Road Racing Newbee

Michael Sachs · Posted: Sun Dec 16, 2012 7:49 pm Post subject: Road Racing Newbee

Well here goes. I am an experienced sprint racer both at the local and state level and have run Daytona man cup, however I've never done any road racing. I have a tony kart with front brakes and would like to try road racing. Now here is the problem. Having never done it I would like to talk with someone who is coming to Daytona to help me out with the needed info as well as point me in the right directions at Daytona. Chain oiler, belt drive or what. I have no idea. Any info would be more than I have. I have a Rotax. I can be reached @ 904-403-2003 in Jacksonville FL.

Jeff Salak · Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2012 10:15 am Post subject:

Im not going to Daytona but Im sure a few with Rotax engines will be there to help out if needed. Not a huge difference in set-up for your chassis from sprint to RR. If anything lay the seat back but follow rules. Tillet T-11 seat works well.

Chain oiler is not accepted in WKA(99% sure). I would go with an RK o-ring chain. Some use belts but why add expence till you see how you like Road racing. I race with a chain all the time.

Gearing 16/65-68 Im thinking might be close. Might want a 17T driver too just in case. I would bring 65-73 tooth sprockets for the rear gear.

Your best bet is too hook up with someone on the track and draft. If your left out to dry you wont catch up! Most of all have fun and enjoy be safe! With road racing just stay your line if your slower. Faster karts will get around you. Its very easy to see whats behind you after every turn if needed.

Peter Zambos · Posted: Mon Dec 17, 2012 12:24 pm Post subject:

Yeah, get an o-ring chain. I didn't have good luck with the belt drive with the Rotax and the RPM loss from belt to chain didn't make it worth the issues it had.

There are plenty of seats that are built more of a recline in them. Tillett has several models that do this and New Concept is another one that I see frequently.

As Jeff said, the draft is a huge deal when road racing a sprint kart. Make sure that when you're maneuvering in a pack, signal when you're transitioning in and out of the draft. There have been plenty of serious accidents that could have been prevented from a quick hand signal.