This new Ohio go kart concept lets you race up tp 45 mph around a professional track
If you’ve ever dreamed of zipping around a track like a pro, feeling the rush of high-speed turns, the hum of the engine beneath you, and the thrill of overtaking your competition, K1 Speed in Hilliard is your new playground. This high-adrenaline indoor racing experience takes go-karting to another level with all-electric, Italian-built race karts that hit speeds up to 45 mph. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, every lap around their multilevel, 1,487-foot-long track delivers pure, pulse-pounding excitement.
Unlike traditional gas-powered go-karts, K1 Speed’s electric karts deliver instant acceleration. “There’s no delayed response – it’s instant. As soon as61 you hit the gas pedal, you’re gone,” said Mike White, Manager of K1 Speed. And for younger racers, junior karts offer a thrilling top speed of 20 mph – fast enough to give kids a real taste of the action.
The track itself is a rollercoaster of excitement, boasting 15 sharp turns and an elevated layout that makes every race feel like a scene straight out of an action movie. “The first time I did it, I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, this is awesome. And the adrenaline was out of this world,’” said White.
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The venue also features an arcade, event space, and a viewing area where spectators can catch all the action. And when you need to refuel in between races, the Paddock Lounge serves up classic pub-style food, like chicken fingers, pretzels, and sliders. “To me, K1 Speed is like walking into a treehouse as a kid; it’s everything you want it to be,” explained White. “There’s something here for everyone – whether you want to race, play arcade games, have a bite to eat, or just hang out.”
And for a unique keepsake, this location does something extra special; you can take home an actual go-kart tire. “We take the actual go-kart tires off and gift them to those celebrating a birthday party, hosting a corporate event, or to a kiddo who might not have been able to finish their race because they got scared halfway through,” White shared.
For those with a competitive streak, K1 Speed hosts monthly league races where top adult and junior performers earn a shot at state and even national championships. “The monthly leagues get very intense,” White said. “If you closed your eyes while in the viewing area, you’d think you were attending a NASCAR race,” he added. Columbus might be new to the K1 Speed scene, but White has no doubt that some local races will soon make their mark on the national circuit.
Looking to shave a few seconds off your lap time? White’s pro tip: “Come out here during the day when it’s slower…so you can race without the heavy traffic. We have spotters on the track who will give you real-time suggestions following your race on how to improve your speed.”
A single race lasts about seven to 10 minutes, with racers aiming to complete 12 laps before the checkered flag waves. And if you visit on your birthday, you get a free race – so there’s no excuse not to hit the track at least once. If you’ve ever felt the need for speed, now’s your chance. Strap in, hit the pedal, and let K1 Speed show you just how fast fun can be.
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