How To Get Gokart Tires To Stick To The Track

Author: E. Silva (aka Mr. Awesome Expert)

Did you know that, before most track races, drivers have to take many kinds of pre – cautions just to get their go – karts more than fit for the rack track? And this not only includes test runs with the vehicle ( to possibly detect faulty leaks, drops in speed or other off – maintenance fixable issues ) but also includes checking out the track itself, to make sure it is dry, safe and much more. And stickiness is certainly an issue that can be checked for often ( and many times, it is, well ahead of time, especially based on the race crew’s ready alertness and willingness to check all features ) . Making sure those tires stick to the track, from start to finish, as best as they possibly can, is most certainly a pressing endeavor …. it is not to be taken lightly as the consequences of drifting ( as history has shown us ) can be quite severe indeed …

Now, ask yourself this ; can the race track take rubber? If the tires are rubber tires, of course, then the track is either made for this or not made for this. And that can be a problem in and of itself. Some experts say that, when prepping the kart for any race, you ought to roll those tires for at least 12 hours ( which is literally half of an entire day, when you think about it, he he heh ) for the inside of the tires to be fully ready and stick better to the dirt or pavement of the track itself. Drop your tire pressure by about a half – pound, as well, just a few minutes before the race starts. This can help to give you more control and it will certainly come in handy when you are trying to stick to the track, as you do those laps around the circuit, and not spin out of control should you face any impact against a wall, a barrier or another driver.

Please do also just keep in mind that : Graining your tires is never a good thing to do. That is why you have likely heard so many other go – kart drivers ( whether basic or pro ) talk against doing so. Take their word for it ; it’s good advice to follow, all in all.

Also, when you push any 70+ degree tire down hard on the track, as you prep it, you’re helping to increase its outer ( rubber ) surface and adjust it to the track itself. This is a good thing to do. Make sure to do so from time to time, especially if it’s your first time on any given track. It will certainly make things feel a whole heck of a lot smoother when you are actually driving around on that pavement, gravel or whatever else the track is made of.