interested in shifter cart

[pmpnuss]

Hi I am new to the shifter cart seen and was looking for advise on how to get started racing shifter carts? Are they expensive to own and maintain? How difficult are they to drive?:confused:

[Rick]

Depends one what kind of car. My personal preference is karts over any street car. Karts have much higher levels of performance and cost much less to maintain and race. The only downside is that there is less protection from bodily injuries. But if you're talking about formula cars or other purpose built race cars, then of course I would prefer to race the "real cars". That's assuming I could afford to do so.

If you have no experience in karts, I would recommend checking out CIR's indoor karts. If you want to experience something really fast, then maybe you should rent a 2-stroke race kart. Try it first and see if you like it.

[MPIGP - Phillip Gordon]

Hi I am new to the shifter cart seen and was looking for advise on how to get started racing shifter carts? Are they expensive to own and maintain? How difficult are they to drive?:confused:

What is your racing background? Have you raced karts before?

There are several types of shifter karts and the one you choose will determine the level of difficulty to drive. How quickly you learn will depend on, among other things, your experience and determination. Expense will also depend on which shifter you choose. Some can run 3 or 4 years with no motor rebuilds while some can only run one hour before a top end rebuild is necessary.

I suggest you choose from a 2 speed Rotax (DD2), an electric start ICC or stock Honda CR125. Proper preventive maintenance will keep your operating costs down. Biggest expense in owning and racing a shifter is tires. If you're out to just have fun, running a medium compound tire will extend the life of the tire and reduce your tire costs.

You can buy a nice used shifter package for around $4000, a refurbished package for around $5500 and a new package for around $9900.

Like Rick said, a good way to go is to rent each package for a day and see which you like best.

[MPIGP - Phillip Gordon]

Sorry didn't see the poll question. I tried to vote for both and it wouldn't let me :grinno:

I enjoy both and wouldn't trade one for the other. I even thought about racing in the rain and my answer remains the same.

[JAYKAY]

If you have no experience in karts, I would recommend checking out CIR's indoor karts. If you want to experience something really fast, then maybe you should rent a 2-stroke race kart. Try it first and see if you like it.

Is there a place that will rent a 125 (either direct or shifter)? I am very interested in seeing what the 2-stokes are all about before I go out buy one.

[MPIGP - Phillip Gordon]

Is there a place that will rent a 125 (either direct or shifter)? I am very interested in seeing what the 2-stokes are all about before I go out buy one.

I can rent you a 2 speed Rotax or a shifter, I just need to know your height and weight to get a kart ready for you. Please e-mail me for details.

[Rick]

Is there a place that will rent a 125 (either direct or shifter)? I am very interested in seeing what the 2-stokes are all about before I go out buy one.

Be prepared to feel an incredible urge to purchase one after you try one. :evil_lol:

FYI: It's usually spelled 'kart'.

Also, you might want to come check out a race day: http://www.chicagoracers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3606