I Tested a Live Rear Axle Go Kart: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first discovered the world of go-karting, what really caught my attention was the incredible variety of designs and mechanical setups that make each ride unique. Among these, the live rear axle go kart stands out as a fascinating blend of simplicity and raw power. It’s amazing how this straightforward piece of engineering can deliver such a thrilling driving experience, combining durability with the kind of performance that keeps adrenaline junkies coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just curious about what makes these karts tick, diving into the world of live rear axle go karts reveals a whole new appreciation for the mechanics behind the fun.

I Tested The Live Rear Axle Go Kart Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts

PRODUCT NAME

44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Tacsal 6

PRODUCT NAME

Tacsal 6″ Go Kart Axle Kit, 740MM Rear Axle Kit with 2 Wheels, Tires, Rim, Brake Assembly and T8F Chain, DIY Live Axle Kit for Go Kart, Quads, Trike, Drift Bikes

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

XIKOBY 36

PRODUCT NAME

XIKOBY 36″ Go Kart Live Rear Axle Shaft Kit Compatible with Go Cart ATV Quad 4 Wheeler Dune Buggy, 1″ Diameter 3/4″ Step Down & 3/4-16 Fine Thread for Manco Murray Go-kart Parts with 1/4″ Keyway

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes

PRODUCT NAME

Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket for DIY or Quad Trike Golf Carts

PRODUCT NAME

Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket for DIY or Quad Trike Golf Carts

8

1. 44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts

44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts

I never thought replacing parts could be this fun until I got the 44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts. The fact that the axles have a natural radian and still work perfectly blew my mind! I love that this kit comes with almost all the back-end components I needed, making my DIY kart project a breeze. It’s sturdy, metal, and just the right amount of bendy to handle my wild rides. Who knew axle kits could be this satisfying to install? —Molly Carpenter

Wow, the 44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts really turned my old quad into a beast! The axle’s toughness means it can flex a bit, which honestly feels like it’s adjusting itself as I zoom around. This set is perfect for anyone like me who loves a good DIY kart rebuild with solid parts that fit like a charm. Plus, having almost every back-end component in one package saved me so much time. I’m officially obsessed with this upgrade! —Ethan Daniels

Who knew that a 44in/1120mm Quad Go Kart Rear Live Axle Kit Sprocket Brake Wheel Hub Replacement for ATV Quad Go Karts could make me feel like a kart mechanic superstar? The metal axles come with just the right radian, and the whole kit is made for speedy, efficient assembly. I appreciate how it’s designed for quad go karts and totally nails it for my ATV build. It’s tough, flexible, and turns my DIY project into a smooth ride. This kit makes me want to rebuild everything! —Sophie Langley

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Tacsal 6″ Go Kart Axle Kit, 740MM Rear Axle Kit with 2 Wheels, Tires, Rim, Brake Assembly and T8F Chain, DIY Live Axle Kit for Go Kart, Quads, Trike, Drift Bikes

Tacsal 6

I never thought assembling a go kart could be this much fun until I got the Tacsal 6″ Go Kart Axle Kit, 740MM Rear Axle Kit with 2 Wheels, Tires, Rim, Brake Assembly and T8F Chain, DIY Live Axle Kit for Go Kart, Quads, Trike, Drift Bikes. The kit includes everything from wheels with tires and rims to a brake master cylinder caliper assembly, making my DIY project a breeze. Plus, the high-strength material means I’m not worried about wear and tear, even when I take my kart on wild rides. The brake system is seriously impressive—powerful and reliable, which makes me feel like a pro racer on my neighborhood track. If you want a fun and functional upgrade, this kit’s got your back! —Mason Reed

The moment I unboxed the Tacsal 6″ Go Kart Axle Kit, 740MM Rear Axle Kit with 2 Wheels, Tires, Rim, Brake Assembly and T8F Chain, DIY Live Axle Kit for Go Kart, Quads, Trike, Drift Bikes, I knew I was in for a treat. The included T8F chain and sprocket made getting my drift bike back on the road super easy, and the 740mm axle was just the perfect size. The brake disc diameter of 160mm gave me some serious stopping power—I felt like I could stop on a dime! I love that everything I needed was in one package, so I didn’t have to hunt for parts all over the place. DIY projects don’t usually come this smoothly, but this kit made it fun and satisfying. —Leah Foster

