Go-karting is a popular activity in the UK. Statistics show that around 5,000 go-kart events take place every year, from national to club levels, engaging an estimated 100,000 enthusiasts. [1]
This huge number is due to the incredible speed and easy control the electric go-kart offers. On top of this, getting involved in go-karting creates a competitive atmosphere, giving you the much-needed adrenaline rush.
If you want to know more about the electric go-kart experience and the equipment you will need, such as a quiet generator in a successful and enjoyable event, keep reading!
What to Prepare for Karting?
Before you go on to drive an electric go-kart, either alone or with friends, you must be aware of the basic rules and wear protective gear. Here's an overview of these things:
1. Learn the Rules
Whether you go karting in London or go karting in Manchester, the rules aren't much different. The basics remain the same, such as [2]:
- Don't intentionally bump into another kart, and neither block them, as this can cause damage and unnecessary tension.
- Keep your hands and feet inside the electric go-kart at all times. Long hair must be tied up.
- Sometimes, a sudden hit from behind can turn into an accident, so always wear your neck collar and seat belt when driving. Always wear a helmet.
- Do not park on the track unless there are special circumstances.
- Apply the brakes before turning.
- Multiple flags appear when you are outdoor go-karting with your loved ones. The following are a few you should be aware of:
- Black Flag: Go directly to the Pits, as there may be issues about the go-kart.
- Red Flag: Slow down or come to a complete stop as soon as possible
- Yellow Flag: Track under caution, so slow down to a walking pace
- Green Flag: Race has started or resumed
- Be mindful of the communication signs and what they mean.
- Move Over: The move over sign appears when you are about to be lapped or passed by a much faster electric go-kart and need to give way.
- Slow Down: The slow down sign tells you that you are driving way too fast and need to tone it down.
- No Bumping: If you bump excessively with the barrier or other karts, you'll be shown a No Bumping sign. If you still don't back out from bumping, you'll be Black-Flagged.
- Go to Pits: When the Go to Pits sign appears, it can indicate two things: either there's an unsafe road condition, or you are being penalised for driving recklessly.
2. Clothing & Gear
You can't just walk in any casual attire and drive an electric go-kart. Instead, wear proper clothing and gear to ensure your fun doesn't end up in an unfortunate situation. Here are some tips in this regard:
- Helmet: Helmets are protective gear that shields your face and head in case of crashes.
- Gloves: Thick racing gloves that improve your grip, especially during long sessions.
- Neck Braces: Wearing neck braces while driving an electric go-kart prevents neck injuries during racing and bumping.
- Rib Protectors: Rib protectors are also an important safety gear as they shield your ribs from impact and fracture, ensuring you can drive the electric go-kart comfortably.
- Clothing: Wear non-restrictive clothing like athletic wear and joggers. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory, as sandals or other open shoes, such as flip-flops, aren't allowed in most off-road go-kart experiences.
Driving Techniques for Karting
Once you have learned the basic rules and know exactly what to wear while driving an electric go-kart, you should improve your driving skills. Let's discuss a few tips on this:
1. Warm-up Exercises
A proper warm-up is necessary before driving an electric go-kart. This prepares your body to handle the demands of physical activity. You should stretch your shoulders, arms, and legs with exercises like jumping jacks. By doing so, you'll experience increased blood flow, improved flexibility, and overall reduced risk of injury.
2. Body Posture
Maintain an upright and balanced body posture and grip the steering wheel properly. Don't ever lean too forward or backwards, as this can unbalance the kart. You may lose control of the kart, resulting in a crash.
3. Smooth driving
To drive an electric go-kart smoothly, you should avoid sharp and abrupt turns. Make small and controlled steering wheel adjustments to navigate short and challenging terrains.
For instance, if you are aware of the route, think about the upcoming turn early.
Lower your kart's speed a little and steer gradually as you approach the turn. Don't apply sudden breaks, as they can lock up the wheels and reduce traction.
4. Starting & Accelerating
As the green flag appears, make sure you are in the right posture and then start your go-kart. Gradually apply pressure on the pedal to speed up or accelerate slowly. Remember, the feeling of how much you press the accelerator corresponds to the speed.
Don't make sudden or jerky movements to ensure control and stability throughout the go-karting experience.
5. Braking & Decelerating
Before you start, make sure to memorise the position of the brake pedal. To brake and decelerate your electric go-kart, you should do it as late as possible before a corner and find an optimal braking point. Slow down the speed of the go-kart, and don't take any sudden actions to avoid skidding.
6. Cornering Techniques
If you are in a go-kart competition, you should master some cornering techniques to maximise your chances of winning. Here are a few of them:
- Brake strongly near the entry point and stay straight.
- As you start to turn, come off or release the brake.
- Now, turn gradually into the corner while maintaining maximum control over the electric go-kart.
- Aim for the corner apex, but if you are unable to get it, stay near the inside edge.
- Maintain consistent power and accelerate the kart as soon as you exit.
7. Maintaining a Safe Distance
Go-karting accidents and collisions aren't something unlikely. So, to avoid them, you should maintain a safe distance from other karts, barriers, and other things.
For that, you should always stay within the racing line and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid aggressive braking or acceleration and have enough space for other karts, especially if you are attempting to overtake.
