Re: the tkm class
We're at the opposite end of the karting journey, with a lad just moving up from cadet. Tkm should be the logical next step, simple air cooled kart, in principle very similar to the Iame cadet, that we're leaving. Despite low grids in many areas, we're lucky because some are within reach, so we have taken the plunge BUT I do feel tal-ko are missing a golden opportunity, to re-grow the class, for the following reasons:
For 11/12 year old it should be the obvious step, who wants to put money into rotax with the rise of x30 but no mini option yet.
Most kids/dads are put off by DD but the tag's original issues have largely been resolved and it's now a good competitive package.
The revival of the super 1 grids, should provide publicity.
However Tal-ko need to do more at the grass-roots level to get more people in/back in. If I was them, I'd champion a couple of clubs, outside of there current strong holds, places like Rowrah or Llandow or Lydd. I'd make the commitment to attend those club events, talk to drivers/parents, take hire karts, demo karts, whatever. Even sponsor a series there, to guaranty a grid. It's catch 22, if people don't see a grid, they don't enter, they don't enter, there is no grid.
Could they run a non msa grid at an msa race, like a come and try it for 11 & 12 year old cadets. Use the max restrictor, on some clutched engines, maybe hiring back some club 100 karts. Or just have a come and try it on the practice days
I just feel, as a class it has so much to offer; close racing, it's not all about how much you spend, it's not totally dominated by the teams etc. etc! As I said. It should be the obvious next step, for lad and dad cadets moving up but currently it isn't!
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