Best Shifter Karts 2024 - 125 CC Shifter Kart Kit, Frame Explained (2024)

Looking for an adrenaline-pumping driving experience? Look no further than a shifter kart boasting a manual gearbox and a 125cc or 250cc engine. While they may come with a higher price tag, the investment is well worth it for thrill seekers.

Road Rebel KZ is the best hydraulic brake shifter kart, and Intrepid Cruiser MS3 has a chrome plated pedal shifter kart frame. However, OTK Racer 401RR KZ features a reduced aerodynamic resistance shifter kart.

In this article, you will find the best shifter karts available. Moreover, we have answered a few common questions that users and readers often look for.

What Is A Shifter Kart?

A shifter go kart is the one with gears and a manual gearbox. There are two types, 125cc and 250cc engines. But, now 80cc engines are also available. The shifter karts have front brakes, but 125cc ones have front and rear hand operated brakes. Moreover, the 125cc shifter karts mostly have a power of 100 hp or 90 hp.

How To Make Street Legal Shifter Kart?

To make your shifter kart street legal, there are certain conditions that it must meet. But first, you must have the purchase documents, driver’s license, and other needed documents to register your shifter kart.

Legalizing your kart shifter must meet safety standards and have headlights, tail lights, and side mirrors. Your shifter kart should also have a windshield, dot tires, and horns. Most importantly, it must have seat belts and signal lights for making your and other safety a priority.

Check out state laws and federal regulations before riding your shifter kart on roads. Make sure you legalize it with the US government.

Where Can I Find A Used Shifter Go Kart For Sale?

Shifter karts are expensive and range in thousands of dollars, even for the used ones. However, you can find several websites like Racing Junk and marketplaces like eBay to help you find used shifter karts for sale.

At these marketplaces, you can find the shifter kart that falls within your budget or negotiate with the seller according to the features and condition of the go kart.

What Is The Shifter Kart’s Top Speed?

Shifter kart speed depends mainly on the power/weight ratio. It determines the kart’s speed while driving. Thus, a 125cc engine has been recorded to reach a top speed of about 80 mph with a ratio of 0.11-0.13 hp/lbs. However, it accelerates 0-60 mph in about 3.5 seconds. Moreover, its top speed has been found to reach about 115mph.

In the case of 250cc shifter karts, its power/weight ratio is about 0.22 hp/lbs. However, it is found to reach a speed of 130-140 mph with acceleration of 0-60 mph within 30 seconds.

Go Karts With Shifter Engines

Finding a shifter go karts with a durable chassis and comfortable seats is difficult. To make it easier, we researched different brands and scoured discussion forums to compile a list of the best shifter karts according to user experience.

1. Road Rebel KZ – Hydraulic brake shifter Kart
2. Intrepid Cruiser MS3 – Chrome plated pedal shifter kart frame
3. OTK Racer 401RR KZ – Reduced Aerodynamic resistance shifter Kart
4. Exprit Noesis RR – Cheap shifter kart
5. BSR Pro Driver X5 – racing shifter kart
6. Birel Art S15 – EVO brake shifter kart for adults

1. Road Rebel KZ – Hydraulic Brake Shifter Kart

In the karting world, CRG is a prestigious go kart manufacturer. They offer different karts for racing and rentals, along with the necessary accessories. CRG was established in 1986 as the Kali Kart evolution, and since then, it has strengthened itself from a commercial and sporting standpoint.

Road Rebel KZ shifter karts feature a hydraulic brake system with floating brake discs that ensure the driver’s safety. Its large fuel tank capacity of 8.5 gallons keeps you running longer, allowing you to reach your miles before your competitors.

Road Rebel KZ has been noticed to show the best performance within the operating cost with a 43 HP Rok Shifter engine. Moreover, you can also use it with the Iame Leopard 125cc engine to have optimal output in your next race.

In summary, Road Rebel KZ is one of the best shifter karts you can own for racing sessions. It offers the best-designed resin seats that are comfortable for you to ride in.

