At some point in our lives, we have all come across Mario Kart. Go-kart is essentially all that minus the animated rainbows and video features that cartoons have. If you’re the one who enjoys some Need for Speed, then go-karting is one fun way to quench your thirst.

Basically, a Go-Kart is a modest open four-wheeled, small engine car that people like to have fun with on track. Almost 34 million Americans take part in go-karting every year. It all started back in 1956 when Art Ingels built the very first go-kart which was only made from the scrap parts of a two-stroke engine. Ever since, the sport has spread like wildfire.

As the world kept changing, we transcended from gas-powered go-karts to innovating electric go-karts. The emergence of the electric models got rid of the poisonous fumes produced by gas-powered go-karts. Eventually, it led to the growth of indoor go-karting that made a mark in the global space.

Now, go-karting has become a household name which every member of a family can enjoy taking part in. And what better way to enjoy some racing adrenaline rush than setting out on the track and riding a thrill-infused machine that sits too close to the ground?

Who Goes Go Karting? Short Answer- Everyone!

Even though studies suggest that the average go-kart fanatic is about 30 years of age, kids are also into the sport as much as adults are. With all the safety measures and speed restrictions put in place, you can rely on go-karting for a fun-filled weekend with your family.

Go-karting is a fun sporting activity that can be enjoyed on birthday parties, formal gatherings and even team-building events. Nowadays modern electric go-karts are built with safety concerns put in mind and can accommodate kids as young as 4 years. Adults can enjoy what can actually be the closest thing to Formula One by just accelerating, breaking and steering the go-kart.

On top of being a fun-filled activity, go-karting is also beneficial to your health. It can:

• Improve your reflexes – the straight lanes and twists and turns of go-kart tracks give the perfect platform to test your reflexes out. When you’re on the track, you will have to know how to control the go-kart and navigate those turns so as to avoid crashing into other drivers or going out of control.
• Helps in team building – going for go-karting events is a great way of bringing your coworkers together. When they get a little competitive on the track, it is eventually helps to strengthen the bond of the team and learn from team building exercises.
• Improves strength and stamina – regular go-karting can be a good workout activity especially when looking to do some upper body-building drills. After steering around on the track, the resistance of your body on the biceps and triceps will thank you later. Also, the endurance test of racing builds up your stamina.
• Increases your oxygen flow – the adrenaline released by the body during go-karting increases the flow of oxygen to the cells in your body which in turn enhances circulation and build energy levels.

Is Go-Karting Street Legal at All?

As we know, public roads have a lot of regulations that only allow access for street legal vehicles. It is unusual to see go-karts on the street as most of them are designed to be driven on a track or off-road premises.

However, that doesn’t mean that go-karts are ruled off on public roads. In fact, there are modified go-karts that have followed the required procedures for them to be driven on the road legally. In some states, go-karts are legal as long as they follow the proper requirements.

Go-karts can certainly be made street legal but by default, they are not allowed on public roadways due to the lack of safety features needed to protect drivers as stated by the law.

Furthermore, go-karts are usually categorized as recreational vehicles which should not be allowed on public roads, sidewalks or parks.

Considering a few exceptions like neighborhoods, one might find implemented rules and regulations that should be adhered to. However, in some cases, go-karts are allowed to operate by the neighborhood management. Off-road karts and racing karts come with two or four-stroke gas engines which might be a little too disruptive. On the other hand, electric go-karts tend to be compact and can be allowed to maneuver on sidewalks but not on public roads.

How Can You Make Your Go Kart Street Legal?

However, it is possible to make your go-kart street legal and not face any obstacles that hinder you from driving your machine on public roads. To do this, you have to:

• Ensure it meets the required safety standards
• Ensure all safety equipment are incorporated
• Ensure it’s gone through DMV registration
• Ensure it has a vehicle insurance
• It reaches a top speed of 25 mph
• Ensure it has undergone speed testing and inspection
• Ensure it contains all four wheels
• It should not go over the weight limit of 3,000 pounds

How Safe Is Go-Karting?

