Off-Road Go Kart Specs

Over the last few decades, advances in go karts have come a long way, especially off-road go karts. Go karts may also be called dune buggies or just buggies. The differences between an off-road buggy compared to an on-road buggy are pretty noticeable and it is apparent when you look at them. One of the most noticeable differences is that an off-road go kart is much larger. Many of the buggies created are large enough to seat at least two adults comfortably, with some only being built for one adult.

Go Kart Sizes

The larger design of these go karts doesn’t just enhance their appearance, it also signals the age range they’re meant for. If a driver can’t reach the controls, they shouldn’t be operating the go-kart. Additionally, the seat harness and other safety features must properly fit the driver. To make choosing your go-kart easy, you can either go by the size of the rider or the size of the engine. 

Go Kart Engines

Another major difference you’ll find is the engine. Smaller street carts usually have a much smaller engine in the 2.5 to 10 Horsepower range. While, on the other hand, an off-road go kart can be found with engines as large as 1200 cc. In fact, you’ve probably seen those large shiny engines on a go kart a time or two. Hardcore off-roaders will make sure that those engines are so polished that they are almost blinding by using some of the best metal polish money can buy. 

In addition to just having a cool looking engine, the reason for these larger motors is not for speed, but for power. Off-road go karts are designed to do just that, go off-road. This means you’ll want some power to get you up hills, through mud, sand, etc.

For example, navigating your off-road buggy up the side of an embankment without enough power behind it can end very badly. The vehicle would eventually come to a stop and then begin to roll backward down the hill. So if the cart is being driven on a steep, muddy, or basically anything that’s not a road terrain, choose a go kart model with a larger motor. 

Go Kart Tires

In addition to the size and the engine in an off-road go kart, the tires are also very different from their on-road counterparts. Off-road tires are usually taller to gain better ground clearance, an important factor for navigating through rough and hilly terrain. Taller tires actively reduce your chances of getting stuck when you’re out exploring. And although off-road tires cost more, anyone who’s been stuck will tell you the higher-performing tires pay off every time.

In addition to taller tires, the rear tires on an off-road go kart are much wider. The reason for this is that it gives the vehicle much better traction in precarious environments like mud and sand. The front tires in comparison are much smaller, but have large ribs as compared to the street models. This ensures optimal maneuvering, a critical factor in preventing your ride from getting stuck.

Also, the suspension on an off-roader is beefier than the street model. This is done to provide greater control and stability for the uneven terrain. 

Go Kart Style

Finally, the off-road go karts have a much more aggressive style about them. Most offroad buggies look a little more fun. With aggressive-looking decals, stunning paint jobs, chromed out wheels and engines, and big roll bars. Many of these off-road go karts almost look nothing like street go karts. Some off-road go karts will even come with a full roll cage to provide additional safety. You can tack on your accessories with roll bar mounts for longer excursions as well. 

All of these features will make your off-street go car look more dune buggy and less go karty, which is ideal for many younger riders. 

To keep all your on and off-road vehicles looking their best, make sure to use the best metal polish available. Polishes can be used on both your engine and wheels. Polishes keep your seats looking brand new with general car care kits, found here. We hope these off-road go kart specs help you to find the best go kart for you!