What is an off-road go kart?
Go karts have been around for the better part of a century. Over the course of many decades, go karts have evolved into a massive industry that branches off in several different directions. One of the more extreme, but also widely available genres of go karting is off road go karts.
Off road go karts typically have specific features that make them compatible with driving anywhere besides the pavement. These karts will have heavy duty roll cage, a low center of gravity and a focus on safety features. Large aggressive tires help these kart tackle dirt, gravel, mud, and inclines with ease. Many off-road go karts will have several details designed to protect the driver from dirt and debris, like a windshield, fenders, chain guards, etc.
Not all offroad karts are created equal
If you have decided that you want your very own off-road go kart to enjoy, it’s important to understand a little but of the history surrounding the industry. Many American made go kart brands were available through the 80s and 90s. In the early 2000s, these brands started to take a heavy hit from consumers suing the companies. Many of these lawsuits were due to safety issues, but the karts themself were rarely the issue.
Even though most of the safety issues were cause by user error or neglect, many of these consumer won their suits, thus bankrupting the go kart manufacturers. Within a decade or so, most of the USA based go kart companies were out of business, or struggling. This decline in US based factories allowed several Chinese brands to ease into the market and make a name for themselves.
By the 2010s, there was no longer any American made off road go kart, at all. With 15+ years on the market already, the Chinese companies were able to easily take over. Now, all off road go karts sold in the US are made in China. Some brands may claim to be made in the states, but there are only assembled in America- a play on words that makes those brands seem dishonest and crooked.
The big concern with off-road go karts now is the reputation of “made in China”. The truth is that most go kart brands use cheap materials, cheap labor, and offer the bare minimum in their machines to be able to mass produce them and keep them in the marketplace. Most of these brands sell in big box stores, and therefore don’t have to provide great quality, parts, technical support, or a wide product range.
Which brands can you trust?
Let’s take a look at some of the more reputable brands. We’ll compare and contrast the models available, price points, history, parts availability, technical support and more to help you determine exactly what is the best off go kart on the market today.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the best off-road go kart
When choosing an off road go kart, keep in mind that there isn’t just one simple answer for everyone. There are many factors that determine which brand and which model will be perfect for you. Here are some things to consider when shopping for an off-road go kart:
Engine power and performance:
what engines are offered on the different models? On smaller go karts, you should expect to see a 5-7hp engine that is similar to a Honda GX series engine. These Chinese clones are typically just as reliable as the Honda version and the parts are easily accessible. Trailmaster uses the Liana engines, as well as a Trailmaster branded engine. Hammerhead uses an LCT brand engine. Some models will have pull start only, while some may have electric start as well. This may be a preference, so determine what’s important to you.
Suspension system:
Most off road go karts available now have a dual A-arm front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension. The taller the spindles and longer the A-arm, the better the dampening power of the shocks will be. The best way to determine is a kart has good suspension when shopping online is to simply compare photos. Some cheaper karts may not even have a-arm or shocks at all-stay away from these.
Durability and build quality:
The only way to really know the durability of a machine is to read reviews to see what real people are saying. Check out YouTube videos of people with the different karts you are interested in. But a quick way to judge the quality is to check the warranty. Most go karts should have 30 day coverage on the engine and 90 days on the frame as a minimum warranty length. Some dealers may offer additional coverage separate from the manufacturer.
The only one year warranty on the market is currently offered by Go Kart Masters on all Trailmaster products. This should give you some security knowing that a dealer with decades of experience is willing to personally back Trailmaster products. And that 12 month warranty is FREE with any go kart- no upgrade fees necessary. Other brands may sell you additional coverage- but that doesn’t actually show you they vote of confidence in the machine. Trailmaster is simply the highest quality kart on the market.
Off-road capability and terrain suitability:
Off road go karts are not the same as a dune buggy or side by side. Be sure that you are aware of the top speed, ground clearance, and terrain capabilities. For example, most mini karts will struggle with inclines unless the dealer offers a clutch upgrade. Many off-road go karts will struggle in mud or water, and none of them are built for thick sand. Even the full size buggies are not built for extreme terrain like mud bogs or rock climbing.
Safety features:
The best off-road go kart will offer all of the safety features you can imagine. Trailmaster offers 5 point harnesses on most of their go karts. The exception is on a few price point models that have a 3point seatbelt and some of the racing style models that have 4point quick release belts. Mini karts should have bucket seats, easy to operate steering, remote shut off key fobs, a stop button on the dash, and chain guards.
The best mid size karts will have fenders all around, bucket style seats, chain guards, high sided frames for brush protection, a wider front end and long wheel base for roll over protection and more. Any adult size go kart should have a windshield, or at least on available as an option. Canopy tops offer sun, rain and mud protection a should be on any kart you buy.
Price and value for money:
We all know that “you get what you pay for”. But sometimes the budget simply doesn’t have room for a more expensive option. That’s why it’s important to shop for a brand that has. wide product range. The more variety available within a brand, the more price points they can hit to allow you to decide just how much to spend. Look for base models without electric start, premium models, the option to add reverse, sports packages and more- all of these different options being available should tell you that an off-road go kart brand has a great line-up where you can decide which features you’re willing to pay for.
