Who wants to learn how to drive for real? ;)

[NYC Russ]

Welcome to my latest obsession, karting! And these are not your grandma's go-karts, the standard 125cc kart will beat just about any stock SC in the 1/4 (they run high 14s, low 15s), outbrake a Corvette (70-0 in 150 feet) and outhandle a Viper (1.5g on the skidpad).

Best part? There's a track located 60 miles from NYC, in Cuddleback, NY. Check it out: www.ovrp.com

FWIW, they close this season on Nov 4 and the weekend sessions left are already booked, but I might be taking a weekday off to do a one day class... I'll keep you posted about the details. But it might be a nice place for a meet next year if people here have any interest in learning how to drive in something other than a straight line ;)

[Pat DiPersia]

Ohhh, I'm definitely there! Send us all the details. I'll make a weekend trip for that. I haven't done any carting really this year - one trip I think this year. I'd love to do some more and plus I need to polish my skills for April's Pocono Raceway meet I'm doing.

[KwikSC]

Hey if you want company every Monday, Wednesday and every other Friday im off.. Let me know when u goin

Dennis

[AlwaysWong]

Definitely keep me updated. I've had thoughts of autocross, but a 2 ton car just doesn't cut it.

Eugene

[NYC Russ]

Well, there are two kart schools run there, beginner and advanced. From what I know of everyone, we'd all fall into the beginner class. (Both run $325 for a full day, including kart and equipment rental).

It appears to be a mix of classroom and on track instruction, with the emphasis on on-track. There's a 1:4 teacher:student ratio and obviously, you'll have your own kart. They might start you off on the 80cc if you really suck ;) but the 125s seem to be the norm. They do have a shifter kart class, but from what we can tell, all the serious racing leagues and races are NOT shifter karts. The website has all the specifics re: pricing and classes, but as of now, we're shooting to go up on Wednesday, Nov. 1 (rain date Thur. Nov 2), to check it out and get in a run before they close for the season. It's not set yet, but all are certainly welcome.

FWIW, if you're interested, there is another indoor karting place 20 minutes south of Boston. www.f1boston.com
I was there last weekend and it was a blast - two indoor tracks, 6hp karts, 8 on the track at once, computerized timing, yadda yadda... A bit expensive though at $20-25 per 15 lap race (lasts about 15 minutes). But definately worth a try if you're in the area, esp. during the snowy winter months...

I'll keep you posted if we get the NY track date set.