Help me please : Used Road Rebel vs New Kali

[Bill Fenwick]

Funny how these topics have a way of changing course over time.

Provided that money is not a HUGE issue, I would always opt for the new equipment. Any one of those chassis can win and while 15 hours (is that right?) isn't a ton of time. These things consume parts. Something is getting ready to break and bring that pricing closer together. (hey, I like people to buy my used stuff so I know I probably shouldn't be saying that but it is a fact) If you do decide to buy used, I would stay away from the "team" kart that won all the races etc... While "they" will tell you that the "pro" (really a stretch in karting) teams take better care of their stuff. Be realistic...this stuff got used a lot harder than any back marker uses his stuff. Getting a new one will generally make life easier for you in the beginning. Given everything I read, I would buy the Kali.

[Greg Mason]

There are a lot of 2003 Birels out there for sale. I haven't driven one myself, so I cannot speak to why.
But I can speak to the Road Rebel, and the Kali.
The Kali, is the most copied chassis design of all time. If it truly is a "New" kali, it will have the 2000-up twin caliper braking system on it, which makes it really attractive! If you were sprint racing, I would choose it hands down.
But, for Road Race, the Rebel is probably the best choice. We have enjoyed success running a 125 Rebel chassis (2002), with everything on it from a 10HP Briggs, to the stinkiest of 125cc powerplants, and can attribute a lot of our on track win margins to the capabilities of the chassis.
I think you may want to change out the rear axle, but you can plan for that, and gather up the parts as money permits. Our sponsored Road racer has gone to a 40mm set-up, from the 45mm, mostly because at Road Racing speeds, the 40mm axle is more bulletproof, and easier for a lot of people to tune. Then you just gotta ask why people want to get rid of their Leopards. Hmmmmmm.
_________________
www.Shifterkart.biz