I Tested And Reviewed 5 Best Electric Motor For Go Kart (2023)
Looking for the best electric motor for your go-kart build or upgrade? With so many options on the market, choosing the right motor can be tricky. In this introductory guide, we'll cover the key factors to consider so you can find the perfect electric motor for your needs.
First, think about the performance you're looking for. How fast do you want your go-kart to go? What kind of power and torque do you need? Electric motors come in a wide range of voltages and power ratings. Make sure to match a motor to your desired speed and acceleration. More voltage and higher wattage generally means more speed and torque.
You'll also want to consider the motor type. Brushed DC motors are inexpensive and easy to control, while brushless DC motors are more efficient, generate less heat, and have a longer lifespan. The size and weight of the motor matter too, especially in small go-kart builds. Plan where and how you'll mount the motor.
Finding the right balance between performance, weight, size, and budget is important when selecting an electric go-kart motor. Do your research and determine your priorities. How will you use your go-kart? What's your budget? Asking these key questions will guide you towards the ideal electric motor choice.
Ready to start your go-kart electric motor search? Equipped with the factors above, you can narrow down the options and find your perfect motor. Check manufacturers' specifications and customers' reviews and experience. Then you'll be set to get the power, torque, and thrills you want from your electrified go-kart. Let's get rolling!
5 Best Electric Motor For Go Kart
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The product is ideal for converting go karts, e-bikes, electric motorcycles, and scooters into brushless DC motor-powered vehicles.
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The product is ideal for converting scooters, motorcycles, and ebikes to electric power.
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The product is ideal for converting bicycles or go-karts into electric vehicles with a powerful and efficient brushless DC motor.
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The product is ideal for upgrading electric motorcycles, ATVs, go-karts, and scooters with its high torque brushless motor kit.
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The product is ideal for go karts, e-bikes, electric throttle motorcycles, and scooters.
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1. Mophorn Electric Brushless Motor Kit: Power Your Ride
I recently purchased this motor for a go-kart project, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. The motor runs cool even after driving around for 10 minutes, indicating that it has plenty of power for a go-kart. With a top speed of 25mph, I am more than satisfied with its performance. The low-end torque allows for a quick take-off, even with an additional hundred pounds in the passenger seat.
Setting up the motor was a breeze, and I highly recommend using the "electric lock" connector for wiring an on/off switch. The reverse function works well, although it does not reach full speed in reverse. If you need to change the direction of the motor without using reverse, I found instructions on the leafmotor blog that worked perfectly for this motor/controller setup.
I was pleasantly surprised by the power of this motor. While the stock mx 650 can reach around 18mph, this motor has allowed me to reach almost 30mph. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. As other users have mentioned, the controller is quite bulky, so you may need to find a suitable spot or extend the case with washers. Additionally, there is a 3-speed wire plug that can further increase the speed, but I have not personally tried this as I am already experiencing wheelies at times.
Regarding the charger, you have the option to keep the stock xlr charger on the side of your bike. However, if you prefer a 48-volt charger, you can easily find one on eBay or make your own by attaching a regular 48-volt charger to an xlr cable. It may require some soldering to switch the 3-pin and 2-pin connectors if they are reversed.
2. Powermax Electric Motor Kit: 1600w 48v Go Kart Conversion
I recently purchased the 1000w motor for my Razor EcoSmart Metro scooter, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations. With a bit of fabrication and the addition of 4 lithium batteries, this motor has transformed my scooter into a powerful machine. The acceleration is impressive, and I find myself popping wheelies effortlessly when taking off. In 3rd gear, I can reach speeds of about 45mph, and in 2nd gear, I'm hitting around 38mph. This upgrade is definitely worth it, and I have been so satisfied with the performance that I have purchased two kits so far.
I also decided to install the motor on a Razor Drifter, making a few modifications such as changing the motor sprocket to a 15 tooth and connecting 60 volts of tool batteries. The results were fantastic. The top speed of the Drifter increased from a mere 12 mph to an impressive 30.88 mph. Both kids and adults love the enhanced speed, and it has brought endless joy to our rides.
The motor itself is of high quality and delivers exceptional power. Connecting it was a breeze, and I am very satisfied with the overall ease of installation. I installed it on a Razor Dune Buggy, and the performance has been outstanding. I am grateful to the team behind this motor for providing such a reliable and robust product.
In terms of performance, I must mention that the twist throttle is quite sensitive, so it requires some getting used to. However, once you find the right balance, the motor delivers ample torque and provides a thrilling scooting experience. I paired mine with a 48v 32amp 20amph lithium battery, and the combination has been fantastic.
