Different Types of Go-Kart Engines

Go-kart engines play a critical role in determining performance and suitability for various karting categories. Depending on drivers age, the series you compete in & the local support, here’s an overview of the key engine types and prominent manufacturers like Vortex, IAME, and Rotax that dominate the karting scene.

1. 60cc Engines

• Overview:

  • Designed for younger drivers, typically in Cadet or novice classes.

  • Known for being lightweight and easy to handle, making them ideal for beginners.

  • Push Button start with clutch allows drivers to make mistakes and not stop on circuit.

• Specifications:

  • Single-cylinder, air-cooled engines.

  • Power output: 8-12 hp.

• Popular Models:

  • Vortex Mini Rok: Reliable and widely used in cadet categories worldwide.

  • IAME Mini Swift: Known for its smooth power delivery and competitive performance. Commonly used in the USA & Europe.

2. 100cc Air-Cooled Engines

• Overview:

  • Favoured for Junior and Senior racing categories.

  • Provides a balance between speed and manageability.

  • More affordable option than 125cc water-cooled engines.

• Specifications:

  • Lightweight single-cylinder, air-cooled engines.

  • Power output: Around 20 hp.

• Popular Models:

  • IAME KA100: Renowned for consistency, ease of maintenance & parity. Used only in Australia & USA.

  • Vortex ROK VLR 100: Offers competitive power and durability. Most commonly used in the USA, South American and Europe.

3. 125cc Water-Cooled Engines

• Overview:

  • The most common engine in Senior karting classes and widely used in professional racing competitions.

  • Known for high performance power output & multiple engine manufacturers.

• Specifications:

  • Single-cylinder, water-cooled engines.

  • Power output: 28-34 hp.

• Popular Models:

  • Rotax MAX Series (Micro, Mini, Junior, and Senior): Raced worldwide in over 30 countries. A fixed jetting carburettor.

  • IAME X30: Features a high-revving nature, with a tuneable carburettor.

4. Shifter Kart Engines

• Overview:

  • Built for high-speed racing with gearboxes, offering incredible acceleration and top speeds.

  • Used in advanced and professional karting categories.

• Specifications:

  • 125cc two-stroke, water-cooled engines.

  • 6-speed gearbox for manual shifting.

  • Power output: 45-50+ hp.

• Popular Models:

  • IAME Screamer: Offers high-performance capabilities for shifter kart categories.

  • Vortex ROK Shifter: Known for reliability and smooth gear transitions.

Engine Manufacturers

1. Vortex:

   • Famous for the ROK series engines, covering cadet to shifter classes.

   • Focuses on durability and competitive power.

2. IAME:

   • Offers engines across all karting levels, including the Swift, KA100 and X30.

   • Known for consistent performance and global popularity in various championships.

3. Rotax:

   • Recognized for the MAX engine series which caters from 6 years of age to Masters division (32+).

   • Focuses on reliability and ease of use, especially for national and international events like the Rotax MAX Challenge.

Choosing the Right Engine

Selecting the right engine depends on the driver’s experience level, age group, and racing category. Manufacturers like Vortex, IAME, and Rotax provide reliable options tailored to specific karting needs.

Explore these engines and find the one that suits your karting ambitions best!