Intermediate Academy Driver
Race Academy Intermediate
Ready to step things up? Build on the basics with better braking, smoother racing lines and smarter cornering techniques. Learn to understand your kart, carry more speed and start putting together faster, more consistent laps.
Your Race Academy Journey
Braking and the Racing Line
Brake
Brake before the corner so you stay in control. Try to use the same braking point each lap.
Turn
Turn smoothly and aim for the apex — the closest point to the inside of the corner.
Apex
Keep the kart steady. As you reach the apex, gently start accelerating.
Exit
Straighten the wheel and build up your speed. A fast exit can make a big difference to your lap time.
Common Mistakes
Braking or turning too late can make you run wide. If the kart slides, ease off and gently correct your steering.
The Racing Line
The racing line is the quickest, smoothest route through a corner. Look ahead and aim for a smooth entry, apex and exit.
Different Corners
Hairpins need a later turn. Long corners need smooth control. For corners close together, think ahead and set yourself up for the best exit.
How to Brake Properly in a Go Kart
Good braking helps you stay in control and get through corners smoothly. The aim isn't to brake as late as possible — it's to reach the right speed before you turn.
What happens when you brake?
When you brake, your weight moves towards the front of the kart. This can make the back feel lighter and easier to slide.
When you accelerate, your weight moves towards the back. You might have felt the same thing in a car — braking pushes you forwards, while accelerating pushes you back into your seat.
Keep it smooth
Braking too suddenly can make the kart harder to control. Try to brake smoothly and get the kart settled before turning into the corner.
Pick your braking point
Look for something easy to spot beside the track, such as a barrier, sign or marking. Use it as your braking point and try to brake in the same place each lap.
Practise makes you faster
Try different braking points and pay attention to how the kart feels. With practice, you'll learn when to brake and how much pressure you need.
Go Karting Tips for Faster Laps
As you get quicker, some corners need more than just brake, turn and accelerate. This is where trail braking and kart balance can help.
What is trail braking?
Trail braking means gently braking while you start to turn. Instead of coming completely off the brake before the corner, you slowly release it as the kart turns.
Keep it smooth
Use light brake pressure and pay attention to the kart. If the rear starts to slide, ease off the brake and let the kart settle.
What is kart balance?
Braking moves weight towards the front, helping the kart turn. Accelerating moves weight towards the rear, which can make the kart feel more stable.
Balance the Kart
A tiny bit of brake can help the kart turn. A little throttle can help settle it if the rear starts to slide.
Build a Faster Lap
Learn the track first, then look for your braking points, apexes and exits. Smooth, repeatable laps are usually faster than wild ones.
Learn Every Lap
Watch quicker drivers, try small changes and notice what works. Stay relaxed, look ahead and get into a rhythm.