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?
  All drivers from 8 to 80 years old as long as they are 52" tall or taller. Minor drivers can drive their own kart, but a parent must accompany them to the track so the proper insurance waivers can be signed. If Uncle Joe is bringing the minor driver out for some laps then you'll need to get the 'Minor Release' form done in advance. We will have to have you pick this form up at the track or have us snail mail it to you. Sorry that we can't just put it on a clickable link, but our insurance carrier is worried about how easy it is to change the wording of the form in photo shop or some other software. A parent can fill this out ahead of time, but it must be witnessed by a 'Notary Public' and stamped. Then Uncle Joe can sign our minor driver in at the track, sorry no exceptions.

• When can I rent a go-kart for a Hot Lap Session?
  1. Wednesday Noon until 8 PM. (be advised that Wednesdays after 5 PM can be quite busy)

  2. Thursday Noon until 7 PM.

  3. Friday Noon until 5 PM.

  4. Some Saturday's may have time available when not booked for a private race group. Call during the week to check Saturday Hot Laps availability.
  
  
  • 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?
  As stated above drivers must be a minimum of 52" tall to ride. This was changed in 2012 and is driven by state of WI regulations.

• 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 have a great introduction video for you to watch before your on track session. We will spend time with you before your rental period begins getting you fitted to a kart and safety gear. If we have a young driver who is still uncertain one of our staff will take a kart out and lead the new driver around the track at slow speed to show them the route and to help create some comfort zone.

• Do I need any special clothing to rent a go-kart?
  We require long pants and lace up shoes and socks that cover your entire foot (no sandals or flip flops as these are unsafe). The rest of the safety gear includes a jacket, gloves, helmet and balaclava. If you have your own motorcycle helmet, (full face, Snell 2005 rated) you're welcome to use it.

• How fast do the go-karts go?
  At the fastest point on the track you may achieve 30 to 50 MPH (depending on whether you're renting a 6.5 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 6.5 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 $30/driver for the 6.5 HP and $50/half hour for the 9 HP 'Turn Key' karts. Please be aware that the 9 HP 'Turn 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.