I've just been reading, with interest, the threads on here about the proposed changes to TKM.
This weekend was the NatSKA National Championships at Buckmore Park. The Class 7 (TKM) grid was 40 strong. Yes, you read that right, 40!! NatSKA's regulations allow the use of any chassis (CIK, TKM etc.), all other regs are standard TKM. Out of interest, NatSKA also run Class 15 (Junior Rotax), for which the grid was less than half that of Class 7.
These kids are not bothered about the so called "sexy look" of a real kart, but are happy to race on anything that they can get together, solely for the joy of racing. There are some, (my own son included), who have the proper TKM gear, but the fact is that this is true budget racing, which allows those, who probably wouldn't be able to afford to race MSA, the chance to do so.
Tal-Ko would do well to look at the NatSKA model. If you want the Class to prosper, TKM needs to appeal to those who currently can't afford to enter karting, rather than try to poach those who already do.
In my opinion, the move to a less durable tyre, however desirable that may be for the more experienced competitor, would be totally detrimental in enticing newcomers to the class.
NatSKA's TKM success is down to one thing: cost.
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