Go-kart racing is a motorsport that combines competitive racing with fun. While having fun is always important, go-karting definitely has a competitive side, where racers constantly try to improve their performance.
One of the best ways to determine progress is by improving your racing techniques and measuring lap times, which is most effectively done through go-kart speedometers and data loggers.
These tools not only help to display relevant racing information such as current speed (mph or km/h), revolutions per minute (rpm), and lap times (minutes and seconds), they also aggregate important go-kart and race information that you can use for further analysis.
In this review, I’ll be sharing my experience with go-kart speedometers and data loggers, which ones are the best and what to look out for when deciding to purchase one. Let’s jump right in!
1. MyChron 5 2T
Features
- Track Database
- GPS + WiFi
- Waterproof IP67
- Programmable
The MyChron 5 2T is the best go-kart speedometer and data logger, as it’s specifically designed for go-kart racing, has a great price-to-performance ratio and is equipped with plenty of features to improve your karting skills.
This go-kart racing data logger is part of Aim’s MyChron 5 series, and compared to the Mychron 5 and 5S series, has two separate temperature sensors, which is particularly beneficial if you’re running an X30 engine on your go-kart (1 sensor on the exhaust and the other for the engine).
The MyChron 5 2T features an internal GPS and WiFi module, ensuring that you get accurate readings and have the ability to transfer and receive data through any active internet connection.
It features a wide 268 x 128 pixel LCD display with up to 8 backlight colors to choose from. The easily customizable layout ensures that you’re able to set the data how you want to see it during your racing sessions.
Information such as lap times, rpm, engine and exhaust temperatures, lap position, and various other metrics can be displayed. You also have the option to download your racing data and analyze it through Aim’s Race Studio (currently on version 3).
Moreover, the MyChron 5 2T (and other variants) have an IP67 waterproof reading and have a rechargeable lithium battery that well outlasts your races. Overall, the MyChron 5 2T is my preferred pick when it comes to the best karting speedometer and data loggers, and have them installed on my go-karts.
- More Information: MyChron 5 Series Review and Installation Guide
MyChron 5S 2T Specifications:
- GPS: 25HZ
- Display Resolution: 268 x 128 pixels
- Alarm LEDs: 2 configurable
- Body: Glass fiber reinforced nylon
- Pushbuttons: Metallic
- Battery: Rechargeable Lithium
- Memory: 4 GB
- Dimensions: 137 x 88 x 30mm
- Weight: 390g
- Waterproof: IP67
2. Alfano 6
Features
- Track Database
- 3 GPS Systems
- Waterproof IP67
- Various Backlights
The Alfano 6 is another great go-kart speedometer and data logger. There are two variants available, the Alfano 6 1T (one temperature sensor) and the Alfano 6 2T (two temperature sensor).
One great benefit the Alfano speedometer has is that you’ll be able to select from three different GPS systems: Navstar (USA), Galileo (EU), Glonass (RU). You’ll also have the ability to select race tracks from the database that has more than 2,500 tracks.
While the MyChron 5S model features 8 different backlight colors, you’ll have 6 with the Alfano. The display features a similar 268 x 128 pixel resolution and shows racing data clearly.
Data that you’ll be able to make use of are rpm, battery, speed, lap time, number of races, racing map, among various others. You’ll also have the ability to select from five different race screens.
For connectivity, the Alfano 6 uses Bluetooth 4.0 instead of WiFi, with which you’ll be able to transfer data and download updates through an app or a PC software that can be downloaded. This go-kart speedometer is powered by a lithium-ion battery that has a capacity of 3,000 mA.
Overall, the Alfano 6 is a great go-kart speedometer that has great features to improve your go-kart racing skills and helps you keep track of your performance. You can also make use of the Alfano VisualData data logging software free of charge with your device.
Alfano 6 Specifications:
- GPS: 3 systems
- Display Resolution: 268 x 128 pixels
- Alarm LEDs: Yes
- Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Dimensions: 136 x 88 x 33mm
- Weight: 435g
- Waterproof: IP67
3. DAKTON
Features
- 3 Different Models
- Waterproof
- Additional Sensors
- Compact in Size
Another great go-kart speedometer and data logger is from DAKTON. There are three different models available, the DAKTON-XEL (basic system), DAKTON-XTRA (intermediate system) and DAKTON-XPERT (advanced system).
While all of these models come with a display that can be mounted onto your go-kart’s steering wheel, they have different features – the more advanced models have more data sensors.
The DAKTON-XEL has the ability to monitor and display rpm values, lap times, speed and water temperatures. Similar to the advanced models, it comes with a rechargeable lithium battery pack.
