Looking back, it has been quite a humbling experience for us all ever since the world was hit by an unexpected surprise. To say the least, COVID-19 really gave us a reality check. If anything, it persuaded us to see the importance of embracing life and those around us.

If none of this happened and we were on regular programming, we could probably be looking forward to ‘Summer 2021’ by now. However, Summer will always be here and life will always move on. Consequently, we have to adjust accordingly. And what better way to adjust by appreciating the things that bring us happiness?

The answer? Off-road Go-karts! Are you enthusiastic about driving? Or are you an adrenaline junkie who likes to be where the fun and excitement is? Off-road go-karting is by far the most exciting thing on four wheels. This isn’t your regular go-karting as you’ll soon discover. Off-road go-karts are all about enjoying a modern, powerful and super fast driving experience. But before anything else, why go-karts?

What Are Go-Karts?

A Go-Kart is a modest open four-wheeled, small engine car. Even though originally single-seated, there are certain go-karts that feature two seats and allow people to side with an additional passenger.

Go-Karts may either come in two forms. They either come powerless – where they use gravity for movement, or also come with high-powered motors/engines. Go-karts can mainly be classified based on different basis. They include:

Based on the purpose

• Recreational Go-Karts
• Racing Go-Karts
• Competition Go-Karts

Based on the landscape

• On-Road Go-Karts
• Off-Road Go-Karts

Based on the controlling devices

• Shifter Karts
• Automatic Karts

Go-karts might look like tiny cars reminiscent of ATVs. However, there are some certain characteristics that distinguish them from ATVs and other tiny carriages. Size is an undeniable factor but one important characteristic of a kart is the total lack of a classic suspension.

Here, the axle is usually firmly attached to the framework without a differential of any kind such that both rear tires turn at the same rate. Also, while other parts like a flexible camber and caster, you might not find springs or dampers either.

Usually, go-kart layouts are composed of a rider sitting next to a low capacity engine that engages either chains or gears to get the rear axle into operation. Normally, even though not always the situation, go-karts are supposed to feature one rear brake disc without any at the front. The brake pedal should be located on the left side of the kart, while the throttle is situated on the right side. This basically makes the driver to either adapt to using left-foot-braking or they might get confused and get into a casualty.

Go-karts were made to have a comfy, befitting seat that comes with no belts at all. Even though they were barely supposed to have safety cages or crash protection structures, this has changed significantly with time.

In spite of the basic safety features implemented, go-karting is still one of the safest models of motorsport where only simple damages occur and are mostly not life-threatening. There are a few risks here and there, but if one adheres to the basic safety precautions, chances of damages are minimal.

Types of Karts

Outside “Enjoyment” Go-karts

Just as the name suggests, there are go-karts that one can see basking under the sun or wear away under the rainfall at your favorite vacation spots. As simple as they are, these karts usually have an electric motor affixed from some common lawn mower that produces between five and two horsepower. They’re jammed up with heavy auto bodies such as over-built bumpers and thick wheels – which all add up the extra weight of more than 300 pounds.

Endurance/Rental karts

Whether indoor or outdoor, Endurance karts are the type that can be easily tossed into when undertaking a kart track arrive and drive program. Endurance karts have better racing chassis which is normally covered with an enwrapped bumper to avoid any dangerous karting accidents from happening.

The motors tend to range between 8-10 horsepower, which is just a variant of another motorized functional product that has been tuned to make it race-worthy. The weight reduces to about 250 pounds while the setup of the chassis and motor is restricted because they are regularly used as fleets.

It is important to note that there’s a huge difference between the ordinary indoor karting track and the outdoor karting track. The surface in indoor tracks are very slick and allow go-kart drivers to enjoy some drifting and turning even if they have rear axles. Outdoor tracks, on the other hand, have higher grip levels which give different dynamic driving.

Sprint Go-karts

Sprint go-karts are versatile go-karts that have the ability to run on any type of track with great speed. They are the most popular types of go-karts that all level racers use. The motors used in sprint go-karts are two-stroke and vary in displacements of 80cc to 125cc, with an output of about 35 horsepower. We recommend newbies of this go-karting world to buy a lighter electric go-kart with motors that help reduce speed and include other features such as integrated security and safety.

