SHARP GEAR SHIFTING DEVICE ON TRACK TO REVOLUTIONISE GLOBAL GO-KART RACING 

Sharp Concept’s ability to develop a workable solution for almost any commercial or recreational challenge has resulted in the development of an innovative new gear shifting device which is on track to revolutionise the international sport of go-kart racing.

Known as Sharp Shifter, the new fully pneumatic device has attracted wide spread global interest due to its ability to provide finger tip control gear shift changing in less than 1/10th of a second. It has already helped win at least one regional championship in the US and has enabled several paraplegic racers compete and win against able-bodied competitors in mainstream races they were previously unable to participate in.

The Sharp Shifter is constructed from billet aluminium and incorporates a low pressure on-board mechanical compressor which compresses air as the kart is racing.

Sharp Concepts managing director, Jeff Sharp says, "We believe the Sharp Shifter can enhance both the speed and safety of kart racing by enabling the driver to keep both hands on the wheel when changing gears, and subsequently stay more focused on the track."

An enthusiastic member of Hamilton Karting Club, Jeff’s initial motivation to develop the Sharp Shifter was to overcome the hand weakening effects of an industrial accident which made it difficult for him to safely change gears while racing. He says, "Because there are no safety belts to hold you, without this device I was at risk when changing gears and found it difficult to stay in the kart at speed."

After racing a prototype version of the Sharp Shifter for two seasons Jeff and his team developed a production version of the product and launched it at the 2001 World Karting Show in Chicago. It was enthusiastically received and has since been officially declared legal for use in all World Kart Association races, and the Sprint 125 and 250 divisions of the Super Karts USA (SKUSA).

Sharp Shifter has been successfully featured at two subsequent international karting shows and has been selling steadily over the internet to go-kart enthusiasts across the globe. A US-based distributor has just been appointed to look after the Sharp Shifter’s largest international market, and manage the growing interest for the product from US retail stores.

According to Jeff Sharp, "This is a highly mechanical device involving compressed air, electronics and good solid industrial design. I believe it’s a good example of the type of highly technical, multi-material product development at which we excel."

So if you need complex industrial design and development Sharp Concepts can assure you of a sharp result.

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