Used go karts, also known as go-carts, go-karts, gocarts, gokarts and other varied spellings, have really taken off since the 1950s when military men (namely airmen) would pass time racing go karts in competition. The person historians point fingers at for the invention of the first go-kart is Mr. Art Ingels, a Californian native who built the first one back in 1956. He was known for loving hot rods and even held a job as a car builder at Kurtis Kraft, a company specializing in all sorts of car models, including midget cars and sport cars.

Like turtles used go karts looks the same on the outside (Box, Painted, Snapping and Tortoise), go karts may look similar but have subtle differences too. There are both electric and gasoline powered go karts. The electric model often goes slower but accelerates quicker. They are also known to be easier to handle and break down less often. Conventionally speaking, an electric go kart cost less to buy, to insure and to drive. The electric go kart is best piloted on flat ground in non-competitive sports. These are more recreational than sporty. These are more environmentally friendly and can be driven both indoors and outdoors.

The gas-powered used go kart counterpart cannot be driven indoors. These often reach higher speeds than the electric twin; often, too, they are equipped with more power and travel over longer distances. These gas powered go karts cost more to run and emit more fumes because they actually burn fuel. These types of go carts are constructed for both manual and automatic shifting, though most racers seem to prefer the manual shifting option. The more powerful the go kart, the more experience the driver should have at driving it. These are by no means toys and reach speeds in excess of 160 mph.

The styles of used go karts vary as much as the drivers, engines and models. Depending on driving skill, terrain layout and overall purpose, drivers will have to choose an appropriate go kart style. Does the driver need racing tires (smooth) or all terrain tires (knobby)? Does the driver plan to go around a racetrack (the go kart will be angled and not “in line”) or over straight paths (the ground clearance may be higher or lower)?

The way a driver answers these questions will provide the answer to the kind of style s/he needs. Go karts do have varying tires, angles and ground clearance. They have various engine torque and often contrasting purposes pertinent to the terrain. Some, too, have roll bars while others have nothing but head protection. A two- or four-stroke engine may be needed for certain topography. The style of go kart you choose should fit the type of driving and conditions you’ll be karting over. Go karts can be fun, phenomenal and downright fanatical. Choose a category that befits you best before buying.

We've created this site to help you find that perfect used go kart and even learn a thing or two about the sport of go karting.

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