What is considered long travel?

Understanding Long Travel in Suspension Systems: A Comprehensive Guide

In the world of off-roading and performance driving, the concept of “long travel” is frequently employed to describe suspension systems with exceptional wheel articulation capabilities. These systems allow vehicles to traverse rough terrain while maintaining stability and ensuring optimal traction.

Defining Long Travel

The precise definition of long travel is subjective and varies depending on the vehicle’s intended purpose and the desired level of wheel articulation. Generally, however, long travel refers to suspension systems that offer more than 10 inches of travel, allowing the wheels to move vertically by significant distances.

Benefits of Long Travel

Long travel suspension systems provide a range of benefits for off-road and performance vehicles. They include:

• Enhanced Wheel Articulation: Greater travel allows the wheels to follow the contours of uneven terrain more effectively, maintaining contact with the ground even in extreme conditions.
• Improved Traction: With more wheel articulation, vehicles can distribute weight more evenly, maximizing traction and reducing the risk of losing grip.
• Increased Stability: Wider control arms, often incorporated into long travel setups, increase track width and enhance overall stability, preventing the vehicle from rolling or tipping over.

Components of Long Travel Suspensions

To achieve long travel, suspension systems typically include the following components:

• Longer Suspension Arms: Wider control arms and a-arms provide space for the wheels to travel vertically.
• Coil-Over Shocks: These shocks allow for greater travel and can be adjusted to accommodate different terrains and driving conditions.
• Thicker Sway Bars: Thicker sway bars help control body roll and maintain stability during aggressive maneuvers.
• Extended Driveshafts: To accommodate the increased wheel articulation, extended driveshafts are used to transmit power from the transmission to the wheels.

Considerations for Long Travel

While long travel suspension systems offer many benefits, it’s important to consider some key factors:

• Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles require stiffer suspension components to handle the increased weight.
• Intended Use: The intended use of the vehicle should determine the optimal travel distance and suspension setup.
• Cost: Long travel suspension systems can be expensive to install and maintain.

Conclusion

Long travel suspension systems play a crucial role in enhancing the off-road capabilities and performance of vehicles. By providing exceptional wheel articulation, increased stability, and improved traction, they enable drivers to tackle challenging terrain with confidence. However, the specific requirements and considerations for long travel vary depending on the vehicle’s intended purpose and usage.