2. Intrepid Cruiser MS3 – Chrome Plated Pedal Shifter Kart Frame

Intrepid is an Italian company founded in 1992 by Mirko Sguerzoni. They started with manufacturing go karts parts and accessories. Since then, they have broadened their horizon and have started different lines in the go karts offering chassis for it as well.

The Cruiser MS3 Kart is one of the most consolidated intrepid models with 30 mm diameter frame tubes, guaranteeing excellent performance with medium/soft tires. Moreover, it suits all KZ, KZ2, KZN – KZ MASTER, and all shifter categories.
Cruiser MS3 performs best with the Modena KK1 engine, a 125cc displacement engine with a manual 6 speed gearbox transmission system. Furthermore, its central cross pieces are made of chromium molybdenum with a 30mm diameter. In addition to it, there is also an adjustable footrest system for a comfortable ride.

3. OTK Racer 401RR KZ – Reduced Aerodynamic Resistance Shifter Kart

OTK USA was founded in 1958 by Antonio “Tony” Bosio. Their karts have been used to win national and international races and championships. They have lined a huge range of racing karts named under different brands.

Racer 401 RR KZ is the Tony Kart flagship model, available in single gear, shifter, and DD2 versions. It features a world title BSD brake system with a stroke recovery system. In addition, it features high comfort position seats and an adjustable footrest with flexibility.

Iame X-30, Vortex Rok GP, Rotax FR125, and any 100cc engine are compatible with the Racer 401RR KZ shifter kart chassis. Furthermore, it has a 50mm racing axle and MXJ magnesium wheels.

In conclusion, the Racer 401RR KZ shifter kart body performs optimally with various engines. Moreover, it features adjustable footrests and comfortable seats.

4. Exprit Noesis Rr – Cheap Shifter Kart

Exprit Karts are designed in the OTK manufacturing facility and have been serving the racers under their umbrella. They serve different kart frames, parts, and wears for racers.

Noesis RR is the flagship model of the Exprit brand. They have rigorous control of the entire design with automatic processes that guarantee high quality standards. However, it has minimum aerodynamic resistance, resulting in increased performance.

Noesis RR has the world winning braking system in its single speed version. It is equipped with a stroke recovery system and features 34.5mm pistons. Moreover, it has a comfortable driver seat with adjustable footrests.

In summary, Exprit Noesis RR is a remarkable go kart chassis featuring all the innovative designs and technological advancements of the steering wheel, seat, and footrest.

5. BSR Pro Driver X5 – Racing Shifter Kart

BSR was founded in 2014 in Liepāja, Latvia. They specialize in electric karts and aim to advance transport solutions while educating society about their benefits. BSR deal in a range of racing and rental go karts.

BSR pro driver kart features standard Birel Art bodywork along with their chassis. It has freeline kart components and a 320 mm steering wheel. The powerful 96V Li-ion battery keeps the kart running for hours.

The BSR Pro driver is fun and is one of the fastest shifter karts. Its top speed of 84mph and acceleration of 60 mph in under seconds give the rider the adrenaline rush they seek. The front and rear brakes ensure the rider’s safety during an emergency.

In summary, the BSR pro driver is the best shifter kart in the electric engines and has remarkable acceleration. Its top speed gives the rider an exhilarating adrenaline rush to satisfy their need.

6. Birel Art S15 – Evo Brake Shifter Kart For Adults

Birel started taking place in the karting world in 1959, but in 2014, it merged with the Art and started designing its kart chassis for shifter and racing models. Today, Birel Art serves the best and most reliable chassis for any go kart.

Birel Art S15 is lined with hi tech aluminum forged mini pedals. These have characteristic sturdiness and adjust to the various positions according to each driver’s needs. Like every year, they have renewed the graphics to an aggressive and modern look.

