Amusement Equipment FAQs

J&J Amusements manufactures commercial-grade go-karts for concession and controlled-course use, available in both gas and electric models. Built in the USA to exceed ASTM safety standards, these karts are designed for durability, guest safety, and long-lasting performance. J&J also offers customization options, along with a full line of parts and accessories to keep fleets running strong.

A concession go-kart is a commercial-grade go-kart designed for use as a rental vehicle at amusement parks, family entertainment centers, and fun tracks. Built to generate revenue, these karts are engineered for durability and safety, able to withstand the rigors of constant daily operation. By definition, a concession go-kart is a single, self-powered vehicle—unattached to other vehicles or a shared frame—that is fully driver-controlled in acceleration, braking, steering, and speed. It operates within the containment system of a defined track, simulates competitive motor sports, and is used by the general public for a fee. Concession karts typically seat up to two riders, have no cargo capacity, and are designed to exceed industry safety standards, making them ideal for rental operations rather than personal use.

When designing a go-kart track, both length and width are critical to ensuring safety, fun, and repeat ridership. The typical track length ranges from 800 to 1,200 linear feet (244–366 m), with 1,000 feet (305 m) being the most common. Tracks can vary from simple oval layouts to multi-level designs up to 2,000 linear feet (610 m) that rise more than 40 feet (12.2 m) tall. As a rule of thumb, allow one kart per 40 feet (12.2 m) of track, since fleet size is directly tied to track length. Avoid making the track too narrow, as limited passing opportunities reduce rider excitement. A poorly designed track can negatively impact ridership regardless of the quality of the karts, so focusing on fun, flow, and variety is essential.

The recommended track width is 24–30 feet (7.3–9.1 m), with 5–6 feet (1.5–1.8 m) allocated for the safety rail system. Turns do not need to be widened, as drivers will naturally follow the inside rail to maintain the “fast line.” The minimum inside radius for turns should be at least 10 feet (3.05 m) to prevent spinouts, especially for one-wheel-drive karts. For tighter property layouts, J&J karts with caster adjustment can navigate sharper turns while maintaining control. The caster adjustment allows the kart to get a “bite” and turn sharper, but it also requires more effort on the part of the driver to turn the wheel. Banked turns are increasingly popular, adding interest and better drainage, with maximum banking around one inch per foot (2.54 cm per 30.5 cm) of track width. Following these design guidelines ensures safe passing, smooth operation, and a more enjoyable experience for riders.

Yes. J&J Amusements designs go-kart tracks of all sizes, offering conceptual layouts tailored to each client’s property and goals. By providing a property drawing—ideally in AutoCAD format—along with an idea of the desired track size, J&J can create a detailed layout that your engineer can then use to finalize construction plans. This service helps operators maximize space, flow, and overall guest experience, whether for a small track or a large facility.

The area required for a go-kart track depends on its length, layout, and design, and differs for indoor and outdoor tracks. A typical 800–1,200 linear foot (244–366 m) outdoor track generally requires 1 to 2 acres (0.4–0.8 ha) of land, while larger multi-level outdoor tracks up to 2,000 linear feet (610 m) may need 3 acres (1.2 ha) or more. Indoor tracks can be more compact, with layouts fitting within 40,000 to 80,000 square feet (3,716–7,432 m²), depending on length, turns, and elevation changes. Regardless of indoor or outdoor design, it’s important to plan for queue lines, pit lanes, spectator zones, and maintenance access, ensuring both safety and an exciting experience for riders.

