One of the most popular questions we get asked is about our karting height restriction. We have a guideline in place that specifies that drivers must be 4ft 2inches or taller in order to drive.
We often have customers questioning our reasons for having a height restriction in place, many often reply with but my child is only a few inches shorter… can they not drive?
The restriction is in place for your safety and here’s exactly why;
STRAIGHT LEGS
When someone is too short for the go kart their legs will be fully extended and straight when touching the pedals.
Now this is exactly why we have a height restriction. If you crash into a barrier or another kart with straight extended legs, this will cause the leg to lock out resulting in possible damage to your knee and spine. So it’s crucial that the driver’s legs are long enough.
LEG BEND
When you climb into the kart you want to sit back and get comfortable. A good seating position will always cause your legs to bend at the knee with your feet touching the pedals. If you crash with a bend in your knee this will significantly reduce any injury as the leg is relaxed rather than straight and rigid.
We always suggest that anyone who is around the minimum height limit heads down to the track to be measured. At the track we can perform a kart fitting to see if the legs have that all important bend.
If you fancy like showcasing your driving talent call us on 0191 3860999 or book online at https://www.durhamkarting.co.uk/book-now/. To secure a slot we require a £5.00 deposit per driver.