A Beginner's Guide To Buying A Go Kart - POWER REPUBLIC

[@TheHazelBlue]

This channel is the best thing to happen to karting in past 4 years I've been on hiatus.

[@PowerRepublic]

John Alexander thanks very much

[@billthompson9595]

Thank you very much. I am new to the sport looks like fun for a retired person. going out to find a good used kart. again Thank you

[@PowerRepublic]

Bill Thompson yeah that’s what a lot of guys do. It’s a great fun hobby, especially if you have the time to go to the track a lot for practice. Don’t forget to get a good rib protector before you start!

[@steele.in.motion]

Really great stuff, thank you!

[@PowerRepublic]

Thanks for the positive vibes Matty

[@McCain997]

Nice vid. Also interesting would be a beginner's guide about used motors. For example a Rotax or Iame.

[@PowerRepublic]

Great idea thanks McCain

[@Mitchell.Steggall93]

Love your videos Derek, they are helping me out greatly. I just got into karting and would like to know How To Warm A Go Kart On A Stand properly, walking around the pits everybody seems to do it different. Cheers

[@PowerRepublic]

Hi Mitchell, where abouts do you live? And what type of engine do you have? Some guys like to rev the life out of engines, but I don't like to. If the ambient temp his low and your running a water cooled Rotax engine for example, as they seem to be the worst for variations in jetting from cold to full running temp, they yes you can warm up the engine before you hit the track for your race. The KZ guys like to warm theirs up too before they hit the track. If it is just practise, I like to warm the engine up as you go around on my out lap. I don't go 100% on the engine if its stone cold down the main straights. Just lift off at half straight and coast into the next brake zone. That way the engine warms up in half to one lap and your good to go. hope that helps Derek

[@Mitchell.Steggall93]

Thanks for replying Derek. I live in Mildura and have a x30. Same! From what I've seen some people rev the guts out of them, cant help to think they would be doing damage ie bore, rings ect. I have been doing most of my warm ups on the first lap out, seems to work fine. Cheers Mitchell

[@PowerRepublic]

Yeah its preference but not essential. #respect

[@everythingkarting9176]

Thx for the video I just got a fa kart and I love it 👌👌

[@PowerRepublic]

your very welcome

[@SONICBOOM-117]

Outstanding man my new favorite channel. 😀👍

[@PowerRepublic]

wicked, thanks for the good vibes!!!

[@shaolin224]

Great tips Derek as I'm still learning maintenance on these awesome Tony karts. I'd like to see a video on ideal running engine temp for proper performance. Cr or TM engines on a kz. Stock mainly because I think a modified engine will have instructions from the builder :-). Maybe radiator curtains or shutters to regulate those temps. Thanks for the great vids..

[@PowerRepublic]

Okay I will talk about the engine temp next time I take the Power Republic KZ for a spin at Xtreme Karting

[@shaolin224]

@@PowerRepublic thanks for considering it 👍

[@Mads7913]

Is Energy kinetic 1040 from 2022 a good chassis? And can you put an X30 125 cc engine in it? (I am new and want to buy a kart)

[@federicosansone4213]

Hi! This is for suer the best GoKart channel on KZbin! I'm from Argentina with 30 years old and 75 kg. I only raced rental go karts and I am planning to buy my own go kart with Rotax Evo engine but I am still trying to figured out If I should buy one with Rotax Evo Junior or should I go straight to the Rotax Evo Senior Max with maybe some kind of low performance setup at the begging? thanks!

[@PowerRepublic]

Yeah boi, get on it !! Get the senior max for sure. If you want less performance initially cause you are new, wind the throttle stopper bolt back so you can only get max 1/2 throttle. That will stop the huge power off the corners while you dial in

[@mrgreen9388]

Hay very informative channel and thanks for the free content for the UK . Will you be covering buying a used gearbox kart? A 250E whould be very helpful 😉

[@PowerRepublic]

Hey Mr Green, you're very welcome. It not really a speciality of ours. the big ticket karts that require a lot of maintenance depreciate the most as there isn't a lot of buyers. Most of the guys that race buy brand new and the rest of us can't really justify the expense to the wife/missus/husband/girlfriend/boyfriend/significant other of maintaining the awesome racing machine that is a KZ

[@leesmartin]

