- This topic has 6 replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 6 years, 8 months ago by
.
- Posts
I’m completely new to karting, however it has been something I have wanted to get into for quite a while. I keep hearing about the LO206 engine/class and I’m wondering if anyone can share more about that. And maybe age range for certain karts and classes. And I also have a huge question, how do I get started? Are there clubs? Or do I just need to buy a kart and start driving?
Thanks
Hi EmilyLarson,
First and foremost, welcome to kart racing and The Colorado Karter! We are happy to see you reach out to racers on the forums.
The LO206 engine is a Briggs & Stratton Racing engine, and produces 8.5 or so horespower. The ‘206’ means 206cc’s, which is the displacement of the engine. For many new to karting, the LO206 class is a great place to start, as the engine has great parity among competitors, and is a good starting point in terms of performance and maintenance. Many areas of the engine are ‘sealed,’ meaning that modification of them is not allowed, saving racers money. From what we have seen over the years, the 206 may not be the fastest engine out there, but it makes for incredible racing. You have to learn to be smooth and precise to do well in the class.
Regarding karting classes, your initial guess is pretty spot on. Depending on your age, you can compete in a variety of kart racing classes with drivers of similar age and physical ability. The LO206 is one of the most popular, and often one that racers will recommend to adults new to the sport. There is a breakdown of the basic karting age classes in the resource listed below.
A great resource to read if you’re new to the sport is “Karting 101.” It is specifically written and designed for people like yourself that are new to racing karts. From the basics of chassis technology, to levels of karting competition and safety equipment, many of your initial questions may be answered by taking a read through it.
In Colorado, there are several racing series. You can find out more about these by checking out our “Contact: Racing Series Representatives” page, where there are web links and contact information for series representatives.
In almost all cases, competitive kart racing does require one to purchase their own kart if they wish to regularly compete. However, there are ways to sample karting before taking the next step and investing. In particular, visiting with some of the racetracks and their staff across the state, as well as reaching out to some of the racing series, is always a good idea to gain some additional insight into the sport.
If you have more questions, ask them here. Or, reach out to us via email: [email protected]
Again, welcome!
The best club to race with would be the Colorado karting tour.(check us out) They have the most competitors. But the lo206 is def the best class to start in….most cost effective….
The Colorado Karting Tour is who you want to sign up with. If you head over to Unser Karting and Events Centennial they usually have folks out there practicing who you can network with (try for a warm weekend). You could also check out Action Karting at Bandimere, they are really good people too. Grand Junction Motor Speedway is a good track good people. Lee at SBR Motorsports is a good dude and it’s a cool track. IMI Motorsports is a track and they will sell you stuff.
LO206 is where you want to be. Try to hang out at Unser and network. There are good deals on used stuff but be sure to get an unbiased opinion from someone.
Follow CKT – Colorado Karting Tour in FB, attend their next board meeting and you’ll be set. See you at the track.
The Colorado Karting Tour is who you want to sign up with for racing. If you head over to Unser Karting and Events Centennial they usually have folks out there practicing who you can network with (try for a warm weekend). You could also check out Action Karting at Bandimere, they are really good people too. Grand Junction Motor Speedway is a good track good people. Lee at SBR Motorsports is a good dude and it’s a cool track. IMI Motorsports is a track and they will sell you stuff.
LO206 is where you want to be. Try to hang out at Unser and Bandimere to network. There are good deals on used stuff but be sure to get an unbiased opinion from someone with before spending money.
Best way to get started is to go down to Unser Karting in centennial and talk to Greg or Charlie. They can give you all the info you need on equipment, driving, and racing (if that’s what you want to do)
Dont buy a kart or equipment before you talk to a few people. This board is a great place to start with questions and 99.9% of the karters in the area will be happy to help!
LO is definitely the best pacakage for a beginner.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.