These guidelines define how we build and run CycleKarts in New Zealand.
They are based on the original Stevenson Formula and Gittreville GP guidelines, with input from local builders.
A few NZ-specific rules have been added for clarity and safety.
If you plan to take part in organised driving events, be sure to read the Mandatory Requirements section — your kart must meet those to participate.
Before building, we recommend familiarising yourself with:
We recognise two types of CycleKarts:
Single-seat, “sit-in” kart
Styled after pre-WWII vintage race cars
Used for informal competitive driving
Two-seat, “sit-on” configuration
Styled after early Edwardian motorcars
Used for touring, expeditions, and parades
These karts tend to emphasise visual charm and adventure over speed
At least 50% of the build should be completed by the driver/owner. This way, you put your own love and care into creating a kart that truly reflects your inspiration car.
CycleKarting is about fun — there are no trophies, prize money, or sponsorships.
If you're unsure about something, just ask — this is a builder’s community, and we're here to help each other.
Must be inspired by a pre-WWII vehicle
The inspiration car must be clearly recognisable
Wheels must be spoked wire wheels in keeping with the style of the inspiration car
Maximum overall width: 1000 mm (outside tyre to outside tyre)
Wheelbase: 1650–2000 mm
Length: Whatever suits the inspiration car and your trailer
Front: Any system that reflects the inspiration car
Rear: Not required (but if used, should match the inspiration car’s style)
Wheels:
17” diameter
1.40” width rims recommended
Front and rear rims must be the same diameter
Must be spoked wire wheels
Tyres:
Maximum width: 2.75”
200cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke OHV engine (e.g. Honda GX200 or clone)
Approx. 6.5 horsepower
Start with a stock engine before making modifications, so you understand how it performs before spending money you may never need to.
CVT drive system (e.g. Comet TAV-30 or similar)
Other setups may work, but the Comet-style CVT is the most proven and reliable for CycleKarts
To take part in organised NZ CycleKart driving events, your kart and safety gear must meet the following mandatory requirements. These are checked during scrutineering; final approval is at the organiser’s discretion.
Maximum overall width: 1000 mm (measured outside tyre to outside tyre)
Minimum ground clearance: Kart with driver must be able to roll over a 100×100 mm fence post — tested in the pits, not on the track
Wheel rim diameter: 16–18” accepted
17” preferred to match inspiration car proportions
Front and rear rims must match in diameter
🛠️ Bodywork
All exposed edges on the kart must be smooth and free from sharpness
Avoid any pointy or dangerous protrusions that could injure drivers, crew, or spectators
Safety is paramount — consider the well-being of yourself and everyone around you
🛑 Brakes
Braking: No front brakes allowed on any CycleKart
Parking brake must: (See Edwardian Requirements for additional emergency brake rules)
Be lockable
Be operable from outside the kart
Be either a separate system or an integrated locking lever that actuates the rear brake
🔥 Exhaust System
Must have a spark arrestor, either integrated into or attached to the muffler
Baffle-type muffler is mandatory — no open pipes
⛽ Fuel Tanks and Lines
Fuel tanks must be securely mounted and designed to prevent spillage
A fuel shut-off valve is required, either at the tank or within 150 mm down the line
Shut-off valve must be clearly visible and accessible
Fuel lines must be securely fastened at all joints
A fuel breather or check valve must be fitted and prevent spillage
⚙️ Throttle Return Springs
The throttle must have two independent return springs mounted at the carburettor or engine
This is a critical safety feature — it ensures the throttle closes properly if one spring fails
❌ Kill Switch
Must be accessible from inside and outside the kart
Must be clearly marked (e.g. “ON/OFF”, “PUSH TO STOP”, “PULL TO KILL”)
Must be a latching switch — momentary buttons are not acceptable
Helmet
Full-face helmet with solid chin protection
Must meet motorcycle or motorsport safety standards
Must be free from cracks or damage
Must be worn at all times while in the kart
Will be checked at scrutineering
Clothing
Long-sleeve cotton overalls or full-length clothing required
Gloves, secure footwear, and eye protection must be worn
Neck braces are compulsory for speed events
No bare skin should be visible while in the kart
Long hair must be contained within the helmet or clothing
Will be checked at scrutineering
A formal scrutineering checklist has being developed, use this checklist to help ensure you have everything covered off.
These apply in addition to the general and mandatory rules.
Edwardian-style CycleKarts are “sit-on” two-seaters designed for touring and visual authenticity.
Must be a two-seat, sit-on configuration
Seat must accommodate both driver and passenger
Driver must sit at least 150 mm (compressed) above the axle centreline
Rear axle must be mounted below the bottom edge of the main chassis rail
A separately operated emergency brake is required
Must also act as the locking parking brake
Can be:
A separate mechanical brake unit on the same disc or drum
Or a combined system with both mechanical and hydraulic actuation
Must have at least 4 spokes
Must be offset to one side (not centre-mounted)
These items are encouraged for Edwardian CycleKarts used on longer drives:
🔔 Audible warning device (horn)
💡 Working brake light (at least one)
🔦 Headlight and tail light (battery-powered LEDs are fine)
🔥 Dry powder ABE fire extinguisher (min. 300 g), securely mounted
🪞 Rear-view mirror (recommended)
Already imagining the CycleKart you’d love to build? Perfect — choose a favourite pre-WWII inspiration car and start shaping it within these guidelines.