I have purchased two motors, one of which I have been using for about 6 months now, and it hasn't shown any signs of wear and tear. It is just as strong as the day I got it. The other motor, which I have had for about a month, is also performing excellently. I have put both of them to the test and they have held up exceptionally well.
3. Powerful 36v Electric Motor Kit For Go-Karts
The go kart kit we purchased was a complete package with lots of parts and options. It provided good torque and power, and the inclusion of reverse was a definite plus. Our go kart zips around with ease.
However, there were a few areas where the kit fell short. Firstly, the terminal strip included in the kit was of poor quality and didn't meet our expectations. Secondly, the directions provided were subpar, and the English used in them was not the best. We found ourselves relying on YouTube tutorials for troubleshooting. Additionally, we were disappointed to find that there was no option for reverse specifically designed for a kart, so we had to get creative and either use the switch provided or make our own solution.
Despite these setbacks, the overall quality of the kit was good. With a 36v setup, our cart reached speeds of around 25mph, even with my 40lb son riding. The connector wires did pose some confusion, especially with the light indicator and brake connectors, but we were able to figure it out with the help of a YouTube video.
While we have yet to fully set up and test the kit, we have been impressed with the quality of the packaging and labeling. However, we did encounter some difficulties with the wiring, as the tags on the controller were labeled, but the accessories were not. This made it challenging to line up the sprockets correctly. Nevertheless, the kit has been a fun project, and the motor had no trouble reaching high speeds even with a 200lb load.
4. Ultimate 3000w Electric Motor Kit For Upgraded Vehicles
I installed this motor and controller upgrade on my 6-year-old son's MX650 bike. I made this upgrade because the stock controller and motor were causing the bike to overheat when used with the upgraded 48v 20ah LiFePo battery. I also added a 3-speed switch to the controller for additional versatility.
The motor and control upgrade has significantly increased the torque compared to the stock components, which is especially beneficial for riding on grass and hills. The three speed levels provide varying speeds, with level 1 reaching about 19mph, level 2 reaching 25mph, and level 3 reaching 31mph. However, I have noticed that all the torque hits at once when the throttle is engaged, even with the 3-speed switch. This can be challenging for young or lightweight riders, particularly at low speeds on pavement. I have considered adjusting the motor sprocket tooth count to reduce overall torque and increase top speed, but my son prefers the current torque for tackling hills and does not need more top speed.
Despite the slight issue with torque delivery, this upgrade has successfully resolved the overheating problem and allows my son to ride for extended periods without any limitations. It is worth noting that I am an experienced electric bike rider and have noticed smoother torque delivery on other bikes, such as my Talaria Sting R.
Installing the Vevor motor and controller on the Razor dirt bike does require some modifications, including cutting the motor tabs and countersinking screws. However, once installed, the kit has proven to be reliable and powerful. I have been using it for three months now, and it still runs great with strong performance. The top speed has slightly decreased to 30mph, but this is not a major concern for me.
5. Powerlift: 1800w Electric Motor Kit For E-Bikes
I recently purchased and built a conversion trike using this motor, and I have mixed feelings about it. The assembly process took an unexpectedly long time, as it took seven months to gather all the necessary parts and build the trike. However, I understand that this may vary for different individuals.
Unfortunately, I encountered a significant issue with the motor itself. Upon testing, I noticed that it produced a grinding noise and had trouble turning properly. I immediately reached out to customer service for assistance, but they informed me that I had exceeded their 60-day return policy. This was disappointing, as I wasn't able to thoroughly test the product within that timeframe. The company did not make any efforts to rectify the situation.
On a positive note, the motor did come with all the components as advertised, and it provided ample torque. I installed it on my mx650 and was able to achieve a speed of almost 30mph, even with my weight of 180lb. The power output was satisfactory and allowed me to navigate comfortably.
However, I must caution potential buyers against purchasing this motor. I have had the unfortunate experience of buying two of these motors, and both of them failed to work. Despite my attempts to troubleshoot and resolve the issue, they simply did not function. It is evident that these motors are not reliable, and I advise against wasting your money on them.
The packaging of the motor was secure, ensuring that all the components arrived undamaged. However, I did not receive the chain with the package, which was a bit disappointing. I assume it may have been shipped separately due to size constraints, but this was not explicitly mentioned.
I was particularly interested in the seller's suggestions for the battery and the possibility of adding heat sinks or fans to cool the motor. Additionally, I considered upgrading the controller to a 50 Amp version to ensure optimal performance. However, my attempts to communicate with the distributor have not been user-friendly thus far, which is a drawback.
FAQs
Are there any safety considerations when using an electric motor for a go kart?
Yes, there are several safety considerations when using an electric motor for a go kart. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the motor and all electrical components are properly installed and secured to prevent any potential hazards or accidents.
