I love K1 speed. I've been going to this one for over a year now and have even been to the one in Houston. I just love karting. I'm used to the idiosyncrasies, so they don't bother me anymore. But here are some keys.
1. They're always busy on the weekend, so don't go thinking you're going to get in and out. When you go to K1, you're going to need some time.
2. The staff has gotten good at making verbal announcements to help the newbies understand the process, but if you come in between announcements, it is not intuitive.
3. Check groupon before you go to see if there is a deal available. They do run local specials and also have coupons in some of the entertainment books, so you can get a good deal if you try. But if you go in cold, you're going to pay.
Once you know and learn those keys, you'll be ready for the karting experience of your life.