Karting is a great sport controlled by the MSA (MotorSport Association). Your bum is about half an inch of the ground with the wind blowing right in your face you are travelling really fast. It is also not as expensive as cars and kids can do it and it is very safe however you should always wear a neck brace, helmet and a rib protector. I would have broken many bones if it weren't for them! Although the MSA controls karting you can go to non-MSA events for amateurs like Indikart at local tracks. To race MSA you must pass your ARKs test and get your MSA license to race officially. You must do 6 races then you can start racing properly until then you are a novice and must start at the back. There many different classes' to choose from depending on your age, but you should always consider what's being raced at your local track. You need someone to race. Try to buy a new kart but whatever you do don't buy online without seeing it.