So you want to
race a kart.
You don't need to know a soul. You don't need a $15k kart. You don't need to be 12 years old. Here's what it actually takes to show up and race with us.
- 01
Come watch a race day first.
Gates open at 9am. Just show up, walk the paddock, ask anyone anything. Every racer in this club has been the "person who's never been here before." Nobody minds. Bring water.
- 02
Figure out which class fits.
Read the Classes page for the breakdown. Short version: if you (or your kid) are brand new, Briggs LO206 is the answer. It's the most affordable option for competitive racing. Pick the age bracket that matches.
- 03
Get a kart.
Used LO206 karts come up constantly in the paddock and on Facebook groups. Expect to pay $2,000–$5,000 for a solid used setup that's race-ready. A brand-new complete kart is more. Ask in the paddock before you buy. Folks will steer you away from lemons.
- 04
Get the gear.
SA- or FIA-rated helmet, neck brace, gloves, long-sleeve driving suit, closed-toe shoes. Rib protector is smart. Budget roughly $500–$1,000 for new gear; good used gear is out there too.
- 05
Go out for a practice day.
The Lake Garnett track is open to the public seven days a week, no memberships, no fees. If you want to practice at Liberty, you'll need a KCKA membership. The Liberty track is closed the third Friday and Saturday of the month!
- 06
Enter your first race.
When you feel ready—or when the itch gets too strong to ignore—enter a championship round. Look for the MotorsportReg link here on the website, register for the event, then prepare to race!
Fair questions
How old do my kids have to be?
Kid Kart starts at 5. If they can reach the pedals and pay attention, they can race.
Can I rent a kart for a day?
Not through the club directly. KCKA doesn't offer any rentals. For your first taste, check out one of the rental kart businesses in KC, like K1 Speed or Andretti. If you feel ready to graduate from rentals to the real thing but you're not ready to commit to purchasing your own equipment, ask around the paddock and you can probably find someone who will let you test for a few laps so you know what you're getting into. If you feel ready to make the jump but you aren't ready to own a kart, contact Lost Boyz Motorsports about arrive-and-drive packages. If you're serious about competing for a full season, you'll want to own a kart.
What if I have no mechanical skills?
You'll pick it up. Everyone helps everyone. LO206 in particular is pretty forgiving. You can race all year and barely touch the engine, and you'll find plenty of help around the pits.
What's the fastest way to embarrass myself?
Show up with brand-new stuff and act like you know what you're doing. Show up asking questions and you'll be adopted by the paddock in an hour.