How to Add Suspension to Your Go Kart in 7 Steps

By: Kevinsmak
Date: January 12, 2023
Time to read: 7 min.

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To add suspension to a go-kart:

Cut the tubing to the desired length
Thread springs through the holes in the tubing and secures them
Secure the shock absorbers
Attach the tubing to the kart frame
Thread the tubing through the holes in the frame and secure it
Attach the shock absorbers to the tubing

Building a go-kart is a fun and rewarding project, but it can be even more fun if you add some suspension to it. In this blog post, we will show you how to do just that in seven easy steps.

By following these instructions, you will be able to add some much-needed bounce and cushioning to your go-kart. Let’s get started.

How to Add Suspension to Your Go Kart in 7 Steps

To add suspension to your go-kart, you will need the following materials:

Two lengths of tubing (we recommend PVC or metal)

Four springs (coil or leaf springs will work)
Four shock absorbers (this is optional, but recommended)
Drill
Saw
Measuring tape
Wrench

Now that you have all of the necessary materials let’s get started.

Step 1

Cut the tubing to the desired length. The length will depend on the size and design of your go-kart, so be sure to measure carefully.

Once you have cut the tubing, use the drill to make two holes in each end.

Step 2

Thread the springs through the holes in the tubing and secure them with a wrench. Make sure that the coils of the springs are facing inward.

You want to carefully tighten the springs, but do not over-tighten them or you could damage the tubing.

Step 3

Secure the shock absorbers to the kart frame using the drill and saw. Again, make sure that you measure carefully so that everything is properly aligned.

Here, be careful not to over-tighten the bolts or you could damage the frame. You may want to add washers to the bolts for extra stability.

Step 4

Connect the tubing to the kart’s frame now. Here is where you’ll want to take your time and measure carefully, as here is where things can start to become complicated.

A drill and a saw will be needed to cut four holes in the kart’s frame (two in the front and two in the back).

Step 5

Thread the tubing through the holes in the frame and secure it with bolts. Be sure to use washers on both sides of the tubing to prevent it from rubbing against the frame.

You will also want to use lock nuts on these bolts so that they do not come loose while you are driving.

Step 6

Now, it’s time to attach the shock absorbers to the tubing. This is a relatively simple process; just use the drill to make two holes at each end of the tubing and then bolt the shocks in place. Be sure to use lock nuts on these bolts as well.

Step 7

That’s it! You should now have a go-kart with suspension. Be sure to take it for a test drive on a smooth surface to see how it handles.

If everything feels good, then you’re ready to hit the racetrack.

Why Add Suspension to Go-karts?

There are various reasons you may want to add suspension to go-karts. Maybe you want a smoother ride, or maybe you’re racing on a bumpy track.

Either way, adding suspension can definitely improve the performance of your kart. If you’re still not convinced, here are a few more reasons to add suspension to your go-kart:

It can improve handling

Mounting suspension on your go-kart will greatly enhance its maneuverability. The driver has a harder time maintaining command of the kart when it is bouncing and moving around.

You’ll have an advantage over the competition if your kart has good suspension and stays put on the circuit.

Adding suspension can help to distribute weight more evenly

Weight distribution is another important factor in go-karting. If the weight is not distributed evenly, it can cause the kart to handle poorly.

By adding suspension, you can help to distribute the weight more evenly, which will improve handling and performance.

Suspension can absorb impact

Suspension is crucial if the track you’re racing on is bumpy. The suspension will help to dampen the jolts caused by speed bumps and potholes, making the ride more comfortable for the driver and passengers.

It can make the ride more comfortable

When travelling for a long distance, being bounced around might become very unpleasant. With the right suspension setup, your ride will be more relaxing and your body will experience less weariness.

You may now drive for longer and quicker without experiencing any fatigue.

It can reduce wear and tear on the kart frame

This is another great benefit of adding suspension to your go-kart. By absorbing the impact of bumps and potholes, the suspension will help to reduce wear and tear on the kart frame.

This can extend the life of your kart and save you money in the long run.

Are There Any Drawbacks of Adding Suspension to a Go-kart?

While adding suspension to your go-kart obviously comes with a raft of benefits, there are a few drawbacks that you should be aware of.

Ground clearance may increase

This is among the most common complaints about adding suspension to go-karts. When you add shocks and springs, it will inevitably increase the ground clearance of the kart.

This can be a problem on tracks with low barriers or obstacles.

You may need to add another brake at the rear wheels

A typical go-kart will have a brake on each of the front wheels and a brake on each of the back wheels. Adding suspension to a go-kart may alter its center of gravity to the point that you must install a second set of brakes on the back wheels.

The hubs can become more complex

The addition of suspension to your go-kart may have this drawback as well. For the shocks to work properly, they must be attached to the wheel rims.

Consequently, the hubs may become more complicated and challenging to manage as a result.

Go-Kart Suspension FAQs

Is it difficult to add suspension to a go-kart?

No, it’s not difficult to add suspension to a go-kart. In fact, many people do it themselves. You can add suspension to your go-kart in the seven simple steps outlined above.

What are the benefits of adding suspension to a go-kart?

Improvements in handling, weight distribution, ride comfort, and longevity can all be realized by installing suspension in a go-kart.

What type of shocks should I use for my go-kart?

This question does not have a universally applicable solution. The size, weight, and speed of your go-kart will determine the sort of shocks you employ.
To locate the ideal shocks for your unique requirements, you should speak with a go-karting specialist.

How much does it cost to add suspension to a go-kart?

There isn’t a single, perfect response to this query. Your go-weight, kart’s size, and speed will determine the sort of shocks you employ.
To locate the ideal shocks for your particular needs, you should speak with a go-karting expert.

Will adding suspension make my go-kart easier to handle?

Yes, however, how effectively you set up the suspension will mostly determine this. An incorrect suspension setup can actually make driving your go-kart more difficult.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, adding suspension to your go-kart is unquestionably a smart move. It has a lot of advantages, and the disadvantages are pretty minimal.

Suspension addition is the way to go if you want to enhance the handling and performance of your go-kart.

I hope you understand how simple it is to add suspension to your go-kart. You can quickly get on track if you only follow the aforementioned instructions.

Make sure to keep your go-kart clean after use to extend its life.

Kevinsmak

Hello! I’m Kevinsmak; I have been a content producer of RC Ride On Cars since the start of this site. I have always enjoyed Power Wheels with my family. My two boys love them, and seeing this helps me make sure this website is very accurate for the safety and enjoyment of your family. Read more here

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