Dumb approach to getting a Rotax?

[Todd Sanders]

I posted earlied about looking into karting and have comitted to going this route. I can't wait to get started, all I need now is a buyer for my '68 BMW track rat.

In the meantime I'm looking at the prices of used chassis with the rotax. From what I have seen they run $3400-$4000+. Mostly in the $4000 range.

I asked this question at a local kart shop but thought it would be best to ask here as well. Would it be stupid to buy a used chassis with a 100 on it and then swap in the Rotax engine? I believe new engines are $2000 and I have seen some for $1500 with rebuilt top ends. I've also seen a ton of rolling chassis in the $1000-1200 range. Is this a dumb approach? I'd assume there are certain chassis that can do this and others that can't. One benefit to me is I'd have a better selection of chassis and I might stand a chance at finding one with an extended porch.

Last question (for now), what are the most common/good chassis to keep an eye out for? I'd hate to end up with a one-off that I can't get parts for because I didn't know better.

Thanks,
Todd

[Rob Martin]

Todd,
Not a bad idea but don't forget to factor in some of the extras you might need to complete the package.
Motor mount $80-100
Chain $25-35
219 sprockets
Sprocket hub
A seat that fits correctly

When buying a 100cc roller you may get some or all of these parts. Be sure you get the 7.1" wide rear wheels and not the 6" wide used in some can classes (5" diameter). Not all 100cc chassis are well suited to the Rotax 125. The Rotax motor produces more HP than many of the 100cc pipe motors and probably a little more torque as well.

Someone elses used motor may not be a wise investment. Spend the extra for a new motor and be sure to follow the break-in proceedure.

If buying a used motor be sure the seal is unbroken and the engine id card serial number and seal numbers match.

Be sure the motor is from your region and country or else you may incur additional expense if you want to race in the RMC.

[Roger Hargens]

Todd:

Your thinking is sound, and Rob's comments and suggestions are right on. We've sold quite a few new FR125 Max engines, mounted on used 100cc chassis. Every one of them has been as competitive as a new chassis set-up, but $1500 to $1000 cheaper.

You'll want to buy a kart that isn't very old and that you know the history of. Don't buy it on-line. Inspect it carefully. Stand it up on its back bumper and check the underside of the frame for tubing wear. Inspect around all welds for cracks or repairs. Check the condition of the axle,axle bearings, spindles, spindle bearings and wheel bearings. Make sure that the axle turns freely and that it's not bent.

Look for crash damage, such as mismatched tie rods or rod ends, bent or cracked wheel rims, etc. Put it back down on a level surface, lift each wheel independently to see if one corner is lighter or heavier than the others. If the owner, local shop or track has pad scales, scale it to check coner weights.

When it comes to kart brands and models, there are plenty of good ones to choose from. I'd recommend a brand and model that is well known and has a good reputation. If possible, choose a brand that is sold buy a local shop that has a good parts inventory. Parts availability for used karts can sometimes be a problem.

Good luck with your purchase and hope you find a happy home for that old Beemer.

Roger Hargens
PROSPEED Kartsports, LLC

[Todd Sanders]

Thank you to those who have responded.

Roger - what is a typical charge for a used chassis with a new Rotax on it?

Todd

[ September 27, 2002: Message edited by: Todd Sanders ]

[ September 27, 2002: Message edited by: Roger Roatch ]

[Jason Alleman]

Todd - as you are in seattle, you may want to check out www.psrra.com it's the local road racing club and i know there are pretty sound rotax's for sale there. I road race my rotax and it's too much fun. We'll be doing some an exhibition race with the local motorcyle club this saturday at Seattle Int'l Raceway aka pacific raceway. Come on out I'll be happy to talk with ya'

[Roger Hargens]

Todd:

Expect to pay $3500 - $4000.
That's w/ a brand new engine on a relatively new chassis (something that is no more than three years old, in good shape). Extras may drive the price up.

RH

[Mike Robertson]

Todd,

We might be interested in selling our 2001 tony kart with the rotax all ready to go.

But not till after the nationals.

Mike

[Blake Newson]

Todd:
If you can find someone who is getting out of Rotax or karing altogether, then you may be able to get a great deal more. There are some unique tools for the engine and other spare parts that may be included with the package. Other things you will need are spare, chains, sprockets, a stand, sparkplugs, spare rims for practice tires, rain rims - tires?, air tank, chain lube etc. etc. etc. You will also likely need to change the seat. Have it professionaly mounted if possibble. A new engine would be a good idea, but if you are confident in the history of a used package, then that could be good too. Take a Rotax driver with you if possible. That person would know (hopefully) what qusetions to ask, and how to carefully check over the engine. It's also a good idea (as mentioned above) to get a kart with local shop support that uses readily available parts. Also engine seals can be an issue. If you buy an engine from out of country (or sometimes out of region) then you may pay hundreds to have the engine re-sealed locally. You have been given lots of good advice on your question. You would be wise to heed as much of it as possible.
Happy karting....It's a blast!

[Keith Smith]

I have a 2002 Invader Mirage with 25 hrs on the motor and chassis and it is race ready. If interested Email me at KS71z28@aol.com. I finished 3rd in IKF region 11 points. I also have spare parts and roadrace stuff for it. I'm asking $3800. I'm in Norther California