It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for installation.
Secondly, it is crucial to have a well-designed and sturdy frame for the go kart to ensure stability and prevent any potential accidents. The frame should be able to handle the power and torque generated by the electric motor.
Additionally, it is important to have proper safety features in place, such as a kill switch or emergency stop button, to immediately shut off the motor in case of any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.
Furthermore, it is advisable to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing, while operating the go kart to minimize the risk of injury in case of an accident.
Lastly, regular maintenance and inspections of the electric motor and all components should be conducted to identify any potential issues or malfunctions that may compromise safety. Overall, prioritizing safety measures and adhering to best practices is essential when using an electric motor for a go kart.
Are there any specific weight or size limitations for an electric motor in a go kart?
There are generally no specific weight or size limitations for an electric motor in a go kart. The weight and size of the electric motor primarily depend on the specific requirements and design of the go kart.
However, there are a few factors to consider when selecting an electric motor for a go kart.
Firstly, the power output of the motor should be sufficient to meet the performance needs of the go kart. This includes considering factors such as the weight of the go kart and the desired speed and acceleration.
Secondly, the physical dimensions of the motor should fit within the available space in the go kart. It is important to ensure that the motor can be properly mounted and integrated into the overall design of the go kart.
Lastly, the weight of the motor should be taken into account, as it can affect the overall weight distribution and balance of the go kart. It is generally desirable to keep the weight of the motor as low as possible to optimize performance.
In conclusion, while there are no specific weight or size limitations for an electric motor in a go kart, it is crucial to select a motor that meets the power requirements, fits within the available space, and maintains an optimal weight for the go kart's performance.
Can the speed of an electric go kart be adjusted or controlled?
Yes, the speed of an electric go kart can be adjusted or controlled. Most electric go karts are equipped with speed control mechanisms that allow the driver to set the desired speed. These mechanisms can vary depending on the make and model of the go kart, but the most common method is through the use of a speed limiter or a variable speed controller.
A speed limiter allows the driver to set a maximum speed limit for the go kart, ensuring that it does not exceed a certain speed. This is particularly useful for beginners or younger drivers who may not have the experience or skill to handle higher speeds.
On the other hand, a variable speed controller allows the driver to adjust the speed of the go kart within a certain range. This gives more flexibility and control to the driver, allowing them to adapt to different track conditions or personal preferences.
It's important to note that the specific speed control mechanism and its functionality may vary between different go kart models. Therefore, it is recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult with a professional for accurate information on how to adjust or control the speed of a specific electric go kart.
How does an electric motor for a go kart differ from a traditional gasoline engine?
An electric motor for a go-kart differs from a traditional gasoline engine in several ways. Firstly, an electric motor runs on electricity, while a gasoline engine relies on fossil fuels. This means that the electric motor produces zero emissions, making it more environmentally friendly.
Secondly, an electric motor provides instant torque, which means it delivers power immediately when you step on the accelerator. On the other hand, a gasoline engine takes a moment to rev up and reach its peak power.
Thirdly, an electric motor is generally quieter than a gasoline engine. This can be a significant advantage, especially in residential areas or noise-sensitive environments.
Additionally, an electric motor requires less maintenance compared to a gasoline engine. It has fewer moving parts, no oil changes or spark plug replacements, and fewer fluids to manage.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind with electric motors. They rely on batteries, so the range can be limited, and recharging takes time. Gasoline engines, on the other hand, can be refueled quickly and have a longer range.
In conclusion, while both options have their pros and cons, an electric motor for a go-kart offers environmental benefits, instant torque, lower maintenance, and quieter operation.
How does the acceleration of an electric go kart compare to a traditional gasoline-powered go kart?
The acceleration of an electric go kart can be quite impressive when compared to a traditional gasoline-powered go kart. Electric go karts typically have instant torque, which means they can accelerate quickly from a standstill.
This is due to the immediate availability of power from the electric motor. In contrast, gasoline-powered go karts may have a slight delay in acceleration due to the time it takes for the engine to reach its optimal power output.
Additionally, electric go karts often have a higher torque-to-weight ratio compared to their gasoline counterparts. This means that they can deliver more torque relative to their weight, resulting in faster acceleration.
The absence of a transmission system in electric go karts also contributes to their quick acceleration, as there are no gears to shift through.
However, it's important to note that the specific acceleration performance can vary depending on the individual go kart models and their respective powertrain configurations. It's always best to consult the specifications or test drive the go karts in question to get a more accurate understanding of their acceleration capabilities.
How does the cost of operating an electric go kart compare to a gasoline-powered go kart?
