RS KART: THE NEW CHASSIS SIGNED BY RALF SCHUMACHER

Max Bernardi

20 September 2018

Ralf Schumacher, former F1 and DTM driver, who owns and manages a kart team, takes a further step by presenting the RS Kart product range. Vehicles that are the result of his collaboration with IPK, with the aim of establishing them in all classes: from Mini to KZ

CHASSIS

BRAKE SYSTEM

ACCESSORIES

ADDED VALUE

THE OPINION

TECH SHEET

The new RS Kart, that bears the name of its "inventor" Ralf Schumacher, is manufactured by IPK, a brand that already makes the Praga Kart, Formula K and OK1 chassis. Established outside the valid period for new approvals (the approvals sessions take place every three years, the next will be in 2021) the chassis is based on the Praga Dragon Evo, with a classic design body made of 30 mm diameter tubes, manually welded by specialised operators. The RS Kart adopts the latest innovations introduced by Praga, like the new case for the steering column support that reduces vibrations and increases the rigidity in the area. A modification designed to facilitate driving and reduce the number of steering adjustments during fast direction changes. The new support has two fastening positions for the footrest, so the driving position can be adjusted.

An interesting novelty at the rear as well, where the open axle bearing housing casings are located. This allows a less rigid rear, improving the ability to adapt to different set-ups, like varying the hardness of the axle. Furthermore, it allows fast disassembly of the axle, without having to remove it.

The adjustment of the geometries is carried out using the tested CCS system (Camber Caster System) by IPK, which allows the camber and caster to be adjusted independently while maintaining the standard height of the chassis at the front. The column also has 4 holes on which to fasten the steering arms, for more adjustments to the Ackermann angle.

CHASSIS

BRAKE SYSTEM

ACCESSORIES

ADDED VALUE

THE OPINION

TECH SHEET

In its single-gear configuration, the RS Kart is fitted with IPK’s RKK braking system.
Approved in 2018, it is different due to a monoblock brake caliper machined from a solid piece, with an optimised shape to improve cooling and significantly reduce weight. The attachment is radial to decrease bending during braking. There are two pistons (28 mm in diameter) which pushes the brake pads against the disc. From the side resting on the brake pads, the pistons have undergone processing that improves cooling and optimises the cleaning of dust coming from the brake pads.
The brake disc is floating and self-ventilated. There are two diameters available: 187 mm and 195 mm, the latter as an option. There are, instead, four versions of the brake pads, which vary the modulation of the braking system to adapt to the track’s grip conditions and the driving style of the drivers in the best possible way.

The brake pump, which is also made of aluminium machined from a solid piece, has a 19 mm diameter piston inside. The upper part has a tray for "play" purposes, which ensures a uniform of the brake pedal stroke even when the brake pads are worn.