Hey mate. Ex Karter from the early 90's here. I'm now 53 and looking at getting back into it for a bit of fun on the occasional weekend and not racing (maybe), yet am confused at what to buy. I looked at doing historic karts with a KT100SE, but am more keen on a Rotax 125, yet have been told they are unreliable, difficult to set up with jetting etc and should stay away from them. I wish to have a 125 that has a clutch, as I don't wish to push start the thing at my age, and have also recently been looking at the DD2 karts as an option (just for the changing gear experience I spose), yet I imagine they would be a lot more maintenance. I used to use a PRD chassis then an Arrow AX(?) yet wish to ask what chassis has a bit more adjustment to fine tune the handling, as I use to enjoy testing a bit more than the actual racing and parts availability/prices to compare. Any advice would be very helpful

[@PowerRepublic]

Hey mate. yeah the cubbies are great fun and you can get a clutch for them. The retro karting guys are good fun too. However the 125 Rotax senior max will definitely open your eyes. They have nearly 33Hp as oppose too the KT100 at around 17Hp. Being water cooled they last longer too and in my experience are very reliable for what they are, a racing 2 stroke engine . like anything, once you get a handle on the jetting its a piece of cake. If you are used to clubman style, don't discount the IAME X30. They too are easy to tune on the go with a great carby. The DD2 are wicked fun. I like them a lot and give you front brakes, sticky tyres and tonnes of acceleration, with reasonable longevity. If I was you, I would buy a Rotax 125, start with the restrictor in so you don't destroy your ribs and neck on the first few times you use it. Then once your karting specific muscles have switched back on, use it with all its glory!!!! you won't be sorry. Have fun.

[@leesmartin]

@@PowerRepublic Sorry, another couple of questions re the IAME X30. Do you mean those carbs are similar to the ones on a KT with the high and low taps to fine tune, and are they the reed valve engine which from what I vaguely remember were a bit quicker than the KT? Well aware of the pain I will initially go through with Karting, so I may have to plan a week or two off work after a first test session! Many thanks for the reply. Cheers, Lee in Oz

[@PowerRepublic]

yeah that right, the carbs are similar with 2 jets to screw in and out. being water cooled the jetting doesn't change much from hot to cold. the X30 is crankcase reed valve engine, which is awesome. you going to love the extra power and the fact that you don't need to push start them. @@leesmartin

[@dgb5820]

Another awesome video

[@PowerRepublic]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@firefighter277]

I’m trying to get into karting but I don’t know what brand to go with. What is a reliable brand with good part support.

[@PowerRepublic]

Go to your local track and see what's around and the people you like. Tony Karts are what we use and recommend, but if there aren't any in your area for the class you want to race in, then its not as good as getting the kart that suits your tyres, class, engine type etc at your local club. hope that helps. if you want you can send us a email with your specific sizes and requirements from our website www.powerrepublic.com.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQiArozwBRDOARIsAHo2s7vNCNtgjfl56O-Knle5hSD6tsSJtbTfuhyzWPrrBNq694PCpUyHdesaAqeHEALw_wcB and I can give e you some more specific details to get you started Merry Christmas

[@firefighter277]

Thank you

[@jesperek6402]

This is good, cause I'm gonna buy a used kart and don't have any experience. But what should I look, listen, feel and smell for on the engine? I've been looking at a kart that's upgraded to an Evo and I don't know what the upgrade is?

[@PowerRepublic]

Engines are hard to predict. start them up I a must and ask for the last engine receipt for the work they got done. Evo upgrades are from the previous version of the engines auxiliary parts i.e carby, electrics, exhaust pipe, power valve etc to the new style parts. Look at these on the Rotax or IKD website.

[@jesperek6402]

@@PowerRepublic can you make a video where you go out to buy a used Rotax max evo kart and show everyone how to not buy something that only will cost you more than it's worth?

[@thedude4795]

"Basically, it shouldnt fall a paaart when ya sittown innit MATE" rofl

[@PowerRepublic]

Hey Izio, yeah I reckon.

[@finbob4589]

Hey, really wanting to get into *proper* karting, junior rotax for me and my age specifically, if I buy a kart that is used, how will I personalise it for my needs and will the chassis, engine and bodywork change and impact that?

[@PowerRepublic]

nah, just get a kart and get out there for some practise. its the best. aim to spend about half what a new package would cost e.g 13000/2=$6500

[@finbob4589]

@@PowerRepublic idk I’ve done some calculations and research and seen I can do it for around £2500 as I’m in the uk, I just need more practice first, and the time

[@Lunch857]

Hey mate, awesome video! I recently brought a second hand kart and the nose cone that came with the kart had been stood on and damaged and I’m looking for a new one, tossing up between an M4 and M6 just wondering if you know the difference?