Oblong Go-Karts

Oblong go-karts – also popularly called four cycles – use joint 4 stroke Briggs and Stratton engines. Compared to Endurance go-karts and sprint go-karts, the speed of most Oblong go-karts is very restricted. The four-stroke engine gives Oblong go-karts more efficiency compared to sprint karts. Are you a fan of NASCAR races? Oblong go-karts are the ones for you.

Super Go-Karts

Super go-karts are bigger versions of go-karts with more powerful shifters fitted with 250cc motors. The go-karts are best suited for road programs where riders can stretch their legs more and enjoy tearing up the track.

How Fast Do Go-Karts Go?

Most go-karts are designed to reach a maximum speed of around 40-50mph. Even though this is limited, they are often maintained at this speed to make it safe and controlled especially when they are used for recreational purposes. However, go-karts vary widely in speed and others, such as super go-karts, can even reach speeds exceeding 100 mph (161 km/h).

In some instances, such as in Division 1 of British super go-kart championships, the 250cc go-karts feature one or two cylinders with five or six speed gearboxes. Usually, these go-karts give off 75 kW (100 horsepower) and can easily reach 230 km/h (140 mph) – which is the fastest speed a kart can attain.

How fast Can 200cc Go-Karts Go?

200cc karts have different variations of top speed than one may know. The maximum speed a 200cc go-kart can reach depends if it’s got a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine. Being that they produce power in different ways, a 2-stroke engine can attain a maximum speed of 120mph. On the other hand, the 4-stroke engine can attain up to 75mph.

Some examples of 200cc go-karts and their speed include:

• FunBikes The Drift 2 2015 200cc Go Kart – which can reach 30 mph
• Birel Art AM29-S11 – the World Series Briggs and Stratton Engine that can reach up to 71 mph

How fast can 500cc Go-karts go?

500cc go-karts start to explore the true potential of these awesome machines. With this level of power, drivers can now have fun in harsh conditions like sand dunes, during off-road mud bogging, on rocky hills, and even in snow. These 500cc go-karts reach a top speed of 60 mph. Their firm build makes it easy to transport up to 500 pounds of cargo weight without slowing down.

Examples of the 500cc go-karts include:

• Roketa 500 4WD Buggy which can go up to 50 mph
• Bode New 500cc 4×4 Go-Kart with CF moto can go up to 55 mph

Is It Cheaper to Build or Buy a Go-Kart?

Building your own go-kart may seem like the cheaper way of getting things done. Besides, all one has to do is source parts at cheaper prices. Cumulatively, it sums up to be less than the price of a new go-kart.

However, in the long run, built go-karts tend to have a lot of mechanical issues that have to always be attended to every now and then. This frequent servicing and replacement of old parts end up costing more than what one would have bought it for originally.

Building your own go-kart is a difficult project that requires mechanical skills, diligent patience and a lot of effort to pursue. It can be a wonderful project if you are working on it with friends or family as the process has a lot of excitement behind it. The truth of the matter is that home-built go-karts are more expensive and can never be compared with the quality performance and safeguard of a newly built go-kart.

Things to Consider When Buying a Go-kart

Have you started taking pleasure in go-kart racing or does the idea of racing just excite you? We advise that you stick to buying a brand new go-kart and ditch the thought of getting a used one. But do you know what checks the list when buying a new go-kart? Here’s what to look out for:

Basic Regulations

Before anything else, always check if the basic regulations are followed before purchasing. It is better to buy from a trusted source that knows everything about go-kart racing.

Price

You always get what you pay for. While this might sound cliché, it holds truth when buying a go-kart. You might think you got a great deal but the go-kart has poor quality components that might cost more than a high-quality, expensive go-kart. You also don’t have to keep replacing broken parts due to shoddy craftsmanship. Just budget accordingly and buy a good product.

Safety

Whichever brand one likes, the safety of a go-kart depends on the quality of skill of the people who build it. Good value for money requires great skill and know-how even with the availability of a great engine, chassis or components. It is, therefore, important to choose a go-kart brand that has a good track record, especially one that users find safe. A safe and properly built go-kart should have its steering wheel in perfect condition, with new and tight-fitting seats, and more.

Size

Before buying a go-kart, find out the size of the driver who will be on the wheel. Also, consider the location it will be mostly driven, and the available safety features installed.