Go-karting is a thrilling sport that can be enjoyed by practically anyone. However, many people are still skeptical about it due to the stigma that encompasses racing and its safety risks. If handled with care, go-karting can be the safest sport for both adults and kids. With all the safety concerns taken into consideration, go-karts are nowadays safer than ever before.

According to injury statistics, 50% of those who sustain go-kart injuries are under 24 years. When it comes to injuries, the potential injuries one would get from go-karting include fractures, whiplash, burns, neck strains and head trauma.

Most common accidents on the tracks are caused when karts collide with other karts. However, most of these injuries are not fatal and can be treated as they don’t really result in significant problems.

To protect yourself from injuries, ensure that you always stay observant on the track and get familiar with how the kart functions rather than just step on the acceleration as soon as you get there. Always remember your safety equipment including the race suit, race gloves, crash helmet, padding and even a seat belt.

How Fast Do Electric Go-Karts Go?

Electric go-karts go fast because they are naturally built with handling, acceleration and speed in mind. As a matter of fact, battery-powered go-karts are faster compared to gas-powered go-karts.

In comparison, gas-powered karts limit acceleration before they can attain the “power band”. By definition, power band is simply the highest level of revolutions per minute which provides the torque to get it moving forward. Electric motors on electric go-karts provide torque instantly. In turn, this gives on the maximum power required immediately one touches the throttle.

Most go-karts attain a maximum speed of about 40-50 mph. They are normally maintained at this speed to ensure safety in the sense that one cannot be thrown off the track and cause damage even to other patrons. However, street legal go-karts might have considerably higher speeds than ordinary go-karts meant for indoor tracks. The world’s fastest go-kart can reach 60 mph.

What is the Average Cost of Electric Go-Karts?

An average electric go-kart costs about $10-12,000. Even though there might be entry-level models with the basic specifications cost about $8,000, the basic professional models of electric go-karts range from $12,000 and above. If you want to customize and upgrade it, you might have to pay more than that.

Top 12 Best Electric Racing Go-Karts for Adults

1. Ninebot Gokart PRO

Features

• Special rear drifting tires
• Top speed of 23 mph
• Outstanding design

First on this list is the 2021 Ninebot Gokart PRO which has been an upgrade of previous versions, achieving new heights of performance.

The first thing you will notice about this electric go-kart is its supercar design. The Ninebot Gokart PRO was built in such a way that the rear wheel drive system and rear engine makes it look like a supercar. Being an electric machine, this unique go-kart has an in-built immersive engine sound simulator that is reminiscent of a gas-powered V12 single cylinder engine to give one that authentic go-kart experience.

This 2021 Ninebot Gokart PRO is made of a very firm steel frame with the capability to accommodate a payload of 220 pounds. Riders who are 4’5” – 6’3” can appreciate the adjustable steering wheel and three anti-collision protection steel frame that will cover them from any impacts on the track or road.

Made to be enjoyed by all, this electric Ninebot Gokart PRO is powered by an air-cooled 430 Wh capacity battery. It comes with four driving modes that reach speeds of 4.9 mph (safety mode), 11.1 mph (regular mode), 17.5 mph (sports mode) and 23 mph (race mode) respectively.

This go-kart also comes with an advanced racer seat that provides maximum support and a firm steering wheel with traction capabilities to give you maximum control. Not to mention the effective manual hand brake that is used for drifting and immediate braking emergencies.

2. HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit

Features

• Mechanical handbrake
• Easy installation of hoverboards
• Adjustable steel frame

If you haven’t heard about the HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit, then you should count yourself lucky to make this discovery. This electric go-kart was built with a unique design that lets one attach a hoverboard onto the kart.

With an intelligent linking technique, all one has to do is strap the hoverboard and adjust the height accordingly. You don’t have to worry if you don’t have the right hoverboard, the HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit allows a variety of the latest suspension boards that can be found in the market.

The quick and easy installation system will get you going in a few minutes. Simply tie up the hoverboard using hook and loop fasteners and you’re good to go. As long as the hoverboard you attached has a maximum length of 410mm, your Hyper GOGO GoKart Kit is ready for the track.

