Buying a used go-kart: prices and advice

Welcome to this comprehensive guide for buying a used kart. Whether you're a motorsport enthusiast looking for a new competitive experience or simply searching for a way to have fun on weekends at a track near you, this guide to buying a kart is for you 👍

We'll explain everything: the different karting categories, prices, the best places to look for a used kart, and the various solutions to safely bring your new kart home. Let’s get started!

Karting for leisure or competition: what is your goal?

After having fun driving a 4-stroke rental kart during sessions with friends, you've decided to take the plunge and invest in your own equipment. It’s not always easy to understand the different categories when you're just starting out. Here, you'll find all the useful information to get into this sport and choose the right used kart 😉

When considering buying a used kart, you need to determine your main goal: is it for leisure or competition? This decision will impact the type of kart you should look for and the features you’ll need.

If your goal is to practice karting for leisure, you can opt for an older, less powerful model, but more affordable. These are often suitable for recreational use and provide a fun experience without requiring a significant investment. For having fun, you often won't feel much difference compared to a newer model.

On the other hand, if you intend to participate in official races, you'll need to choose a homologated model. It must comply with the latest regulations in effect. However, they can be more expensive to purchase and often require additional costs for spare parts and maintenance. By clearly defining your goal, you can focus your search on models that best meet your needs.

How much does buying a used kart cost?

When considering buying a used kart, cost is a crucial factor to consider. The price of a used kart can vary significantly depending on several factors such as age, brand, model, and overall condition.

The average price for a ready-to-run used model is between €500 and €7,500 including tax, depending on the specifications. Older or less powerful models can be found at lower prices, while newer and more powerful models can be even more expensive. A top-end new kart today sells for over €10,000 including tax 😱

To be more specific, a used Rotax or X30 kart in good condition and ready to race can be found for between €1,500 and €2,500. These are common models that will be perfect for leisure or even starting in competition with a reasonable budget. Between €500 and €1,500, you will find older karts, more difficult to maintain and sometimes requiring a complete overhaul before hitting the track.

In addition to the purchase price, you must also consider the maintenance required for its use, whether for the chassis or the engine. Also, plan for a financial reserve for unforeseen events (damage, off-track excursions, overhauls...). Be sure to ask the seller for detailed information, invoices, the kart’s history, its current condition, and any repairs or modifications made.

Also, inquire if a set of spare parts comes with the kart during the sale (chain, sprockets, starter, wheels...). It may be worth negotiating for additional equipment such as a display (Alfano, AIM Mychron, Unipro, Starlane...) or a transport trolley.

If possible, request a track test before finalizing the sale. This will allow you to assess the kart’s overall condition.

If you're unfamiliar with the desired model, check out forums or social networks, as they’re a great way to get advice.

You will need to budget for maintenance and consumables: tires, brake pads, fuel, oil, etc. In addition to these costs, you will need to equip yourself with homologated gear to go on track with gloves, helmet, neck brace, and racing boots. Moreover, you will likely need to arrange transportation for your kart. We'll come back to this part later in the guide 😉

How to find a used kart?

To find a used kart, there are several options. First, specialized websites like GoToTheGrid are an excellent resource. These sites offer a wide variety of options and allow you to compare prices and features of different available models. You can browse the karting ads for sale here.

Karting clubs and Associations Sportives de Karting (ASK) can also be an interesting source to find used karts. They may have members looking to sell their model or have contacts of people wanting to sell theirs.

If you're fortunate enough to live near a store or track, inquire as they likely have karts on consignment or have used karts in stock.

You can also visit general websites such as Leboncoin or eBay.

Social media pages of teams or drivers can also help you find good deals. Dedicated Facebook karting groups often have a classifieds section with many offers. This can be an opportunity to talk with enthusiasts to help choose the right model. They will share their expertise on the different chassis and engines suitable for your size and ambitions so that everything fits together.

What are the different karting categories in France in 2024?

It’s not always easy to navigate, especially since regulations change regularly. The last major change was in 2023. In competition, there are the federal categories and the brand cup categories.

Federal categories

• Mini-Kart - For children aged 6 to 11. The kart must weigh at least 95 kg and is equipped with a Honda GX 120 4-stroke engine with starter and clutch, delivering 5.5 hp.
• Mini 60 - For kids aged 8 to 12. Minimum weight of 110 kg, Vortex MINI 60 FR engine. The Mini 60 replaces the former Minime and Cadet categories.
• Nationale - For drivers aged 12 to 17, using Rotax J125 Max or Rotax J125 Max EVO engines. Minimum weight set at 145 kg. Rain tires are allowed starting from this category.
• Senior - From 14 years old, with karts equipped with IAME X30 or Rotax 125 engines. Minimum weight of 160 kg.
• Master and Gentleman - For drivers over 30 and 45 years old respectively, using the same engines as the Senior category. Minimum weight set at 170 kg.
• OK, OK Junior, OK-N - Categories offering high performance with specific engines and chassis meeting CIK/FIA standards.
• KZ2, KZ2 Master, KZ2 Gentleman - Categories for drivers 15 years and older, with karts equipped with 125cc water-cooled engines and 6-speed gearboxes.

