News October 2005

Congratulations are in order to our new CIK champions Oliver Oakes and John Riley. These splendid efforts should also be recognised for members Tim Gillard and Russell Anderson in providing the winning equipment.

BKIA Committee Meeting

We held a special meeting on 11th October to look at the current UK karting situation and if possible to come up ideas and strategies for the future. The following is a summary of that meeting – the committee welcomes comments.

	Entry Level Karting: The meeting expressed concern over the costs involved in entering the sport. We looked at systems in place in other countries and they seem to be more geared to entry level than the UK.
	There was general agreement that competency gained during entry level should equate to meeting the ARKS requirements. The aims of ARKS were considered to be good for setting a standard but specific experience should be recognised.
	An easier entry level for sprint karting should be introduced backed by risk assessment and health and safety guidance.
	It was also felt that a typical club race format was unfriendly to its customers and that a lot could be done to improve this. Individual classes could be grouped into day or ½ day sessions instead of being tied into a whole weekend with race activities spread over 1 or 2 whole days and it might be better to arrive and compete in a single day or ½ day as appropriate.
	There was concern that numbers were being sucked into championships with loss to club racing and the major championships should include club meeting qualification route.
	Junior Karting: There was a proposal that it to would be beneficial bring in an earlier Cadet age (7 years) and mirror practice in other major European countries.
	Junior Classes: It was agreed that weights need controlling and that smaller drivers using full size chassis need serious consideration. The possibility of modifying chassis with an optional front rail location was discussed and it was agreed to look at TKM chassis requirements.
	CIK Classes: It was noted that JICA numbers had been much better this year and that ICA was also healthier. With the new CIK 125cc engines still an unknown it was felt that a phase-in of the new CIK classes for British Championships was preferable especially where JICA was concerned and that stability was essential. It was assumed that following the 125cc Formula A introduction the existing 100cc FA & ICA parc would be integrated into the Libre class.
	Concern was expressed over limitations on the number of engines allowed to be scrutineered at entry to CIK events. As an illustration it was pointed out that a competitor travelling the length of Europe only to have the single engine permitted break down early in the event faced the very long journey home with no racing completed. It was agreed that 2 engines would be a much preferable situation.
	Four Stroke Engines: There was concern that should 2 stroke engines be legislated against by EU that 70% of UK karters could be lost. 4 stroke engines should not be overlooked.
	TaG Classes: There was a proposal for the BKIA to be responsible for a UK TaG class catering for all 100cc TaG and 125cc TaG engines with appropriate performance controls. The meeting felt that becoming a class promoter was not necessarily in line with BKIA objectives and that some members might feel excluded. The meeting agreed that it would be preferable for a suitable class to be endorsed by the BKIA and for members to actively participate in the performance controlling elements.
	Gearbox Classes: The meeting noted the success of ICC classes and concluded that the strongest in any class will survive.
	Sealed Engine Classes: It was agreed that sealing systems were working but that it would be impossible to prevent those determined enough in cheating. It was agreed that there should be a BKIA format for sealing agents agreements for use by members and that the association should also consider the interests of the agents as well as the supplier using the agreement. In the interests of fairness and arbitration it was believed that all engine sealing should only be carried out by BKIA members.
	Control Fuel: The committee noted instances of fuel quality being lower than expected and inconsistency in supply quality. It was also concerned that testing was not carried out at all championship rounds but was uncertain as to whether this was due to lack of facility or simply testing not being requested by officials. The committee agreed that there were many instances of hot fuels being used and unchecked, perpetuating the current belief that cheating is going on undetected and unpunished. There was therefore concern that the cost of control fuel was unwarranted given the lack of policing/detection. Much concern was expressed that cheating will deter participants.
	Tyres: Again an issue discussed regarding detection of treated tyres and concern that going unchecked will turn people away from the sport. Overall the committee believed that stronger parc ferme arrangements are crucial to restoring faith in fuel and tyre controls. It was agreed that this was probably the most important improvement that could be made, initially for championships but also for club racing.
	Safety: The committee discussed general kart safety and in particular the proposed rear protection information coming from the CIK. It was noted that there were still some disparities in gearbox vs direct drive side protection philosophy and whether this was an acceptable situation.
	Facilities & Tracks: The committee reiterated its belief that parc fermé arrangements need urgent attention. It also agreed that circuit grading with regard to their acceptability in hosting modern championships was needed and that championships should actively select the most suitable tracks to enhance the sport’s image in front of current and potential sponsors, even if this results in a short term reduction in selected venues. It was felt that unless pressure was applied in such a way then the UK facilities would not improve to near continental standards. The committee also felt that this was an area where the ABkC could be more involved and that as an organisation it spent too much time on class regulations instead of representing clubs and helping them to improve membership and facilities.
	Promotion: It was agreed to start a BKIA promotion campaign. In particular the committee felt that key points should include best products, service and ombudsman/arbitration facility. It was noted that next year would be the 50th anniversary of karting and that this should be marked in a fitting way. It was also agreed that the BKIA should have a presence at shows and that members should be provided with additional decals to display on their show stands.

