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Post by Michael Worley on Oct 1, 2009 8:05:13 GMT -8
Hey gang, didn't know if this was the proper place to say "Hi" but I am new to the site and Karting.
My background is mostly some track days and HPDE days with my Mini. I've been exploring the options for budget friendly racing, karting, spec Miata and 944. Karting seems to be the logical choice for me and my lifestyle, I'm just not quite ready to lay out the cash to get started.
I have had several hobbies in the past, none really cheap. R/C cars, airplanes, and helis. Paintball, etc. I've always been really into them for a year or so then end up selling everything for a substantial loss. I'd rather not make that same costly mistake.
Anyway I'd like to stop by, probably on the 18th, maybe see if there is anything I can do to volunteer and help with, maybe bring my camera along and shoot some pictures. I'm hoping to be able to talk to some people get a feel for the group, gain some knowledge and insight.
-Mike
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Post by Michael Worley on Oct 7, 2009 7:53:30 GMT -8
So the more I look the more confused I get which is unusual sine I usually can spend hours researching something and get a pretty good hold of what I want or need.
Bear with me while I ask the same questions that have been asked over and over again.
I'm 6ft and about 220 and 36 years old.
I can bend a wrench and have rebuilt several engines from .12 - 400cid.
I'm fascinated by chassis setups, gearing, etc
Most likely if I start racing karts I will be attending races on my own, sometimes I may have some very limited support.
Having said all of this I'm thinking that a TaG or Rotax setup would be best. Probably leaning slightly to the Rotax as my understanding is that I would be able to run in either TaG or Rotax Sr classes (correct me if I'm wrong) How are the field sizes in the area for these classes? Am I missing some key information that would point me to another class?
Chassis, this is the big void for me. The common advice seems to be "Get something supported in your area" and from what I can see the dealers in the area carry CRG, Intrepid, and Birel. I also see a lot of people asking for advice on chassis based off height and weight. Being that the chassis is the suspension I can understand why what I can't seem to figure out is what I should be looking for as far as Mfgr/Model feedback would be most welcome.
Advice on new or used is somewhat mixed, some say to go used and not worry about it, others say stay away from used because the chassis will probably be trashed and bent. Not being experienced enough to know what to look for makes me somewhat uncomfortable but at the same time I am weary of dropping 10k right off the bat.
Operational costs. What does the average race day cost? Fuel/Oil/tires? I will obviously want to start planning any changes to my budget to allow funds to race and would like to know what people spend to run 1 kart for a full day.
Lastly, I've been pretty spoiled with the local MINI club as far as personalities and meeting some good people from all walks of life that were all drawn together for a common interest. Is karting and the SDKA environment similar or do people tend to be more guarded with information and help due to the competitive nature of racing?
/whew sorry for posting a book and thanks for any feedback
Mike
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Post by Robert Switzler on Oct 7, 2009 10:41:05 GMT -8
Hey Michael, (Sorry, I got called into a meeting mid-post) I started karting three seasons ago, but I have only run about 5 races a year, so I am no expert. However, since I have been in your position, I thought I should share what I have learned so far. I bought a new Rotax engine and a used chassis that was run in the TaG class of the Prokart series for one year. This set up has worked great for me, because the Rotax can run as TaG or in Rotax only categories. Also, the engine doesn’t have many adjustments, and should run consistently without a rebuild. I have friends that have IAME Leaopords and they are happy with those engines too. If you plan to race, be prepared to buy extra gear. I now have a garage full of tools, tires, wheels, gears, chains, spares, and a full carb kit with extra jets, and needles.
For me average race day costs are around $200. $80 entry, $50 gas/oil, $80 tires (I get a new set every other race because I beat them up.) I have run races with SDKA, LAKC, and Gatorz, and all three have been fun. My experience is that most karters want to race with a competitive group, and are willing to help out if possible.
You should come check out the next race, and talk to people in all of the classes to get an idea of what you want to do, and how much you want to spend. If you like to drive fast, you can’t beat karting. If you have any questions, give me a call (760) 420-3926.
Robert Switzler Rotax #44
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Post by Michael Worley on Oct 7, 2009 10:42:43 GMT -8
Hi Hi Robert, Thanks for the feedback and hope you don't mind me having a little fun I really appreciate the insight. I plan on coming down to Cocos for the next meeting and then will come out to the race on the 18th. Some of my fellow MINI friends have expressed an interest as well and plan on coming down for a bit. Some will be on the other side of the lot at the BMW/SCCA auto-x too so I hope I get the chance to thank you in person. I think the biggest hurdle I will have to overcome is getting my lady on board. She's very supportive and I'm sure would love to see me happily enjoying the sport, it's getting over that initial 5,000.00 investment that will be the biggest challenge. Speaking to those lines, another question, are there any kart rental options? I think if I were to be able to enter two or three races by renting the equipment I would be able to ascertain if this is truly something I would like to continue with as well as set her mind at ease knowing what to expect on a race day and more importantly that this would be a worthwhile endeavor. Thanks again, Mike
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Post by Robert Switzler on Oct 7, 2009 13:30:58 GMT -8
Yes, you can rent karts, and that is how I did my first three races. They call it “arrive and drive” and it usually cost around $500 for an entire race day. Unfortunately the company I rented from is no longer in business, and I am not sure if there is anyone else supporting races in San Diego. There is a company called Karttech that rents karts in LA, so maybe they could support you. www.karttechonline.com/ Robert Switzler Rotax #44
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