Whether you’re getting behind the wheel of a Bandolero, Legend Car, or kart for the first time, there’s a lot to learn as a new racer. At Impel Motorsports, we’ve helped hundreds of grassroots racers get started the right way — and we’ve seen just as many fall into the same avoidable traps.
Here are the Top 3 Mistakes New Racers Make — and how to avoid them so you can hit the track confidently and keep progressing.
MISTAKE #1: Skipping Preventative Maintenance
Why It Happens:
New drivers are often focused on driving technique, race day prep, and seat time — which is great — but they overlook the most important aspect: making sure the equipment is safe and race-ready. Worn chains, cracked hubs, or loose fasteners can cost you a race… or worse.
How to Avoid It:
Create a pre-race maintenance checklist and stick to it before every event. Start with the basics:
Check chain tension and lube
Inspect wheel hubs and bearings
Torque bolts to spec
Clean air filter and carb
Pro Tip: Use our Impel Maintenance Kits — built specifically for Bandolero and Legend Cars — to have everything you need in one place.
MISTAKE #2: Ignoring Seat Fit and Safety Gear
Why It Happens:
It’s easy to assume that "close enough" is fine when it comes to seating position or safety harness fit. But poor seat fit can cause discomfort, slow lap times, and even injuries.
How to Avoid It:
Take time to dial in the seat and safety setup before your first race:
Ensure full shoulder and hip contact in the seat
Properly position and tighten your harness
Check that your helmet and HANS device aren’t restricting vision
Pro Tip: A correctly fitted seat will reduce driver fatigue and make you faster in long runs. Need help? Message us — we’ve helped hundreds of new drivers get fitted properly.
MISTAKE #3: Buying the Wrong Parts or Skimping on Spares
Why It Happens:
With so many options out there, new racers often buy parts that don’t meet series rules or aren’t track-tested. Worse, they show up to race day without spares — and end up watching from the sidelines after a minor failure.
How to Avoid It:
Stick with trusted racing brands and suppliers who know your series. Buy parts that are:
-
Legal for your division
-
Track-proven (not just cheaper)
-
Backed by real support
And always bring extras like chains, gears, fasteners, and oils to the track.
Pro Tip: Our trackside-approved bundles include everything we’d bring to a race weekend. Grab a Legend or Bandolero Starter Kit and show up with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Getting started in racing is exciting — but avoiding these three common mistakes will save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re in a kart, Bandolero, or Legend Car, focus on preparation, safety, and using the right parts.
Need help? Shoot us a message, give us a call, or stop by the shop. We’re racers too — and we’re here to help you win.