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Top Karting Tips to Improve Your Lap Times

Always brake in a straight line before entering a corner.

Go-karts have rear brakes only, which means if you brake while turning, the kart can easily spin out. Always slow down before the turn while your wheels are straight to maintain control.

 

Brake early, accelerate early – “In slow, out fast.”

Approach corners with gentle braking and smooth acceleration. Entering a corner too fast will cause you to slide or drift, which will slow you down significantly. Remember: drifting may look cool, but it’s not the fastest way around the track.

 

Correct a slide with control.

If your kart begins to slide, ease off the throttle, apply opposite lock (turn the wheel in the direction of the slide), and regain control before entering the next corner. Smooth driving and precise steering are key to consistent lap times.

 

Use the full width of the track.

To carry the most speed through a corner, follow the racing line: enter wide, clip the inside apex, and exit wide. Creating a larger radius allows for smoother and faster cornering.

 

Fine-tune your racing line as you improve.

Once you’re consistently smooth and fast, experiment with slightly tighter corner entry and exit points to reduce the total distance per lap—while still maintaining strong exit speed. This can shave valuable seconds off your lap time.

 

Apply throttle with control.

Avoid slamming the accelerator. Instead, squeeze the throttle smoothly to prevent wheel spin and maintain traction. Sudden power delivery—especially mid-corner—can cause you to lose control or spin out.

 

 

 

Thanks for reading our karting tips!

Put these techniques into practice and see your lap times drop. Whether you’re racing for fun or chasing the podium, smooth and smart driving always wins.

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

Racing Leagues & Events at Pro Karts Nelson

 

Pro Karts Nelson hosts some of New Zealand’s most thrilling kart racing events, catering to all ages and skill levels.

 

  • CKT: Championship Kart Tournaments – Held monthly from March to October, CKT is the ultimate social racing league for teens and adults. Enjoy high-speed competition, great prizes, and a fun night racing atmosphere.

  • JKL: Junior Karting League – Designed for kids aged 8–15, JKL helps young drivers build skills and confidence on the same professional track, all in a safe and supportive environment.

  • iORK: NZ Rental Kart Championship – This national-level karting event brings top talent from across the country. Race in Sodi RT8 karts through heats and finals, rain or shine.

 

 

Join us at Pro Karts Nelson—where champions are made and fun meets adrenaline!

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