From the early 1980s, Rotax breaks into a new sporting scene with its first engines designed for karts. Investment in this development work is rewarded with early success and so the company intensifies its efforts yet further.  The Rotax R&D department gets to work and presents its “next big thing”, the Rotax MAX engine.  This pioneering engine is easier to handle, requires hardly any maintenance and is designed for quality and durability. And not just that: “MAX” stands for maximum performance and maximum fun. The 125 MAX engine is a high-performance, reliable response to the increased and diverse demands presented by the hobby kart sector. 125cc displacement in a reed valve-controlled single cylinder two stroke engine with balance shaft underscore the engine’s technical sophistication. It also boasts liquid cooling via integrated water pump, digital battery ignition, pneumatic exhaust control, electric starter and a centrifugal clutch. The Rotax 125 MAX is the basis for all kart engine developments in the years that follow.