The standard advice given to all potential new drivers is to visit several kart meetings on different sites before deciding what you want to do.
There are several issues at stake.
You might find that the class / conditions in which you would like to race are further away than you would at first consider. I really enjoy the atmosphere at Clay Pigeon between Yeovil and Dorchester, but live in Surrey! I think it worth the drive, but not every week.
There are a variety of classes and karts. You need to see and learn about them before you commit to buying. Ideally, don't spend any money until you have been to at least three different circuits. Choose a class to race in, don't be sold a class to race in.
Get a fantasy filter. There's one truth, there is no such thing as a 'best class of kart'. If you choose the right class, it'll be lots of fun; if you are sold the wrong one it can be expensive misery.
Age is no barrier to driving well, or being at the front of the grid. Over 40's and heavyweights are not uncompetitive if you have the right class. (Formula Blue proves this, heavyweights and older drivers are regularly competitive even with talented younger drivers)
Money makes a difference. You probably won't beat a good driver who races every weekend and practices mid week if all you do is one weekend a month. If you can't match the money or the reflexes, don't expect to win.
Do it to have Fun. If you aren't having fun, then you are doing it wrong. Winning isn't that important, fun is.
Go to at least three meetings before making a choice. Accept help and advice from other people, particularly if they have met you here.
Try Forest Edge 4/5th of April, get Julie in the Tabor shop to show you where I am. (we can feed you in to pits with Rotax, TKM and Formula Blue from there).
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