12 Best Off-Road Go-Kart Reviews

If you’re not sure which go-kart is worth buying, here is a reliable list of 12 of the best off-road go-karts you can find on the market today. We have put in a lot of factors and carried a proper analysis to help determine the best karts out there. They include:

1. Segway Ninebot Electric GoKart Drift Kit

Features

• Great value
• First drifting go-kart
• Reverse-enabled
• Adjustable height

Starting us off is the Segway Ninebot Electric GoKart Drift Kit. This has got be one of the most advanced go-karts we have seen. The Segway Ninebot Gokart is the first Go-kart of its kind built with the ability to drift.

In addition to a footbrake, this go-kart also comes with a mechanical handbrake which enables one to come to an abrupt halt or even drift with it. Based on your experience as a driver, the Segway Ninebot Electric Go-Kart comes in three different driving modes. They include Novice (5mph), Standard (11mph) and Sporty (15mph).

Featuring two motors producing a maximum power of 700w each, you will get the chance to enjoy a cool driving experience with an adjustable steering wheel. Unlike other karts, not only is this Ninebot Gokart a game changer, but it can also conveniently move in reverse. All you have to do is come to a halt and hurriedly press the brake pedal twice and it will go in reverse mode. Tap the brake pedal twice again and you will move forward again.

If that wasn’t enough, the Ninebot Gokart has been has a flexible frame and controls that can accommodate riders between the height of 129 cm – 191 cm. Furthermore, all adults can be happy now because the Ninebot Gokart can carry a maximum load of 220 lbs (100 kg).

For safety purposes, the Ninebot GoKart has a braking distance capability of 20ft (6m) and can deploy an electronic brake alongside a mechanical handbrake if push comes to shove. The Ninebot GoKart PRO reaches a maximum speed of 23 mph, while the Ninebot GoKArt Kit reaches 15mph. For this reason, the PRO is recommended for 14+ of age while the Kit version allows 8+. Both reach a maximum reverse speed of 2 mph (3 km/h).

2. Radio Flyer Ultimate Go-Kart

Features

• Drifting tires
• Award-wining go-kart
• Adjustable seat

Introducing the Radio Flyer Ultimate Go-Kart that was built as a utility product that can be used as your child grows. This can be attributed to the adjustable seat alongside interchangeable speed controls that include one reverse and other three forward speed control configurations.

The Radio Flyer Ultimate Go-Kart is a parents’ go-kart favorite with configurations such as a speed limiter to ensure your child’s safety. The seat can also be adjusted and your other older child can now use it at an even higher speed.

The Radio Flyer Ultimate Go-Kart comes with integrated rubber resistance on the front wheels to allow the driver better mobility. It also has larger rear wheels to enable one to enjoy an exciting drifting experience. There is no need for brakes on this go-kart because all a child has to do is take their foot off the pedal and they will slow down.

As subtle as it may look, this amazing go-kart is one of has earned a Parents’ Choice 2020 Award. It handles a maximum weight of 81 pounds and is recommended for kids aged between 3 – 8 years. To limit the speed, this go-kart can move forward in 3 different speed configurations of 2.5 mph, 5mph and 8mph, and a reverse of 2.5 mph.

3. Hauck Lightning – Pedal Go Kart

Features

• Unique sporty design
• Adjustable bucket seat
• 3-point steering

Introducing the Hauck Lightning – Pedal Go Kart with an exceptional, sporty design feature and driving experience that allows you to configure your pedal speed seamlessly. Young racers ought to be excited about the Lightning’s quick response and sharp handling ability.

The authentic driving experience makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Better yet, the ergonomically designed bucket seat was made adjustable and comes equipped with a high backrest that provides a safe but comfortable sitting posture.

With a pedal power design, you never have to worry about batteries that need constant charging. The pedal-push sprocket is perfect for young children as it encourages physical activity, builds strength, endurance and co-ordination.

The Hauck Lightning – Pedal Go Kart comes equipped with race-style pedals with durable rubber wheels and a stylish eight ball style hand brake. This provides an outstanding grip, making the ride smooth for your child even as the hand brake controls the speed for safety.