The recommended width is 24-30 feet. Keep in mind that the safety rail system will take up about 5 to 6 feet of the track. Uphill grades can be confusing when you work with degrees on one hand and percentages on the other. The problem is that mechanical engineers like to work with degrees, and civil engineers and construction folks like to work with percentages. The percent is based on the number of feet of rise or fall in 100 feet. Degrees, on the other hand, are trigonometric functions. We recommend a 5-degree limit on track slope, which is the same as 8.75 percent rise. There is no need to make turns wider, as the karts will be driven as close to the inside rail as possible to obtain the “fast“ line. Banked turns are becoming more useful as they add more interest and provide better drainage. The maximum degree of banking being used is in the one inch per foot of width range. Beware of making the turns too tight, as this can cause spinouts and safety problems -- especially with one-wheel-drive karts turning to the left. The minimum inside radius of turns should be no less than ten feet. If property shape is a problem, you could use two-wheel-drive karts with caster adjustment (as J&J karts offer) to go smaller on the radius. These will turn sharper and hold a tighter “line“. The caster adjustment allows the kart to get a “bite“ and turn sharper, but it also requires more effort on the part of the driver to turn the wheel. 

NOTE: All J&J karts can be configured with two-wheel or one-wheel drive systems.

Go-kart track rail systems have historically been constructed using a wide array of materials, ranging from truck tires filled with sand to steel rails of varying thicknesses. Shock-absorbing components have also varied, from telescoping springs to old car front-end springs. This diversity reflects the creativity—and sometimes the budget constraints—of track designers. However, cutting corners on the rail system can be dangerous, leading to maintenance issues for karts and potential rider injury.

An industry standard for the last 35 years consists of 5/8-inch-thick, 6-inch-wide (1.59 cm thick, 15.24 cm wide) steel rail combined with new or used car tires, with proper support, ensuring both durability and safety for riders. This design incorporates metal expansion joints and carriage bolt risers to accommodate movement and prevent damage over time.

Additionally, J&J offers an optional UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight) bumper system on go-karts, which is perfect for tracks utilizing plastic rails, common at indoor facilities. This heavy-duty virgin material holds up ride after ride, providing a durable and low-maintenance solution in conjunction with plastic track barriers. It's essential to invest in a high-quality rail system to ensure the safety of riders and the longevity of the track infrastructure.

When evaluating a go-kart track investment, key demographic factors include market size, population base, competition, land costs, and climate. These elements help determine the potential number of customers and overall demand for the attraction. While J&J Amusements can provide realistic projections for operating costs and potential revenue, the most important considerations are the factors you cannot change, available capital, physical space, and local market conditions. To maximize profitability, it is also wise to plan for future expansion, ensuring the track can accommodate more karts and increased ridership as demand grows.

Building a go-kart track generally costs between $400 and $500 per linear foot (1.31–1.52 m), which includes the rail system but does not cover additional features such as queue lines, lighting, maintenance buildings, covered pits, bridges, or tunnels. The total cost will vary depending on local conditions, track design, and materials used, with elevated tracks being the most expensive and concrete tracks over compacted earth being more cost-effective.

Concrete is the preferred surface for go-kart tracks due to its durability, longevity, and performance under a variety of conditions. Unlike asphalt, concrete will not break up in turns and stays significantly cooler in the sun—up to 40°F (22°C) cooler—reducing tire wear and providing a more comfortable driving surface. Asphalt surfaces can become excessively hot, soften, and wear out tires quickly during peak season. Additionally, asphalt must be laid in multiple pulls with a thick base, sealed against gasoline and oil damage, and can cause problems with maintaining a consistent rail height as the safety rail shoe tends to sink. Concrete tracks, when finished smoothly with minimal cold joints and potentially using air-entrained concrete with fiber mesh, provide a stable, long-lasting surface that can be acid-etched if additional grip is needed. Overall, concrete is more cost-effective over the long term and ensures a safer, higher-quality track experience.

The ultimate speed is not the purpose: it's not how fast it goes; it is how fast it feels. In the interest of safety and reduced maintenance costs, J&J go-karts are factory-set to 18 mph (29 km/h) but are adjustable for a wide range of track conditions, with maximum track speed determined by the operator. Design the track so that 18 mph (29 km/h) or lower is exciting, with plenty of twists and turns, and you will save on repair and expense headaches. The goal of a concession go-kart track is to provide riders with the thrill of speed while maintaining safety and minimizing maintenance costs.

