Go Kart Safety
It is safe to say that children love Go-Karts, they are exceptionally fun and safe to drive. A vast majority of Go-karts are made from an exceptionally robust frame and come with a battery pack that can typically make them a little heavier. Which can be good news!
Heavier the Go-kart, the more difficult it is for it to flip over. Either way, it is highly unlikely if driven correctly. As Go-karts are built so low to the ground, it creates a lower center of gravity, this makes them safe for younger children to drive.
Keeping their low center of gravity in mind, it means they are also very easy to handle, and are incredibly easy to learn how to drive. Which makes them ideal for children as toys and for individuals wanting to learn how to drive and use a Go-kart before progressing onto bigger things.
Which Go-Karts are the safest for children?
Typically you will find Go-karts for children that are categorized as pedal, gas or electric powered. Electric Go-karts that are designed for children in mind are highly toned down versions of Go-karts that are usually of professional grade.
Go-karts primarily operate by using a battery powered engine. These types of engines are intended for recreational purposes but also professional use. Since Go-karts are often pollution free, it means that they can be used on outdoor and in indoor tracks; whereas fuel powered versions can only be used outdoors for health and safety reasons.
The importance of Go-Kart safety
Driving a Go-kart is typically regarded as a safe motorsport. Speeds of electric powered Go-karts are usually quite low, around and within the region of 12mph. However, it is always important for Go-kart drivers to keep safety guidelines in mind when driving.
It is important to keep in mind that each country (including states) have their own specific regulations and specifications for Go-karts and Go-karting; but here are the most common and often the most important that you should remember.
- The Go-kart’s wheel base should be between 101 cm to 127 cm respectively.
- The Go-kart should not be heavier than 100 kg, this excludes drivers weight.
- The Go-kart’s chassis should not be longer than 210 cm.
- The Go-kart’s chassis should not include any temporary parts.
- The Go-kart should be fully equipped with a working seat belt.
- Go-kart’s used on an amateur race circuit, should include wheel protection.
- Drivers should wear protective clothing such as a helmet, gloves, etc.
Last but not least, if a Go-kart is to be used by young children, it is often highly recommended for the Go-kart to be equipped with a remote emergency switch or a speed control that can be adjusted.
If a child veers or ventures off a circuit or begins to hit excessive speeds, a parent or guardian can control the speed or the engine of the Go-kart from a distance, which may prevent any unwanted accidents.
The key points and factors included in this article are for reference only and are intended as an overall idea of what to keep in mind if you choose to purchase a Go-kart. If you are planning on buying a Go-kart it is important to read up on rules and regulations in your local area, especially if you plan on using the Go-kart for racing.