The sporty 3-point steering makes the riding experience even better with quicker response and better turning capabilities. Why not let multiple people enjoy this awesome pedal go-kart thanks to its adjustable bucket seat giving multiple height adjustments? It is recommended for kids aged 4 – 7 years and can accommodate a maximum weight of 21 pounds.

4. Coleman Powersports Off Road Go Kart, Gas Powered, 196cc/6.5hp

Features

• Powerful and efficient
• 2 seater
• Smooth ride
• Secure
• Heavy-duty frame
• Adjustable driver seat
• Rack and pinion steering
• Kill switch
• Fully automatic with easy pull start

Get loose on the outdoor trails and backroads with the Coleman Powersports Off Road Go Kart, Gas Powered, 196cc/6.5hp. Suitable for both adults and children, this off-road go-kart is powerful than you know. It comes equipped with a 196cc engine and a built-in torque converter CVT solution to give it that extra boost in power.

Coleman Powersports Off Road Go Kart has a totally automatic 4 stroke, OHV one cylinder engine that can power you through the trails for an entire day and still have plenty more to push you through difficult terrains while still being fuel-efficient.

How about a smooth experience thanks to the pull start functioning and torque converter CVT system? Yes, this will definitely make you go-kart life easier with an added advantage that makes it even more suitable for any driver out there. You can enjoy the low-pressure tires that give off a calm, leveled ride even while on bumpy terrain.

When it comes to safety concerns, the Coleman Powersports Off Road Go Kart doesn’t disappoint either. The four-point safety kit keeps a driver protected safely in the driver’s seat, while the heavy-duty sealed roll cage makes it a lot safer.

If you want to have thrilling fun with your partner, this off-road go-kart has two cushioned seats alongside a storage rack. Put on the kill switch to give yourself a nice and easy shut down as the hydraulic foot-harnessed disc brakes provide dependable stopping ability.

5. Nerf Battle Racer Pedal Go Kart

Features

• Cool factor
• Sporty 3-point steering wheel
• Adjustable speed
• Simple handbrake
• Race style pedals
• Bucket seat

The fifth item is the unique Nerf Battle Racer Pedal GoKart – the unrivaled Go Kart that is the epitome of the exciting Nerf Battle Racer. Coming with a unique, creative design, this battle racer reels you into a driving experience that gives you control over the pedal speed with no hesitation. Young racers will love this go-kart especially because of the cool factor brought out by the Nerf blasters.

The sturdy tubular steel frame gives this go-kart an amazing driving experience suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Better yet, the child-specific ergonomically designed bucket seat is flexible and comes featuring a high backrest that gives one a safe but cozy sitting posture.

The cool go-kart comes equipped with race style pedals and orange rims. This provides impressive grip and makes the ride pop out while the hand brake simply regulates speed. The three point sporty steering makes the riding experience pleasant with quicker response and turning capabilities.

If your kid is aged between 4 – 10 years and weighs not more than 120 pounds, this could be a great gift for them. Don’t let this opportunity pass for your kid to enjoy this awesome pedal go-kart. It will be an awesome buy!

6. HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit

Features

• Easy installation
• For adults and kids
• Fully compatible with any hoverboard
• Full control
• Seat belt
• Easy to maneuver
• Shock absorber and anti-vibrating seat
• Sturdy metal frame
• Industrial strength disk brakes

Bringing in something new and fresh into the market, the HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit lets you attach a hoverboard to it and enjoy a fully functional Go-Kart.

The first fully compatible Go-kart of its kind, this is the only Go Kart able to fit just about every Hoverboard in the world with an exception of few ones such as the Segway Ninebot. The HyperGoGo can be attached to any size to accommodate everyone to be a part of the race.

How do you get it up and running? HYPER GOGO GoKart Kit has an effortless installation guide to get you ready after a few steps. Start by sliding the hoverboard, strap it up and you’re ready for action.

The flexible metal frame allows one to adjust the go-kart’s length and fix it to your desired height, making the steering wheel to fit your specifications. As long as your height is between 51-79 in (130-200 cm), you’re good to go. The reliable built-in shock absorbers and anti-vibrating seat make riding on any surface a smooth experience, while still keeping you safe from any injuries.