In general, a go-kart track will require one to five attendants, depending on the number of karts in operation, the level of rider traffic, and whether there are any “blind” spots on the track that require extra supervision. The number of attendants does not change whether the track uses gasoline or electric-powered karts, as their main duties are to monitor riders, enforce safety rules, and respond quickly to any incidents. Proper staffing ensures smooth track operations and a safe, enjoyable experience for all riders.

Yes. The usage of remote shut-off systems has increased to the point that very few fleets of karts are shipped without them. J&J Amusements installs the Kartrol system, which allows operators to control karts remotely using a main console that sends a radio signal to a receiver on each kart. The receiver integrates with the ignition or controller systems, enabling the operator to slow down or shut off karts if needed for safety or operational reasons. Electric go-karts offer even greater flexibility with multiple drive speeds, allowing operators to adjust performance to match driver ability, track conditions, or safety requirements. Some states now require concession go-karts to be equipped with remote shut-off systems, so it is important to check with local regulatory authorities when planning a new track or updating equipment.

Helmets are not required for J&J standard concession go-karts unless mandated by state, local, or federal law.

SINGLE-SEAT GO-KARTS ONLY: Before allowing entry to any kart, track employees must verify that the driver is physically capable of operating the kart while seated in the intended position for operation and while properly restrained. Passengers must not be permitted in go-karts that are designed for only one occupant.

DOUBLE-SEAT GO-KARTS ONLY: Before allowing entry to any kart, track employees must verify that the driver is physically capable of operating the kart while seated in the intended position for operation and while properly restrained. To carry a passenger, the driver must be a minimum of 18 years of age, or the parent or legal guardian of the passenger. Track employees must also verify that the passengers are a minimum of 40 inches (101.6 cm) tall and possess upper-body control.

Go-kart configurations and pricing can vary widely depending on your operation, track layout, and performance needs. For operators considering gas-powered go-karts, base models generally start around $5,000. Electric go-karts, which include batteries and charging systems, start in the $11,000 range. While they represent a higher upfront investment, electrics offer advantages such as lower day-to-day maintenance, quieter operation, and the ability to control speed settings remotely. Because each track and business has unique requirements, contact J&J Amusements directly for a detailed quote tailored to your fleet size, layout, and long-term goals.

J&J Amusements does not offer in-house financing or leasing, but we do provide a list of trusted finance companies that many of our customers have successfully worked with. If you’re interested, we’ll be glad to share those resources and help point you in the right direction.

Maintenance requirements vary depending on whether your go-karts are gas- or electric-powered.

For gasoline-powered go-karts: Daily and weekly tasks include checking the engine, fuel system, oil levels, air filters, brakes, tires, and throttle response. Gasoline karts generally require more frequent mechanical attention, including spark plug replacement, carburetor cleaning, and engine tune-ups. Because of the engine and fuel system, wear and tear is higher, and maintenance is more labor-intensive.

For electric go-karts: Maintenance is simpler and focuses on the battery, charger, motor, tires, brakes, and general safety inspections. There is no engine or fuel system to service, which reduces both downtime and ongoing maintenance costs.

In both cases, daily pre-opening inspections of critical systems like brakes, steering, and tires are essential for safe operation. Following the maintenance schedules provided in J&J Amusements’ service manuals helps ensure your fleet remains safe, reliable, and enjoyable for riders.

J&J Amusements primarily uses AGM and deep-cycle lead-acid batteries, rather than lithium, because they are proven, reliable, and cost-effective for high-usage amusement applications. AGM batteries are durable, tolerate frequent charging and discharging cycles, and are easier to maintain in an environment where karts are in nearly constant use. Lithium batteries, while lighter and offering higher energy density, are more expensive upfront, require specialized charging systems, and can be more sensitive to overcharging or temperature extremes. For the high-volume, continuous operation typical of amusement park go-karts, AGM and deep-cycle lead-acid batteries provide a practical balance of performance, safety, and maintenance.

