Go Kart Cornering Guide

Sure, Go Kart Cornering sounds like it would be pretty simple. Most people you might ask would tell you the best way to drive a go kart is put the peddle to the metal and get off that brake!! There’s more to it though, obviously, and everyone could use a few pointers on how to drive the perfect line.

What’s “the line” you might be wondering? The line is simply the safest and fastest way around the track. It may not always be the shortest, but it is the most efficient way for braking and acceleration. If you can drive this line smoothly and quickly you will definitely dominate the track.

The Basics of Go Kart Cornering:

Before you start, try and keep one thing in mind. Getting fast quick depends totally on your ability to be smooth! Any sudden movements on the brake, throttle or steering causes resistance and slows you down through the corners. It takes practice, and seat time in your kart is important! But the smoother you get, the faster you’ll be. And going fast is the point right?!

- As your approaching a corner, it’s recommended you place your kart on the outside of the track, staying on the gas.
- At the right moment, ease onto the brake firmly staying in a straight line
- Come off the break and ease back onto the throttle as you turn into the corner
- Maintain your power and aim for the inside edge of the track as your turn the corner. Maintaining the power is crucial to ensure you have plenty of speed coming out of the turn.

Again, staying smooth through the corners, and maintaining your speed through them is crucial. You’ll find that until you get smooth at your go kart cornering, you’ll be coming out slower than those who are and it will frustrate you! Just turn that frustration into focus. The moment you get sloppy you’ll be spinning off the track wondering why those killer lap times flew out the window. Practice up!

*Important*

The most important thing to remember about driving your go kart is to never, ever use both the throttle and brake at the same time. Not only does it just feel wrong, but it puts a huge amount of pressure on the clutch. You might cause the clutch to slip in some cases, but generally you will just causes damage to it, making it less efficient, slowing you down.