How Much Does a Kid's Go Kart Cost?

Go karting is an opportunity for kids to develop their driving skills at a young age. As a parent, one of the most important considerations when introducing your child to go karting is the cost. Understanding the expenses involved in purchasing and maintaining a kid’s go kart can help you make an informed decision. In this blog post, we'll break down the costs associated with buying a go kart for kids, including the initial purchase, safety gear, maintenance, and additional expenses. Whether your child is a budding racer or simply wants to enjoy the thrill of go karting, this guide will provide you with the essential information you need.

The Initial Purchase: Types of Kid’s Go Karts

The cost of a kid’s go kart can vary significantly based on the type of kart and its features. Here’s a look at the different types of go karts available and their approximate price ranges:

1. Kid Karts / Bambino Karts

Kid Karts, also known as Bambino Karts, are designed for the youngest drivers, typically ages 5-7. These karts are smaller, less powerful, and have enhanced safety features to ensure a safe experience for young racers.

• Price Range: $1,500 to $3,000
• Features: Smaller frame, lower horsepower (around 3-5 HP), adjustable seat

2. Cadet Karts

Cadet Karts are suitable for slightly older children, usually ages 8-12. These karts are faster and more powerful than Kid Karts, providing a more competitive racing experience while still focusing on safety.

• Price Range: $2,000 to $4,500
• Features: Larger frame (950mm wheelbase), higher horsepower (around 5-10 HP), better braking capabilities.

3. Junior Karts

Junior Karts are designed for children aged 12 and up. These karts are similar to adult karts but with slightly less power, making them suitable for experienced young drivers ready to take on greater challenges on the track.

• Price Range: $3,000 to $6,000
• Features: Full-sized frame, higher horsepower (around 12-20 HP), some karts will need to add a pedal kit to fit the driver in comfortably.

Additional Costs: Safety Gear

Safety is paramount in go karting, and investing in proper safety gear is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the safety equipment your child will need and the associated costs:

1. Helmet

A high-quality helmet is crucial for protecting your child’s head in case of an accident.

• Price Range: $199 to $800

2. Racing Suit

A racing suit provides full-body protection and is designed to withstand high-speed impacts.

• Price Range: $150 to $750 for a personalised suit.

3. Gloves

Racing gloves ensure a secure grip on the steering wheel and protect the hands.

• Price Range: $59 to $149

4. Neck Brace

A neck brace helps prevent neck injuries by providing additional support during high-impact collisions.

• Price Range: $99 to $299

5. Rib Protector

Rib protectors safeguard the ribcage and internal organs from impacts.

• Price Range: $99 to $249

6. Racing Shoes

Racing shoes offer enhanced grip and control over the pedals while providing foot protection.

• Price Range: $79 to $199

Maintenance Costs

Maintaining a go kart is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance. Here are some common maintenance expenses to consider:

1. Engine Maintenance

Regular engine maintenance, including carburettor kits, bottom end bearing replacement, and tuning, is necessary to keep the go kart running smoothly.

• Price Range: $500 to $1200 per service depending on the wear and tear of the engine.

2. Tires

Tires wear out over time (between 200-500 laps depending on compound) and need to be replaced periodically, especially if your child races frequently.

• Price Range: $220 to $280 per set of 4.

3. Brakes

Brake pads will wear out and require replacement to ensure safe braking performance.

• Price Range: $70 - $100 for brake pads

4. General Repairs

General repairs and parts replacements, such as chains, sprockets, and bearings, are part of regular go kart maintenance.

• Price Range: Varies depending on the part, typically chains $50-70, sprockets $25-25.

Additional Expenses

In addition to the initial purchase and maintenance costs, there are other expenses to consider when getting your child into go karting:

1. Track Fees

Most go-kart tracks charge fees for practice sessions and races. These fees can add up, especially if your child practices regularly. Some clubs offer yearly memberships, so this is the cheapest way of doing it if you’re planning to stay in karting long-term and practice frequently.

• Price Range: $20 to $50 per session

2. Kart Storage and Transportation

Storing and transporting the go kart can incur additional costs. You may need a trailer or a large vehicle to transport the kart to and from the track.

• Price Range: $2000 - $15,000 for a multi kart trailer with toolboxes and tire racks.

3. Membership and License Fees

Joining a go-karting club often requires membership fees, and participating in official races may require a racing license.

• Price Range: $150 to $400 per year for membership

Budgeting for Go Karting

Given the various costs associated with kid’s go karting, it’s important to budget accordingly. Here’s a rough estimate of the total initial and ongoing costs:

Initial Costs:

• Go Kart: $1,500 to $6,000 depending on 2^nd hand or brand new.
• Safety Gear: $750 - $2500 depending on the level of safety equipment required and the standard of the helmet and suit.

Total Initial Costs: $2250 to $8,500 will get you on the track with a competitive kart and the safety gear required.

Ongoing Costs (Annual):

• Maintenance: $3500 (this is based off a full engine rebuild, a sprocket & chain per month with wear and tear, 4 brand new sets of tires)
• Track Fees: $300 (some clubs have yearly memberships) - $1000 (if being forced to pay each practice day ** priced off 20 practice days)
• Storage $1200 ($100 a month storage) Not everyone will need to pay for storage if they own a trailer.
• Membership and License Fees: $150-$450 for yearly licencing

Total Annual Costs: $4000 - $20,000 (depending on how many practice days, race events, engine rebuilds, crash damage, potential coaching and travel required to get to different circuits)

Conclusion

Go karting is an exciting and rewarding sport that offers numerous benefits for children, from developing driving skills to building confidence and discipline. However, it’s important for parents to be aware of the costs involved. By understanding the expenses associated with purchasing, maintaining, and racing a kid’s go kart, you can make informed decisions and budget accordingly.

If you’re ready to get your child started in go karting, consider reaching out to local tracks and karting clubs for more information. Investing in the right equipment and ensuring regular maintenance will help your child have a safe and enjoyable experience on the track. At Kart Class, we offer comprehensive coaching programs and resources to help young drivers succeed. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can support your child’s go karting journey!