Will A Go Kart Fit In A Car?

Updated: 16.05.25

You’ve just bought an awesome kids’ go-kart, and your child is buzzing with excitement.

But then, a worry hits: “How do I get this home?” Don’t panic! Transporting a go-kart is easier than you think with the right approach.

1. Can a Go-Kart Fit in Your Car?

2. Key Factors to Consider

Before transporting your go-kart, evaluate these factors to choose the best method.

2.1 Go-Kart Size

Kids’ go-karts vary widely in size:

• Toddler Models: ~50"L x 30"W x 20"H (e.g., RiiRoo pedal karts).
• Junior Models: ~79"L x 54"W x 24"H (e.g., electric or petrol karts).

Measure your go-kart (length, width, height) and note if parts (wheels, bumpers) are removable. Check our go-kart collection for specs.

2.2 Vehicle Size and Type

Your car’s cargo space determines feasibility:

• Compact Cars (e.g., Ford Fiesta): Limited trunk space (~10–12 cu. ft.); dismantling often required.
• SUVs (e.g., Toyota RAV4): 30–70 cu. ft. with seats folded; fits most junior karts.
• Minivans (e.g., Honda Odyssey): 80–140 cu. ft.; ideal for intact karts.
• Trucks (e.g., Ford F-150): 50–80 cu. ft. bed; best for larger karts.

Measure your trunk or cargo area and compare with go-kart dimensions. See our go-kart sizing guide.

Ensure your go-kart fits your vehicle and child.

3. Methods to Transport a Go-Kart

Choose from these methods based on your vehicle and go-kart size, balancing convenience and safety.

3.1 In the Trunk or Cargo Area

SUVs, minivans, or station wagons can often fit kids’ go-karts in the cargo area with seats folded.

• How: Remove wheels or bumpers if needed; secure with straps.
• Pros: No extra equipment; protects go-kart from weather.
• Cons: Limits passenger space; may require dismantling.
• Best for: Minivans (e.g., Chrysler Pacifica), SUVs (e.g., VW Tiguan).

3.2 On the Roof

Roof racks allow transport on top of cars, freeing interior space.

• How: Use sturdy roof racks (e.g., Thule, Yakima); secure with ratchet straps.
• Pros: Keeps trunk free; fits smaller cars.
• Cons: Requires racks (£50–£200); affects fuel efficiency and stability.
• Best for: Compact cars (e.g., Honda Civic), SUVs with racks.

3.3 Dismantling the Go-Kart

Breaking down the go-kart makes it fit smaller vehicles.

• How: Remove wheels, nose cone, side pods, and bumpers (15–30 minutes with basic tools).
• Pros: Fits compact trunks; no extra equipment needed.
• Cons: Time-consuming; requires reassembly.
• Best for: Hatchbacks (e.g., VW Golf), sedans (e.g., Toyota Corolla).

Steps to Dismantle:

1. Remove wheels using a wrench (store bolts safely).
2. Detach nose cone and side pods (usually clipped or bolted).
3. Fold or remove steering wheel if possible.
4. Place parts in protective bags to avoid scratches.

3.4 Using a Trailer

A trailer offers the easiest, safest transport for larger go-karts.

• How: Load onto a small utility trailer (e.g., 4x8 ft.); secure with tie-downs.
• Pros: No dismantling; fits any go-kart size.
• Cons: Requires trailer (£500–£2,000) and tow hitch.
• Best for: Trucks, SUVs with towing capacity (e.g., Jeep Grand Cherokee).

4. Safety Precautions and Legal Considerations

Transporting a go-kart safely protects your vehicle, kart, and other drivers.

4.1 Safety Tips

• Secure the Load: Use ratchet straps (£10–£30) or bungee cords to prevent movement.
• Protect Surfaces: Place blankets or padding to avoid scratches on the kart or car.
• Check Weight Limits: Ensure roof racks or cargo areas support the go-kart’s weight (150–175 lbs).
• Balance Load: Distribute weight evenly to maintain vehicle stability.

4.2 Legal Requirements (UK)

• Load Projection: Loads extending beyond the vehicle must be marked (e.g., red flag for >1m rear overhang).
• Weight Limits: Ensure total vehicle weight (kart + passengers) stays within your car’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
• Trailer Laws: Trailers require proper lights, number plates, and a towing weight under your vehicle’s limit (check manual).
• Insurance: Confirm your car insurance covers towing or oversized loads.

Check the UK Government towing regulations for details.

5. Go-Kart Transport Costs

Costs vary by method and whether you DIY or hire services:

• Trunk/Dismantling: Free, assuming you have straps (£10–£30).
• Roof Racks: £50–£200 for racks, plus straps.
• Trailer: £500–£2,000 to buy; £50–£150/day to rent.
• Professional Transport: £50–£250, depending on distance and service (e.g., local vs. nationwide).

Save by using your car’s trunk or renting a trailer for occasional use.

6. Finding Go-Kart Transport Services Near You

If DIY isn’t an option, search “go-kart transport near me” on Google or Yelp for local services.

7. Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources

• Will I Fit in a Go-Kart?
• UK Karting Locations
• Kids’ Go-Karts