IT IS no secret that the world of motor racing requires deep pockets. Even with karting, the starting point for most racing drivers is already pricey. Furthermore, when equipment such as race gear, tools, and consumables come into play, the costs increase. In this article, we will delve into a ballpark number as to the expenditures you need to be ready for a weekend go-kart racing.
Starting off, there must be certain parameters set to help visualize the costs of go-karting. This piece will center around drivers who own a kart and compete at the local/national level. Therefore, rental karting and those who compete in top-tier karting championships will not be discussed here. Furthermore, the costs mentioned would be if drivers were on a budget. With all that out of the way, let us begin with Friday practice.
Friday: Practice
Source: Suzuka Circuit
Depending on the circuit you’re practicing at, some places charge you a practice fee on top of the race entry. This can be anywhere from $30-$100 depending on the track accessibility and circuit. Some races have practice fees included in the race entry, so Friday testing will be included.
Depending on how much the driver goes onto the track, this cost can fluctuate easily. As some drivers will start or use a brand new set of tires during the practice day, this bring about an extra expense. Tire sets range from $220-290 depending on the tyre manufacturer, but this isn’t mandatory depending on tire quality, degradation and what you’re aiming to achieve from the day.
Finally, there are consumables to get on track. Oil can range from $45-70 for a bottle that will last 20 litres.
Whether you’re working on your kart yourself, or need a mechanic to do the adjustments, this will come at an extra cost of between $200-400 a day.
Saturday: Qualifying and Heats
Source: Formula Scout
During this stage of the weekend is where most drivers spend the bulk of their budget. This is because multiple races are held on this day and drivers are aiming for outright performance. From the intense qualifying session, and the countless qualifying heats spread throughout the day, drivers may use a race engine, which is only suited for Racing purposes rather than being worn out in practice also. This can range from $400-750 across a race weekend.
Fuel and tyres are where most of your expenses will be headed for the rest of the weekend. Apart from the qualifying session where a fast time is the name of the game, there are about 2-3 qualifying heats that a driver will partake in.
Sunday: Final
Source: Australian Kart Championship (Facebook)
Before the final race, there will be cases wherein qualifying heats from the day before are not finished. Thus, they are moved onto race day before the final begins.
Some events allow a second set of racing tires to be used for the final / main event. So if that’s the case in your race, the cost of an additional set should be added.
CONCLUSION
Karting being expensive is nothing new. Many parts are vital to orchestrate a winning race weekend. From race entry fees to fuel and consumables, these are a must. Then the luxuries are using a mechanic to tinker and adjust the chassis, a race team to gain knowledge and expertise and a race engine for more performance.
However, it is not impossible. Allocating a strict budget helps you manage better in those three days. Furthermore, it also helps to have a team behind you who can help you navigate the vast world of grassroots motorsports.
To elevate your go-kart racing career to the next level, Kart Class has your back! Under the tutelage of a multi-time race winner and Australian kart champion David Sera, a variety of training programs are in store for you.
For beginners and champions alike, and even track guides on the most notorious race tracks out there, Kart Class will be sure to take you from the back of the pack and all the way to the winner’s circle!
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