Hello, I'm new to go karting and wonder what everyone's onions are on the trailmaster xrs 300 vs the XRX 300. It seems that the big differences are the independent rear suspension on the XRX and the O-ring drive of the XRX vs the Chain drive.

http://www.gokartmasters.com/content/15 ... 0Chart.pdf

Anyone know if there is enough performance difference between the two to justify the added 800 dollars for the XRX?

Thank you for your time.

The rear independent suspension on the XRX would make a difference to me. My back needs it more now than when I was younger. It also depends if you want mirrors, turn signals, and roof lights too on the XRX.
Performance difference might go to the XRS with it being lighter though. Might also have less parasitic HP loss without the CV axles too.
But I own neither, so it's just speculation from me.

A solid axle is more fun to spin around but provides less traction than an IRS setup. IRS will add weight to the buggy compared to an engine cradle swing arm and I am sure there is parasitic friction in the moving joints. Ride quality will be much better with IRS when each wheel can move over its own obstacle rather taking the other wheel with it.