Question about CIR karts

[Timmahhh]

This is probably a pretty basic question, but do the karts use a solid rear axle (i.e. no differential)? One of you guys mentioned that having a higher center of gravity would help weight transfer, and it seems that only in the case of no differential would that be beneficial.

After a race there, I feel like I over-analyze my driving, but it usually helps me understand the dynamics of the tracks and cars better the next time.

[Rick]

I'm sure others will chime in with more in depth information. But simply put, the kart's chassis is designed to lift the rear inside wheel in a corner. This is designed into the Ackerman angle and the steering wheel actually acts as a lever to initiate the action which is helped by the weight transfer in the turn. The seat is also another thing that acts as a lever.

I don't think a high center of gravity is necessarily beneficial or advantageous. There are junior drivers who weigh less than 130 lbs and can get around turns just fine (once the tires heat up). They definitely are not putting the same kind of force on the chassis or seat as the taller and heavier adults.

[Adam Andrea]

Yes, I believe the karts do have a solid rear axle. A higher center of gravity would theoretically create more force to bend the chassis. Unfortunately, a higher center of gravity also means slower turn in and weight transfer response times.

It's best to have your body touching the side of the seat that's on the outside of the turn you're about to enter. Don't try to fight the g-forces - let them press you to the outside of the seat. This will help with cornering grip, and take grip off the inside rear, which will prevent it from "dragging" when you try to accelerate out of the corner. Pushing the steering wheel towards the inside of the turn will also help you flex the chassis even more.

[MPIGP - Phillip Gordon]

So that's why you guys are so fast....you're using the scientific approach....here I am thinking it's all about more gas less brake :confused: :D

[Mark Hirt]

Usually it's more brake less gas

[Martin Lenick]

I don't have a clue what I'm talking about, but after investing in over 1,400 races at CIR, I have to agree with Adam... while condemning him for giving up secrets!!!

Just kidding, Adam, good advise (in my humble opinion).

[Martin Lenick]

I just went against that which I had quoted in my "signature".
Who are you, Timmahhh? Is that a reference to South Park? TIMMY!!!!
We won't steal your identity, we just want to know who you are.

[Martin Lenick]

Sorry, that was selfish.
I won't steal your identity. I want to know who you are.

[Rick]

You met Tim. He's the guy I brought to compete in the last Peter J event. He posted faster laptimes than the MRO guys on his first time on track 3. You met him, but I think you were too busy talking to Gordon about your plans to take over the world. Hopefully he will continue to come and race with us.

[Martin Lenick]

you were too busy talking to Gordon about your plans to take over the world. Hopefully he will continue to come and race with us.
:lmao::lmao::lmao:

I hope so, "Pinky", he's part of our nefarious plan.

I just didn't know "Timmahhh" was Tim. The effects of the disclosure of his secret identity are on your hands, Kenneth McCormick. :bugeye:

[Rick]

vv0XUGTEb4I

:rofl:

[Timmahhh]

Who are you, Timmahhh?

I'm you're new competition on track 4

:yay:

[Rick]

:rofl:Be prepared for "Shock and Awe".

[Martin Lenick]

I'm you're new competition on track 4

:yay:

If your handling of rock glasses is anything like your experise in selection of smilies, I'm in a lot of trouble! :)