Does anyone manufacture small karts now???

[Kent]

I have looked at karts for sale but don't see anyone producing small karts like we used to see. What I see are China made (mostly) two seaters with a lot of cheap parts and workmanship.

I was wondering if anyone (even China) produces the little karts anymore???

I will probably build my own. I have bought used karts before but replacing parts seems like you really have to research carefully and sometimes it just feels like you need to get lucky when ordering. I don't have enough familiarity with karts to just know this hub will work with these rims or they don't make that part anymore etc.... I just feel like I have to do more research and engineering than seems like as much fun as I thought I would be.

I think my biggest problem is not understanding what parts are compatible.

I feel drawn to the idea of building or working on karts. I have seen so many young kids really light up when they get the chance to drive one of these "simple" machines. Makes a lot of work and money worth it.

Just looking for any input that might move me along......Thanks

 

[ol'joe]

I recall at one time I was signed up as a dealer for an outfit called "Azuzu" I think it was, and while they might not have had absolutely everything one might need, the dealer prices on what they did have were really cheap, and one could usually find a way to make the kart run with what they had on hand.

I also would encourage anybody so inclined to start making karts from the ground up, buying parts that are easy to locate and cheap to buy, but fabricating others that are somewhat tougher to come by. NONE....repeat NONE of the parts are masterpieces beyond the capability of common machinists to make with the exceptions of some of the engines, roller chains, belts, bearings....stuff that is available and cheap off the shelf anywhere you go
If you are drawn towards self employment in manufacturing, you were born into a golden era, and not much can stop you except fear.

A LOT of machines are created in home shops these days, sold through Craigslist, delivered to and collected for on the Walmart parking lot. Government is losing control of commerce these days....As well it should....best of good fortune to you....Joe

 

[landuse]

Azuza still makes a small frame. It is really small though. Adults normally struggle in them. Have a look at these links

http://www.diygokarts.com/vb/showthread.php?t=28362
http://www.diygokarts.com/vb/showpost.php?p=441488&postcount=4

 

[Joe-405]

Gopowersports has some but they are pricey

And there is someone on eBay making different frames also.

 

[gmo1515]

Gopowersports has what they call "Vintage Frame Kits" which are based off of the old Manco "American Express" (also sold as a Sears "Orange Krate") chassis with some updates and improvements. From what I understand the frame is stretched slightly to make it easier for adults to fit in. The steering wheel is moved upward for the same reason. Also, the brakes have been updated to a disc and the engine plate should accept the common engines used these days.

Link here to frame kits

Jason

 

[Karttekk]

Looks like GoKarts USA carries the Azusa kits also.


https://gokartsusa.com/Go-Kart-Kit-6-inch-Wheels.aspx

 

[Kent]

Thank you all for the replies!!! And the links provided are very helpful.

---------- Post added at 10:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 09:51 AM ----------

I forgot to mention something very unusual I stumbled upon. I went to a link I think gmo1515 provided, GoPowerSports.com . On their front page they have a video and picture near the bottom. That must be the guy I bought my used kart from. I recognize his house and street. I will email him to see if he knows they are posted there. He builds some very nice karts.

 

[JTSpeedDemon]

Ohhhh, you mean Dennis? The guy in the "Factory Test Drive" video? Yeah, I wouldn't be surprised if he moves a lot of karts through.
He's a real nice guy, got to meet him once at Pate Swap Meet.

 

[72bajaben]

I bought a "Coleman CK100" from Walmart for my 7 y/o. 3HP, Live axle, hydro brakes. Best part...adjustable seat. Its perfect for him. Except (in his words) is too slow....or alteast compared to his older brothers Murray Kilowatt.

 

[JTSpeedDemon]

Ohhh, yeah! The little Colemans! $700 at Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Coleman-Powersports-100cc-Gas-Powered-Go-kart-Black-and-Red/480257966

Monster Moto also sells a similar, 80cc kart for about $700 as well, although it's out of stock at the moment: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Monster-Moto-Classic-Go-Kart-80cc-Black/911996701

 

[Karts of Kaos]

why get one of those when you can get one of these for 200

 

[JTSpeedDemon]

Haha, that does look like a fun project! Although the OP was asking what companies currently manufacture small karts......

 

[Kent]

Those karts JTSpeedDemon linked look like fun entry level karts. And the price is good for what it looks like. Both being out of stock sounds like they might not make 'em much or they just sell out quickly.

I think my next kart will be home built. Just sounds like more fun to do your own and you know what you've got.

 

[72bajaben]

Ohhh, yeah! The little Colemans! $700 at Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Coleman-Powersports-100cc-Gas-Powered-Go-kart-Black-and-Red/480257966

I feel that $700 is way too much for those Coleman go karts. They are well put together and runs great. But its a solid $400-500 kids kart. I got mine on clearance for $349...so it was a steal. I regret not buying both of the ones they had there at the time.

The CK100 has a larger framed than the SK100. We got the SK100...and the MSRP is the same. One downside is that there aren't any parts out there for them. Im going to build a new rear sprocket so I can squeeze some more speed out of it.

If you are looking for an entry level kart for a young kid...I cant recommend the Coleman SK100 enough.