MSA Kart Committee Meeting

It is the view of the Kart Technical Group and Kart Committee that by 2008 the UK should be fully harmonised with CIK bodywork and bumper regulations. This does of course mean that older chassis will need to be modified, and it does anticipate that by then the CIK will have introduced improved rear protection! One other major item on the Kart Committee agenda is a review of entry level karting. The intent is to reduce costs and encourage an increase in MSA event numbers. Revised requirements have been approved for endurance events introducing a new licence category (senior ages only) without immediate ARKS requirement or medical. Attention will now turn to sprint racing requirements.

Tyre Testing

In the absence of PID meter approval by the MSA due to non-availability of accreditation details the way forward has been taken up by the ABkC on behalf of its clubs. It is intended that the meter be used as a pre-race filter to identify tyres that display chemical characteristics significantly different to other kart tyres on the dummy grid. Where significant differences are detected the driver will be requested to change tyres and may be repositioned at the back of the grid.

CIK Information

New CIK 125 Classes: CIK has conducted tests in Kerpen in order to finalise the FA and ICA regulations. Special parts are expected from Vortex so that further Junior tests can be carried out with a view to controlling their engine rotation and their speed. The proposals include: FA - power valve with an engine speed of 16,000 rpm max and a carburettor diameter of 30 mm; ICA - 15,000 rpm and 24 mm; Junior - power valve replaced by a fixed opening, which permits a reduction of the height of exhaust ports. With some further tests it should be possible to determine an appropriate engine speed, so that the Junior engine is not too quick while still being a real racing engine; in that regard, an engine speed of 12,000 rpm does not seem high enough.

A single design exhaust will also have to be tested. The CIK believes that “power pack” systems are impossible to control and must be banned on the new engines. It is proposed that there be an ignition that recharges the battery on the basic engine; for racing engines (Junior, ICA and FA) on the other hand there must be a single design ignition homologated with different coils for the three engine speed values. Aim: to limit the possibilities of evolutions and facilitate controls.

Rear Protection: The FIA Institute Karting Research Group has conducted many tests and its conclusions are closely akin to the ones reached by the former CIK three years ago. The technical and homologation regulations were still to be updated, so some tests were carried out at the CSI laboratory in Milan, especially in order to determine a methodology for the homologation of rear protection. The FIA Institute proposes that two tests be conducted: straight impact; impact with a 30° angle. The aim is to establish energy absorption as those for front and side bodywork. Manufacturers will be able to homologate their own rear protection and it will have to be possible to mount it on all chassis. Two solutions seem to be currently emerging:

- either the bodywork Manufacturer creates a plastic element which can be mounted to the two main tubes (Free-line),

- or a plastic bodywork element is fixed to the upper bumper and to the anti-intrusion bar

(Giacoletto).

Homologation Information

	Number of chassis: The CIK proposes 4 makes as a maximum for each manufacturer and 3 models as a maximum per make.
	Steering Regulation: It is proposed that the following text be added to the regulations: “All karts must have a steering column mounted in such a way that even if a bottom nut is removed it cannot pull out of its lower bearing.” Additionally, an inquiry will be conducted as regards the diameters and thickness of steering columns that are currently used, and a minimum thickness and diameter will be imposed.
	Homologated Wheelbase: It is proposed that the tolerance of the wheelbase dimension be increased from +/-5 mm to +/-10 mm, with retroactive effect for current homologations still valid for three years.
	New dates for the 2007 tyre homologation: In order to facilitate invitations to tender, it is proposed that the next tyre homologation be advanced by six months so that the outcome of the tenders can be known by the beginning of December for ratification by the World Council in mid-December.
	CIK 2006 Chassis, Bodywork and Brake Homologations: Please note that all 2006 homologation forms have to be submitted to the CIK by 22nd October. The CIK can refuse or penalise late arrivals.

