WHAT IS A LONG TRAVEL SUSPENSION?

A long travel suspension is a type of suspension system designed for off-road vehicles, such as trucks, SUVs, and 4x4s. The main goal of a long travel suspension is to provide increased suspension travel, which allows the vehicle to tackle challenging terrain and obstacles with greater ease.

In a traditional suspension system, the wheels are connected to the chassis of the vehicle via control arms, which are mounted at a fixed position. The wheels move up and down in response to bumps and other road irregularities, and the suspension system acts as a shock absorber, dampening the impact and providing a smooth ride.

A long travel suspension, on the other hand, allows for a much greater range of motion for the wheels, and the control arms are mounted at a much greater distance from the chassis. This increases the amount of suspension travel, allowing the wheels to move up and down further in response to rough terrain. This additional suspension travel allows the vehicle to maintain better traction and stability on challenging terrain, such as rocks, sand dunes, and steep inclines.

One of the key benefits of a long travel suspension is increased ground clearance. This allows the vehicle to traverse obstacles that would be too high for a traditional suspension system to clear. A long travel suspension also provides greater stability and control, as the wheels can move up and down further to absorb the impact of obstacles, reducing the chance of the vehicle getting stuck or damaged.

Another benefit of a long travel suspension is that it often provides a smoother ride on rough terrain. With the additional suspension travel, the vehicle is better able to absorb the impact of bumps and other road irregularities, reducing the amount of shock transmitted to the vehicle and its occupants. This results in a more comfortable ride, even on challenging terrain.

However, there are some trade-offs to consider when using a long travel suspension. One of the biggest drawbacks is the added weight and complexity of the system. A long travel suspension requires additional components, such as longer control arms, larger shocks, and stronger axles, which add weight and complexity to the vehicle. Additionally, long travel suspensions often require custom fabrication and installation, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Another consideration is the increased wear and tear on the suspension system. With the additional suspension travel, the components of the system are subjected to greater stress and strain, which can lead to increased wear and tear. This may result in more frequent maintenance and replacement of suspension components, which can be costly over time.

In conclusion, a long travel suspension is a specialized suspension system designed for off-road vehicles that provides increased suspension travel, ground clearance, and stability. While it offers many benefits, it also has some drawbacks, including added weight, complexity, and increased wear and tear on the suspension components. Whether a long travel suspension is right for you will depend on your specific needs and the type of off-road driving you plan to do. If you plan to tackle challenging terrain and obstacles, a long travel suspension may be the best choice for you.