The sturdy hand-lever gives you optimum control to reverse, accelerate and brake with quality in-built disc brakes. This HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit was made with built-in shock absorbers to pay attention to safety concerns. The front dual disc brakes instill a presence of safety and improve the entire riding experience.

With a sturdy metal frame, the HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit guarantees durability and protection from injuries.

3. OTL Storm EFD

Features

• Powerful electric motor
• Maximum speed of 72 kmh / 45 mph
• Innovative model

Introducing the one of a kind and arguably the most widely known electric rental go-kart you will find today. The OTL Storm EFD is currently the most technically advanced electric go-kart that stands out from the rest. Many have been using this electric go-kart for indoor kart racing due to its dependable build quality, high performance, adaptability and affordability. If you are one to enjoy flaunting about having foreign machines, this OTL Storm EFD is the Italian electric go-kart of your dreams.

OTL Storm EFD is wired by a powerful 48V electric motor harnessing magnetic induction. Its 4kW capacity enables this go-kart to achieve a top speed of 45 mph in less than 5 seconds. For a rental go-kart, this is quite impressive to begin with. One awesome feature of this Italian go-kart is its easy customization with its variety of extra features.

If that wasn’t enough, you’ll be impressed by the level of integrated technology put in this go-kart. It comes with a hands-on touch screen interface display fixed on the steering wheel, which enables one to view the battery level, choose from a couple of options and set up other configurations. This go-kart also comes with Formula One features such as pedal shifters for manual and automatic modes, authentic engine sounds for that real racing experience. You will also find other features such as LED headlights, speed boost button, and adjustable pedals.

4. RiMO SiNUS iON

Features

• Powerful electric motor
• Maximum speed of 40 mph
• Intelligent wireless mode
• Bright LED headlights

Here’s another awesome electric go-kart known as the RiMO SiNUS iON. It comes incorporating double coexistent 2.8kW electric motors that attain a maximum combined 23 kW output. Garnering a top speed of 40 mph (65 km/h), this electric RiMO SiNUS iON is one to watch out for on the race track. This is particularly why it is one of the most popular rental karts you can ever come across.

Featuring an advanced battery, this go-kart includes 48 V AC motors which don’t use coals or brushes like the normal DC motors do. The LiFeMnPO4 batteries (lithium-iron-manganese-4-phosphate) guarantee secure performance throughout your ride. With a fair charge-to-use ratio, the RiMO SiNUS iON takes approximately one hour of charge time and can last one hour on the race track. You will notice the high build quality courtesy of German manufacturers.

The RiMO SiNUS iON also comes with other creative features such as an easily configurable controller, regenerative brake energy system, a dual motor capable electronic differential, and an all-weather compatible design. You will not fail to admire the quintessential design and attractive exterior of this go-kart. Undeniably, the RiMO SiNUS iON is an amazing electric go-kart built to perfection and awesome track handling.

5. OTL EGK

Features

• Rear wheel drive
• 80V Lithium Polymer batteries
• A variety of optional features

The high performing OTL EGK go-kart is designed based on the latest premium indoor electric components and chassis. With 8V 4kW of power to push, this go-kart is driven by an electric AC motor which is not as powerful as the OTL Storm EFD go-kart from the good folks at OTL Electrokart. This makes the OTL EGK more appropriate for recreational centers especially for family entertainment spots. If you’re an adult who is 58 inches and above, this electric go-kart was made for you. The adjustable seat and steering height can be tailored to fit your physical height or get in a posture that you prefer.

The OTL EGK provides impeccable performance and low maintenance is required to keep it going. It comes equipped with safety such as a padded removable roll bar, strong steel tubing protection for the feet, emergency stop push button, safety seat belt, a reverse function and wirelessly controlled speed capability. This means that a track coordinator can easily stop the kart remotely in case of a defect that might cause danger on the track. All these incorporated features are made to ensure the rider is protected at all costs.

This OTL EGK electric go-kart is also fitted with a variety of performance features such as a mechanical braking unit, a dashboard, shock absorber bumper unit, reversible gear, rear axle measuring 30mm, and a protective body covering that houses the motor and battery.