Users will have the ultimate control to accelerate and reverse using one hand lever and brake thanks to the built-in industry-standard disc brakes. The sturdy metal frame can hold people who weigh up to 198 pounds (90 kg) and keep them calm thanks to the durable kart.

7. Motor HQ DF200-GKA

Features

• Electric start
• Dual front suspension
• Front bumper
• Double seat
• Rear luggage rack
• High Strength Steel frame
• Adjustable driver’s seat
• Dual individual padded seating
• Front and rear disc brake
• Lighting: Headlight, Turn Signal Light, Spot Light and Top running fog lights

Introducing the all-new one of a kind Motor HQ DF200-GKA that comes with a durable, efficient and powerful 4-stroke, air-cooled petrol engine that reaches a max power of 7,500 rpm.

With a sturdy frame, the Motor HQ DF200-GKA was built with robust but lightweight aluminum steel, giving it better handling and stamina. With a belt drive and chain drive, this sturdy go-kart has a 63.8” (162 cm) wheelbase, making it bigger compared to other competitors in the market. Its 7.9″ (20cm) ground clearance and soft rubber wheels make it easy to drive across any surface without difficulty.

If that wasn’t enough, this off-road go-kart features a storage tray and a full-size spare wheel at the back. Other extra useful features that come in handy include convenient hand-grips, headlights, taillights and three mounted fog lights on the roof that make it possible to tear the road at night, and much more.

The Motor HQ DF200-GKA is not complicated and only requires minor assembly as one can easily put it together. Your easy-to-read instructions and a tool kit will guide you throughout the process without hesitation.

With a maximum speed of 37 mph (60 km/h), this go-kart can hold up to 2.6 gal (10 l) on a full tank. It is best rocked by adults who weigh up to 353 pounds.

8. Motor HQ DF125-GKA

Features

• Fully equipped
• Very lightweight
• Double seats
• Attached fog lights
• Easy assembly of parts
• Stylish Colored Frames

Here is the Motor HQ DF125-GKA which resembles a minor DF200-GKA go-kart. Even though it doesn’t have a very powerful engine, this go-kart’s petrol engine is able to produce 9500 rpm and is equipped with very similar features of the DF200-GKA.

Being a 110 cc, 4-stroke engine, the Motor HQ DF125-GKA can reach 24 mph. Another feature that makes it a close relative to the DF200-GKA is the smaller 143.5 cm wheelbase.

But that doesn’t mean this off-road go-kart is not up to standards. Because it really is fun, but only recommended for youths and beginner adults who need a speed limiter. Unfortunately, the Motor HQ DF125-GKA doesn’t come with some storage capacity like the DF200-GKA. However, the seamless transmission and potent suspension lessens the impact on rocky surfaces.

Other great features worthy to mention include a strong featherweight steel frame, fog lights, rearview mirrors, mesh covering, fancy LED lights, leather seats, and many more. The Motor HQ DF125-GKA is suitable for youth and adults who weigh up to 330 pounds.

9. ScooterX Sport Kart

Features

• Very powerful engine
• Maximum high speed
• Can be easily driven
• Rear Vented Disk Brake Braking System
• One seat

Introducing the lethal ScooterX Sport Kart which is definitely not for the faint-hearted. With a capacity to reach 45mph (72.4 km/h), this quick go-kart is quite versatile. The 196cc quick start, four stroke engine upholds this go-kart beast to be among the fastest you can get your hands on.

Just like your vehicle, this heavy engine fills up with 0.53 gal (2 l) of regular unleaded fuel right from the pump. Usually, engines with four cycles such as the one incorporated in the Scooter X are known for their great functionality and durability compared to the 2 cycle engines.

The 196cc engine of the Sport Kart’s rates 6.5 horsepower and makes this powerful go-kart reach high speeds of up to 45 mph without modifications. With an automatic clutch, all you have to do is squeeze the throttle and off you go.

With a wheel that resembles that of an aircraft, the Sport Kart wheel setting makes learning easy and quite effective. One doesn’t have to push their feet to engage the brake/throttle. This way, it becomes easier and way safer for the environment.

The flexible right lever was designed to be an adjustable speed throttle. Just engage it and you will be well on your way. The brake is situated right next to the left lever. Engaging it will make the go-kart come to an abrupt and secure stop. Youths and adults who weigh up to 250 pounds are best suited for a ride of their lives on this machine.

