How fast can a go-kart go?
Have you ever experienced the rush of adrenaline as you speed round a track in a go-kart? That exciting mix of speed and precision is what makes karting so addictive. But how fast can a go-kart actually go? In this blog, you’ll find out the typical top speeds for each type of kart and get useful advice to make the most of your race.
Indoor karts
Characteristics of indoor tracks
- Low seating position and compact track
- Short straights with tight corners in between
- Limited run-off zones: if you make a mistake you’ll end up straight into the tyre barriers
Average top speed
On a typical indoor track, the top speed is usually between 50 and 60 km/h. The short straights and tight corners often make it feel even faster.
Tips for more speed
- Trail braking: brake a bit later into the corners to keep up more speed as you turn in.
- Racing line: take the ideal line by smoothly steering an S-shape through the sequence of corners.
Outdoor rental karts
Differences from indoor karts
- Longer tracks (often more than 1 km per lap)
- Grass or gravel run-off strips soften the blow if you slide off
- Greater chance to hit top speed
Average top speed
On an outdoor circuit, a standard rental kart will normally reach about 80 km/h on the straights.
Tips for extra speed
- Slipstream: stay tucked right behind the kart ahead to cut through the air and get a speed boost.
- Corner exit: aim your kart towards the next straight as you accelerate out of the corner.
Private karts
Automatic private karts
- Transmission: automatic
- Top speed: up to 120 km/h
- Access: usually for experienced drivers, sometimes without seatbelts
Manual-shift private karts
- Transmission: manual with clutch
- Top speed: up to 160 km/h
- Experience: takes precise gear shifting and good coordination
Superkarts
Where superkarts race
Superkarts only hit the track on large, race-approved circuits like Zandvoort, Assen, Hockenheim, and Spa-Francorchamps.
Top speed and requirements
- Top speed: up to 250 km/h
- Equipment: professional helmet, race suit, and many hours of track training
- Target group: only experienced drivers with circuit time
Summary of top speeds
| Type of kart | Top speed |
|---|---|
| Indoor rental kart | 50–60 km/h |
| Outdoor rental kart | ± 80 km/h |
| Automatic private kart | up to 120 km/h |
| manual-shift private kart | up to 160 km/h |
| Superkart | up to 250 km/h |
Conclusion
How quick a go-kart is varies a lot depending on the type and the circuit. Whether you’re starting indoors or dreaming of 250 km/h in a superkart, there’s a racing experience suited to your ambition and ability.
