FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Getting into karting can have many meanings – one may wish to be a driver, where another would love to be a corner marshall or flagger, and someone else may wish to be part of a pit crew. Our club has a variety of members that all have a role in the karting community. Don’t ever feel shy to ask a question – we all know that we were all beginners once.
Coming out to one of our track days would be a great place to learn about karting – these days are packed with excitement!
Events hosted by VIKA are open to the public for spectating and are open to VIKA club members for participation. We have a wide range of members in all shapes and sizes, male and female, children and seniors. If you are considering coming out to spectate, volunteer, or participate in an event, know that we would love for you to join us at one of our upcoming track days!
VIKA is pleased to announce that the Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit will be hosting track days for our club members! VIMC is a brand new, state of the art facility and has a dynamic and challenging track that will test any driver.
It doesn’t have to be, but it sure can be! Like many sports, there are different levels of karting such as the local level, provincial level, nationals, and even large international events. Many karters start out with used equipment to see if it is something they want to invest their time and energy into. These karters sometimes choose to upgrade to a new kart, but many stick to what they have or get new pre-loved equipment. We have a varied group in terms of what we are willing to spend, but one thing is certain, that spending more doesn’t always mean you’ll have more fun!
Listed here are some items you’ll need to consider and some middle of the road budget costs if you’re interested in getting into kart racing. The costs listed are based on an adult entering into the Senior Briggs class which is the entry level class and highly recommended if you are new to karting.
You’ll need a truck or trailer to transport your kart and gear to and from the track. A pop up tent 10′ x 10′ minimum will accommodate a one kart set-up and help keep you dry on rainy days and cool in the heat of summer.
$100.00 – $200.00 – Annual single or family membership at VIKA.
$185.00 – Transponder with one year subscription from MyLaps.
$25.00 – Transponder rental at the track if you choose not to purchase.
$300.00 – A tool box with the basic tools required for kart repairs and servicing including a low pressure tire guage and a means to inflate tires.
$20.00 – A jerry can for your kart fuel.
$450.00 – Rain tires on aluminum rims, used pricing.
$300.00 – Race helmet must be SNELL 2020 rated, full face, closing visor and no damage. Entry level new pricing.
$250.00 – Race suit, abrasion resistant. Entry level new pricing.
$125.00 – Race boots. Entry level new pricing.
$60.00 – Race gloves. Entry level new pricing.
$75.00 – Neck protector, highly recommended. Entry level new pricing.
$125.00 – Rib protector, highly recommended. Entry level new pricing.
Here are three different kart options and price points depending on your budget. This pricing is based on a full rolling chassis with slicks, seat and Briggs LO206 motor ready for the track. Remember to always look over your kart or have someone with more experience help you before getting on the track.
$2,500.00 – $4,500.00 – This option would be for a used kart with many races.
$4,500.00 – $7,500.00 – This option would be for a used kart only having a few races to maybe one season of racing.
$7,500.00 – $10,000.00 – This option would be for a new kart having no races and professionally assembled with maybe a few custom add-on’s.
There are many different karts and gear to choose from, both online and at your local kart shops. Please do some further research or ask for some help if you are not sure what would best be suited for your budget. Here are a few kart dealers on the Island that would be
more than happy to assist with any questions or purchases.
Racelab VI – 9396 Smiley Rd., Chemainus, BC 250-709-4785
Ignition Motorsports – 277 Government St., Duncan, BC 250-510-8844
Progressive Kart Racing – 3068 Sarah Drv., Sooke, BC 250-588-4111
VIKA offers many different race classes depending on your age and level of experience. As mentioned above these prices give you some basic budget pricing and items needed at an entry level and can vary either way depending on the class and kart set-up you choose.
It sure is! Many of our karters have been racing for decades and we have one very special family that had three generations of racers racing on the same day! Karting is a family sport and there is a role for everyone at the track. Think about it: someone needs to drive, someone needs to be the pit crew, and someone needs to be the cheering crowd. If you are looking for a family sport, you have found the right one; and if you’re looking for a family, then you’ve found that too!
Absolutely! The Vancouver Island Karting Association is well-known for having a friendly, knowledgable, and supportive community! Many of our members have been involved in karting for many years, have tons of knowledge, and are willing to answer any questions you may have about getting involved today.
Feel free to contact us, there is a contact form available on our website! We would love to hear from you and answer any questions you may have about getting into karting.
The biggest club benefit is that you’re able to drive in club events if you have a club membership! You are invited to club meetings, can vote in club elections, you can view club minutes and notices online.
Karting is a very exciting spectator sport! You may even notice that some of our weekend go-getters have been cheering racers on for years! Once you have seen a few events, you’ll learn some driver names and be as invested in the action as if you were on a pit crew. Perhaps you may consider taking an even closer view of the track and consider being a corner marshall…
The Capital City Kart Club and the Vancouver Island Karting Association are one and the same. In 1970, the CCKC was formed and now operates as the Vancouver Island Karting Association.