Getting Started in Racing

Karting is one of the most exciting and accessible forms of racing available. In terms of "bang for your buck" there is no substitute for the speed, thrills and close racing action that can be found in karting.

One of the primary attractions of karting is that it doesn't require a transporter, trailer, race shop and crew full of mechanics to compete. Becoming involved in karting does not require tens of thousands of dollars either making it an excellent point of entry in to the world of racing for many people. As with all racing though it is never free, but well within the reach of most budget minded racers.

The first aspect of getting started in karting at BeaveRun is to spend time learning about the different classes that represent the different age groups, skill levels and budget levels. While all racers who show up at BeaveRun will be placed in a run group, purchasing the proper equipment that will allow a racer to compete in larger fields has several advantages. Racing in bigger fields full of similar equipment allows a new racer to find comparable drivers to compete with on a regular basis. Another advantage is that buying equipment used in more popular classes ensures that there will be vendors on hand and other racers willing and able to assist with any problems.

BeaveRun has four primary run groups featuring several classes within each group. Only a few specific classes are scored as exhibition or competition classes throughout the season however. These most popular classes and age groups at BeaveRun currently are as follows:

Kid Kart (exhibition) 5 - 8 years old
Cadet 8-12 years old
Yamaha Jr. Can 12-15 years old
Yamaha Pipe Heavy 16 and older
TAG 16 and older
Shifter 16 and older

There are several options to consider when looking for karts once you have settled on a class. New karts are available from several vendors that call BeaveRun their home track while used karts are available as well for the more budget minded. Used karts can often be found in the paddock as well as from several online forums and auction sites.

When considering used karts, it is imperative to make sure the kart is legal for competition at BeaveRun first. Equally as important is making sure that there is a dealer or resource available to keep your new kart and engine on track.

Safety equipment is the next item to consider when getting started in karting. A safety rated helmet, abrasion resistant driving suit and gloves, neck brace and rib vest are all required items. For youth racers, a certified chest protector is also a requirement. While there are many areas where a few dollars can be saved when starting karting, it is not recommended to go cheap in terms of safety.

Transporting a kart is an obvious consideration but can be as big or small of an undertaking as you desire.  While there are full race teams in the paddock each week with tandem axle trailers and more, just as many people can be found racing out of the back of an SUV or truck or hauling karts on open trailers. 

The requirements regarding tools and supplies range far and wide depending on the specific class. A rolling kart stand is a practical way to transport the kart from the paddock to the pits and it also serves as a work station that can be very useful.  Some items that are found in every pit regardless of class are a fuel container, funnel, air tank and air gauge. Actual tools vary from class to class but the vast majority of the karts will require a full set of metric wrenches, sockets and allen wrenches as well as an assortment of hand tools such as screw drivers, pliers, needle nose pliers, wire cutters, rubber mallets, etc. A cordless impact wrench can also be a very useful item to have available.

In many classes, a hand held starter is a must have item as well.

Of course the single most helpful item to have with you at any time is a friend to help move the kart in and out of the vehicle, start the kart and be an extra set of hands when needed.

Once the kart and tools are in place, the best thing to do is to log plenty of practice time during the open practice sessions and enroll in one of the karting schools if possible.  Karting is a very fun, affordable way to go racing but it is a very serious and fast sport.  It is important to utilize all of the practice time and advice possible in order to be prepared to race for your own safety as well as the safety of your fellow competitors.