J&J Amusements electric go-karts use opportunity charging, which means the batteries are recharged in short intervals throughout the day rather than waiting for a full discharge. A typical cycle is a five-minute ride immediately followed by a five-minute charge, keeping the batteries consistently topped off. This approach helps prevent the charge level from dropping below 80% and reduces voltage drop, ensuring smooth and reliable performance. By reducing strain on the batteries, opportunity charging extends their lifespan and allows the karts to operate dependably all day long.

J&J’s electric go-karts can be charged in two ways: overhead or in-floor. With overhead charging, one charger is shared by two karts. While one kart is out on the track, the other is plugged in and charging. When the race ends, the charger is switched to the kart that just came off the track, so both karts stay charged throughout the day. In-floor charging works a little differently—each kart has its own charger, which is connected to a plate mounted in the pit lane. When a kart pulls into the pit lane, contacts on the bottom of the kart engage the plate, which automatically triggers a charge cycle. This method ensures every kart is charged each time they enter the pit lane.

J&J Amusements go-karts are built for durability and long-term use in high-traffic environments like amusement parks and family entertainment centers. Adhering to J&J’s recommended service intervals helps maximize the lifespan of your go-karts. While most facilities typically replace their karts around the 10-year mark, some locations have been operating the same karts since the mid-1990s. With proper maintenance, J&J go-karts can deliver reliable performance and provide an enjoyable experience for riders for many years.

A typical concession go-kart ride lasts between 4 and 5 minutes. This duration is designed to maximize the number of rides per hour while still giving guests an enjoyable experience. Longer ride sessions have proven to lead to horseplay on the track, with riders attempting to wreck or spin out one another, which can result in costly repairs. A properly designed track with a 4–5 minute session tends to generate more repeat rides than longer sessions, keeping guests happy and your equipment in better shape.

For J&J Amusements electric go-karts, AGM or deep-cycle lead-acid batteries typically last 3 to 5 years under normal operating conditions with proper opportunity charging and regular maintenance. Factors such as ride length, track layout, frequency of use, and adherence to charging protocols all affect battery longevity. Following the recommended maintenance schedule and keeping batteries from dropping below 80% charge during operation can help maximize their lifespan.

J&J Amusements go-karts are proudly designed and built in the United States at their headquarters in Salem, Oregon. Each kart is built with a focus on safety, durability, and long-term performance, ensuring it can withstand the demands of commercial rental use. Once completed, the karts are shipped directly from Oregon to the customer’s facility, ready for operation.

The BIGFOOT™ go-kart tire by J&J Amusements is renowned for its exceptional durability and longevity. Designed specifically for high-traffic environments like amusement parks and family entertainment centers, the BIGFOOT tire is engineered to withstand extensive use. J&J has worked directly with tire manufacturers to refine the BIGFOOT tire over the years, making it the most reliable concession go-kart tire on the market.

While the exact lifespan can vary based on factors such as track surface, operating temperature, and maintenance practices, the BIGFOOT tire's design aims to maximize wear resistance, ensuring that it outlasts other go-kart tires. Regular maintenance, including proper inflation and periodic inspections, can further enhance its longevity.

For operators looking to minimize downtime and maintenance costs, the BIGFOOT tire stands out as a top-tier option, offering both performance and value.

J&J Amusements go-karts are backed by a comprehensive warranty designed to give operators peace of mind. All go-karts include a one-year warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship, and steel bumper rails are protected with an extended 10-year warranty. Parts and accessories come with a 90-day warranty. For facilities running gas-powered karts, Honda GX engines are supported by Honda’s three-month commercial warranty.

At J&J Amusements, we stand behind our go-karts with full 7-day customer support. We provide detailed service manuals with recommended maintenance schedules, along with technical specifications for key components like chargers, motors, and the Kartrol system. If an issue arises, our support team is here to help troubleshoot and provide replacement parts when needed. Combined with our warranty protection, this ensures you always have the resources to keep your fleet running reliably.