The cost of operating an electric go kart is generally lower compared to a gasoline-powered go kart. There are a few factors that contribute to this cost difference.
Firstly, electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, which means that charging an electric go kart will cost less than refueling a gasoline-powered go kart. Electric go karts also tend to be more energy-efficient, allowing them to cover longer distances on a single charge compared to their gasoline counterparts.
Furthermore, electric go karts require less maintenance compared to gasoline-powered go karts. They have fewer moving parts, no oil changes, and no need for spark plug replacements. This translates to lower maintenance costs in the long run.
In terms of environmental impact, electric go karts are much cleaner as they produce zero emissions during operation. This not only reduces pollution but also eliminates the need for exhaust systems and emission control devices, which can be costly to maintain and replace in gasoline-powered go karts.
Overall, while the upfront cost of purchasing an electric go kart may be higher, the lower operating and maintenance costs make it a more cost-effective choice in the long term.
How long does the battery of an electric go kart last before needing to be recharged?
The duration of an electric go kart's battery life before requiring a recharge can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the battery capacity, the weight of the go kart, the terrain it is being driven on, and the driving style.
On average, most electric go karts can provide a runtime of approximately 30 minutes to an hour before needing to be recharged.
However, it is important to note that this is a general estimate and can differ from one model to another. Some high-end electric go karts equipped with larger battery capacities can offer extended runtime, ranging from one to two hours or even more.
Conversely, smaller go karts designed for younger riders may have shorter battery life.
To ensure optimal battery life, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging and maintenance. Regularly recharging the battery after each use and avoiding complete discharge can help prolong the battery's lifespan.
Additionally, being mindful of driving habits, such as avoiding excessive acceleration and maintaining a steady speed, can also contribute to maximizing the battery's runtime.
What are the advantages of using an electric motor for a go kart?
Using an electric motor for a go kart offers several advantages. Firstly, electric motors are known for their high efficiency, which means they convert a larger portion of the electrical energy into mechanical power.
This translates into a longer driving range and reduced energy consumption compared to internal combustion engines.
Another advantage is the instant torque delivery of electric motors. Electric go karts can accelerate quickly from a standstill, providing a thrilling and responsive driving experience. Additionally, electric motors operate quietly, eliminating the noise pollution associated with traditional engines.
This makes electric go karts ideal for driving in noise-sensitive areas or for those who prefer a quieter ride.
Moreover, electric motors require less maintenance as they have fewer moving parts compared to gasoline engines. This reduces the need for regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other costly maintenance tasks.
Furthermore, electric go karts produce zero emissions, making them environmentally friendly and contributing to a cleaner and greener future.
Overall, the advantages of using an electric motor for a go kart include enhanced efficiency, instant torque, quieter operation, reduced maintenance, and zero emissions.
What are the maintenance requirements for an electric motor in a go kart?
To ensure the optimal performance and longevity of an electric motor in a go kart, regular maintenance is crucial. Here are some key maintenance requirements for an electric motor in a go kart:
1. Cleaning: Regularly clean the motor to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the motor's surface and cooling fins. This helps to prevent overheating and maintain proper airflow.
2. Lubrication: Check the motor's bearings and lubricate them as per the manufacturer's recommendations. This helps to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
3. Inspection: Regularly inspect the motor's wiring, connectors, and terminals for any signs of damage or wear. Replace or repair any faulty components promptly to prevent further damage.
4. Cooling System: Ensure that the cooling system, such as fans or heat sinks, is functioning properly. Overheating can lead to motor damage, so it's essential to keep the cooling system in good condition.
5. Belt Tension: If your go kart uses a belt drive system, regularly check and adjust the belt tension to ensure proper power transmission and prevent slippage.
6. Battery Maintenance: If your go kart is electric-powered, pay attention to the battery. Regularly check the battery's charge level, clean the terminals, and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for battery maintenance.
Remember to consult the go kart's manufacturer for specific maintenance instructions and recommended intervals. Regular maintenance will help keep your electric motor in excellent condition and ensure optimal performance on the track.
What is the average power output of an electric motor used in a go kart?
The average power output of an electric motor used in a go kart can vary depending on various factors such as the size of the go kart, the weight it needs to carry, and the desired performance. Generally, electric go karts designed for recreational purposes have motors with power outputs ranging from 1 to 10 kilowatts (kW).
However, in competitive racing go karts, the power output can be significantly higher, reaching up to 30 kW or more.
If you are looking to build or purchase an electric go kart, it is important to consider your specific requirements and goals. Factors such as track conditions, desired acceleration, and top speed will influence the power output needed.
Consulting with go kart experts or manufacturers can provide you with more accurate information and help you choose the appropriate electric motor for your go kart.
