Cost Of Karting On The Rise

I recently had a revalation about how expensive the cost of Kart Racing was getting, with the rise of a more European format here in the USA (Classes like ICA,ICC and JICA) the cost of racing is going through the roof.

With the European style classes gaining momentum her in America the demand for overseas equiptment has gone up substantially when you couple that with the current value of the Euro Dollar compared to the American Dollar you end up with rediculously expensive replacement parts not only for Chassis but for Engines as well.

As an engine builder I see what the cost is on replacment engine parts and a recent parts order for a Vortex ICC engine absolutely blew me away. The cost of these parts was shocking to say the least with a bare connecting rod costing $321.00 and a set of reeds at $119.00 just to name a few. To me this seems like an insane amout of money but relatively speeking when compared to other forms of motorsport it's expensive but not too bad.

My purpose for writing this is not to discourage new people from wanting to enter into Karting but to inform people that Karting is a diverse sport that will accomodate almost any budget. Not all forms of Kart racing are as expensive, for example, an individual can purchase a ready to roll Yamaha equiped used Chassis for somewhere aroud $2500.00 add on about another $1500.00 for some equiptment and gear and for around $4000.00 you have a ready to race package that will provide nearly foolproof operation and an incredible amount of fun.

Here is a quick list of some things a person would need to get started in the sport of Go-Kart Racing.............

1...............Appropriate Chassis for the class you decide to race(Should include tires,wheels and the appropriate size seat)

2...............An Engine to go with the Chassis (A complete engine including proper exhaust, clutch and intake silencer)
(Usually best to buy a Package deal that is allready assembled with engine and chassis together)

3..............Starter for the engine

4.............Kart stand(preferably with wheels) makes working on your new Kart alot more enjoyable

5.............Assortment of oils and lubricants(Chain lube, engine oil,clutch oil etc.)

6............ (optional for starters) Assortment of spare parts like gears, chain, extra wheels and tires and some spare chassis parts like spindles tie rods and axles

7...........Driver equiptment like a drivers suit, helmet, shoes, gloves rib vest and a neck collar.

Of course this is a fraction of what can be collected by a veteran racer over the years but this is more then enough to get a new Karter started. I hope this will give you an idea of what is required to get a good start to an enjoyable Karting experience because believe me it is an experience worth every penny.

Francis