by Kristian Werkley

The Northeast’s Version of Shifter Karts

The typical shifter kart class for most of the Northeast is made up of karts that are equipped with either an ICC engine or a 125cc motorcycle engine that has been modified to increase its output and drivability within the rules set forth by SKUSA for G1 or ‘Mod Moto’. This engine formula has proven over the years to offer a great deal of equality to shifter kart racers, while allowing them to choose an engine package based on their personal preferences without fear of being uncompetitive.

This engine formula is in contrast with how the majority of the rest of the United States handles engine rules concerning shifter kart racing. The predominate engine formula for the rest of the country is Stock Moto, this is basically a ‘Spec’ class that specifies the brand and year of the engine as well as its supporting parts, in this case it’s the 1999 year Honda CR125.

Shifting at F1NJ

For the club races at F1NJ the engine rules will continue to use the ICC / Mod Moto formula. The minimum weight is set at 375 lbs. and the tire rules are open, meaning you can run any brand or compound that you desire, the fuel rules are also open. These rules only apply to the club races and may differ from rules of various championship series races that are held at F1NJ.

For those of you who haven’t yet had the opportunity to drive a shifter kart around the 1.03 mile Tempest circuit, you are in for a thrilling ride. This world class circuit incorporates smooth and flowing lines, with tight and technical sections that are connected by a blisteringly fast straight that has a kink right in the middle just to make sure you’re paying attention.