A typical Go Kart has different components that transfer power from the engine to the wheels and is what drives the kart. This includes the chassis, steering, engine and transmission, completing the structure.
The transmission is what hands over control over the engine-generated power. It comes in various types and one of those types is the gearbox or the manual transmission. This transmission type allows drivers to use a gear knob to engage a specific gear.
If you want the freedom to choose the best gear ratio setting for different speeds, then a gearbox is the ideal option.
To help you find the best gearbox that suits your Go Kart, here are the top 5 best Go Kart Gearbox in 2023.
List of Top 5 Go Kart Gearbox
Here is the list of the 5 best Go Kart Gearbox kits you can find in 2023.
1. VEVOR Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box
The VEVOR Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box is a top choice because of its high-quality metal, resistance to wear, and lightweightness. It has three shift modes: reverse, forward and neutral, allowing for easy and convenient operation.
This gear box kit has a wide application. It can be used to replace the 10T or 12T TAV30 Series Kart. It’s also ideal for utility vehicles, go-karts and other off-road vehicles.
Compared to other brands of gear box kits, the VEVOR Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box costs a lot less. Not to mention, VEVOR also offers discount coupons which makes this the most compelling offer for customers.
· Forward Ratio: 1:1.3
· Reverse Ratio: 1:2.6
· RPM: 2300
Pros:
· Easy to install
· Sturdy and durable
· Can last a long time
· Versatile
Cons:
· Can end up leaking fluid if you’re not careful
2. Labwork Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box
The Labwork Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box Kit is great for people who like to assemble their karts on their own. It’s made of high-quality material and is compatible with 2HP – 13HP engines.
· Forward Ratio: 1:1:3
· Reverse Ratio: 1:2:6
· RPM: 2300
Pros:
· Easy to install
· Comes with a warranty
Cons:
· Less durable
3. Vital All-terrain Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box
This top-of-the-line gear box is specifically designed for kart racing. With its heavy-duty construction, stainless steel gears and cast-iron body, the Vital All-terrain Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box is meant for optimal performance and durability in high-speed races.
· Forward Ratio: 1:1:3
· Reverse Ratio: 1:2:6
· RPM: 2300
Pros:
· Robust design
· Easy installation and maintenance
Cons:
· Shorter lifespan
4. Mophorn Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box
Built with quality materials, the Mophorn Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box is great for those who are looking to upgrade their off-road vehicles. It can handle two to seven HP engines for maximum power, which makes it perfect for both racers and off-roaders.
· Forward Ratio: 1:1:3
· Reverse Ratio: 1:2:6
· RPM: 2300
Pros:
· Simple installation and maintenance
· Can perform well with improved speed under any conditions
Cons:
· Can wear down over a short period of time
5. maXpeedingrods Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box
The maXpeedingrods Go Kart gear box kit is designed specifically for 30 Series Torque Converters that feature a 3/16” keyway with a 5/8” shaft and a gear box speed ratio of 5/13. It’s constructed from durable and high-quality materials that are designed to provide long lasting life.
· Forward Ratio: 1:1:3
· Reverse Ratio: 1:2:6
· RPM: 2300
Pros:
· Improves the convenience of driving a Go Kart
· Lasts long
Cons:
· Instructions for installation are not clear
Different Types of Go Kart Gearbox
Go Karts have three main types of gear boxes available for them:
· Manual
– As the name suggests, manual gear boxes require manual shifting of the gears to engage the reverse function.
· Semi-automatic
– Meanwhile, with semi-automatic gear boxes, you can only shift gears by pressing a button or lever.
· Automatic
– With automatic gearbox kits, you won’t have to do anything to switch between forward and reverse.
What Should You Look For When Buying A Go Kart Gearbox
There are several factors to consider when you’re looking for a Go Kart Gearbox, such as the size of your engine and the type of terrain you plan on driving on. This will serve as a guide for identifying which features you should look for when choosing one.
· Gear Ratio
This is an important factor when selecting your Go Kart reverse gearbox. The higher the ratio, the more the torque an engine will have when reversing. This makes it easier to move around on steep inclines or with heavier load. But, on the one hand, a higher ratio might mean lesser acceleration in forward motion, so it’s better suited for lighter loads or flat terrains.
· Price
The price of a Go Kart gear box varies depending on the quality of the gear box and its features. Manual gear boxes have simpler design, so they generally cost a lot less than their semi-automatic and automatic counterparts. But if you’re searching for additional features such as higher torque capabilities or adjustable ratios, then you need to be prepared to pay more.
· Durability
The durability of the gear box should always be at the forefront of your mind when selecting one. Make sure to search for those that are made from materials that allow it to withstand high levels of wear and tear from regular use and make it durable, such as the VEVOR Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box. Additionally, it’s better if you can find out the duration of the manufacturer’s warranty before purchasing.
Are Go Kart Gearboxes Worth It
Go Kart gear box kits are worth it because of the convenience and mobility they provide to go kart drivers. With a gear box, drivers can change gears whenever they want to. Since drivers have a lot more input on Go Karts with built-in gear boxes, they tend to be a lot faster than Go Karts without a gear box. This is why they’re usually recommended for professional racers.
A gear box also ensures good handling and power during races. However, it can also be useful for a personal passion project. High-quality gear box can drastically improve your driving experience. For instance, VEVOR Go Kart Forward Reverse Gear Box is made of high-quality materials that offers smooth operation where you won’t have to worry about frequent and costly replacement or repair fees down the line.
Even if you’re not driving a professional go kart, just having a gearbox makes maneuvering and controlling your kart a lot more efficient. It’s an important accessory that lets you go in reverse without needing to turn the cart around.
A gear box also makes driving your Go Kart a lot safer, particularly when there’s an obstacle near you and your vehicle and you need to immediately switch directions. For instance, if another driver isn’t paying attention to where they’re going and unexpectedly drives into your path, being able to quickly access a reverse gear box can save you from a horrible accident.
FAQ about Go Kart Gearbox
How many gears does a Go Kart with a gear box have?
Those types of Go Karts are also referred to as shifter go karts and they usually have six different gears that the driver can choose from. This is similar to most cars these days, which are now six-speed. This could also be why shifter go karts have become increasingly popular in the world of professional karting.
Are shifter karts faster than regular karts?
As mentioned before, shifter karts have more power, faster acceleration and better braking. This gives them an advantage over other types of go karts when it comes to professional racing. However, it’s not easy to handle the extra power that comes with a shifter kart, especially if you’ve only driven other types of Go Karts. In order to be able to control the surge of power, it’s important to learn how to adapt to it.
What are gearbox transmissions for?
Gearbox transmissions are specifically meant for shifter karts and professional karts with manual that allows drivers to have more control. It grants the convenience and ease of movement that drivers need.
