KZ2 Championship 2019

The KZ2 geared class is the fastest among the short circuit British Championships, topping out at 90mph at most tracks. Max Verstappen is perhaps the best-known graduate of this class, which is hugely popular across Europe.

Although a greater investment than the Junior or other Senior categories, the gearbox, or shifter, karts are surprisingly easy to maintain on a budget. With up to 30 gearshifts a lap and sub-3-second 0-60 mph times, drivers do need to be very fit. There are a variety of CIK approved or homologated engines to choose from and coupled with a high-grip Le Cont tyre, the experience is similar to a fast formula single-seater.

Scott Allen, the 2016 British Champion, Dan Kelly, the National 2018 Champion, and James Glenister to name but three will have their work cut out to beat the likes of the 29-year-old Italian ace Fabian Federer. Jack Hawksworth, an Indycar and professional sports car driver, honed his skills in the class and wins every time on a return to karting. If racing commitments allow, he is guaranteed to be at the sharp end.

The British driver Danny Keirle, who won the CIK-FIA World Championship in OK senior in 2017, also plans to race. So a wealth of talent has entered, but there is no easy prediction for a champion.