Would you like to have a chance to ride a real racing go-kart? Not the kind they have at amusement parks that just putt along, but the kind that rolls along at racing speeds? Well then you've found the right spot. Sugar River Raceway rents go-karts to try out the great sport of go-karting during any open practice period. The karts are rented in ½ hour segments and are intended so our customers can get a feel for what it is like to ride a racing go-kart. We don't allow racing during these rentals, but we don't limit the speed either. Check out our most frequently asked questions about our rental karts below. See you at the track!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) about SRR rental program:

• Who can rent a go kart?
  Drivers must be 18 years or older to sign our insurance waivers. Minor drivers can drive their own kart, but must be accompanied by their parent so the proper insurance waivers can be signed. No exceptions. This is due to new restrictions from our insurance carrier. And these restrictions are driven by current lawsuits being tried. In the past we allowed an adult or family member to sign the 'Minor Release Waiver' which permitted all minors with adult supervision to rent. Sorry but that will no longer be allowed.

• When can I rent a go-kart for a Hot Lap Session?
  1. Wednesday Noon until 8 PM.

  2. Thursday Noon until 7 PM.

  3. Friday Noon until 5 PM.
  
  
  • Check our current track conditions page on this web site and/or call the track (608-897-2898) to make sure a rent to race group hasn't blocked out time during a Thursday or Friday practice session.

• Do I need a reservation?
  No we do not take reservations, walk in to rent. We seldom have waits.

• Is there a size/height limit on drivers?
  Size isn't usually a limiting factor, as we have karts to fit very small drivers. Renters need to be at least 8 years old, and most 8 year olds we've met fit our karts.

• What do I do when I arrive at the track?
  Park your car on the south side of our building and follow the signs to the "Pit Stop" kart shop. It is located in the basement of our building. You'll enter trackside. Come on in and announce yourself and your intention to rent a go-kart. The paper work takes only a minute or two.

• I've never go-karted before, and the thought of it feels a bit scary. It's like going down hill skiing for the first time. I want to do it, but how will I learn how to do it? How can I feel sure I'll be safe, and who will teach me the ropes? I also don't want to embarrass myself, will that happen?
  Relax this will be both fun and easy. If you don't give it a try we can guarantee it will remain as some of the best fun you've never had. We will spend time with you before your rental period begins getting you fitted to a kart and safety gear. We will then give you an orientation to our track and its use. We spend a few minutes watching other go-karts navigate the track, while pointing out all the do's and don'ts. We will discuss many safety items and actions to take should certain things occur during your time on the track. SRR has a great safety record and with our help and guidance we are certain you'll enjoy your go-karting experience.

• Do I need any special clothing to rent a go-kart?
  We recommend blue jeans and lace up shoes and socks that cover your entire foot. If you come in shorts we have a driver coverall we will issue to you. The rest of the safety gear includes a jacket, neck collar, gloves, and helmet. If you have your own motorcycle helmet, (full face, Snell 2000 rated) you're welcome to use it.

• How fast do the go-karts go?
  At the fastest point on the track you may achieve 35 to 45 MPH (depending on whether you're renting a 5.5 or 9 HP kart)! Much faster than the typical Wisconsin Dells type of concession kart. The speed on the straight isn't what will thrill you the most though. The high cornering speed and g-force will be very exciting.

• What kind of go-karts are these?
  The karts are purpose built by Sugar River Raceway for rental service. They are equipped with either 5.5 or 9 HP Honda engines (9 HP karts are for drivers over 18 years old only). The karts have racing slicks all around to grip the track, and full form racing seats to grip you in the turns.

• How long does a rental last?
  We rent for ½ hour periods.

• How much does it cost?
  ½ hour rentals are $25/driver for the 5.5 HP and $50/half hour for the 9 HP 'Turn Key' karts. Please be aware that the 9 HPTurn Key karts may not always be available, which is usually the case on a day before a 'Turn Key' race event. Everyone must have their own kart; sorry, no splitting the ½ hour with your buddy. We don't rent for periods longer than this due to the fact both the driver and go-kart will need attention at the end of ½ hour. If you wish to rent another ½ hour segment you may after a rest stop for you, and a pit stop for your kart. On busy days this means you'll have to wait for karts to become available again (usually not a problem, as our drivers always need longer pit stops than the karts do). The rates are based on a continuous clock that begins at the start of the rental period. The clock runs during any rest stops that a driver may take.

• Can I race my buddy?
  No, the intent isn't to turn you lose for a ½ hour of wheel to wheel battle with your buddy. This is a chance to experience the feel and sport of go-karting. You will encounter others on the track while you rent, but we discourage all out racing. Why? 90% of our renters have no race experience, and you'll be traveling near race speeds. You can also guarantee yourself that a ½ hour of racing wheel to wheel with your buddy in a grudge match will end with a wreck. Inexperience, fatigue, and your ego will guarantee this outcome. If racing is your desire, check out the 'Turn Key Thursday' or Endurance Race portion of our web site. Racing costs more than the 'Hot Lap' session for good reason.

• Am I insured while renting a go-kart?
  Yes, SRR carries insurance for each of our rental customers. It is a policy that provides limited secondary (becomes primary coverage if none is carried by insured) medical coverage, limited death and dismemberment coverage, and liability coverage for SRR. A copy of the coverage is posted at the track. Each renter will also be asked to sign a sheet which implies your agreement to pay for up to $80 in damage done to the kart you are driving. This is treated on a no fault basis, so if your kart is damaged due to accident you didn't cause, you're still liable for up to the $80 damage limit on your kart.