How does weight affect go karting speed?

At Ace Karts, we do not have any specific go karting weight restrictions. If we were to recommend that a driver not participate, it would be based on the individual's:

• Physique
• Height and width
• Whether they can fit comfortably and safely in the go kart

We want everyone to be able to enjoy the thrill of go karting, however, safety always comes first. This is where some go karting weight restrictions may apply.

Our gokarts can accommodate people up to 140kg, at an estimate. Above this, we may advise against racing. However, again, this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

If you're wondering how body weight affects go karting speed, the answer is that it plays a significant role. But not necessarily the role you think. Let’s talk about it.

How does weight affect go karting lap times

Understanding how weight affects the kart's balance is key to improving your performance on the go kart track. A heavier driver may struggle with acceleration, but they can use their weight distribution strategically to maintain stability through corners and gain an edge over lighter competitors.

Just like other forms of racing, excluding perhaps the downhill luge, heavier generally means slower. It's why track day racers spend big bucks on Porches that have fewer features than Toyota Corollas. Fewer features mean less weight, and less weight means a faster lap time. In racing, less is definitely, more. As a method of compensating for weight differences in kart racing, Sodi Kart the manufacturer of our karts has produced an engine management system (EMS). This engine management system adjusts the go kart engine electronically, based on the weight of the driver. So, everyone is on a level playing field. We don't have this technology at Ace Karts presently, but if there's demand, we may implement it in the future.

How heavier drivers can minimise their lap time

Adding ballast is a technique used in professional racing to balance out differences in driver weight. While it isn’t common in recreational karting, understanding how to add weight effectively can help level the playing field when racing against lighter opponents.

While there is no go karting weight limit, heavier drivers definitely do need to put in a little extra to match the lap times of their lighter counterparts. Heavier drivers should:

• Drive as smoothly as possible
• Avoid sliding
• Not lock up the brakes

Heavier drivers typically accelerate more slowly coming out of each turn. So, if they want to win, they need to really pay attention to maintaining momentum through each twist and turn of the track.

Smaller and lighter drivers have a natural advantage. But, there is no substitute for driving skill. Focusing on controlling the kart and preventing sliding and lock-ups is essential for minimising one's lap time.

How can heavier weight affect go karting speed for the better?

A well-executed hairpin turn can be a game-changer for heavier racers. While weight might slow acceleration out of a turn, perfecting technique on tight corners can make a significant difference in go karting lap times.

The best way to secure a ripping lap time is by mastering the racing line. Being a couple of kilos heavier will mean very little if your mates are slipping and sliding all over the track while you're keeping a solid and consistent racing line. Here are three tips for nailing your line.

1. Learn the braking point

The braking point is where you need to brake before entering a corner in order to maximise your entry speed while minimising your chance of overshooting and loss of traction. Finding the best braking point for each corner on the track takes practice. Learn it, though, and you'll be able to brake later, exit faster and prevent drifting, thereby teaching your mates who's boss.

2. Get the turn-in right

Learning when and where to turn into the corner is an integral part of nailing the racing line. Turn too late, and you'll miss the apex. However, if you turn too soon, you'll have to tighten up during the corner. Like with the braking point, it takes practice. You have to learn the track, as well as how your chosen go kart handles its turns. Get it right, though, and you'll shave valuable split seconds off of your lap time.

3. Pay attention to the apex

Sometimes known as 'the clipping point', the apex is the point closest to the inside of the corner. It's the place where you need to reduce steering lock and increase acceleration. Get the apex right and you'll power out of the corner and onto the following stretch, picking up plenty of speed as you do so. This will get you into the best possible position on the straights.

"There aren't any official go karting weight restrictions at the Ace Karts track."

Weight doesn't matter as much as skill. Put that to the test.

Forget about a go kart weight limit, and focus on what really matters, the racing. At Ace Karts, we've got one of Australia's most exciting outdoor go kart tracks, including a 105m straight that'll test your limits. We've also got Super Karts capable of 75km/h, plenty of twists and turns, and we stay open, rain or shine. Whether you're at the maximum weight limit or on the lighter side, our track is designed to accommodate all drivers and provide an exhilarating racing experience. It's as close as you can get to pro racing without a fireproof suit. Come cut a few laps with us today.

Before you go, here are a few FAQs and go kart success

How does weight impact go-kart performance?

Weight significantly influences how a go-kart handles, but weight does matter in different ways. While a heavier driver might struggle with acceleration, they gain an advantage in traction and stability, especially in corners. Understanding how to leverage weight can help any driver stay competitive. The key takeaway? Go-karting is less about weight and more about knowing how to handle your kart.

How can you use your weight to optimise your go-kart racing style?

Your go karting style should adapt to your body weight. Shifting your weight in corners can improve control and make turns smoother. The total weight of the go kart affects how it brakes and accelerates, so making small adjustments to your driving technique can go a long way. Understanding how weight impact your handling lets you drive smarter, not harder.

Why does weight make a massive difference in lap times?

Weight makes a massive difference when it comes to acceleration and handling. Heavier drivers often experience a time difference compared to lighter competitors, especially when it comes to straight-line speed. The average lap times may vary, but technique plays a huge role. Weight may impact your initial takeoff, but once you’re moving, momentum can work in your favour.

What is the role of weight class and karting restrictions?

In competitive racing, drivers are often sorted into a weight class to ensure fairness. Some tracks enforce a minimum weight to level the playing field. While there’s no strict weight limit for go-karting at Ace Karts, safety always comes first. At your local karting track, success is more about skill than weight, and anyone can have a great race with the right approach.

Does weight still matter in electric vs petrol karts?

Electric karts and petrol karts handle weight differently, but weight still plays a role in both. A low centre of gravity in electric karts helps with stability, but racing skills ultimately make the biggest difference. Whether you’re driving an electric or petrol kart, the fundamentals of speed, handling, and control remain the same.

What have others said about weight myths in go-karting?

There’s a common belief that heavier drivers can’t compete, but others have said otherwise. Many racers have proven that got the weight under control, mastered their technique, and set impressive lap times. The truth is, weight matters, but skill and smart driving matter more.

Myth 1: Heavier drivers are always slower

Truth: While weight may impact acceleration, it also provides better traction in corners. Skilled heavier drivers can use their weight to maintain stability and carry speed through turns, making up for any loss in straight-line acceleration.

Myth 2: There’s nothing heavier drivers can do to improve their lap times

Truth: By focusing on smooth driving, avoiding unnecessary braking, and mastering racing lines, heavier drivers can significantly reduce their lap time difference. Proper weight shifting and cornering techniques make a massive difference in overall performance.

Myth 3: Go-kart racing is only for lightweight drivers

Truth: Competitive karting often has a weight class system to ensure fair play. Even at your local karting track, racing skills matter more than raw weight. Many heavier drivers have outperformed lighter competitors simply by mastering their technique and strategy.