As (unfortunately) always happens, we have that "fear" of not knowing how to do something the first time. But let's not be dramatic - one thing is not knowing if you'd be good at performing open-heart surgery on someone fighting between life and death... and quite another is trying something as fun as driving a kart!
Consider that if there are karting tracks where children can drive these vehicles, you'll be able to do it too. Driving a kart isn't complicated - in fact it's much simpler than driving a car. Having just two pedals (accelerator under your right foot, brake under the left) and a steering wheel, with no gears, no clutch, no "little levers" or distractions... it's like driving a bumper car.
We're not talking about competition karts (many of which have 2 engines, sequential gear shift on the steering wheel...). The karts driven at regular circuits present no more difficulty than braking before corners and steering according to which way they go.
Driving a kart fast is another matter. To reach that level you'll need to go somewhat slower at first. In any case, when starting out there are two golden rules to respect:
- You either accelerate or brake, but never press both pedals simultaneously.
- Braking should be done with the steering wheel straight, before the corner. If you don't do this, you'll likely understeer (that is, skid), which isn't very funny when you're a novice.
Gradually you'll test your limits and those of your kart: you'll try braking later, accelerating sooner, taking corners faster... Mistakes will happen, as they do to everyone: braking too late or too sharply, running out of road in corners (that's what kerbs, run-off areas... and grass are for), other karts crossing your path...
But always remember that a rental kart at a normal circuit stops in an instant... and they're designed to withstand these minor mistakes while ensuring user safety.
Without doubt, the best thing is to try it. Karts are tremendous fun and you'll see within two or three sessions that it's not difficult at all. Plus, it's an activity that's very easy to find in any county - and if not, check here all the options you have to drive a kart just kilometres from you.
On your first lap, your first day, accelerate and brake following your instincts, without overthinking it. You'll gradually realise for yourself where to perform certain manoeuvres, finding it's simpler than anyone could explain. Just enjoy yourself!
