Weekend warriors won't want for something to do on Sunday when Taipei's most daring amateur go-kart drivers take to the track of Kart Formula Motorsport (
For those unfamiliar with Kart, a bit of an introduction might be in order. What looks like a simple go-kart track from the outside is actually a multistory monument to testosterone, with an air-rifle range, billiards hall, arcade, gym and exotic-car showroom all located in one building rising above the track.
But it is the track itself that is Kart's big draw; the 1,100m stretch of asphalt serves as the proving grounds for Taipei denizens with Michael Andretti dreams.
Sunday's seasoned contestants will be behind the wheel of 400cc twin-engine go-karts, but first-timers can choose from either 120cc or 270cc cars. If you think you can handle more, think again; the 400cc models reach speeds of up to 100kph and pull three Gs around corners -- and there are plenty of corners. With several hairpin turns and few streatches of straight on which to open up the throttle, the track is more about testing the driver's ability than testing the speed of the car.
You can also choose to go with a friend in one of the facility's many two-seater karts. Young racers who can't yet see over the steering wheel can even drive their own mini-kart on a dedicated racetrack.
Once Sunday's drivers race through the checkered flag and take to the winners' circle, it's the spectators' turn. Race against your friends and family or try to beat your own best lap time. Afterwards toast your victory with a Coca-Cola in the glass-walled eatery overlooking the racetrack. Sorry, there's no champagne to spray and the scantily-clad girls waiting with trophies and kisses will only be there for the morning's racers, not for you.
Prices start at NT$200 for 10 minutes behind the wheel of a 120cc kart and get more expensive with the more powerful go-kart models but specials are frequently available. Enthusiasts can get year-round access by choosing from several different types of memberships. The premium Gold Card membership costs NT$33,000 per year and includes reduced rates for use of the 400cc pro-karts and access to all facilities (no, you won't get to drive the Lotus sitting in the lobby). You'll also get a racing suit and helmet to wear during races held on the last Sunday of every month.
Kart Formula Motorsport is located at 46 Anho Rd. Sec. 3, Hsintien, Taipei County (台北縣新店市安和路三段46號) and can be reached by calling (02) 2949-5737. More information and a schedule of prices can be found on the company's Web site at
http://www.gokaarting.com.tw.
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