How Much Does an Electric Go-Kart Weigh? (IT VARIES)

Published: 14.7.23

Updated: 17.1.24

Go-karting – a world of speed, thrill, and adrenaline. But there's a switch happening.

The roar of petrol engines is giving way to the hum of electric motors.

This article explores the weight of electric go-karts and its impact on performance.

Electric go-karts promise the same exhilarating rush, but a question lingers.

How much do they weigh?

And how does this weight factor into the racing experience?

Are you pondering whether body weight matters in go-karting? This article might shed some light.

You're probably thinking, "Surely, the heavier the kart, the slower the ride?" But hold on, that's not always the case, especially with electric go-karts. 

This article is here to guide you through the ins and outs of electric go-kart weights and why it isn't the be-all and end-all when it comes to performance.

Here’s the short answer to: How Much Does an Electric Go-Kart Weigh?

Electric go-karts typically weigh between 300-400 pounds, excluding the driver's weight. When the driver's weight and their gear are factored in, the total weight can increase to at least 500 pounds. However, the weight of an electric go-kart isn't as impactful on performance as it is with gas go-karts, as factors like track and driver's weight can have a greater influence. Notably, kid-friendly electric go-karts are much lighter, with some weighing as little as 39 pounds.

For a closer look at kids' electric go-karts, explore this collection.

Understanding Electric Go-Kart

To understand how much an electric go-kart weighs, let's start by understanding what it is.

An electric go-kart is a small, light, and low-to-the-ground vehicle powered by electric motors, rather than conventional petrol engines.

It's a marvel of engineering, delivering the same adrenaline-pumping experience with a smaller carbon footprint.

But can you drive these electric go-karts on the road? Here's an article that will clarify.

It's a real marvel of engineering, delivering the same adrenaline-pumping experience with a smaller carbon footprint.

Why the Weight of a Go-Kart Matters

When it comes to go-karting, you might ask yourself: "Does the weight matter that much?" The answer is, not as much as you might think, especially for electric models.

Weighing around 140 kilograms or 300 lbs, the weight has less influence on performance compared to a gas go-kart. For more information, see this article.

Related: How Much Does a Racing Go-Kart Weigh?

Factors Affecting the Weight of Electric Go-Karts

Several elements impact the weight of electric go-karts, from their construction materials to engine types and design features.

Understanding these influences can help you better grasp the weight variations between different electric go-karts.

Material Composition

Electric go-karts are made from various materials, including steel, aluminium, or even carbon fibre. These materials are chosen for their balance of weight, cost, and durability.

Engine Type

The engine type also influences the go-kart's weight. Electric engines, due to their battery packs, tend to weigh more than their petrol counterparts. For more details, see How Fast Is a 125cc Go-Kart?.

Size and Design

The size and design of the go-kart have a substantial impact on the weight. Bigger, more complex designs usually weigh more than simpler, compact ones.

If you were wondering how much a Go Karting costs, then you should check out this article.

Engine type

The engine type also influences the go-kart's weight. Electric engines, due to their battery packs, tend to weigh more than their petrol counterparts.

Related: How Fast Is a 125cc Go-Kart?

Size and design

The size and design of the go-kart have a substantial impact on the weight. 

Bigger, more complex designs usually weigh more than simpler, compact ones.

Weight Variations: Adults Vs Kids Electric Go-Karts

Electric go-karts are not all equal in weight. An adult electric go-kart typically weighs between 300-400 pounds (136-181 kg), excluding the driver and equipment.

On the other hand, kids' electric go-karts are significantly lighter, weighing as little as 39 pounds!

Advanced Factors Affecting Go-Kart Performance

To truly grasp how to optimise performance and enjoy a thrilling ride, one must delve deeper into the more advanced factors that play a vital role.

the weight distribution within the kart to the types of batteries used, these elements can significantly influence your go-kart's performance.

Weight Distribution in a Go-Kart

Just like in any vehicle, the weight distribution in a go-kart has a significant impact on its performance.

It affects not only the handling and stability of the kart but also the efficiency of braking and acceleration.

A well-balanced go-kart can effectively distribute the load and power, providing a smoother ride and better control on the track.

Types of Batteries and Their Weight

One of the primary factors contributing to the weight of an electric go-kart is its battery.

Electric go-karts utilise various types of batteries, each with different power outputs and weights.

For example, Lead-Acid batteries are heavy but affordable, while Lithium-ion batteries are lighter but costlier.

The type of battery can significantly impact the overall weight of the kart and its performance.

Types of batteries and their weight

One of the primary factors contributing to the weight of an electric go-kart is its battery.

Electric go-karts utilise various types of batteries, each with different power outputs and weights. 

For example, Lead-Acid batteries are heavy but affordable, while Lithium-ion batteries are lighter but costlier. 

The type of battery can therefore significantly impact the overall weight of the kart and its performance.

Related: From Beginner to Pro: Enhancing Your Go-Kart Racing

The Impact of Track and Driver's Weight

Although the weight of an electric go-kart is vital, it's not the only thing that matters.

The characteristics of the track you're racing on and the driver's weight, including their gear, also play significant roles in performance. 

Let's explore how these factors influence the ride:

Track characteristics

While the weight of an electric go-kart has a lesser effect, the type of track you're racing on can significantly affect performance.

Tracks with sharp turns, uphill sections, and long straights will interact differently with the weight of the go-kart.

Related: How Does Go Kart Steering Work? (A QUICK GUIDE)

Driver's weight and gear

The total weight of the kart can surge to at least 500 pounds once you include the driver's weight and their gear. 

This added weight can also influence the kart's handling and speed.

In Summary

So, what exactly is the weight of the matter? An electric go-kart, on average, tips the scale between 300-400 pounds, exclusive of the driver and equipment.

But here's the twist - the weight of an electric go-kart doesn't quite dictate its performance like it does in a gas go-kart.

In fact, it's the more advanced factors like weight distribution and battery type, and external factors such as the track and the driver's weight, that wield more influence.

At the end of the day, electric go-karting isn't just about the kart's weight; it's about the thrill of the ride, the eco-friendliness, and the strategy behind it.

Now that you're in the know, it's time to hit the track and feel the electrifying rush of electric go-karting. Buckle up!

FAQ’s:

What's the difference in speed between electric and gas go-karts?

While the speed of a go-kart can depend on various factors, generally, electric go-karts offer more immediate torque, leading to faster acceleration. However, top-end speed might be higher in gas go-karts.

Can the weight of an electric go-kart battery be reduced for better performance?

While reducing battery weight might seem like a good idea to increase performance, it could compromise the range and lifespan of the battery, impacting overall performance.

How does weight distribution in a go-kart affect handling?

Weight distribution in a go-kart significantly impacts its handling. Properly balanced weight can enhance the kart's stability, turning capabilities, and overall ride smoothness.

What kind of maintenance is needed for electric go-karts?

Electric go-karts require less mechanical maintenance than their gas counterparts due to the absence of a conventional engine. However, care must be taken to maintain the battery, motor, and electronic components.