October Tech Tip: The Spring's Effect On Handling.

THE SPRINGS EFFECT ON HANDLING.

Handling can be described in a variety of ways, from a vehicles performance under braking and acceleration, to the way it corners.

Ultimately handling is how well the tyres grip the road with the vehicle being driven under different conditions, or the percentage and amount of traction each tyre maintains in contact with the road surface.

A broad description of handling relates to the driver’s confidence in the way the vehicle responds to his or her commands.

The suspension’s role in handling is to maximise the grip of the tyres to the road, and the springs function in this is to absorb the shocks that are created when driving over the irregular road surfaces, as well as controlling body roll.

The handling of most vehicles is substantially improved by replacing the original coils with ones that have a higher spring rate, or stiffness.

The increased spring rate allows less body roll, which in turn reduces the amount of wheel camber change. Large camber change has the effect of significantly reducing the tyres contact with the road surface, thereby dramatically affecting the handling characteristics of the vehicle during cornering.

Cobra Performance Springs are designed to achieve an optimum balance between handling and ride comfort, a contentious issue as these are often at odds with each other.

Enhanced handling can require firmer suspension settings while good ride comfort demands softer and more compliant settings.

For more information about Cobra Springs and how they can improve your vehicle's performance get in touch with us.