KartDen

Kart chassis have no suspension, so sustained cornering load transfers through the seat into the ribcage rather than being absorbed by springs. A slightly proud rib shrinks the contact patch (the seat-to-rib area) and raises local pressure, which is a better match for intercostal pain in long, fast corners than a new fracture. Pain late in a session is consistent with accumulated loading or reduced bracing, though that part is more inference than measurement. A fitted seat, a rib protector, and low-profile seat bolts have not changed the pattern, and imaging has only confirmed prior injury rather than a current structural target. I need a mechanical way to distribute that lateral load around the proud rib. Has anyone changed the load path with seat shape or padding, or is the practical limit simply lower lateral acceleration and shorter sessions?