Every sport has its own gigantic dictionary of terms players use that will go over the heads of non professionals- and karting is no different. Instead of leaving you confused, we’ve compiled a mini dictionary of the basic terms you’ll need to know.
Electric Karts/Petrol Karts: Can accelerate to faster speeds in seconds, making them perfect for racers with a need for speed. The lack of a petrol engine makes them more environmentally friendly too, with no fumes coming out of the back of the engine. Petrol karts are the classic engines you’ll find on most of our tracks. When you think of the racing experience, you’ll likely think of these beasts.
Two Stroke and Four Stroke Engines: Two Stroke engines are traditionally the most common form of engine used on karting tracks, as the internal engine uses only two strokes of the piston to accelerate. Four stroke engines are becoming increasingly popular, due to being more environmentally friendly by design.
Flags: There are 12 different flags you are likely to find on a karting site. Obviously, there is the famous “chequered flag” next to the finish line, but there are also many other flags you won’t see outside of a karting circuit. A Black and Yellow quartered flag signals a decrease in speed and call for cars to join in formation whilst a problem is resolved, whilst a green flag with a gold “V” signals a false start and an urgent need to get back in formation. These flags are rare- but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look out for them!
Grand Prix Karting: The perfect excuse to unleash your inner Lewis Hamilton, the grand prix style races see you take place in qualifying heats, with a series of different challenges until you reach the grand final- and the chance of being crowned champion of the track.
Sprint Racing: The typical kart racing format, taking place on tracks of up to a mile at length that resemble road courses, with all the twists and turns you can imagine!
Team Challenge Races: A relay race for karters, each team member takes it in turns to driver a lap. The team with the largest number of laps when the clock runs out wins.
Pit: The pit area is to load and unload drivers during the course of the ride cycle, typically at the beginning and end of the ride.
These are only the basic terms every beginner needs to know. If you’ve heard a term on the track that went over your head, comment below and our team will help you out!