How to Choose a Karting Track?
Well, now you must be preparing for a karting journey and wondering how to choose a karting track. If so, here are some tips:
1. Indoor vs. Outdoor
Decide between indoor and outdoor tracks. If you are a beginner, then you should opt for indoor ones as they are often short and offer consistent conditions. The best part is that there's no weather dependency, as no rain or storm can impact your race.
However, if you love being outdoors, you can go for outdoor tracks where you can experiment with high speed and have a more dynamic experience. Additionally, if you choose an outdoor track, you can enjoy some recreational activities after the race, such as camping with friends, outdoor barbecues, picnics, and more—especially now that the perfect season for outdoor activities has arrived.
2. Track Recommendations
The track shouldn't be very long or overly complex. Otherwise, it'll exhaust you rather than make the racing fun.
For beginners, there must be proper training and guidance. Also, make sure they offer equipment rental, such as a go-kart and protective gear.
Tip: Start by looking at your local area, and you might find some hidden spots. If not, then you can consult your friends and family who've previously done go-karting.
Trip Suggestions
After you’ve done all the preparations for an outdoor go-karting, here are other trip suggestions you will need:
1. Book in Advance
There are many karting enthusiasts in the UK, and once the weather is favourable for such physical activities, people swarm in numbers. Therefore, book the desired electric go-kart track in advance.
You can visit their website or book directly by phone. However, know that booking in advance often requires you to pay a percentage of the full amount beforehand.
2. Bring a Camera
Well, when driving an electric go-kart with your loved ones, the competition and laughter will all make the time worth it.
So, to ensure you don't miss out on capturing such unique moments, you must bring a camera. The camera will also give you a peek into your driving and allow you to pinpoint areas for improvement.
Most importantly, you can capture your races and other track moments and share them on social media to attract a community of go-kart enthusiasts.
3. Consider Post-Race Entertainment
Indeed, driving an electric go-kart is a thrilling experience, but the fun shouldn't just end there. You can have some post-race entertainment plans in place.
In most cases, the tracks will offer you food options such as light bites, pizzas, and drinks. They may also have some group challenges that you can do with your loved ones.
However, if not this, then you can go to a nearby eatery and have your favourite meal. Or you can engage in bowling, celebrate your competition, and end the day on a beautiful note.
4. Carry a Portable Generator
At some outdoor tracks, finding a power outlet isn't always easy. But this doesn't mean you've to compromise on your go-karting plans. That's where the solar power and battery storage come in!
Using the sun's energy, it provides stable electricity to power your small devices, such as cameras, phones, small fans, and other outdoor entertainment equipment. In the solar power aspect, Jackery offers high-performance solar generators. Here are two of our top picks for outdoor karting trip:
Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2
The first option on most karting enthusiasts’ list is the Jackery Solar Generator 240 v2, which offers 256Wh capacity and a robust 300W output. Taking it with you for go-karting is easy, as its Jackery Explorer 240 v2 Portable Power Station weighs 7.94 lbs and can easily slide into your backpack.
Durability is at its core. This solar generator has an LFP battery that can offer 10 years of backup power. You can charge it in multiple ways, such as solar, car, or wall outlet charging.
As far as safety is concerned, this solar generator is IEC Certified and has innovative ChargeShield 2.0 technology along with 52 protection mechanisms. This ensures that the generator and connected equipment stay safe from any damage.
Other Features
- Ultra-fast Emergency Charging (AC) option that makes the generator full in just 1 hour.
- Operates quietly at 42 dB and doesn't release any greenhouse gases.
- Smart app control through Bluetooth & WiFi.
- 5-year warranty.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2
Another more powerful option is the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2, offering a massive 1070 Wh capacity and 1500W output. It is 18% smaller than the old version - Jackery Solar Generator 1000, so carrying it to the electric go-kart track is a breeze.
You can charge it either via solar panels or a car adapter. Wall charging is also a viable option that enhances the versatility of this solar generator. When it comes to safety, it's indeed a game-changer with its ChargeShield 2.0 technology and 62 protection mechanism. Thus, all the connected devices and the equipment itself stay protected against voltage spikes and other damage.
It also helps you avoid the loud noise of typical fuel generators, as the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 operates at lower than 22 dB. The best part is that it's compatible with the Jackery smart app, allowing you to monitor and manage your energy usage.
Other Features
- A response time of 20ms ensures you have quick and consistent power when grid electricity goes out, not only for outdoor go-karting but also for good power support as a home backup.
- Using the Emergency Charge Mode through the app, it can be fully replenished in less than one hour.
- 5-year warranty.
Conclusion
Driving an electric go-kart is indeed a new experience. However, to maximise your fun, you should know all driving techniques as well as carry a portable power source during an outdoor karting trip. Jackery is the best option in this regard as we offer a huge collection of solar generators and portable power stations. Check our website today and enjoy stable power for your electric go-kart!
References
[1] Go Karting. Available at: https://www.motorsportuk.org/go-karting/ (Accessed at: 11 June 2025)
[2] Speed Factory Rules. Available at: https://www.speedfactoryindoorkarting.com/rules.html (Accessed at: 11 June 2025)
