As a beginner or hobby driver, it's tempting to find a cheap kart on Marktplaats. And that's not a bad thing! But there are a few important things to keep in mind. At KartKings, we regularly see drivers who find themselves with significant costs even after finding a bargain. In this blog post, we share our top tips.
1. Cheap is not always beneficial
The biggest pitfall: buying a kart for next to nothing, only to spend hundreds (if not thousands) of euros on repairs and parts. What seems like a bargain at first can quickly prove more expensive than a well-maintained used kart or even a new chassis. Calculate your budget beforehand and factor in additional costs for refurbishment.
2. Availability of parts is crucial
Pay close attention to the make and model of the kart. Some older or lesser-known brands have limited parts availability. Nothing is more frustrating than a kart sitting idle because you can't find a specific part. Check beforehand if parts are still available. At KartKings, we have a wide range of parts for the most common brands.
3. Check the chassis for damage
This is perhaps the most important point: check that the chassis isn't warped or damaged. A warped chassis is often difficult to straighten and significantly impacts handling. Place the chassis on a flat surface and measure the diagonals. Also check for cracks, especially at the welds and mounting points. A damaged chassis can be dangerous and is often not worth repairing.
4. The condition of the engine
The engine is the heart of your kart. Always ask about the maintenance history and the number of hours it has been running. Run the engine and pay attention to any unusual noises, smoke, or vibrations. An engine overhaul can easily cost between €500 and €1500, depending on the engine type. Ask if recent compression tests have been performed and if the engine has been overhauled recently.
5. First, determine your goal
Looking for a hobby project you can tinker with at your own pace? A cheaper kart that needs a bit of work might be perfect. But if you're serious about racing and want to hit the track right away, it's wiser to invest a bit more in a race-ready kart. For competitive racing, cheap often comes at a premium.
6. Ask about the history
Try to find out as much as possible about the kart's history. Has it been crashed a lot? How often has it been used? How long has it been sitting? A kart that has been well-maintained and treated with care is worth much more than a neglected one, even if they look the same in photos.
7. Bring someone with expertise
If you don't have much experience yourself, take someone with you who is knowledgeable about karts. An experienced eye often spots things you might miss. It could save you hundreds of euros.
The alternative: certainty at KartKings
Of course, we understand that not everyone has the budget for a brand new kart. That's why we at KartKings regularly have high-quality second-hand karts in our range. These have been inspected by us and refurbished where necessary, so you can hit the road with peace of mind.
Also view our range new chassis and partsWe're happy to help you find the best option for your situation and budget.
Good luck with your search and we hope to see you on the track soon! 🏁
Buying a kart through Marktplaats can certainly be a good deal, but be well-prepared. Check the chassis, engine, and parts availability. Know your goals and calculate your total investment beforehand. And if you're unsure, feel free to contact us for advice. We're happy to help you get started.