Top Off-Road Go Karts in 2024
Mini Off-Road Go Kart: Trailmaster Mini XRX-R+
This kart is the absolute best mini go kart available. Built for ages 4-10, this little buggy packs a punch with every detail. The Mini boasts adjustable pedals, adjustable bucket seat, LED headlights, 5 point safety harnesses, easy to drive rack and pinion steering, full suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, a remote shut off key fob, both pull start and electric start, and so much more. It also features a reverse gear.
Trailmaster Mid XRX-R For Kids
The Trailmaster Mid XRX-R is an all time best seller and an all around best go kart. What makes this an all around best seller? We built this go kart for anyone and everyone. With the adjustable driver’s seat, it can fit the average 8 year old but also has plenty of space for most adults to drive. It has the most reliable Chinese engine on the market- a 7hp Trailmaster engine that pushes the kart to speeds up to 24 mph.
We maximized every little detail: tall spindles, long A-arms and heavy duty shocks; a torque converter transmission that powers a heavy duty gearbox, solid rear axle, and 420 gauge drive chain; ultimate stopping power with hydraulic disc brakes; easy steering with rack and pinion system, oversized aggressive tires, and a wide front end with a great turn radius. If we could only sell one model, this would be the best choice.
Trailmaster 200 and 300 Adult size Buggies
If you’re in search of a full size buggy for adults, you have a couple of options for the best off-road buggy. All of these models rank as the top go kart for their side size and class. The main difference is the features that each model offers. All of these models are now built with EFI, eliminating carburetor and fuel issues!
200 XRSE: full size kart, 30 mph, GY6 ATV style engine, heavy duty suspension, bucket seats, headlights.
200 XRXE: the same sturdy frame and drive train of the XRS model with the addition of LED light bar, aluminum rims, speedometer with engine light, turn signals and tail light, sport style steering wheel
300 XRSE: this is a 200 XRS, but we’ve exchange the engine for a large, more powerful option that will push the kart to speeds over 40mph! More heavy duty rear brakes accommodate the additional engine power.
300 XRXE: the ultimate off-road buggy for the extremist! This kart features independent rear suspension, making it nearly impossible to flip, even when traveling full speed over the harshest terrain. This kart boasts incredible power and speed, all the heavy duty upgrades we could pack into it, and more!
Tips for Maintaining and Getting the Most Out of Your Off-Road Go Kart
It’s very important to understand that off road go karts are powerful working machines with precision engineering and a whole host of moving parts. These moving parts require attention through regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Some may invite you to do your own modifications and upgrades to customize your kart. But you need to remember that you will have to put some effort in to make your go kart live a long life.
Regular maintenance practices
Break in Period
After the break-in period of around 5 hours, you should perform a complete service on your go kart. This includes changing the spark plug, air filter, and engine oil, adjusting and lubricating the chain, greasing any lubrication points on your kart, and generally inspecting everything on the kart. This service should be performed every 10 hours of riding time. In addition to this, karts with an external CVT will also need the drive clutch cleaned and greased every 10 hours.
Caution around Fuel
Fuel is the number one cause of engine issues and warranty calls. Using bad fuel, allowing dirt and debris into the take through poor practices, or leaving fuel sitting will cause many issues and none of them are covered under warranty. Don’t make this operator error that can shorten the life of your go kart. Try to use non-ethanol gasoline. Don’t let gas sit more than one month, either in the fuel tank or in a gas can. Use a stabilizer in all of your gasoline. Clean the outside of the gas can and the fuel tank before refueling to eliminate dirt and debris. Change your fuel filter regularly.
Upgrades Can be easy!
Upgrades are available if you’re willing to do some research. You can find sporty steering wheels, racing seatbelts, light bars, and whip lights on the internet and with a small set of skills, add those features to your go kart.
Brush up on Driving Skills
Driving Techniques for off road karting are sometimes not obvious to someone who has never driven a go kart. If you are approaching a steep grade, try to hit it head on instead of at a diagonal. When driving over ruts, make sure the tires straddle the rut rather that having the tires get stuck in gap. When driving over logs or large rocks, avoid driving directly over as the sprocket guard on the rear of your kart will most likely hit or catch. If you run into issues, call your dealer for more tips and tricks.
Safety First!
Safety gear is always highly recommended. Even if you buy the best go kart on the market, you should still purchase a helmet, gloves, and goggles. Anytime you drive the go kart, you need to wear clothing’s that covers your arms and legs, close-toed shoes, a helmet with goggles and gloves. Ear plugs can also be a good idea. Long hair should be secured at all times. These simply steps will keep you safe while driving.
Which off road go kart is the best?
Now that you’ve read over these key points, you should know exactly what to look for in an off-road go kart and what to expect once you own one. Know which features are the highest quality, determine the size and price point you want to pay. Research the quality and durability of different brands and models by reading reviews and checking the warranty program. Check parts availability. Prepare yourself for ownership by understanding maintenance, best practices and driving techniques.
You’re an off road go kart pro now! Go check out some go karts online and use your new skills to detect the great karts and wee out the junk. At the end of your search, we believe you will settle on a Trailmaster go kart!
