Throughout the years NatSKA has seen many classes come and go, ranging from the sports most popular engines to the not so much ‘do it yourself and get your hands dirty’ kind! The main focus has always been on what offers up the best all round experience: driving, tinkering and value for money.
The sport and it’s regulations have changed over the years narrowing scope for the chance to build your own kart and understand how it works but NatSKA still strives to offer the opportunity for kids, teens and parents alike to learn about the karts and all the mechanisms involved. Learning and knowing what your kart is doing is half the experience and may make the difference when it comes to getting on the top step of that podium.
Whilst training to achieve the full racing licence Drivers are restricted to our low power classes for safety reasons. These can also be raced in NatSKA’s normal meeting structure once a license is gained, competing against each other just as the high powers do.
This engine has now been joined in class 14 by a restricted version of the BT82 (see class 7) which uses a simple exhaust / carburettor restrictor kit supplied free of charge by NatSKA. We are trying to make it easier for drivers to keep one engine throughout their time with us rather than having to keep getting a bigger (and more expensive one) as they get bigger themselves.
When a full license is acquired and enough experience gained the high powers offer up a bit more of a exhilarating experience. These tend to be the more competitive classes offering up some impressive wheel to wheel action!
Engines used within the class are identical. Virtually no modifications are allowed and tight and closely checked rules ensure a level playing field for everyone. Any kart can be used subject to certain restrictions to keep out complex items. Chassis set up is simple compared to other classes. If you are mechanically minded these are relatively simple to maintain yourself and can easily last a full season with just one service.
We allow for the big variations in size and weight drivers go through as they develop from child to adult and we have a series of weight and power sub classes to ensure an equal opportunity for drivers regardless of size, age and sex. What’s more those categories make it all safer too.
Class 7 has five weight bands (123/128/135/142/148 Kilos) with the transfer taking just moments to change carburettor air restrictor.
Quite expensive to buy new, and around £400 for a service but they do keep going with minimum maintenance. Downside is that they are sealed by the service agents to ensure no cheating so you can’t do a great deal of the work yourself.