Frequently  Asked

Questions

Do I need a centrifugal clutch or torque converter?
Centrifugal clutch karts are for level to gently rolling terrain.  Having a single gear ratio (think of a car stuck in 3rd gear), they need to quickly reach 5 – 6 to fully engage the clutch.  Driving less than 6 mph for only a minute, or trying to climb a hill, will destroy the clutch.

Torque converter karts are more expensive (about $250), but provide multiple gear ratios (think of an automatic transmission) to allow slower driving or running on rough terrain, tall grass, and hills.  (This is what snowmobiles and “automatic transmission” ATV’s use.)

I can’t see any difference in the frames.  Are they all the same?
Most frames look the same from the outside, but there are major differences.  Twister’s frames are made from 14 gauge steel, and are double-framed.  Many manufacturers use 16 gauge (the higher the number, the thinner it is), and some even use 18 gauge.  If you can’t find a cut edge, lift the front of the kart to see how heavy it is.  Also, look at the welds;  some manufacturers only “spot weld” their frames.  If you have a weak frame, how good can the go-kart be?

Is it important to have a lot of horsepower?
One of the most misunderstood elements of go-karts, horsepower does NOT control speed, the gear ratio does.  Most lawnmower-style engines are designed to run 3600 rpm.  Larger engines have more torque; 8 hp and larger karts are normally geared to go about 35 mph, but the engine still runs 3600 rpm.  (This is why a 10 hp will have more torque, but NOT run faster, than an 8 hp.)  Lack of starting torque is one reason 3.5 hp engines are less suitable than 5 hp engines for karts, and why we don't recommend 3.5 hp karts.  5 - 6.5 horsepower is generally enough for most children, and even for most adults if you get a kart with a torque converter.  (There is little difference between the 5 & 6.5 hp engines.)

Also, be leery of advertising claims like "150cc" -- always find out the horsepower.  Some 150cc engines only develop 7.8 hp;  the Hammerhead 150cc develops 13 hp.

My wife wants to be sure we get a safe go-kart. What should we look for?
Go-karts do not turn over easily like three-wheel vehicles, but it is smart to be concerned about safety.  Brush guards offer additional protection against turning over or running into objects such as parked cars or fences;  the benefits of seat belts are obvious.  You wouldn't allow your children to ride in a car without seat belts;  why would you buy them a go-kart without similar protection?  (All karts we sell have a brush guard and seat belt.)

What about service after the sale?
It doesn't do any good to have a go-kart if you can't get it repaired or buy replacement parts. Instead of just asking if a dealer has parts, point to a specific part on the kart and ask to see it. Reputable dealers are more than happy to show-off their parts inventory.  Look for an on-site service department.  This way, you don't have to worry about your kart being sent to "Never-Never-Land" to be repaired, or even worse, having to find a repair facility yourself.

Should I ask for references?
YES!  A solid dealer is happy to share their customer's good news!  To read comments from some of our customers, click on "Customer Comments" on navigation bar on the left side of this page.

You don't always get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get!
 

Click on go-karts to view go-kart pictures page

Reliable Go-Karts -- When you care enough to give the very best to your family.