With such a powerful engine, you do expect a “kill” switch to turn off the engine. What makes the Scooter X Sport Kart Off-Road Kart even better to ride are the pneumatic, dual-purpose sport tires with a knobby tread design. This elevates its off-road capabilities and improves hard surface traction by making it grip better.

10. TrailMaster XRS 150

Features

• Comfortable seats
• Soft suspension system
• Roof canvas
• Bouncy ride
• 2 seater capacity

Introducing the TrailMaster XRS 150 go-kart designed to provide nothing but hours of fun. No matter your age, this dual wheel drive kart will surely put a smile on your face.

Packing a high-performing 150cc engine with an automatic CVT clutch, the TrailMaster 150 XRS can produce a surprising 10 horsepower and achieve a maximum torque of 7 pounds with 7500 rpm. With a full tank capacity of 2.25 gal (8.5 l), the TrailMaster XRS 150 GoKart produces enough power to reach high speeds of up to 43.5 mph (70 km/h). With such power, more safety precautions should be taken. The front and rear hydraulic brakes give the TrailMaster 150 XRS Go Kart some immense stopping power.

The TrailMaster 150 XRS is not your ordinary, simple go-kart. This little fast machine can be ridden over bumps and holes with fewer complications. Its climbing ability is very impressive. With a ground clearance of 6.7”, and a front and rear coil-over suspension system, adults are assured to get the smoothest ride they might ever experience from a go-kart.

11. Nitro Motors Electric Kids Buggy 450W 36V

Features

• Can attain a speed of 25km/h
• Reverse gear
• Bright headlights
• 2 level speed restrictor

The 11^th go-kart on this list is none other than the new dual seat 36V 450W Nitro Motors Electric Kids Buggy from Nitro Motors. Packing a mighty 36 Volt 450 Watt brushless motor, this buggy comes with a safety bar roll cage, foot rear disk brake, and turf tires designed to help your kid navigate through the tough terrain. This robust go-kart is built to go for days.

The powerful battery is able to hold up charge for 5 – 8 hours. The Nitro Motors and battery produce enough power to push the go-kart to a maximum speed of 25km/h. If that wasn’t enough, on a single charge, this 6’ wheeler go-kart can reach a range of 15km (40min – 2h) depending on the road conditions.

It comes with new safety features such as a speed limiter to ensure your kid’s safety is in your hands. The speed limiter can reach 12km/h or 25km/h depending on what you feel is safe. Kids of 4 – 10 years of age weighing up to 65 kg can enjoy this electric buggy.

12. X-Pro Blast 110 Kids Gokart Dune Buggy Youth

Features

• Remote Control
• LED Headlights
• Adjustable Seat
• Dual seats
• Automatic Transmission
• Reverse gear

The last go-kart on our list is the X-Pro Blast 110 Kids Gokart Dune Buggy Youth. It comprises of smooth and torquey 1100cc air-cooled, four-stroke single cylinder engine that produces enough power for recreational use. This 110cc go-kart comes featuring a Fully Automatic Transmission with a Reverse gear. With a 12V/4Ah battery, this go-kart can reach a maximum speed of 30 mph depending on the rider’s weight and road conditions.

Designed with dual seats, this go-kart provides maximum driving and passenger comfort for years of fun. The steel frame is lightweight and features great durability with superior handling capabilities. Rear Hydraulic Disc brake provides firm and efficient stopping power no matter the situation one is in.

The electric start with a CDI ignition provides much easier control and handling and gives the rider great conveniences in case they ever find themselves stalled. Suitable for a 7-year-old kid, this easy to assemble go-kart just demands one to follow the instructions and you will be set to get into action.

Conclusion

Off-road go-karting has been attracting so many people recently in these current times. But with all the benefits they provide, what would you expect?

Off-road go-karts are a fun and energetic recreational way of promoting social bonding, cultivating teamwork, provides an early foundation for future racers and rally drivers, while also allowing you and me to experience the great adrenaline rush.

In this review, we narrowed down the top 12 best road go-karts in 2021. To achieve this, we had to point out the main factors influencing our choice. They include the size, power, design, speed, comfort, durability, and age of the rider. If you’re looking to buy an off-road go-kart, start here first!