CIK Regulations

The easiest way of getting sight and copy of the latest version is to log onto www.cikfia.com and follow the options through to Technical Regulations.

London Kart Show 2005

9-11 DECEMBER 2005. SANDOWN PARK, ESHER: The London Kart Show, now in its third year, has established itself as the shop window for the UK karting scene. Many of the world's top chassis and engine manufacturers will be represented at the 2005 exhibition, which has become very popular with drivers already committed to motor racing, as well as those planning a hobby or career in the sport. Visitors will have the choice of a huge range of clothing, accessories and engines, as well as an opportunity to discuss and purchase the new homologated chassis for 2005 and to obtain advice making the step from karting to racing cars. Many BKIA members are among those who will be represented at this year's exhibition. Philip Bunn, organiser of the London Kart Show, has reported that advance ticket sales for the show are up significantly from last year, and he is confident that he will achieve an increase in visitor numbers for 2005. There are still a few stand options available for any BKIA members that are still considering a presence at the show. You can call him on 01444 246446

PRI Show, Orlando (USA)

As was mentioned in the last newsletter funding can be available for members wishing to attend the PRI Show and is intended to cover actual exhibition costs. I have discussed the matter with the MIA and it should be possible for BKIA exhibitors to share stand arrangements so if this is of interest please let the Administrator know and the necessary introductions can be made.

UK TaG Class

In anticipation of the expected introduction of new engines to meet the FIA 125cc classes, discussions have started to set out the class criteria for UK racing. The BKIA committee has put forward their ideas.

Red Line Oils

A new UK and European distributor for Red Line Oils has been appointed, handling all trade requirements on 02476 717 100, fax 02476 717 400, from 11th August. If you wish to know more about Red Line products please see www.redlineoil-europe.com.

Tyre Manufacturer in India seeking UK Agent.

The BKIA have received the following details and contact is Anthony Rodricks - MRF Ltd, 124 Greams Road, Chennai-600 006, INDIA. ‘We have CIK homologation for our karting tyres in hard, medium compounds, and also wet tyres. Our company has already organised dedicated capacity for motorsport tyres. Would you be able to put us on to some firm/companies for the sale of karting tyres. Our tyres are excellent for leisure/rental karting - tests have shown our tyres give 40% more mileage than better-known international brands. Contact email: trodrick@md4.vsnl.net.in.’

Logos

The committee noted that members do not always include the BKIA logo in their sales literature and adverts. Can you please review your own information and amend where necessary. We believe that BKIA membership means a lot to prospective purchasers but this only works if we all promote it. If you need an electronic logo please let me know.

TKM News: Speed & Weight increase for youngsters

Junior age Formula TKM 2-stroke drivers have been given a double boost with changes to the regulations for 2006 which will give them more speed while easing weight restrictions. With effect from January 1, the Junior class will move up to a 20.5mm air restrictor while the Intermediate class will move up to a 23mm restrictor. In both cases this is an increase of 1.5mm on current size. Meanwhile both classes will increase their minimum weight level by 2kg up to 129kg for Juniors and 144kg for Inters. This is in direct response to request from drivers and their parents, struggling to meet the weight limits. Overall the changes will mean a speed increase for the class by up to half a second a lap, depending on the length and nature of the circuit. Announcing the changes Tal-Ko Racing Managing Director Alan Turney explained: "We have researched the situation extensively and it is quite clear that many youngsters are struggling to make the minimum weight levels. At the same time we recognised that we have previously increased the weight limit without increasing power accordingly. "Not only will this change make the karts a little quicker but it will also give them better response for the drivers and that is very important in building their skill levels for the future. We are pleased that the MSA and ABkC have recognised the need for an amendment here in agreeing to this change."

Formula TKM has played a key role in the development of many of today's top UK racing drivers. Jenson Button, Anthony Davidson, Gary Paffett and Robbie Kerr are among the many who took major titles in the class on their way to the top.

Send mail to info@bkia.co.uk with questions or comments about this web site. Copyright © 2005-7 British Kart Industry Association Last modified: Saturday, 03 March 2007

Send mail to info@bkia.co.uk with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2005-7 British Kart Industry Association
Last modified: Saturday, 03 March 2007