Birel Art S15 offers a unique shifter karting experience. It is compatible with most market available engines. The flexible seat and crown carrier offer better function. This enhances engine performance and gets a kick out of the driver.

In conclusion, the Birel Art S15 is the best shifter kart in the market. It offers two Freeline range axles, a chain guard, RR Evo brakes, and more.

What To Look For When Buying Shifter Karts?

Shifter karts are amazing for their manual gearbox and drifting capabilities. For adults these are the best drift karts giving exhilarating driving experience. They are best used for racing and championship tournaments. Different brands offer fully customized shifter karts to their customers according to the designs and bodywork they need.

Buying a shifter kart is an entirely different story. Finding the one that suits your needs is complex. There are specific pointers that you can consider when purchasing your go karts.

1. Budget

Shifter karts are expensive, costing tens of thousands of dollars. Once you have finalized your budget, stick with it and start finding the karts that fall under it.

Keep in mind that there is a maintenance cost to keep your shifter kart. This includes the spare parts, gas, and more needed to keep it going. Moreover, consider the shifter kart kit to have some repairs and maintenance in your free time.

Remember that although the shifter karts are expensive, they require a set of accessories with quite a price tag. For example, the fireproof variants of the best karting helmets are not cheap.

2. Racing Class

You must decide which racing class you are taking part in. This will help you find the right shifter go kart to meet the standards of it. Adult racing classes mostly use a 125cc shifter kart, which provides sufficient driving speed.

3. Age, Height, And Weight

Before buying a shifter go kart, you must consider your age, height, and weight. This way, you can find the kart with comfortable seating positions that can carry your weight. However, this will also help you adjust the seat and pedals to your ease.

4. Brands

There are different brands available that offer customized shifter karts. You can find options by prioritizing selecting a kart from your specific brand. But again, these cost way more than any used karts. You can consider Blue Shock Racing, OTL, Sodi, and as the best go kart brands.

5. New Or Second Hand Option

If you are new to the karting world, buying a second hand kart is always recommended. However, if you have experience with shifter karts and know about the karts, then you can go for buying a new one. Moreover, this mainly depends on your budget and how much you can spend on it.

6. Ask Racers in Local Track

If you need clarification about buying a go kart, you can always seek advice from the other senior drivers. They will surely help you in such a situation and guide you in deciding the go-kart you might need.

What Would Be The Average Shifter Kart Price To Assemble A Brand New One?

The price for a shifter kart varies from several thousands of dollars to tens of thousands. The average price for a new 125cc shifter kart is about 4,000 to 10,000 dollars, whereas for a 250cc one, it ranges from 15,000 to 30,000.

If you are not interested in buying a brand new go kart, you can always find used shifter karts, especially with OTK chassis, which lasts for years.

Conclusion

To summarize, shifter karts are more advanced and expert level go karts. You can easily buy these second hand from different marketplaces like eBay but would like the custom made brand new one.

Road Rebel KZ uses floating disc brakes; Intrepid Cruiser MS3 offers an adjustable footrest; and OTK Racer, which has reduced aerodynamic resistance, is among the best shifter karts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Does A Shifter Kart Work?

Shifter kart, unlike traditional kart with a single drive engine, uses a 125cc shifter kart engine. Moreover, this engine comes with 6 gears, not one which helps transmit power. There are only two pedals, throttle and brake, while the clutch is hand operated.

2. What Shifter Engines Have The Most Aftermarket Support And Spare Parts?

You will find Honda CR engines to have the most aftermarket support and spare parts. But Rok shifter and TM engines enjoy the same perks as well.

3. Are Shifter Karts Worth The Money?

Shifter karts are more physically demanding and expensive. But they are worth the money as they provide the adventure and adrenaline rush every driver seeks.

About Author

I am Issac M., hailing from Atlanta, CA. I encountered several questions from people who wanted to buy go kart or build one from scratch. This led to the creation of gokartdude.com. I have written experimental guides and gear reviews to help go kart enthusiasts globally. Read more about me.