Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly will I learn in the course?

The course focuses on all techniques of competitive kart driving. As your experience level improves, more advanced techniques will be taught. The course starts off with fundamentals like learning the optimum drive line, basic kart control, and threshold braking.

As you quickly gain experience, you can focus on actual racing techniques such as passing strategies, rolling race starts, and 'closing the door' on competitors.

Please keep in mind that the program is entirely tailored to your interests and requirements.   Thus,  you can learn at any pace that is comfortable for you as a driver.

Where is the track located?

The track is in Long Tan, close to Tao Yuen [map]. It is only a 30 minute drive from Taipei, and any required transportation is provided at very reasonable rates. 

How safe is kart racing?

As with all forms of motorsport, there is always some risk involved driving a kart at speed. However, if you have not had kart driving experience before, you will spend a session or two in the 60kph indoor-style karts first, as you get up to speed [with instruction at all times, including valuable lead/follow drills to immediately get you going fast]. You will always be able to drive at your own pace, so you don't exceed your limits. As any race driver would say, "First you learn how to drive well, then how to drive fast." We will show you everything from drive lines to explaining the best way to brake and time the throttle, and you will quickly discover just how easy and fun karting is.

What is a typical day at the track like?

The typical daily schedule is as follows:

Upon arrival at the track there is an equipment check, and you choose a helmet [gloves are provided].  This will be followed by kart fitting, a track walk and review of the track map [you will be provided with track maps free of charge in order to be able to take notes on items like the drive line, braking points, turn in points, etc].

This will be followed by your first session, which consists of:

1.      Lead/follow at increasing lap speeds [at your own pace] followed by open lapping [during which you will be observed by an instructor];

2.      One-on-one analysis of your driving with suggestions on areas for improvement.

You can then choose to do your remaining sessions in one of two ways: either a lead/follow drill again followed by open lapping under observation, or simply open lapping during which time you will be observed by an instructor.  After each session there will again be an analysis of any areas for improvement.

How much ‘seat time’ do I get in the kart?

A typical session runs for approximately 25-30 minutes, or about 20 laps. 

What about lunch and refreshments?

There are several breaks of 30 to 40 minutes between sessions.  During these breaks you have plenty of time to relax, have lunch [which will be provided, your choice of American or Chinese fare], use the restroom, or take photos with family and friends. 

Is the course run under adverse conditions?

In the interest of safety the course is not run under rain conditions. 

What should I wear/bring?

Loose-fitting, comfortable clothes and sneakers [or a similar type of athletic shoe].  Helmets and gloves are provided.  Keep in mind that weather conditions sometimes change rapidly in Taiwan, even from morning to afternoon. 

Can I bring family or friends?

You are more than welcome to bring family or friends.  There are plenty of viewing areas to take photos and watch the racing action. In addition, there are single and two-seater karts [60kph] that guests can use if they want to simply take part in the fun. Children are more than welcome to drive the indoor-type karts, as long as they are able to fit properly in the kart [typically children 8 years old and above], or you can drive them [or friends] around the track in the two-seater indoor-type karts.

Can I start my first session in the Rotax?

Because of the high speeds the Rotax karts reach [160kph at TYKA’s longest straight], it is required that if you do not have previous competition karting experience, you first learn the track and get comfortable in one of the 4-stroke [Indoor-type] karts.