Karting tips for a first timer?

[AlpineWhite]

Chaps,

Looking for a bit of help. Have the opportunity to try karting soon at an open test session. Arrive and drive sort of thing. I've not driven a kart before so not expecting to be quick, but any tips to save total embarrassment on my part would be much appreciated!

Thanks,
AW

[croyde]

Never brake.

Have fun.

[cwin]

AlpineWhite said:

Chaps,

Looking for a bit of help. Have the opportunity to try karting soon at an open test session. Arrive and drive sort of thing. I've not driven a kart before so not expecting to be quick, but any tips to save total embarrassment on my part would be much appreciated!

Thanks,
AW

The biggest problem people have is left foot braking, you will find that you brake harder that you would expect, also depending on how old the karts are don't ride with your left foot touching the brake pedal, it only takes a little bit of preasure for it to work.try to relax yourself or your arms will pump up and you will be knackerd in 5 mins.

Enjoy.

[anonymous-user]

depends on the karts to be honest, there is a world of difference between two strokes and four strokes but i assume its a prokart. most people dont exploit the grip levels that are available, even in rental karts with rock hard tyres, there is usually a lot more grip htan you would imagine... watch some youtube onboard videos of the circuit, aim to get the apex of the corner right and you'll be ok.

[AlpineWhite]

Thanks gents. Was grinning from ear to ear, will have to do more in the future!

Wasn't on the pace whatsoever, but I was at least consistent once is learnt the track

[pikeyboy]

Lean out when your're cornering. Karts have no diff and a solid axle so leaning out reduces grip on the inside wheel preventing the wheels fighting each other as they want to rotate at different speeds.

lean back when braking and if its wet lean forward to try and get a bit more front end grip.

[anonymous-user]

boy said:

Lean out when your're cornering. Karts have no diff and a solid axle so leaning out reduces grip on the inside wheel preventing the wheels fighting each other as they want to rotate at different speeds.

lean back when braking and if its wet lean forward to try and get a bit more front end grip.

i think these techniques are redundant now. not only do you need the muscles of samson to move your weight around in a kart at speed but i'm pretty sure that modern karts are designed such that the driver remains still and the various elements of the kart provide the required grip.

to optimise grip, its far better to play around with the front and rear torsion bars, lead weights, tyre pressures and the number and position of seat stays than try shifting your weight around the kart. you just arent going to be able to replicate the correct movement every corner every lap given there are other karts around you and you will tire quickly.