Workshop ready

Build the Drews Ave racer

Whether you’re gearing up a school team or dialling in a pro build, these steps keep you within spec while squeezing out speed.

1. Concept & Planning

  • Sketch your chassis with the Drews Ave chicane in mind—plan for quick directional changes.
  • Decide on materials: lightweight plywood over a steel ladder frame is common; aluminium and composite shells also perform well.
  • Set your wheelbase between 1.2–1.4 m for stability without sacrificing turning radius.

2. Chassis & Steering

  • Construct a rigid base using welded box section or laminated timber. Triangulate to avoid flex.
  • Use BMX forks or machined knuckles connected via tie rods to achieve Ackermann geometry.
  • Install steering stops to prevent wheel over-rotation. Steering must return to centre smoothly.

3. Braking System

  • Preferred options are disc brakes on the rear axle or dual scrub brakes with rubber pads.
  • Mount the brake lever or pedal where the driver can reach it without shifting position.
  • Test brakes on an incline—karts must stop within 6 metres from race speed.

4. Bodywork & Aerodynamics

  • Sheath the chassis with lightweight panels. Avoid sharp edges and cover exposed bolts.
  • Add ventilation around the driver compartment. Visibility must remain clear in a full-face helmet.
  • Securely mount number boards and sponsor panels; plan for quick removal if scrutineers request inspection.

5. Testing & Tuning

  • Perform slow-speed shakedowns to confirm tracking. Adjust toe-in for stability.
  • Practice push starts and braking sequences with the driver suited up.
  • Log run times, tweak weight distribution, and re-torque bolts before race day.

Resources

Build smarter

Tune it for Whanganui

The Drews Ave course isn’t straight. You’ll need legitimate steering, confident brakes, and a kart that can recover after the chicane.

Read the full build guide

Steering Geometry

Double-check Ackermann steering for tight Drews Ave hairpins and include a steering stop.

Brake Confidence

Hydraulic bike disks or robust scrub brakes are mandatory—finish chute requires a full stop.

Driver Fit

Harness or lap-belt recommended; drivers must demonstrate they can exit within 10 seconds.

Visibility

Add high-contrast numbers on both sides and the nose cone for marshal visibility.