Brand cup categories

• KFS 130/148/165 - For drivers from 12 years old, with KFS chassis and Vortex 125cc engines.
• IAME KA100 (130/145/160kg) - For drivers from 12 years old, with standard-compliant chassis and IAME Redjet KA100 engines.
• IAME X30 (Junior, Senior, Master, Gentleman) - Different weight configurations. IAME X30 Junior 125cc engines for Junior and IAME X30 Spec EU for the others, accessible from 12 years old.
• Rotax Max / Rotax Max Master / Rotax Max Gentleman - Using Rotax 125 Max Evo engines, with different weight categories depending on age.
• Rotax Max DD2 - For drivers aged 15 and above, with a chassis meeting CIK/FIA standards and a Rotax 125 Max DD2 Evo engine.
• TTI Carbon - For drivers aged 15 and up, offering a fully carbon chassis, polyester bodywork, and a 2-stroke 175cc engine delivering 50 hp.

Historic categories

• Formule 20.000 - Groups 100cc air-cooled karts from 1986 to 2002 with bodywork.
• Formule Promo - For promotional karting categories from France, spanning 1989 to 2004. 100cc air-cooled engines, without a clutch. Certainly one of the cheapest ways to compete in karting!
• Formule 125 Nationale - Air-cooled karts from the Nationale 3, Nationale 125, and Regional 125 categories.
• Formule 125 Inter - Liquid-cooled engines, reed valve engines up to 1997, or valve engines from 125 experimental, Inter 125, ICC, and Formula C.
• Formule 100% - Groups the most powerful 100cc karts in history. CIK-standard chassis built from 1997 to 2008 (excluding 2006 homologation), with front brakes banned.

To participate in official races, you will need to obtain a FFSA driver's license.

Buying a used kart for leisure

Leisure models are an interesting option for enthusiasts who want to enjoy this activity without intending to officially compete. These karts generally offer similar features and performance. They are often models that no longer comply with regulations, which evolve regularly.

Since they do not comply with FIA, FFSA, or CIK-specific regulations, you won’t be able to participate in official races. This means you can enjoy the speed and thrill of karting without having to follow restrictive regulations. However, you can still take part in unofficial competitions like club races.

Non-homologated models are often cheaper than homologated versions, making them a more affordable option for hobbyists not looking to race. They’re perfect for having fun with friends on private tracks or during recreational karting days. Among the most common second-hand brands, you can opt for an Alpha Karting, CRG, Kosmic, TB Kart, KFS, Tony Kart, Kart Republic, Biesse, OTK, Sodikart, Praga, RK, Pantano, or Birel.

You can enjoy leisure karting on various tracks in France. Simply get in touch with the track where you want to drive to know their access conditions. You will need to pay a track fee. Depending on the tracks, you may have the option to choose between a single entry or an annual or quarterly pass, which is the most cost-effective format, especially if it’s a nearby track where you’ll often drive.

Don’t forget to equip yourself with the appropriate safety gear to ensure your safety.

What additional equipment is needed for karting?

Have you found your kart? Also, think about the driver's equipment! First of all, equip yourself with a pilot suit suitable for your new sport. Make sure you have a homologated helmet that provides optimal protection for your head. Fireproof suits are also essential to prevent burns and reduce the risk of abrasion in case of an accident. Opt for a suit homologated FIA/CIK Level 2, ensuring good quality. Don’t forget gloves for better grip on the wheel and to protect your hands in case of an accident 🧤

Thin-soled boots are recommended for better pedal sensitivity and good ankle protection. Additionally, consider getting a neck brace to protect your neck in case of impact. Investing in quality equipment is essential to ensure your safety and fully enjoy your experience on the track.

You also need to plan for essential equipment for your kart. The first thing will be a jerrycan to store your fuel. You should also plan for a measuring jug to mix oil and fuel. Another useful accessory is a tire pressure gauge. Moreover, a toolbox can help you with adjustments or repairs before getting back on the track.

The ultimate accessory is the transport trolley. There are different models, from simple ones to advanced models that allow you to move and lift your kart on your own without outside help. You can complement it with a tire bag to have a spare set suitable for weather conditions.

Transporting your kart safely

Transporting a kart requires special attention to ensure its safety and that of other road users. First, it is essential to have a suitable means of transport, such as a trailer or utility vehicle capable of supporting the weight of the vehicle.

If you don’t have a utility vehicle, the most practical solution is a trailer (flatbed, luggage trailer with a flatbed on top, enclosed...). Some manufacturers offer models tailored for karting with sturdy fastenings.

Among trailer manufacturers dedicated to this sport, you can turn to Vérène, Cévennes Remorques, Daltec, Bremond, or NS Compétition. These models have the advantage of being able to transport one or two karts securely thanks to a mid-height rail system. You also have enough space to store all your equipment. You can also purchase a standard second-hand trailer and build the supports yourself to reduce the cost. You’ll be able to adjust the dimensions to your real needs and plan storage spaces for your engine parts.

When loading your vehicle onto the trailer, check that it is properly secured and that all moving parts are also well-secured. It is recommended to use sturdy straps attached to the chassis to tie it to the trailer. Also, be sure to protect sensitive parts, such as wheels and bodywork elements, by using blankets or covers designed for this purpose. If you’ve just used your kart, be careful with the heat from the exhaust system or engine during loading.

During transport, observe speed limits and drive carefully to avoid sudden movements that could damage the kart. Also, pay attention to sharp turns and obstacles on the road that could affect the stability of the load.

Once you arrive at your destination, carefully unload your kart using appropriate ramps if necessary or a transport trolley. Make sure it is well immobilized before removing the straps. By following these simple tips, you can transport your vehicle safely, avoiding any potential damage during the trip. Safety should always be a priority.

Whether you're an experienced driver or a beginner, buying a used kart can provide hours of fun. Certainly the best fun-to-cost ratio in all of motorsports. So don’t hesitate to dive into this adventure, explore the various available options, and enjoy this unique experience. And who knows, maybe it will make you want to participate in official races and experience the adrenaline on the track! 🥳