6. Coleman Powersports Off Road Go Kart

Features

• Smooth riding experience
• Top speed of 15 mph
• 400 pounds of payload capacity

If you’re in the market for a family go-kart, the Coleman Powersports Off-Road Go Kart should be on your radar. This is a perfect go-kart for outdoor family activities built to create good memories as you have fun on track. The best thing about this electric go-kart is that it can accommodate a kid and an adult at the same time.

With a powerful 6 horse power engine, the rigid structure of this off-road go-kart was made entirely for the real off-road lovers. The heavy-duty wheels and 400-pound payload capacity will surely speak for itself once you get on the dirt. Being fully automatic, one doesn’t have to worry much about performing like a professional because the engine will power you comfortably on the trails.

This efficient go-kart contains a four-point safety protection harness designed to keep you protected as you drive. The sturdy roll cage and padded seats will give you extra assurance and protect you in case of any incidents while still giving you a smooth driving experience.

7. MotoTec Sandman Go Kart 49Cc Black

Features

• Top speed of 30 mph
• 31 mile range on a single charge
• 265 pounds of payload capacity

Introducing the MotoTec Sandman Go Kart 49Cc Black which is one of the best go-kart choices for those who want to enjoy their time in the outdoors. This electric go-kart is built with steady bumpers in the front and rear, and a 9 inch ground clearance for the off-road conditions. It comes with standard 8 inch rugged tires, a firmly fixed axle rear vented disc brake and a very flexible frame to allow the go-kart to reach top speeds of 30 mph on the trails.

As a power kart, the MotoTec Sandman Go Kart should be driven with one’s legs beyond the handlebars while the hands should be under the knees. Providing fun for teenagers and adults alike, this easy-to-use go-kart will give nothing but a smooth ride as soon as you start it up using a pull mechanism. The torque converter makes this go-kart even better for drivers out there. With low pressure tires, you will be guaranteed of a smooth ride even while driving on the bumpy tracks.

The MotoTec Sandman Go Kart comes with a 2-stroke 49cc engine that meets EPA transmission standards. The brushless rear hub 48V 500W motor provides a maximum output speed of 20 mph depending on the weight and off-road conditions. Per charge, this electric go-kart can go for 32 miles depending on the weight of the driver. It is important to know that this go-kart takes up a maximum weight of 265 pounds.

Other cool features of the MotoTec Sandman Go Kart 49Cc Black include an LCD battery indicator, distance odometer, selective speed levels, and a battery level indicator.

8. Xiaomi NineBot GoKart PRO (Lamborghini Edition)

Features

• 432 Watt-hour battery
• Premium build and quality
• Can reach 25km on a single charge
• Optional additional features

The Chinese giant Xiaomi celebrate a decade of operations by launching a go-kart after going into partnership with Lamborghini and Segway Ninebot. They made a small Lambo go-kart race car called the Ninebot GoKart Pro Lamborghini Edition. The aim was to create a faster, premier, limited version of the original Ninebot. Segway called Lamborghini and the result was a super go-kart that not only represents the raging bull emblem, but it also gives supercar aesthetics.

The Lamborghini GoKart has an innovative design that lets the removable Ninebot double-wheel electric scooter sit on the base of the small racer and even use it individually. This go-kart uses a miniature battery that packs 430 Watt-hours and can give off a range of 15 miles and reach a top speed of 25 mph. even though this isn’t enough juice to go around a 20-lap race track, it can still hold adults weighing 220 pounds for a considerable amount of time.

At just about $1,400, you can get this unique electric go-kart with classic Lamborghini essentials in the iconic yellow color it comes with. If you wish to pimp it out even more, the race car-inspired Superleggera rear wing, digital speedometer, Formula One steering wheel and center red strip will impress the sports car enthusiasts out there.

9. FIT RIGHT 2020 Baja-X

Features

• 175 pounds of payload capacity
• A great off-road go-kart
• Easy assembly

Don’t want any hustle operating your electric go-kart? Then check out the Fit Right Baja-X electric go-kart. This easy to navigate go-kart comes with an imposing 48V battery and 1000W brushless motor that can reach a maximum speed of 20mph and carry adults weighing 175 pounds. This easy to drive go kart comes with foot pedals that can either go forward or reverse, with throttle and braking capability as well.

