pure Enjoyment – Most importantly, if you’re karting for fun and excitement, age doesn’t matter at all. With the right attitude, you can have an absolute blast at any age while improving your skills.
Can you drink before go-karting?
Here are a few key things to consider regarding drinking alcohol before go-karting:
- Drinking before operating any motor vehicle, including go-karts, is not recommended. Alcohol impairs judgement, reaction time and coordination which are all crucial for safe driving.
- Most indoor and outdoor go-karting venues will prohibit driving if you appear intoxicated, for your own and others’ safety. This is similar to regulations against drunk driving on public roads.
- Depending on their policies, venues may require you to leave without a refund if you are considered unfit to drive due to intoxication. You could also face a ban from the venue for repeat offenses.
- Insurance coverage for injuries or damage caused may also be voided if driving under the influence.
- Outdoor karting on private land versus public tracks have slightly more relaxed regulations, but driving intoxicated remains very high risk.
- Even if you avoid penalties, driving hungover can still impair your concentration and reactions, reducing enjoyment and increasing mistakes.
- As a responsible hobby, karting is best enjoyed entirely sober for ensure your safety and that of fellow racers. Most venues will encourage this strongly.
How risky is go-karting?
Go-karting carries some risk, like any motorsport, but is generally considered safe when proper precautions are taken. Tracks are designed for safety; operators often require drivers to wear helmets and other protective gear. Accidents can happen, but they are relatively rare with proper safety measures.
Does it hurt to crash a go-kart?
Crashing a go-kart can result in varying degrees of discomfort or injury, depending on the speed and circumstances of the crash. While safety measures like full face helmets, barriers, and harnesses aim to minimize impact, collisions can still cause bruises, sprains, or more severe injuries. Always prioritize safety.
Why am I scared of go-karting?
Fear of go-karting is often rooted in the unknown and concerns about safety. The speed, the machinery, and the competitive aspect can be intimidating. It’s natural to fear activities that involve physical risk, but proper training and safety measures can help alleviate these fears.
What do you wear under a kart suit?
Under a karting suit, it’s best to wear moisture-wicking, breathable base layers to keep you comfortable. Avoid cotton as it retains moisture. Some racers opt for specialized karting undergarments with additional padding and flame resistance. Always prioritize comfort and safety.
Are karting suits fire resistant?
Yes, many karting suits are designed to be fire-resistant to enhance driver safety. These suits are often made from materials like Nomex to provide a layer of protection against fire hazards. However, it’s crucial to check the specific safety features of the suit you’re considering.
Key Takeaways
- You don’t need a driving license to start karting, but a competition license is required for official races.
- The minimum age for karting varies by track and type of kart, so always check in advance.
- Go-karts are not road-legal in the UK and should only be driven on designated tracks or private land.
- Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular tracks and special events.
- Safety gear is necessary; fancy dress is not allowed on kart tracks.
Feel free to share this comprehensive guide with anyone interested in karting, and don’t hesitate to contact us if you have more questions. Happy karting in 2023!