The Rotax Max platform offers five performance configurations, all sharing a liquid-cooled architecture with a balance shaft and integrated water pump. The 125 MAX EVO (base) produces 32 hp at 11,500 rpm and is recommended for drivers aged 14 and over. The 125 Junior MAX generates 23 hp at 8,500 rpm for drivers from age 12, utilizing a cylinder without an exhaust valve. The 125 Mini MAX produces 12.9 hp at 7,500 rpm for children aged 10–13, using intake and exhaust restrictors. The 125 Micro MAX delivers 8.0 hp at 6,500 rpm for children aged 8–10. The 125 MAX DD2 produces 34 hp at 11,750 rpm and incorporates a two-speed gearbox operated by steering-wheel paddles with a chainless direct-drive system, recommended from age 16.
BRP-Powertrain established the Rotax Max Challenge as a mono-brand karting series, one of the largest and most respected globally, with over 7,500 drivers competing annually. It includes classes such as Micro MAX, Mini MAX, Junior MAX, MAX, and MAX DD2. The series is designed for pure competition, talent, and fairness, with sealed engines, standardized regulations, and race officials ensuring compliance. Competitors from national championships in the Junior MAX, MAX, and MAX DD2 classes can qualify for an annual Grand Finals event, where BRP-Powertrain covers most competitor expenses. Strict technical regulations and sealed engine systems, maintained through authorized service centers, aim to preserve competitive parity across the global series. Many motorsport legends, including Max Verstappen and Patricio O'Ward, began their careers in the Rotax Max Challenge, with Verstappen winning the 2005 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals.
In 2022, drivers from the Motorsport UK Wera Tools British Kart Championships achieved a record-setting performance at the Rotax Grand Finals held at the Kartodromo Internacional Algarve in Portimao, Portugal. Three Team UK members became Grand Final Champions, and six others secured podium finishes. Team UK also claimed a dominant Nations Cup victory ahead of 59 other nations, achieving the first-ever podium clean sweep in the 23-year history of the Grand Finals. Mark Kimber became the first driver in Grand Finals history to win three different classes, dominating the DD2 class in 2022, adding to his 2016 Junior Rotax crown and 2021 Senior Max victory. Scott Marsh won in Junior Max, and Callum Bradshaw triumphed in the Senior Rotax category, leading a Team UK clean sweep with Lewis Gilbert and Brandon Carr completing the podium.
The Rotax Max Challenge also integrates electric kart powertrains. The Rotax E10 is designed for younger drivers (ages 8–12 in the Mini category) and is available for purchase, fully integrated into the RMC structure, including the Grand Finals. The Rotax E20 is a pro-level electric powertrain with instant torque and a boost button, capable of 0–100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. The E20 is exclusively offered as an "Arrive & Drive" package at RMC and special demo events.
In 2024, the Rotax Max engine lineup received CIK-FIA (Commission Internationale de Karting) approval, formally validating its use in international competition under the governing body's framework.
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