Kart racing is a very popular and the least expensive form of racing, but don't let the size fool you.

Just like the "big boys", a racing kart takes careful preparation.  Chassis setup, motor work, and  racecraft each play an important part in being a competitive racer.  Racing karts are far from toys. They are pure racing machines and should be treated as such.

If you decide to enter the sport of kart racing, the information you will find here will give you a better idea of how to get started in your racing carreer.

The type of racing we do is refered to as "Sprint" racing .Sprint racing takes place on short,  road-style courses (both right and left hand turns) and are typically of short duration (eight to 12 laps). Sprint drivers are from all age groups, from 5 years to senior citizens. LIKA hold it's races at the on its 10-turn, 0.45-mile   temporary road-course at the Nassau Veteran's Coliseum in Uniondale. A typical race day program includes practice sessions, time trials and two heats.

What's the best way to get started?

The first thing you should do is come visit us on race day. Check our schedule for coming events. Spectating out side of the pit area is free. Everyone is welcome to come up and watch a race. For insurance purposes, spectators are required to purchase a pit pass for $10. The pass will allow you to walk around the pits, see the karts up close, and ask questions.

Once you've seen what karting is all about, decide if karting is for you. Come back, attend another kart race if necessary. Familiarize yourself with the way the running of a raceday. Ask questions and start looking more closely at the different classes. Some classes are better suited for a beginner. Don't get in over your head. Introduce yourself to some of the karters, vendors, club Officials. LIKA members are always helpful and willing to answer your questions. Parts and advice are available from our vendors at the track on race day.

Once you've narrowed down which class you're interested in, you can start looking for your first kart. New or used? It's up to you and your pocketbook. Many racers start with used equipment while they learn the ins-and-outs of kart driving and set-up, then sell it after the first season and buy new equipment.

Due to beign a temporary racing circuit, there are a limited number of practice days on the LIKA schedule. You can practice on raceday, but practice tiem is limited. When you feel comfortable in the kart and you've mastered basic kart maintenance, you should be ready to enter your first race!
How fast do the karts go?

It varies depending on the class, kid karts go about 25 mph, but the Shifter, Rotax or TaG karts can go about 75 mph at the end of the long straight.
How old do I have to be? What's the oldest I can be?

Karting is suitable for all age groups from 5 and up. Separate classes exist for ages 5-7, 8-11, 12-15, 16+ and 35+. Our oldest competing member is over 70 years old. Karting isn't just for the boys either. There are a few female racers in the Junior and Senior classes A day at the races is a great family event, with plenty to do and people to meet, whether competing or not.
Do I need a license to race?

No, you do not need to be licensed. For safety reasons, you may be asked to demonstrate your driving ability to the Track Driector before being allowed to compete.
Can I test drive a kart?

Yes, arrangements may be made for a test drive of about 4 laps with some of the karting businesses (vendors) that come to our track, subject to the availability of their karts. To take a test drive, insurance pit passes costing $10 are required for admittance to the pit area. Ask about test drives at our entrance table. Test drives may be conducted during breaks in our club driving sessions at the discretion of the LIKA Track Director.