Outlaw Karts FAQ
Outlaw Racing Frequently Asked Questions.
Q. What are the Tillsonburg Outlaws?
A. We are a group of racers that meet weekly in Tillsonburg Ontario, Canada
Q. What do you race?
A. All divisions use QRC style floating cage Mini Sprint karts.
Q. Do you race in the winter?
A. No, it is too cold. Racing is Tuesday nights, June through September.
Q. Our driver has never raced before, do you have a class for them?
A. Yes, we divide the club into 4 divisions based on age and skill.
Q. Do you rent karts?
A. No, members purchase and maintain there own karts.
Q. Can we leave our kart at the track?
A. No, racers need to take their kart home to perform weekly clean up and check overs.
Q. What age drivers can race?
A. Racers can start at 5 years old and there is not an upper age limit. Most kids start around 7-10
Q. Is the track paved?
A. No, the track is a clay oval.
Q. Can two drivers share a kart?
A. If drivers would like to race every other week, this would be possible but it is not practical to share a kart otherwise.
Q. What happens when a driver graduates to the next division?
A. Beginner and Box Stock use the same engines. All that is required is a different restrictor. Advancement to the 230 or Open division means a different engine and maybe a new kart because the driver likely grew bigger as well.
Q. Can we practice other than race night?
A. Generally no but call us to see if there is an option.
Q. Can we use any engine?
A. Not in Box Stock. In order to keep racers competitive and happy on race days, The choice is the sealed LO206 Briggs or the EX270 Suburu which is supplied and sealed by the track to reduce necessary inspections and teardowns. (230 should use the Yamaha 225/230 and Open division should use Honda CR 500 engines or comparable 4 stroke)
Q. I have a pipe bender, can I build my own chassis?
A. No, after several failed attempts at homebuilt karts, the club mandated drivers must use commercially made (QRC) and similar karts. Among several advantages is the fact that new members with no prior skills/racing knowledge can purchase competitive karts "off the shelf" Additionally, replacement parts are readily available since there is commonality between chassis'.
Q. Where can we purchase a kart?
A, Used karts may be found anywhere in North America but shipping can be significant. The best place to start is by contacting Chesterman's. 519-842-5977. There may be used ones available locally. New karts are always available with a bit of notice. If you are unsure of the legality of a kart you have located, please contact Chesterman's to confirm admissibility.
Q. How does the scoring work?
A. Each racer has an orange AMB MX transponder which lets our computer pick up each time the driver crosses the finish line. (This may be purchased or leased) This system is used each night and also for the season standings.
Q. Okay, I found a kart, what else do we need?
A. Racers will also need fire resistant driving suit, gloves and neck collar. Other safety items include wrist restraints, helmet and eye protection.
Q What if we get everything and decide racing is not for us?
A. In the unlikely event this happens, Chesterman's will list your race items and assist in finding a new owner. There is a demand for used items so your investment should come back quickly. Time has proven you will more likely be looking for a second kart for a sibling, parent or friend. Racing is very fun and addictive.
Q. How much does it cost to race?
A. NO Annual membership. Weekly race entry fee is $40(2024). That's about it once you have the kart and gear.
Q. I don't want to start with someone else's used up stuff. How much is everything new?
A. While racing is not cheap, it is not as bad as you might think. A kart will last most drivers 5 years and often sell well used for half the original cost. Besides getting some of their investment back down the road, the original owners also enjoy several years of racing before needing tires, clutches, engine rebuilds etc., making a new kart the best way to go for most people. In 2024, a new Boxstock kart with engine, $9,900, driver safety gear, $500, transponder, $100-265. Tax applies but that's the end of it. You are ready to hit the track. Most drivers will want some cool graphics and that can range from $50 to $500 depending on your desires. Your 2nd and 3rd season usually requires little further investment.
Q Where else can we race?
A. Outlaw kart racing is something you can do your whole life. In Ontario, Tillsonburg and Ohsweken have active series. There are many tracks in the USA for teams to try as well.
Q. I want in, where do I start?
A. Just step up and do it. Call Chesterman's and say I want to race. They will help you locate what you need. Besides knowing what is available used, they often have everything in the store waiting for you.
