Obviously it depends on budget but I'd be wary of starting with something too old. Just like cars, karts wear out and become less reliable with age unless very well maintained. Penniless Father gives an idea of what's needed to keep an older kart tidy and reliable. Whilst some enjoy that, for me it's a lot of time, effort, and money that would be better spent on the track
When my lad started (2010) I purchased a 2 year old Intrepid chassis and a brand new, standard Honda engine. I'd seen too many kids watch their Dad struggle to start a knackered old engine, or fix an ancient cracked frame when they should have been on the track. I still think it was the correct way to go, it didn't cost a fortune (under £1K)and gave us something tidy and reliable to learn with. It took us through the basic learning process, ARKS test and his first few race meetings. We went from there to a new Project 1 at the start of 2011, and that kart has just been sold complete with our original standard engine (many RPM rebuilds later) for £1500.
Another option is: Last year there was a 'Let's Go Karting' deal available for a new JKH kart complete with Honda engine, club membership and ARKS test for £1500. Officially that deal has finished but I know Cumbria Kart Club still have at least 1 kart - your local club might be the same.
Now is a good time to buy. There's lots of lads moving up a class, or wanting to buy new kit for next year, so there's a lot of choice.
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