THE BRAKE DISC COVER AND OTHER TACTICS SEEN AT THE KZ WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

Max Bernardi

30 September 2019

The World Championships of the various classes are, for karting, the most important races of the year that nobody wants to miss. These races are the ideal place to observe how the teams perform on the track, and what devices they use for their vehicles and what gimmicks they use to prevent or solve possible glitches. Wandering around in the Lonato paddock during the 2019 FIA Karting World KZ Championship, TKART has captured some “secrets” of the most important teams in the world, discovering that very often, small ways which may prove to be very crucial, are within the reach of all kart drivers. Here are 4, starting with the front brake disc cover, which anyone can put into practice while on the track.

BRAKE DISC COVER

In KZ karts, the front braking is essential when easing off the throttle in a sudden and effective way. Generally, the braking distribution is 70% in the front and 30% in the rear. This changes in case of rain, when it is preferable to switch to a an equal 50% in the front and back. When the rain is particularly heavy, however, correcting the distribution may not be enough, and a little help is needed to allow the front disc to maintain the right response right from the very first use of the brake. This help is the disc cover, made by the Kart Republic Team starting from a chain guard. Its purpose is to protect the disc and eliminate the water film that forms so that the pads come into direct contact with the disc, thus maintaining the ideal grip between the two components.

Indicative price

For a few Euro

This has been seen done on the karts of the Kart Republic team during the 2019 FIA Karting World KZ Championship in Lonato.

PLASTIC CABLE TIE ON THE FUEL TANK FASTENING SYSTEM

When the difference between a good result and a strong disappointment can depend on any detail, even the loss of performance of the smallest detail costing just a few cents, every precaution is never overly excessive. For example, the fastening of the fuel tank to the chassis is generally not an element in which that much attention is given to it, as it is not considered a major source of possible issues. Yet, the most meticulous technicians do not neglect to place a cable tie between the tank fastener and the chassis. The purpose? Prevent the fly nut from becoming loose due to vibrations and, potentially, trigger furthermore serious problems.

Indicative price

For a few Euro cents

This has been seen done in Lonato on the FIA Academy Trophy karts.