Karting is one of the most exciting motorsports out there, offering high-speed thrills, tight corners, and intense competition. There are a few common mistakes that many drivers make. Understanding these pitfalls can help you master the art of go karting in Singapore, whether on an indoor karting track or an outdoor circuit.
1. Keeping Your Hands in the Right Position
Unlike driving a car, go-karts have extremely sensitive steering. Keeping your hands in the ‘quarter to three’ position on the wheel at all times allows for better control and stability. Moving your hands too much can lead to oversteering or unnecessary corrections that slow you down.
2. Braking Hard, Not Softly
One of the biggest mistakes new drivers make is treating the brake pedal like they would in a normal car. Go-karts have rear-wheel braking, which means braking too gently will make the kart slide rather than slow down effectively. Instead, you should apply the brakes firmly at the start of the braking zone and then gradually release them as you approach the corner.
3. Timing Your Turns Correctly
Many beginners turn too early into corners, which causes them to run wide at the exit and lose speed. A better approach is to slow down before the turn, aim for a late apex, and accelerate smoothly as you exit. This technique allows you to carry more speed through the turn without losing control.
4. Using the Entire Track
One of the easiest ways to gain speed in go karting is to use as much of the track as possible. The wider your entry and exit, the less sharp your turns will be, which allows for smoother and faster driving. Always take advantage of the full width of the track.
5. Keeping Steering Movements Smooth
Sharp, aggressive steering inputs can cause understeer, where the front wheels slide instead of turning effectively. The key to fast lap times is smooth and gradual steering movements. Imagine there’s a cup of water in your kart, you want to turn so smoothly that you don’t spill a drop.
6. Looking Further Ahead on the Track
Go-karting happens at high speeds, and looking only a few meters ahead can make everything feel overwhelming. Instead, train your eyes to look ahead to the next corner while driving. This technique gives your brain more time to react, helping you position your kart better and maintain control.
Wrapping Up
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you become a better go-karting driver. By keeping your movements smooth, using proper braking techniques, and focusing on the right racing lines, you’ll see faster lap times and greater control on the track.