[@PowerRepublic]

The M4 is the older model of the Tony Kart Racer EVK and earlier models. The M6 came out on the Racer 401 Model and is still current

[@benzon9448]

Do you know any places where to buy a senior/junior kart in Denmark? Btw I don't know which kart I should choose between senior or junior, I am 15 years and 184 cm.

[@PowerRepublic]

Kartshop.com all the way my man. kartshop.com/shop/frontpage.html

[@gaganxjeet9993]

Im buying a used kt100 go kart, I think it is a stop and go type of kart. I am trying to go all out for my first kart and my budget is 1.3k, what is some advice you have for it?

[@derickdelonay1835]

I’m buying a 2006 kc100 kart for 1000 and I can’t find any info abt the kart or the motor

[@PowerRepublic]

yeah if you are on a budget maybe try and race in the L206 category if you are in USA. they have big fields and its way cheaper IMO

[@saint9378]

Could I buy a used chassis and install a new engine? I’m on a tight budget around 1k so idk what to do to maximize my budget

[@PowerRepublic]

Yes new engine on old frames is a good way to start. But for 1k you might be a bit short of cash to finish the project. Budget for about 5k for a modern kart package ready for the track

[@PowerRepublic]

Otherwise get a torini 4SS engine/package. They are by far the ‘cheapest’ way into kart racing

[@goose93000]

can u buy just go kart frames then install an engine like a ka100 or kt100 bc my dad and I are looking at getting 2 karts

[@PowerRepublic]

sure can, r u going to race in KA4?

[@goose93000]

@@PowerRepublic I’m still not sure. My dad and I are going to an open day at Cameron park to see what classes are racing and what we should buy

[@PowerRepublic]

@@goose93000 good idea, no point getting something that no one else has in your area.

[@PowerRepublic]

@@goose93000 let me know how it goes 👊🏻

[@Charleswarburtn]

Where is the best place to buy karts (new or used) in france?

[@PowerRepublic]

Not 100 percent sure. Have you tried googling it? Search for go kart racing/go kart clubs/France. Also too are you going to race Rotax 125?

[@bewitchinggames_1318]

I am 158 cm tall and 50 kg what size kart and how powerful should my kart be?

[@PowerRepublic]

Probably the Tony Kart Nordic or equivalents 28mm chassis. What class’s race at your local track?

[@ThePethigamagae]

I’m trying to get into karting. I’m a six foot, 95kg guy. So I’m assuming a 32mm chassis would be the go? I don’t have much karting experience, so I’m thinking of getting a used kart and running tag restricted for awhile. Between the salesman in the karting shops and the lack of information online, I’m not really sure what kind of budget to have? - keeping in mind that for the first year or two I won’t be doing anything other than practising.

[@PowerRepublic]

Hi Vidura, Merry Christmas. if your tall and 95kg's, yeah the 32mm is my recommendation. Aim to spend 1/2 the cost of a brand new package for a high quality 1 year package (11,000 AUD brand new so about $5500 is good price). if older than 1-2 years it would have to be awesome to be that price. so go as low as $4k for a package . after that your probably not getting the best kart and will need more cash to maintain it. if your super handy and can fix stuff yourself, go for it otherwise get yourself a 1 year old kart and engine package and be patient. good karts come up and down all the time.

[@rahhhsmith6727]

I’m only questioning right now is where can I find a good starter kart idk if age matters for the kart but I’m 14

[@PowerRepublic]

Rahhh Smith at 14 it’s hard mate cause you could go either senior or junior. Where about do you live? I’m on the Gold Coast Australia.

[@christianbuczko1481]

I just got a very cheap tonykart from 2017 running a fireball 125cc engine through facebook. My mate spotted it on a karting page and i got it for £1500 and the engine was tuned last week by a top tuner and needs to be run in. Its almost like knew except for no stickers, which meant i got an excuse to do a custom green on black grim reaper surrounded by skull designs. That was not cheap, keep the standards if you are on a budget. If i bought it from new, i think £5500+. Im not sure though a 125cc 2 stroke is suitable for you. Apart from speed, which is scary, running costs go up very fast if your racing regularly and the lower classes with similar power regs ect will be more fun with low fixed costs on some types im told. Basically, know the after costs of running each kart after you buy it, and go for that type. Be patient also, dont buy the first cheap thing you see unless you know its a bargain and wont bankrupt you in 2 weeks like my karts trying to do. Ps, i just had to get a 2018 set of front hand brakes, worth £800(not race legal but is badass), and full tonykart racesuit, gloves and shoes. Frankly i will be happy just posing on it doing laps against a few mates even if i cant afford to race in events.

