Finally looking to scratch the itch

[matt]

I've finally decided to purchase a shifter and start driving/racing. I've been reading all weekend long trying to figure out what I need to do to get started. As far as I can tell, I need to do the following: Can everyone please provide thoughts or feedback. I really appreciate the help!

1- Decide on a chassis and engine setup. After much reading I think the stock moto CR 125 seems like the best bet for a novice. I have technical skills, but don't feel comfortable committing to a rebuild as often as a ICC motor seems to require. I've browsed a couple of chassis manufactures, and Beril seems to be a good choice. What does everyone think of this?

2- I think I can run the stock moto at SMG and Eau Claire. It seems the classes of stock and ICC are combined and evened out by weight. Is that correct? I don't expect to immediately challenge for a win, but I also don't want to enter with non-competitive equipment.

3- I need gear, the Riverlake shop is my first stop for this. I'm guessing that I'll find everything I need there...

4- Do I need a racing license like SCCA racing? Are there any other requirements that I need to fulfill before getting started?

5- What else am I missing?

I'm trying to get an early start by preparing now for next year. I want to make sure I have adequate time to read, listen and learn before just running out there. I'm thinking a used kart would be the best bet, does that sound right?

I realize that not much posting occurs after the season, so I really appreciate any assistance and time you can offer!

Thanks!
Matt

[jessica]

Matt,
FYI- Eau Claire does not have a shifter class that competes regularly. They do not get enough karts to maintain the class. This past season they only ran the class a couple of times with very few competitors (less than 5). I don't know if this will influence your choice of class to run but at least you have a heads-up.
Jessica

[matt]

Jessica-
Thanks for the info. I've really got my heart set on a shifter... do they still race at Stockholm in Cokato?

Is there anywhere I've overlooked as a possible racing locale?

[lance9]

Hey there, a bit of friendly advice for you is: if you want to RACE nose to tail, pass and be passed several times a lap. Get a Animal or W/F Briggs set up. There is a real learning curve on the shifters. Buy a cheap old used moto one for pratice days if you must have one. And by all means go see Mark at River lake racing (or the nice folks at SMP) Later....

[Mark Enderlein]

Matt,
Glad to see you are ready to 'scratch that itch'. There are numerous options to get your feet wet in kart racing. However, going the shifter route is jumping into the deep end. I don't mean to cast any doubt on anyones ability to drive, it's just that the shifter class is usually considered the top class some may strive for, not a place to begin. Not to say it cannot be done. The learning curve for a beginning karter is quite high and I have seen some 'catch on' a lot quicker than others. If you are interested, I would be happy to discuss with you shifters and possibly a couple other options that might suit your racing 'needs'. Feel free to give me a call at the shop sometime and if you get a chance, drop me an e-mail
( [e-mail] ) so I can add your name to the invite list for the open house at Riverlake in Dec.

Hope to hear from you soon, don't lose that itch. Mark

[motobean11]

Matt,
Are you still looking to by a shifter Kart to race at Stockholm? If you are I have one for sale that comes with everything you will need to start racing and be competitive. If your still interested or have any questions about racing shoot me an email at [e-mail]
Good luck, Andrew

[trackmagic22h]

I'm wondering how the shifter class will be this year, there where only 5 or so at each race last year. I was going to race a shifter this year but want as much competition as I can get. Decided to make the switch to Tag Masters instead. Seem like the track will be harsh for an old 35 year old like me on a shifter anyway. Now if Stock moto became popular that would be the ticket.