Sprung weight, unsprung weight?

Sprung weight refers to the weight of the vehicle's body and components that are supported by the suspension system, such as the chassis, engine, transmission, and passengers. Unsprung weight, on the other hand, refers to the weight of components that are not supported by the suspension system, such as the wheels, tires, brakes, and suspension components. The ratio of sprung weight to unsprung weight can have a significant impact on a vehicle's handling, ride quality, and performance. A lower unsprung weight can improve handling and responsiveness, while a higher sprung weight can affect the vehicle's overall stability and comfort.

Sprung Weight

- Refers to the mass of the vehicle that is supported by the suspension system.
- Includes components such as the body, engine, transmission, passengers, and cargo.
- Reduces as the vehicle's weight is reduced.

Effects of Sprung Weight

- Higher sprung weight increases the force required for the suspension to overcome inertia.
- Can lead to a less responsive and comfortable ride.
- Affects acceleration and braking performance.

Unsprung Weight

- Refers to the mass of the vehicle that is not supported by the suspension system.
- Includes components such as the wheels, tires, brake rotors, calipers, and axle shafts.
- Remains constant regardless of the weight of the vehicle.

Effects of Unsprung Weight

- Higher unsprung weight increases the load on the suspension components.
- Can lead to premature wear and tear.
- Affects handling and stability, especially when cornering or driving over uneven surfaces.

Balancing Sprung vs. Unsprung Weight

- Vehicle manufacturers aim to optimize the balance between sprung and unsprung weight to achieve the desired ride, handling, and performance characteristics.
- Reducing sprung weight can improve acceleration and braking, while reducing unsprung weight can improve handling and extend the life of suspension components.