Ride Smart: Go Karts
You're well aware that go-karting can be dangerous. However, if you have a fully developed safety plan in place before you go riding, you can mitigate the risk to you and your passengers. Here at Freedom Cycles, we want our powersports and motorcycle customers to be the safest that they can be. For more information, visit us in Grandview, Missouri, where we serve Kansas City and Overland Park, Kansas.
Kart Maintenance
First and foremost, check to see that the roll cage of the go-kart is in good condition and not warped or distorted from a previous rollover.
After the roll cage, you also want to check the go-karts drive chain. None of the links should be damaged, and the chain should have the proper tension that's appropriate for the make and model of the go-kart. At high speeds, drivetrains that snap have been known to cause accidents.
After you've inspected the roll cage and drive chain, you must check all the usual stuff that you would on any vehicle: fluid levels, brake functionality, and proper tire inflation.
Finally, please don't forget to rock your go-kart back and forth and up onto its sides. Make sure no gasoline leaks from the tank or around any of the seals. After a rollover, gasoline that is leaking onto hot engine components can cause an explosion. If your go-kart does leak, don't ride. Instead, give us a call right away to schedule repairs!
Proper Seats for Everyone
Everyone that rides in the go-kart with you must have a proper seat and safety harness. And please, never allow children to ride in your lap!
Everyone must have a seat and proper restraints at all times. We're saying this twice because it's so important. It is the rule. Any injuries that result from not following this rule are inexcusable because they are totally preventable.
Helmets and Clothing
Refusing to compromise on personal protective equipment prevents many go-karts and powersports related injuries. Helmets are a must for every passenger. Also, everyone should be wearing pants and clothing that fits them snugly, not too loose.
One more thing, don't forget to tuck in or tie up long hair. Walk outside and look at your go-kart for a moment. You'll notice that the engine compartment and most of the drivetrain are relatively open, which means that spinning machinery is dangerously close to passengers who aren't properly secured in the go-kart and who aren't following proper clothing and helmet guidelines. Don't allow yourself or one of your passengers to get snagged.
Freedom Cycles has all the personal protective equipment that you'll ever need. If we don't have it in stock, we will order it for you in sizes to fit all of your riders. Contact us or drop by our dealership in Grandview today, where we proudly serve Kansas City and Overland Park.