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'08 Points Racing:
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Engine Packages

Engine packages and age are the two primary distinctions between classes.  Each package has it's advantages, and one of them will fit your needs the best. 

The three main choices are -- Briggs Animal, Yamaha SuperCan, and TAG.

Briggs Animal -- 8 hp

The Animal is a 200cc four stroke engine producing approximately 8 hp in the senior classes.  Using overhead valve technology, it is the modern replacement for the flat head Briggs "Raptor" that has been run for so long.  The Animal rules permit very few modifications, meaning an overhaul should last the season.  The Animal is used in both junior and senior classes.

In the Junior classes restrictors are used to limit horsepower, making racing safe and competitive.  The younger classes have both lower weight and horsepower, keeping performance to a level well suited for each age group.  For the senior classes, the engine is run unrestricted.

Yamaha SuperCan -- 16 hp

The Yamaha KT100 engine has been used in karting in some form for several decades.  As a "SuperCan", the Yamaha is run with a can muffler instead of a tuned pipe.  This keeps horsepower at reliable level and allows easier carburetor tuning.  Because of the rules structure, running the engine without modification by a motor builder really isn't an option.  Rebuilds are recommended once or twice per season, depending on amount of racing you do.

There are several centrifugal disc clutch's available, but the most popular choice is a dry version.  These have lower weight, making them easier for the engine to spin, but limiting the amount of abuse they will take from a driver.  The second option is a "wet" clutch.  These are bigger, beefier units that are run submerged in a special oil to help keep them cool.

For the 8-12 year olds, the standard engine is de-rated with a smaller carburetor.  While this limits hp much like putting a restrictor in, using a carburetor the correct size makes it much easier to tune.  A side benefit to lower power levels is a longer time between overhauls.

With a Yamaha you will also need an external starter.  Starters are essentially a hand held case enclosing a battery and electric motor.  To start the engine, you plug the starter into the side of the engine and push the button.  The electric motor turns the engine, and it will start.

The Yamaha SuperCan is an engine that has been around karting for many years.  Moderate power and expense, easy tuning, and plentiful racing makes this an attractive choice for a lot of racers.

TAG -- 28 hp

TAG engines have been in karting for 4-5 years, and are fast becoming one of the most popular classes.  There are several engines that are allowed to race together that have similar power levels.  When one engine has a little more hp than the others, it is required to carry more weight on the track, effectively evening out performance.  TAG engines are primarily 125cc, two stroke, water cooled, and all have electric start.  The on board electric start is part of how we got the name TAG, from "Touch And Go."

The TAG class has several advantages for the racer.  In addition to the extra horsepower, the TAG engines are more reliable than their counterparts in other classes.  When taken care of properly, these engines will run 40 hours, or roughly two seasons, before needing an overhaul!  There is no "blueprinting" needed to be competitive in this class, taking the engine builder bill out of your budget.  Each engine has a spec, low engagement rpm clutch.  With a low rpm engagement, the clutch should only slip when you are leaving the pits.  This makes the engine drive like direct-drive on the track, and cuts clutch expense to a sliver of other classes.

Every element is designed to keep the TAG class simple, reliable, and fast.  To that end, new TAG packages are very inclusive and come with engine, carburetor, airbox, pipe, radiator, water pump, hoses, battery, and some even include a motor mount!  From every angle, this class is designed to give you high performance racing on a low maintenance budget.

Next - choosing a Birel chassis