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General Descriptions - Specifications - Road Tests - Conclusions

This comparison is between a
BT 16 (BT=Big Thunder, 1=single seat, 6=h.p.)
and a
BT 19E (BT=Big Thunder, 1= single seat, 9=h.p., E=electric start)
both 1999 models

Brister Thunderkarts, a subsidiary of Karts International, a publicly held company, manufactures three frame sized Go Karts. The Storm (S) Series 66" long. The Lightening (L) series 72" long and Big Thunder (BT) 80" long. All single seat frames are 35" wide and double seat 40" wide.

General Descriptions

Both karts have single adjustable seats, removable ignition key, patented throttle override, a system which if the brake pedal and accelerator pedal are depressed at the same time the engine throttle automatically returns to idle. The automatic drive (torque converter) drives both rear wheels. Thunder black color with decals, purple foam brush guard padding, visibility flag

MSRP Price

Go-Kart Dave's
in store price

MSRP BT-16 - $1,424.00

BT-16 - $1,389.00

MSRP BT 19E - $2,132.00

BT 19E - $2,089.00

$79.00 for optional "START-R-UP"
Click here for ordering information

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Specifications

Engine Type - Frame - Drive Type - Tires - Brakes - Suspension
Seat - Lights - Chassis Maintenance

Engine Type:
BT16		6 H.P. OHV Tecumseh - Recoil Start
BT19E		9 H.P. OHV Honda - Electric Start
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Frame:
Type		1 1/4" 14 Gauge All Welded Steel
Length		80" Overall
Width		35" Frame
Overall Width Front		43 1/2"
Overall Width Rear		48"
Height		56"
Ground Clearance		6 1/4"
*Leg Room - Seatback to Pedals*
Minimum		33"
Maximum		40"
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Drive Type:
Live Axle (both wheels)		Yes
Torque Converter		Yes
	Type	Comet 40 BT19E Maxtorque BT16
	Belt #	203783 BT19E MXT 98LDF BT16
Chain
	Type	#420 Roller
	Length	33"
Drive Sprocket
	Type	#41 60 TOOTH
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*Tires*
Front		145 x 70 x 6" Rim
Rear		ATV 22 x 11 x 8" Rim
Type		KNOBBY
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*Brakes*
Single		Disc
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*Suspension*
Front		Yes
Rear		No
Type		Spindle Spring
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*Seat*
Slide Adjustable		Yes
Seat Belts		3 Point
Headrest		Yes
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*Lights*
None		BT16
One		BT19E
Type		Halogen
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*Chassis Maintenance*
Sealed Bearings		Yes
Grease Fittings		None
Lube Points		Chain, Accelerator and Brake Pedals
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Road Tests

All timed runs on measured hard surfaces. Elapsed time with stopwatch, speed with radar. Elapsed time in seconds.

BT 16

BT 19E

100'	5:05
Speed 100'	19 MPH
100' 10� Hillclimb	5:89
Speed 330'	28 MPH

100'	4:91
Speed 100'	21 MPH
100' 10� Hillclimb	5:33
Speed 330'	32 MPH+

These short distance tests are designed to rate the karts capability of off road performance. Off Road Run - 1/4 mile through woods with trails consisting of many turns, some obstacles to stay clear of, soft sandy areas, some uneven ground and two inclines.

Go Kart Dave's Ratings:
Excellent = A, Very Good = B, Good (average) = C, Fair = D, Poor = E

Styling / Appearance	A	Stopping	B
Fit and Finish	A	6 H.P. Tecumseh	A
Safety Features	A	9 H.P. Honda	A
Seating / Belt Restraints	B	Operators - Manual and VCR Tape	A
Steering / Turning	C	Ease of Maintenance	C
Stability	B	Predicted Reliability	B
Vibration	B	1/4 Mile Off Road Course	C
*Go Kart Dave's Conclusions:* To inspect or service the torque converter on either model, the safety cover must be unbolted and removed. The BT16 does not require any special tools to service, however, the BT19E requires an uncommon socket to unbolt the driven sleeves. An aftermarket choke control can be installed for the electric start BT19E. Both models share a solid frame, stump pulling engine torque, ample room and comfort. A civilized ride and respectable handling, providing great off road driving fun. For a softer ride, inquire about Dave's Tush Kush.
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