[@2Niips]

where is the best place to buy one ? i feel like i cant find ANY online

[@PowerRepublic]

where you at?

[@2Niips]

@@PowerRepublic USA

[@PowerRepublic]

@@2Niips there is a place called Comet Kart sales. I have got some gear off them before. Craigslist in your local area?

[@lilsav6962]

Ive been looking for a Perfectly New shifter kart for under 2k and I cant find one, all of the ones that are under 2k are parts, frames, etc... so can someone give me a link to a website that has shifter karts for under 2k

[@PowerRepublic]

Not sure you will find a brand new one for that price, maybe look at ex_demo factory karts in your area.

[@coffeehouse44]

Great work - love your videos and how you are helping the newbie kart racer - You should sent this clip to all clubs, so they might use it. And it might get more views for your channel. Have you seen (kart360) channel he has some older video you could look at doing for the aussie viewers.

[@PowerRepublic]

Thanks for the positive feedback !!

[@haroonplays3389]

How expensive is a junior Rotax kart with the engine and chasis

[@PowerRepublic]

brand new or pre raced?

[@haroonplays3389]

Brand new

[@R3RS2024]

@@haroonplays3389 5000 euro

[@MTBSurf]

What kart should I get in 13 and 5,7 my budget is about $1,200

[@PowerRepublic]

4 stoke kart package is about it for the budget racers my friend

[@MTBSurf]

Any recommendations on witch one

[@PowerRepublic]

@@MTBSurf probably stick to the 4SS

[@bigash_n54]

Wished i watched this before i bought mine.

[@PowerRepublic]

next time.....

[@Oscar_dmz]

Where did you buy yours?

[@valentineroberts3980]

Good vid

[@Corey27]

Where cam I buy I kart?? I live in ireland and they're nowhere to be found

[@PowerRepublic]

have you tried Strawberry Racing in the UK?

[@Dash-bristow]

I am just starting to race and I don’t know what to buy

[@PowerRepublic]

cheap kart, in the class for your weight and age. what is your local club?

[@freddieparrydrums]

I wish my parents would let me. Shame because I am a good racer, and I have a lot of experience on simulators but no one believes me. Even though I set one of the fastest times at a karting track

[@PowerRepublic]

Yeah Freddie it can be a lot for parents to take on. Keep practising but, then when you are old enough to make it happen yourself, you will already have the simulated experience to DESTROY when you finally hit the track!!!!!

[@freddieparrydrums]

@@PowerRepublic Yeah thank you for the advice I do understand. I just wish I could race because I have a friend who also races Suzuki Swift in junior rally cross but that is way to much money. But my parents aren’t rich so I’ll do it when I’m older :)

[@BK-it6te]

😅The main improvement thing you forgot to say here how to check if the chassis is bend that’s the most important to look for

[@PowerRepublic]

we have another video on that, have you checked it out?

[@tonykartracer8032]

Dude... you didn't even talk about the most important thing, to check and see if the chassis is straight.

[@PowerRepublic]

Oops , that is very important too. I have a different vid to check for straight so I will tag it in the comms

[@Airtoner]

Plz like my comment so I can come back to this, I’m buying one very soon

[@PowerRepublic]

get on it, karting is super fun

[@lume.3887]

Best advice: Buy a new one

[@PowerRepublic]

thanks, go team

[@unknownboi3735]

Lume. What if I get an older frame. And a new engine

[@lume.3887]

@@unknownboi3735 New chassis is always better. But I would say a strong engine is more important than a brand new chassis yeah. If you on a budget thats what you should do

[@unknownboi3735]

Lume.Thanks

[@PowerRepublic]

@@unknownboi3735 Agreed, a good second hand chassis and brand new engine, best for budget. the chassis depeciate the most/fastest. the engines go down in value but you get the use of all the brand new parts in the engine. so that kind of equals out. And second hand engines always cost you more in maintenance.