RY32-S16 SH: THE BIREL ART "ALL 32" CHASSIS SPECIFIC FOR SHIFTER CLASSES

Giacomo Mantovani

29 November 2024 • 24 min. read

CIK-FIA 2024

HOMOLOGATION
The Birel ART RY32-S16 chassis is registered with FIA Karting homologation number 007/CH/12, the validity of which is extended until the end of 2024. The new FIA Karting regulations introduced in 2018 provide that new approvals last indefinitely, provided that the manufacturers renew their validity annually by paying the relative approval fee (To learn more, read, "Special | FIA approvals: what they are, what they are for, how long they last... The ultimate guide!").

SHIFTER

CONFIGURATION
The RY32-S16 is homologated for both single-speed and shifter karting. There are two distinct versions, identified by the acronyms SH (Shifter) and DD (Direct Drive), each with significant differences in design. For instance, the RY32-S16 SH version features a rear crossbar perpendicular to the stringers and integrates the gear lever attachment point into the chassis. This article focuses on the version designed for Shifter classes.

TUBES DIAMETER
Frames generally are made with 30 and/or 32 mm tubes. The RY32-S16 features a frame composed entirely of 32 mm diameter and 2 mm thick tubes.

ROBOT

WELDING
The welding process is entrusted entirely to robotic tools except for a couple of points where it remains manual (see later in the article for more details).

ERGAL AND MAGNESIUM

ACCESSORIES
All accessories are under the FreeLine brand (the division/brand of the Birel ART company, which deals with the design and production of karting components). All standard components are made of light aluminium alloy, only the wheels are made of magnesium alloy.

The RY32-S16 SH is the 2024 evolution of the chassis specifically designed for the Shifter classes, manufactured by the Italian company Birel ART. While the initial homologation of this chassis took place in 2012, the current development of the RY32 traces back to 2019, when Birel ART began focusing on a dedicated product for the shifter classes. Since then, its design has continuously evolved through updates aimed at optimising both usability and performance on track. The latest iteration, the RY32-S16, upholds the performance standards set by its predecessors, offering a chassis that guarantees extremely precise handling with top-quality components. The finish of the RY32-S16 SH is meticulously crafted, with each component designed around three key principles: delivering high perceived quality, minimising weight, and achieving maximum simplicity in construction. We visited the Italian company's headquarters in Lissone, approximately 20 km from Milan, to gain insight into the production process of this chassis, the design decisions made by Birel ART, and the range of FreeLine components available, both standard and optional. A sneak peek: the new Birel ART RY32-S16 SH features significant innovations, including a redesigned body and enhanced materials.

Editor's note
As of November 2024, Birel ART has already announced the upcoming release of the new RY32-S18 SH chassis series (the Italian manufacturer has skipped the S17 designation for superstitious reasons), which will be available in 2025. Key updates include changes to the body geometry and the introduction of new standard components, such as stub axles with a redesigned brake caliper support system, a new steering geometry, and an updated brake force distributor. The side fairings (FreeLine AERO, CIK 007-BS-20 homologation) as well as the front and rear spoilers (by KG) are also redesigned. We will provide an updated version of this article soon, detailing all the new features.

The Birel ART RY32 S16-SH chassis features a series of interesting changes to both the body and the accessories, distinctive compared to its predecessor, the 2023 S15 model. In addition, the livery has undergone a restyling that sees greater use of the characteristic red colour of Birel ART and introduces graphic details that make the overall aesthetic more aggressive.