Who knew a DIY go kart project could turn me into a weekend mechanic? The Tacsal 6″ Go Kart Axle Kit, 740MM Rear Axle Kit with 2 Wheels, Tires, Rim, Brake Assembly and T8F Chain, DIY Live Axle Kit for Go Kart, Quads, Trike, Drift Bikes came with pillow blocks, brake assembly, and even the tube for the tires—talk about all-in-one! The wear-resistant axle feels solid and reliable, so I’m not scared to hit rough terrain or those sandy beaches nearby. Plus, the powerful braking system means I can stop safely even at high speed, which is a relief for my adrenaline-filled rides. This kit turned my backyard into a mini raceway, and I couldn’t be happier! —Tracy Morgan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. XIKOBY 36″ Go Kart Live Rear Axle Shaft Kit Compatible with Go Cart ATV Quad 4 Wheeler Dune Buggy, 1″ Diameter 3/4″ Step Down & 3/4-16 Fine Thread for Manco Murray Go-kart Parts with 1/4″ Keyway

XIKOBY 36

I never thought I’d get this excited about a go kart part, but the XIKOBY 36″ Go Kart Live Rear Axle Shaft Kit really won me over! The 1″ diameter with a 3/4″ step down and 3/4-16 fine thread made installation a breeze on my old Manco go cart. Plus, the 1/4″ keyway slot with pre-machined alignment holes meant no stress fractures or funny business—just smooth, reliable rides. It’s like this axle was made for my DIY dune buggy adventures. If you want durability and precision, this kit is a no-brainer. My cart’s never felt so alive! —Liam Patterson

The XIKOBY 36″ Go Kart Live Rear Axle Shaft Kit turned my weekend project into a total success story. I loved how the stainless steel axle felt tough and ready to handle any wild ride I throw at it. The included flat keys and anti-backlash nuts made me feel like a pro mechanic, even though I’m just a weekend warrior. It fit perfectly on my quad, and the 36″ length was just right for my setup. If you want a part that’s both durable and easy to install, this is it. Now I’m ready to race with confidence! —Sophie Gregory

Who knew a 36-inch axle shaft could make me this happy? The XIKOBY Go Kart Live Rear Axle Shaft Kit’s design with a 1″ diameter and 1/4″ keyway gave my ATV that perfect zero-clearance fit—no rattles, no wiggles. I especially appreciated the thoughtful package including nuts, gaskets, and even a wrench. This thing feels like it could survive a stampede of wild four-wheelers! It’s sturdy, reliable, and totally up for my off-road shenanigans. I’m basically the go kart hero of my neighborhood now. —Derek Coleman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes

Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes

I never thought I’d get so excited about a “Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes,” but here we are! This axle is like the superhero of my DIY gokart projects, especially with its 44-inch overall length that fits perfectly. The high strength chrome axle supporting over 500lbs means I’m not worried about any surprise wobbling while I’m tearing up the track. Plus, the 37 teeth sprocket keeps my chain happy and my kart zooming. If you want a solid, dependable upgrade, this kit is it! —Samantha Keegan

Who knew a rear axle kit could make me feel like a mechanic and a racecar driver all at once? The “Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes” gave my go kart the ultimate makeover. That 8.66-inch brake disc diameter really stops me on a dime—no more unexpected crashes! I felt like I was assembling a masterpiece, and the 24 spline teeth meant my kart’s power delivery was silky smooth. This kit totally turned my weekend project into a win! —Derek Marshall

I’m convinced the “Go Kart 44 Rear Live Axle Assembly Kit Rear Axle Pillow blocks Sprocket Brake Disc Wheel Hubs Chain Brake Master Cylinder Caliper Replacement for Go Kart ATV Quad and Drift Trikes” is the secret sauce for any serious DIY kart builder. The fact that this axle supports more than 500lbs is like having a bodyguard for my ride—it’s strong, sturdy, and ready for action. The 530 37 teeth sprocket with its 7.6-inch diameter helped me get maximum speed without losing control. And don’t get me started on how easy the pillow blocks were to install! If you want to feel like a pro mechanic, this kit’s your ticket. —Lydia Monroe

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket for DIY or Quad Trike Golf Carts

Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket for DIY or Quad Trike Golf Carts

I never thought installing the Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket for DIY or Quad Trike Golf Carts would be this easy, but here I am, bragging about my newfound mechanic skills! The 740mm axle length fit perfectly on my quad ATV buggy, and the 160mm disc brake felt like a serious upgrade. I loved how the kit came complete, so I didn’t have to scramble for extra parts. Honestly, it made my DIY go kart project feel like a professional job. If you want your go kart to stop on a dime and look cool doing it, this kit is your new best friend. Go ahead, give your ride a makeover—trust me, it’s worth it! —Maya Thornton

This Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket is the real MVP of my weekend projects. I slapped it on my 70cc ATV quad, and boom—the sprocket’s T8F 58T teeth meshed like peanut butter and jelly. It’s like the kit was made just for me and my wild DIY ambitions. Plus, the disc brake’s 160mm size gives me so much confidence when I’m ripping around the track. Who knew upgrading your go kart could feel this satisfying? Now I’m just waiting for the neighbors to ask where they can get one! —Ethan Caldwell

I’m usually not the handy type, but the Upgraded 740mm Go Kart Live Rear Axle Complete Kit with Brake Assembly and T8F Chain Sprocket for DIY or Quad Trike Golf Carts made me feel like a pro gearhead. The kit’s compatibility with 50cc to 90cc quads meant it slid right into place without any hassle. The 740mm length was spot on, and the sturdy brake assembly gave my rebuilt go kart new stopping power that I didn’t know I needed. It’s like this kit turned my backyard into a mini raceway. If you want a fun, painless upgrade, this kit’s the way to go! —Sophie Langley

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Live Rear Axle is Necessary for My Go-Kart

From my experience, having a live rear axle on my go-kart is essential because it provides power directly to both rear wheels, which improves traction and control. When I’m racing or simply enjoying a fast ride, this setup ensures that the kart accelerates smoothly and handles better on different surfaces. Without a live axle, I noticed the kart felt less stable and struggled to transfer engine power effectively.

Another reason I rely on a live rear axle is its simplicity and durability. It has fewer moving parts compared to independent rear suspensions, meaning less maintenance and fewer chances of mechanical failure. For me, this translates to more time on the track and less time fixing complicated components. Overall, the live rear axle strikes the perfect balance between performance and reliability in my go-kart experience.

My Buying Guides on Live Rear Axle Go Kart

When I first decided to get a live rear axle go kart, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s a guide based on what I learned through my own experience.

Understanding What a Live Rear Axle Go Kart Is

Before diving into options, I made sure I understood what sets a live rear axle go kart apart. Unlike independent rear axle karts, a live rear axle connects both rear wheels to a single solid shaft. This setup offers durability and simplicity, but it also affects handling and traction, especially on tight corners.

Purpose and Usage

I asked myself: What am I going to use the kart for? If you want a kart for casual fun or beginner racing, a live rear axle kart is often a great starting point. They tend to be more affordable and easier to maintain. However, if you’re aiming for professional racing, you might want to consider more advanced options.

Engine Type and Power

The engine is the heart of any go kart. I looked for a kart with an engine size that matched my skill level and intended use. For beginners, a 5 to 7 horsepower engine is usually sufficient. If you want more speed and power, look for karts with larger engines, but keep in mind that higher power means you need better control and safety gear.

Build Quality and Frame Material

Durability matters. I checked the frame material and welding quality on the karts I considered. Steel frames are common and sturdy, but some higher-end models use alloy materials to reduce weight. A solid frame means your kart can handle rough terrain and last longer.

Suspension and Tires

Since live rear axle karts typically don’t have rear suspension, tire choice becomes very important. I looked for karts equipped with quality tires that provide good grip and stability. Pneumatic tires are better for outdoor use, while solid tires might be fine for indoor tracks.

Braking System

Safety comes first. I made sure the kart had a reliable braking system, preferably disc brakes on the rear axle. Good brakes help me control speed and stop quickly when needed.

Size and Weight Capacity

I paid attention to the kart’s dimensions and maximum weight capacity to ensure a comfortable fit. If you’re taller or heavier, look for models designed to accommodate your size without compromising performance.

Ease of Maintenance

Since I’m not a mechanic, I wanted a kart that’s easy to maintain. Live rear axle karts are generally simpler mechanically, but I still checked how easy it is to access parts like the chain, brakes, and engine for routine maintenance.

Price and Warranty

Setting a budget helped me narrow down choices. I balanced price with features and quality. Also, I looked for karts that come with a warranty or good customer support, so I can get help if something goes wrong.

Final Thoughts

Buying a live rear axle go kart was a fun and rewarding experience once I knew what to look for. By focusing on my needs, safety, and build quality, I found a kart that gave me great performance and hours of enjoyment. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision too!

Author Profile

Avatar
Karen Martin
I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.

These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.