Memo Gidley's Secrets of Speed

A Continuing Series from Memo Gidley's Four-Cycle Karting Book

Welcome to a new series of articles from me, Memo Gidley, and my newest book, "Secrets of Speed for Four-Cycle Kart Racing". Whether you are a young racer building toward a career in motorsports or a recreational driver looking for the thrill of speed and performance, you have come to the right place. "Secrets of Speed for Four-Cycle Kart Racing" is the third book in our growing series. Like our other books, this book has been designed to move you through the learning curve quickly and maximize the performance of you and your kart. Knowledge is the most powerful tool you can bring to the track.

Each article presented in GO Racing Magazine is designed to provide an ever-increasing understanding of your kart and what it can do for you. Each article anticipates what you will need to know next as you move along the learning curve. As a foundation we will examine how the kart is properly assembled and explain how the design of the chassis helps a kart perform. As part of this examination we will outline the special role the seat plays in maximizing your kart's performance. Next we will step into the world of the four-stroke engines and provide a solid base from which you can keep your power plant in top working order.

Other areas we will examine include tire maintenance, gearing set-up and data acquisition. Special attention is given to establishing a baseline for each key area of your kart. A common theme throughout the articles is being prepared using all the same principles that top kart drivers use, including setups for dry and wet weather conditions. Finally, we will finish by exploring driving techniques and racing principles specific to karting. As you will see throughout this series of exclusive articles, I am a firm believer in being prepared before you get to the racetrack.

Part 1: Getting Starting in Karting

First we will begin our introduction into four-cycle karting by looking at the history of karting, how to get started in karting, where to find information, the necessary safety gear and some of the tools and equipment you will need to go racing or just have an afternoon of fun at the track. Karting is more than just driving; it’s about working on your kart and setting goals. Karting is also a great sport you can enjoy with family and friends. Click here to read Memo Gidley's article "Getting Started in Karting".

Part 2: Getting Starting in Karting; Parts, Tools and Supplies

This installment from Memo Gidley’s Secrets of Speed for Four-Cycle Kart Racing we will finish off our look at safety equipment and review some of the tools, equipment and parts you need for a successful and fun day at the track. Click here to read the article.

Part 3: Kart Set-up Front to Back

This installment from Memo Gidley’s Secrets of Speed for Four-Cycle Kart Racing takes a detailed look at kart set-up from front to back. This includes a look at the chassis set-up, engine set-up and those first few laps. This first installment on chassis set-up will provide a general check of key components on your kart, a base line set-up and a look at your seat installation. Click here to read the article.

Part 4: Kart Engine and Exhaust Installation and Set-up