How to Build a 110cc Go-Cart

Planning ahead is a key part of building your own go-kart.

Building a go-kart is no simple task. It requires a knowledge of mechanics, kart design and a detailed plan. The exact method will vary by builder and parts. A 110 cubic centimeter engine will make the go-kart very fast on the track. It can easily hit over 60 mph. If the kart will be raced, it might require special design specifications by the racing league. If you want to build a 110 cc go-kart, follow a few basic rules.

Things You'll Need

• Hand tools
• Engine
• Drive-train and gearbox
• Brakes
• Axle
• Wheels
• Steering column and wheel
• Seat and harness
• Chassis
• Body panels
• Suspension
• Throttle

Instructions

1. Select a chassis. There are many types of chassis to choose from, including off-road, racing and touring. Racing chassis are small and built for the track, so they are the most common.

2. Select a 110 cc engine. Old dirt-bike engines are a good source because these engines tend to be powerful, durable and tuned for performance. The price is typically lower than for new engines. If the kart will be raced, make sure the engine conforms to the specs of the league. Many leagues specify two- or four-stroke engines.

3. Select a drive-train and gearbox. The gear box should be a six-speed sequential box with reverse. It should be a racing box, designed for high impact and wear. This type of box will serve most competitive environments and can be tuned for specific tracks.

4. Add wheels and axles. The tires should be racing slicks if you intend to race. The compound can be hard, soft or any combination in between. Serious racers often have several tires for different conditions. Tires are often regulated by leagues.

5. Add brakes and a throttle. Brakes are an important part of the kart. Select brakes with an adjustable bias. This allows the kart's braking to be adjusted to suit certain corners and tracks.

6. Add a suspension. It should be a racing suspension, tight and adjustable. You need an adjustable suspension to gain the maximum advantage from different tracks.

7. Add a seat and harness. The racing seat should be lightweight and comfortable for the racer. The harness should be a four-point racing harness. This will keep the driver secure in the kart.

8. Add body panels. Body panels and wings help with the kart's aerodynamics and down force. In slower karts this isn't a major issue. But a 110 cc kart needs to address the issues of wind resistance and down force. Significant performance can be gained or lost through the body of the car.

9. Purchase all necessary support parts. There are literally hundreds of extra parts required to put the kart together. Consult a build guide to determine what you need.

10. Build the kart. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to months to finish. A lot depends how much time is spent on it and what is being done.

References

• "Go-Kart Racing Chassis Setup: A Complete Guide to Setting Up a Winning Kart Chassis"; Brian Martin; 1996
• "Go Kart Racing: Competitive Karting : A Comprehensiven Guide To Karting"; Gary Martin; 2004
• "Build Your Own Off-Road Buggy for as little as 100"; Ron Champion; 2002