Choosing the Right Go-Kart Frame
February 14, 2009 by Robert · Leave a Comment
Everyone wants the perfect chassis for their kart. Ideally, we'd all be able to get a light, durable frame that could be used without wearing down. Of course, that kind of material is pretty much impossible to fine. There are high end racers with frames like this, but they're outside most of our budgets. Here's a guide to finding the right frame within a more realistic budget.
The chassis for your go kart is probably the most important piece of the whole machine. Good construction is vital to maintaining a solid kart. Most frames are held together using torsion bars. Shorter bars produce a stiffer frame, and longer bars produce more flexibility. Since there's no suspension in a go kart, the flexibility of the frame is extremely important.
Older karts used a stiff frame that provided less flexibility. These tended to break down easily, especially on simpler carts. And a healthy frame is important - you can't just run a better engine to make up for a badly constructed or worn out chassis.
Some things that can contribute to the health, or lack of it, in your frame are tire traction and steering. Depending on how weight is transferred throughout the frame, it'll stay in better condition. Since the frame is responsible for how your vehicle moves, you'll need to find a sturdy but flexible model.
That's why a cheap frame is never a good buy. Weaker go karts can slide, drift, and even flip over in a tight turn. This is prevented by a proper frame, which keeps your cart from going out of control under speed. Of course, design is as important as material and construction - karts with narrow rear rails have less "side bite" and are more likely to drift and slide. Wider rails are around thirty inches wide, and give a stable foundation when you turn.
Remember that the correct frame choice for your kart will depend on part on the surface you're driving on. Dirt, concrete and asphalt all cause frames to behave differently. Frames for dirt tracks usually have a longer back rail and shorter front rail. That's because these tracks create a lot of stress on the rails.
A good frame should also be complemented with good tires. Choose high traction tires that allow for more even weight transfer and keep your frame from rattling apart. More traction equals better stability. Never use high traction tires with a stiff frame, however - that can lead to more wear. Stiffer frames are better used with smaller engines - if you have a more powerful cart, choose a flexible one.
Remember that even the best frame won't last a long time. Flexible frames should be replaced every year. You can get a little more out of a frame by periodically running a course backwards, too. Only do this when the course is empty, however. Doing this allows you to put stress on the opposite side of the cart that you usually do, help you retain flexibility.
Choosing the right frame for your go kart can make a big difference in the performance of the vehicle. Remember to couple that frame with the right tires and treat your kart well, and you'll have much better results.
Tags: chassis, dirt tracks, go kart frame, Go Karts
