Should You Drift Go-Karts During Races? (EXPLAINED)

Published: 5.7.23

Updated: 17.6.24

Go-kart racing is an exhilarating activity that can be enjoyed by both novices and professionals, regardless of their experience with karting.

Interested in exploring a variety of go-karts? 

Here's an extensive collection of go-karts at RiiRoo to start with.

One of the techniques often seen in a go-kart race is drifting.

This skillful maneuver, also known as go-kart drifting, is exciting but raises the question: Is it beneficial for the race?

Or is it merely for the thrill and aesthetics?

Let's delve deeper into this:

Here’s the short answer to: Should You Drift Go-Karts During Races?

Drifting during a go-kart race, while visually appealing and thrilling, is not advisable. This technique leads to a loss of valuable speed and lap time due to reduced traction on the track. Drifting also wears down your tyres faster and can be dangerous, increasing the risk of accidents. Despite its potential for fun, especially in non-competitive settings, it's better to focus on improving racing techniques like efficient braking and precise steering for optimal race performance. If you choose to drift, always ensure it's in a safe, controlled environment. But do you know why go-karting is so expensive? Read our article to find out.

Understanding Go-Kart Drifting

The science behind drifting

Drifting in a go-kart, in the simplest terms, is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers, countersteering as necessary, and loses the traction in the rear wheels or all tyres while maintaining control from entry to exit of a curve. Understand the science of go-karting in more detail.

Types of Go-Karts and Their Features

This manoeuvre, often associated with movies and professional car races, has also seen its fair share of use in go-kart racing.

However, it's not beneficial for maintaining your speed or velocity in a race. 

Related: What Are Drift Karts? (FULLY EXPLAINED)

How drifting affects speed

In terms of speed, drifting in go-kart racing is counterproductive. It may look flashy and feel thrilling, but it's not good for maintaining your speed. 

Your kart vehicle loses valuable speed and lap time when you drift.

The kart moves sideways, and this sideways movement doesn't help in moving forward quickly.

Drifting impacts the racing line or the ideal trajectory you should follow in the race, making it harder to maintain a competitive edge.

Related: Here's How You Drift A Normal Go-kart

Related: What is the Fastest Go Kart in the World?

Pros and Cons of Drifting in Go-Kart Races

There are several reasons why some drivers choose to drift in go-kart races. However, the cons generally outweigh the pros in a competitive setting.

Have you ever wondered about the profitability of go-kart racing? We have an article on that too.

Pros and Cons of Go-Kart Drifting

Practical Implications of Drifting

Impact on tyres

Drifting can wear down the tyres of your kart racer faster than normal due to excessive friction.

This wear can lead to inconsistent performance, affecting the kart's grip and handling on the track, and may even require more frequent tyre replacements.

Related: Key Symptoms Of Over-Inflated Tyres

Safety concerns

While drifting can look cool, it increases the risk factor in a race.

Losing control, even if only for a second, can lead to accidents and can put other racers in harm's way. If you're wondering if you'll fit in a go-kart, you can check our guide.

Safety gear is essential when attempting to drift in a go-kart.

If you're interested in experiencing the thrill of drifting in a go-kart, it's crucial to do so in a safe and controlled environment.

Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure safety:

• Always wear appropriate safety gear.
• Make sure your kart is in good condition and can withstand the strain of advanced drifting.
• Begin at low speeds and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with drifting techniques.
• Always have supervision , preferably from an experienced go-kart driver or instructor.

To drift or not to drift

While drifting can be an exciting element of go-kart racing, it’s not an effective racing technique during a race. 

Some experienced drivers may choose to perform drifting manoeuvres during practice or in non-competitive settings for fun or to improve their handling skills.

Tips for Safe Drifting in Non-Competitive Settings

If you're interested in experiencing the thrill of drifting in a go-kart, it's crucial to do so in a safe and controlled environment.

Here are some tips:

• Always wear appropriate safety gear.
• Make sure your kart is in good condition and can withstand the strain of drifting.
• Begin at low speeds and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.
• Always have supervision, preferably from an experienced go-kart driver or instructor.
• What To Do If You Drift Unintentionally During a Race

Despite our best intentions, sometimes drifting might occur unintentionally during a race.

Here's what you should do if you find yourself drifting in a go-kart:

• Stay calm and do not panic.
• Ease off the gas pedal and gently steer in the direction you want to go.
• As the kart straightens out, gently accelerate to regain control.

Related: How To Drift In A Go Kart (EASIER THAN YOU THINK)

Tips for Effective Go-Kart Racing

Instead of relying on drifting, it's better to focus on improving your racing techniques.

These include efficient braking or deceleration, precise steering using the steering wheel, and understanding the best racing lines. Find out how much do go-karts cost in the UK on our website.

These techniques will help you maintain speed and reduce lap times, making you a better racer.

In Summary

Drifting in go-kart races, although visually appealing and exciting, does not contribute to a better racing performance.

On the contrary, it leads to slower lap times, increased tyre wear, and greater risk.

The key to success in go-kart racing lies in understanding and mastering the basic principles of driving and handling your kart effectively on the track.

FAQs