The more advanced models (DAKTON-XTRA & DAKTON-XPERT) have additional sensors and features. For example, they come with pedal sensors, steering angle sensors and exhaust temperature sensors that are able to give you vital information during your race and also data that you’ll be able to analyze after your race.
Take note that the DAKTON-XEL, which is the most basic version, does not allow you to download any race data to your computer for further analysis. However, it does show basic data on the display for racing.
If you plan to analyze race data, then you’ll need to either go with the DAKTON-XTRA or the DAKTON-XPERT that, with the help of the database, store all of the relevant race data.
You’ll then be able to analyze that data on your computer by using the Dataview software that can be downloaded from the official website.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Speedometer & Data Logger for Your Go-Kart
Unsure which of the above go-kart speedometers and data loggers is most suitable for your kart setup? Don’t worry! In the next selection, I’ll be guiding you through some of the most important aspects that you should consider before buying your device.
Specifications & Features
One thing that you’ll need to consider are the specifications and features, when it comes to selecting your preferred go-kart speedometer. On the one hand you’ll need to ensure that it can be easily mounted on to the steering wheel, and on the other hand it needs to have all of the relevant features that you’re looking for.
| MyChron 5 2T | Alfano 6 2T | DAKTON | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 137 x 88 x 30 mm | 136 x 88 x 33 mm | Unknown |
| Screen | 268 x 128 pixels | 268 x 128 pixels | Unknown |
| Backlight | 8 Colors | 6 Colors | Mono Color |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | WiFI | Bluetooth | Cable |
| Weight | 390 g | 435 g | Unknown |
| Waterproof | IP67 | IP56 | Yes (IP Unknown) |
| Battery | Lithium | Lithium Ion | Lithium |
| Sensors | - Water Temperature - Engine Temperature - Exhaust Temperature - Lap Timer - RPM - Distance | - Water Temperature - Engine Temperature - Exhaust Temperature - Lap Timer - Distance - RPM | - Water Temperature - Engine Temperature - Exhaust Temperature - Lap Timer - Distance - RPM - Pedal Angle - Steering Angle |
| Maps | Yes | Yes | No |
Software
You should also consider which race and data analytics software you prefer to work with. All three data loggers provide a free analytical tool that can be downloaded from their website.
These tools allow you to review your races and also analyze important go-kart information from your races, so that you’ll be able to improve over time. Below, you’ll find the name and a link to each of the manufacturer’s software.
- Aim MyChron: Race Studio
- Alfano: Multiple Apps
- DAKTON: Dataview
As each of these tools have different features and layouts, I highly recommend that you get familiar with their software, as you should be using that to analyze your races fairly regularly.
Therefore, it may be best to test them out yourself by downloading them or simply watching or reading reviews online. That will be able to give you a good idea of their capabilities and features.
Support & Availability
You should also make sure that the go-kart speedometer you are purchasing is readily available and has good customer support. I’ve noticed that Aim’s MyChron has a lot of documentation available and there are also various reviews and guides.
On the other hand, Alfano also seems available in selected stores and has various online reviews available. However, the DAKTON doesn’t seem to have an online store and they don’t seem to make their products available on popular marketplaces or retailers.
Price
Go-karts speedometers and data loggers vary in price depending on the brand and the type of features they are equipped with. Generally speaking, go-kart data loggers and speedometers range between $500 – $1,000. So, make sure that you select one that is aligned with your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions that you may have on go-kart speedometers and data loggers. If you have any more questions, feel free to write in and I’ll be happy to add it to the list.
Are Speedometers and Data Loggers the Same?
Technically speaking, go-kart speedometers are devices that indicate the speed of your go-kart, whereby data loggers are devices that collect racing and go-kart data, which also have the ability to display your speed, among various other types of information.
Therefore, a data logger is technically also a speedometer, as it has the built-in functionality of calculating the position of your go-kart and the distance you are traveling, in order to determine your go-kart’s speed.
What Information Do They Capture and Display?
Go-kart speedometers and data loggers have the ability to capture a vast amount of data during a race. Using various sensors, that you’ll need to install they typically display the following:
- Engine temperature
- Exhaust temperature
- Water temperature
- Speed
- Lap times
- Lap number
- Track layout
- Track position
- Gear
- RPM
- Weather
- Pedal angle
- Steering angle
- Maximum speed
- Maximum RPM
- Shifting indicator
How Do I Install a Speedometer?
Each go-kart speedometer comes with an installation guide from the manufacturer that you should follow closely, as some of the sensors are installed at different locations.
For your convenience, I’ve created a comprehensive guide on how to install a go-kart speedometer that you can use as a reference.
When using this guide, ensure to also check the installation guide from the manufacturer to ensure that all steps are covered and all sensors are installed correctly.
