Karting New Zealand is reminding competitors of the importance of correctly storing, handling and preparing tyres used in competition.

Under Rule L3 of the Karting New Zealand Manual, competitors must not tamper with tyres in a way that alters the hardness or composition of the rubber. The application of substances including tyre treatments and tyre softeners is specifically prohibited, and Karting New Zealand may test or impound tyres at any time to confirm compliance.

Karting New Zealand’s recent research has also highlighted the importance of protecting tyres from unintentional contamination.

Tyre rubber can absorb contaminants from its surrounding environment. This means tyres stored in trailers, garages or workshops may potentially be affected by exposure to petrol, fuel vapours, solvents, cleaners and other chemicals, even where nothing has been deliberately applied to the tyre.

Competitors are therefore strongly encouraged to:

• Keep tyres intended for racing completely separated from fuels and chemicals.
• Fully wrap or seal race tyres in a suitable bag when storing or transporting them.
• Store tyres in a clean and appropriate environment.
• Avoid using chemicals or other substances to assist with mounting tyres where they could contaminate the rubber.
• Take care with tyres from the time they are purchased through to when they are presented at the track.

The responsibility ultimately sits with the competitor to ensure the tyres they present for competition are compliant.

Karting New Zealand will be undertaking regular tyre testing at events, and the existing tyre regulations will be strictly enforced.

This is not intended to make tyre preparation complicated. It is simply a reminder that good storage and handling practices are an important part of ensuring fair and consistent competition for everyone.

Competitors are encouraged to familiarise themselves with Rule L3 and the wider tyre requirements contained within Section L of the Karting New Zealand Manual.

Article added: Friday 21 August 2026