Types of Vortex Engines

Source: TKart

Vortex Engines serve as the heart of the OTK Kart Group’s line of chassis. Founded in 1995 serving as the group’s engine division, the brand has come a long way from its humble beginnings creating 100cc engines such as the VA 95 and VR 95. Here in present times, Vortex continues to evolve and innovate whilst catering to the CIK-FIA’s homologation standards. In this article, we will hover over their latest batch of engines, designed to withstand pressure and deliver performance.

ROK Mini

Next up on the list is the ROK Mini. While embodying traits similar to that of the VTM, this engine is one that is designed for the acclaimed ROK GP, a one-make engine championship where all competitors wield engines from the ROK line of products. A major selling point is its ease of use, with the engine being dedicated to the very young drivers and has been shown to grow small karting talents. Thanks to some of its key features it is safe and easy to use, so that young drivers can become familiar with the kart without tension.

The RPM’s engine peaks at 15,500 RPM which is an increase from the VTM’s output. Furthermore, the MINI’s exhaust is integrated with a silencer, a feature missing in the VTM. Apart from these adjustments, the performance and reliability remain the same, ensuring a fast-paced ride throughout.

VTM (Mini)

Source: VORTEX Engines

Known as the successor of the MCX Mini, the latest rendition of the engine presents the VTM, providing a whole new experience for young ones looking to enter the sport. The air-cooled engine keeps most of what made it a powerhouse, including the 60cc displacement that allows it to reach a max torque of 14,000 rpm.

Alongside this, several improvements were made for overall better driveability and reliability. Starting with the engine’s cylinders, they are now made with CNC-machined cast iron to better dissipate heat and absorb vibrations. With efforts to improve the cooling, the cylinder head and crankcase were redesigned while also increasing the number of fins. Finally, the exhaust port responsible for directing the air-fuel mixture to the combustion chamber was reshaped for improved gas flow and overall combustion. This allows for better throttle response and improved torque.

Despite being the entry-level engine for most karters, its power should not be underestimated. Coupled with its reliability, the thrill of speed is very much alive in these monster machines.

VTJ

Source: VORTEX Engines

Designed for the OK Junior (OK-J) category, the CIK-FIA’s premiere junior class for single-speed karts, the 125cc VTJ has all the elements for championship success, and their track record shows that. Being the successor of the DTJ, an engine that has nabbed two world championships in the span of three years, the VTJ keeps majority of the engine’s winning formula whilst making structural upgrades.

Keeping the DTJ’s compact size allowing for a better center of gravity, the VTJ builds on this by improving its overall crankcase design. Updating and optimizing its crankcase castings and adding a paired crankcase boring ensures that parts of the engine like the crankshaft and camshaft are supported properly, allowing for better performance and longevity.

All in all, the DTJ incorporates refinements in manufacturing processes and component design to enhance performance and reliability. These improvements ensure that the VTJ meets the latest technical standards and continues to deliver competitive performance in the OKJ category.

VTS

Source: VORTEX Engines

Carrying the most amount of performance out of all the single-speed engines, the 125cc VTS is designed for the pinnacle of DD (direct-drive) categories, ranging from local and international senior categories all the way to the master categories. This engine once again takes it up a notch, now having the potential to rev at 16,000 RPM.

Similar to the VTJ, the VTS has a predecessor in the form of the DTS. Notching two titles in the span of four years, success is all but guaranteed as it inherits core assets such as a lightweight and compact design, allowing for a good center of gravity.

In addition, innovations were made in the VTS to further maximize its potential. A major change is its new and improved exhaust valve design. As per VORTEX’s official website, its revitalized design ensures more efficient performance at low revs, allowing for overall better engine performance.

A surefire winner, the VTS is a must-have for the best of the best. Based on the proven DTS formula in addition to changes made all across the board, the VTS is a symbol of what is truly possible.

VTZ

Source: VORTEX Engines

Despite being the newest addition to the VORTEX lineup, the VTZ packs just as much of a punch, serving as the dedicated and sole engine for local and international KZ and KZ2 categories. Once again, this engine takes inspiration from a previous model, that being the RTZ.

In mimicking the RTZ, it retains the 115m connecting rod whilst maintaining the quality and precision associated with the brand. However, the VTZ also presents major changes on the table. Beginning with the cooling system, what was once a forced air cooling system was replaced with a water-cooled one, evidenced by the engine’s crankcase. More prominently, a brand new exhaust that is specific for the VTZ has been introduced, helping improve engine responsiveness and power delivery.

With a formula only found in the VORTEX brand, its shifter engine entails high performance for the drivers who wish to handle it. Couple this with a championship-winning history, you can never go wrong by choosing this make.

ROK GP

Known as the most iconic model of the ROK line, the ROK GP is the heart and soul of the brand, a symbol of high performance and reliability. The coveted make comes in two different versions, that being the ROK GP and ROK GP Junior. From the name itself, the ROK GP is dedicated for senior classes and above, whilst the latter is for the junior categories.

Both engines follow the same format, a 2-stroke single cylinder engine fitted with a water cooling system. They also have similar exhausts, albeit with the Junior having a restrictor. This results in the ROK GP to release around 30hp, whilst the Junior is capped at 25hp. Finally, the age categories for these engines are also different. Firstly, the ROK GP is catered for 14+ years and above. Next, the ROK GP Junior is for the younger drivers aged 12-15.

This engine excels in mid-range performance. Drivers need to give progressive throttle inputs to suit the slide carburettor.

CONCLUSION

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!