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-2- <br /> karts in total were evaluated, both singly and in combination of up <br /> to three machines although, at most times, all nine machines were in <br /> operation on the track during the data gathering process. Since the <br /> tests were conducted during the normal operations of the park, it was <br /> possible to factor out any influence of operator characteristics in <br /> the results. Fifty-four operator/machine combinations were considered <br /> during the test period. <br /> The test sample consisted of nine machines broken down into two groups <br /> of Johnson Kart Manufacturing Company production models (four each) <br /> and one experimental machine. Differences between kart models are <br /> primarily in the engine used to drive the kart. The one uses a 5 <br /> horsepower, 197 cc, Honda Model G200 engine while the other utilizes a <br /> 4 horsepower, 146 cc, Kohler Model K91T engine. The experimental Kart <br /> was powered by a Kawasaki engine. Regardless of kart model, all machines_ <br /> have engines governed to maximum speeds of 3000-3100 rpm. With either <br /> a roller chain or Vee-belt drive between engine and drive axle, kart <br /> speeds are then limited to 17-20 mph by the kart manufacturer. <br /> Data were obtained on the afternoon of June 7, 1979. <br /> Ambient conditions were: <br /> Temperature: 73°F <br /> Barometer: 29.97 inches Hg <br /> Wind: SSW 7 mph <br /> Background noise level: 53dBA <br /> For the microphone positions shown on figure 1 test results were: <br /> Position A B C <br /> High 80.5 72 66 <br /> Low 76 70 64 <br /> Avg. 78.5 71.2 64.8 <br /> There was no detectable difference in overall A weighted sound levels <br /> between karts having different final drives (Vee-belt or roller chain). <br /> Although the roller chain can be heard as a distinct sound, the frequency <br /> is low enough for the sound to be attenuated in the weighting scale <br /> of the sound level meter such that it does not add significantly into <br /> the overall level. <br /> Conclusion <br /> "Go kart" is still synonymous in many minds with the racing machines so <br /> popular in the 1950's and '60's. These karts were powered primarily by <br /> two-stroke cycle engines running at speeds of 8000-9000 rpm and higher. <br /> Exhaust systems were simple expansion chambers for optimum power output. <br /> And they were loud: Noise levels at trackside often exceeded 100 dBA. <br /> Noise levels measured during this test program show that there is <br /> really no comparison between these early machines and today's commercial <br /> kart. <br /> To answer the original question that prompted this study, i.e. ,"How <br /> well does a commercial kart track operation fit into the community?", <br />