Before we dive into the ‘why’, one has to ask: Is the question really “why race Rotax in 2022?” or should it rather be “why race anything else?”
The 22 reasons below may remind many karters of what is now the norm in Rotax karting and why most karters choose Rotax and the SA Rotax Max Challenge.
For those who are undecided – please read on!
- The official Rotax series, the SARMC, is a highly competitive and professional form of motor racing in Africa without a shadow of doubt – www.kart.co.za
- Competitive – It is undoubtedly the most competitive category of motorsport following a truly global set of regulations, recognized worldwide.
- Rotax Max Challenge series are run in more than 75 countries across the globe, so race anywhere in the world using the exact same equipment and regulations.
- Olympics of karting – 400 karting champions from around the globe qualify through national series annually to crown global champions in six classes – using identical, brand-new karts, new engines, tyres, fuel, oil etc all supplied free of charge by Rotax, their distributors and associated sponsors. This event is known as the Rotax Grand Finals.
- Global – Rotax is a part of the BRP global group, (www.rotax.com) Sales exceed CA$ 6 billion p.a. and employs 14 000 people globally.
- Stability – Rotax turned 100 years old in 2020 – clearly stability and sustainability are in its DNA. The SARMC has been South Africa’s leading karting series for two decades.
- Customer centered – in 1999, Rotax introduced the ‘new-age’, long life and ease of use engine concept – spend more time on track and less time in the workshop!
- Recognized by the FIA since 2002 – today Rotax karting is the most popular one-make motor racing world series. This does not replace the CIK-FIA world championship but in fact, was the perfect training ground for the likes of Max Verstappen. George Russell and many others.
- Continuity – SARMC was established in 1999 and each class added over the years has stood the test of time – stable and well supported classes catering for all ages.
- Regional and National competition – Gauteng, Western Cape and KZN all boast very competitive well supported events. There are fantastic and well-organised events in Mozambique and Namibia if you want to enjoy an excursion to a neighbouring country with your Rotax powered kart. International Rotax Racing: to name a few: the Rotax Winter Cup, Rotax Euro Trophy (4 rounds) The Rotax International Trophy at the famous Le Mans circuit, BNL Rotax Series, etc.
- Affordability – Competitive motor racing is expensive, but the SARMC aspires to stretch your buck as far as possible and to limit the advantage of excessive spending. KSA WOMZA offer great rates on license and insurance for competitors, officials and events. It is the best bang for your buck by far.
- Great Officials and well-organized events are a priority to make your experience enjoyable. Passionate, experienced ex-karters – a mix of volunteers and professionals are there to assist you from start to finish – getting a license, entering a race, technical advice and dispute resolution, all handled efficiently and impartially.
- Technical stability – The fundamental engine design of the Rotax Max and DD2 engines remains unchanged after 22 years, with only detailed improvements made over the years. The improvements are always designed to improve parity, reduce cost, and improve the legendary durability so your equipment retains resale value. All engines are prepared and sealed to international standards by authorised service centers.
- Durability is designed, engineered and build-in by Rotax. Durability cannot be added afterwards. Modern materials and patented technology allow a balance of great performance with reliability and durability. Formula One, Moto GP or CIK kart engines are also great engines but intended only for professional teams at World Championship races and not for affordable one-make competitions.
- Parity of performance is key, and every effort is made to ensure a level playing field. Rotax technology and expert TC’s are used to ensure fairness.
- 6-month warrantee on engines and spares – the only kart engine manufacturer to offer this, underlining confidence in the product
- Performance is set at an appropriate speed for the drivers age, size, and weight using one base engine. Because Rotax do this by restricting the output at 8, 15, 22 or 30 bhp the legendary 125 cc Max engines deliver thousands of steadily performed laps between major services. Upgrading or downgrading from one class to another is also easy and affordable.
- High performance – DD2 delivers fast and exciting racing with many reliable hours on track. The best part of the DD2: No chain – the kart stays clean with several fewer consumable parts – so No pain! The DD2 makes use of 4 gear ratio sets, having the competitor covered at any circuit with any conditions.
- Mojo Tyres are renowned for German quality, a balance of high performance, durability, and cost. These CIK homologated prime tyres have a barcode linked to the unique factory database that enables immediate identification of a tyre’s origin and date of delivery ensuring fair play. A “fresh” set of tyres has a clear unfair advantage over six month old tyres, so by registering each tyre at an event we ensure that everyone races on the same batch.
- Bambino class – It is the entry level to the SARMC series for 5- to 8-year-old Superheroes, where your children and grandchildren can start on the racing ladder. Super lightweight and appropriately powered and sized for the aspiring future stars
- Product support – There are several authorized dealers and service centres, situated at kart track premises countrywide to ensure that your Rotax experience is enjoyable.
- South African success – 14 Grand Final winners along with more than 250 South African young men and women have enjoyed an opportunity to race against the world’s best on EQUAL equipment, which, let’s not forget, is all supplied FREE of charge. Names like Cristiano Morgado, Wesleigh Orr, Leeroy Poulter, Caleb Williams, Claudio Piazza, Mark Cronje, Gavin Cronje and Jayden Els are some of the proud South African winners of a Rotax Max Grand Final! There is no other category of SA motor racing that can lay claim to this proud history. Kelvin van der Linde, Sheldon van der Linde, David Perel, Tasmin Pepper, Raoul Hyman, Callum O’Keefe, Michael Stephen, Jordan Pepper to name a few, are some of our local Rotax Series graduates who developed their racing careers in Rotax karting.
14 World Titles and counting will you be next?
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Over 200 competitors have registered to compete in this year’s revolutionary new South African Rotax MAX Kart Championships. Have you?
Get South African Kart Championships news to your inbox…
Join our mailing list
Over 200 competitors have registered to compete in this year’s revolutionary new South African Rotax MAX Kart Championships. Have you?