FIT RIGHT 2020 Baja-X comes with great features such as a parental speed limiter for new teenage drivers where the speed can be adjusted to low (13mph), medium (16mph) and high (18mph) levels. This ensures they will not over speed or lose control on the track. A built-in seat belt also provides additional protection for emergency purposes.

This electric go kart can handle all tough terrain conditions thanks to its highly flexible steel, well-rounded tires and quality disc brakes. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, this is one go-kart to look out for no matter the driving skill level you have.

10. Razor Dune Buggy

Features

• Top speed of 9 mph
• Can last 40 minutes of uninterrupted use
• Bucket seat
• Powerful 350W electric motor

If there’s a popular electric go-kart that features a simple but practical design it has to be the Razor Dune Buggy. Aimed for young adults, this go-kart features a powerful 350W electric motor that offers hours of fun and exhilaration. The 12V battery can pack enough power to move you around for 40 minutes on one full charge. Razor Dune Buggy’s chain-driven powerful motor offers instant torque delivery and also has a speed limiter that allows one to set which speed level is appropriate for different skilled drivers.

The Razor Dune Buggy features a bucket seat that holds the driver’s back in place while the active suspension enhances this go-kart to be very stable and handle any terrain. It also comes with a terrain-compatible rear suspension that actually makes it easy to drive on any surface.

The huge all-around tires make it easy to absorb any type of shock as a result of the terrain and help the ride get comfortable throughout the smooth ride. If safety is a major concern for you, the off-road electric Razor Dune Buggy go-kart comes with seatbelts that allow the driver to strap in well and use the quick release operation when they want to let go. Even though it doesn’t come with the complete roll cage design, this easy-to-assemble go-kart features side bars that hold the sturdy metal frame to ensure the Razor Dune Buggy is well covered.

11. BSR Racing Kart Pro

Features

• Maximum speed of 83 mph
• Powerful brushless motor

Introducing the BSR Racing Kart Pro that can actually be the best racing electric go-kart for adults out there. This can be attributed to its speed, excellent build quality and pocket-friendly price. This go-kart is powered by an electric 25kW brushless motor that gives off a surprising amount of power. The high performing engine and controller are all air-cooled via several vents.

You will not experience the real power of this go-kart unless you see it on the race track. With a top speed of about 84 mph and 6,000 rpm, the BSR Racing Kart Pro is definitely one of the quickest production electric go-karts you can find today. The instant torque delivery enables this go-kart to reach top acceleration speeds of 0 – 100 km/h in 3 seconds. With such figures, this is one powerful machine to respect.

The quick swap battery functionality eliminates the need to have to wait until one battery recharges in-between a race. The go-kart can come equipped with a 35Ah or a 42Ah battery that only takes about 10-15 or 10-20 minutes. Charging on the BSR Racing Kart Pro only lasts for a short 30 minutes and you’re good to go.

12. VMG Electric Kart

Features

• American-made
• Highly efficient brushless motors – 48V

Made in the USA, the VMG Electric Kart is an electric go-kart fitted with a highly-efficient 48V electric brushless AC motor that is reminiscent of a 20 horse power go-kart that runs on gas. This outstanding go-kart has a 400A programmable speed limiter that one allows one to adjust the torque.

The VMG Electric Kart comes equipped with innovative features including a three-point safety belt unit, a roll bar, configurable steering wheel, electronic differentials, automatic seat modification, and many more. Compared to other go-kart models, the VMG Electric Kart go-kart is quite affordable, performs well and also has awesome features.

Conclusion

Figuring out which go-kart to buy can be a difficult decision to arrive at even as an adult. If you have decided to go for electric go-karts, I’m sure you have keenly considered the unique advantages they have over gas-powered go-karts. Electric go-karts are cheaper, safer, environmentally friendlier, easy to start and high performing.

This guide features the 12 best electric racing go-karts adults can find in the market right now. Whether it’s rental or private, you will be able to figure out which one suits you according to its performance, additional features, size, customization, design and cost.