OK, so you've had a snifter at karting and got on really well, what if you want to take it further?

Karting is a very accessible motorsport that runs most weekends and there are various different levels you can compete in. At a basic level competitive racing is divided into 4 categories, cadets - junior direct drive - senior direct drive and gearbox. Cadets and Junior classes cater for the up to 16s and Senior and Gearbox are for the old enough to know betters.

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Cadets (8-13 years)

Within the cadet class are 3 kart options; Comer, Honda and WTP Cadets, these differ in regulations and running costs. Comer and WTP Cadets both use a 2-stroke 60cc engine capable of speeds upto 55mph and are sealed engines to prevent mechanical advantage. The Honda differs from these two in that it runs a 4-stroke which may be a little slower getting to the top end but requires less maintenance. All 3 karts operate a centrifugal clutch meaning if you have a spin or lock the brakes you won't be needing a push start to get going again, the WTP even has a push start button (TAG system). You can pick up these karts for under £2000,particularly the Honda which is likely to come in at £1500.

Junior Direct Drive (11-16 years)

Again there are a number of options, most popular are; Rotax Minimax, Junior Max, Junior TKM, JICA and Biland. A Rotax minimax has the least power due to it's restricted 125cc engine but does come with a TAG system, its big brother - the Junior Max - is the same machine without the restrcitor, making it capable of speeds upto 70mph. Junior TKM and JICA (Junior Intercontinental A) are more serious formats being televised and on an international circuit. These both use 100cc engines although the TKM is again restricted and are really for those developing a racing career. Junior TKM also run a 4-stroke class that is cheaper to compete in. Lastly, Biland Junior uses a sealed 4-stroke engine but reportedly has the speed of a 2-stroke. All of these karts are gonna set you back rather more than the cadets with costs beginning at just over £2000 and running upto about £5000.

Senior Direct Drive (16+)

A similar line up to the juniors only more power. TKM Extreme, Rotax Max, ICA, Formula A and Biland are all unrestricted 2-stroke engines requiring a real commitment to the sport in terms of maintenance and depending on your class, money. Karts in this class will reach approx. 85mph with a 0-60 of around 4 seconds, so if you can't afford that Ferrari just yet, try one of these. Regulations differ between the classes but there is a general requirement to leave engine and chassis pretty much alone so winning comes down to driver skill. Costs can be quite economical to start, coming in at just over £2500 but with all the travelling, spares, extra help etc. it soon mounts up.

Gearbox (16+)

Now this is silly country, these things use 125 or 250cc engines and a gearshift to get you round at speeds upto 140mph!! They won't all do that though, the 125 ICC UK only does 120mph so that's much safer isn't it - and there's a junior gearbox category that has a reduced 85cc engine and 4 wheel braking system to put your mind at rest. I've never seen one of these in the flesh but I'd love to get my hands on one, check out the video footage of some superkarts.

So that's all pretty much explained isn't it! nah, there are other classes out there but I think I've covered the main ones and I know even less about the others anyway. Hope it helps.