How to choose the right coil spring?

This is where the relationship between Rear Wheel Travel and Stroke Length comes into play. Leverage ratio is the ratio between how much Rear Wheel Travel your bike has per millimeter of Stroke Length

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On a full suspension bicycle, the rear shock is connected to a series of linkages that apply leverage to the rear shock. This leverage is applied to the amount of movement that the shock has (Stroke Length) and generates the amount of Rear Wheel Travel. 

A good way to imagine this concept would be to think of a lever &#; you have a rigid bar that rests on a pivot point with one end of the bar that you input force into (your shock), and the other end of the bar is where the output force manifests (your rear wheel). 

You can find your bike&#;s average leverage ratio by dividing the Rear Wheel Travel by the Stroke Length. For example, you have a bike with 160mm rear wheel travel with a shock that has a 60mm stroke length. 160mm wheel travel divided by 60mm stroke length is 2.67. This means your bike has a 2.67:1 average leverage ratio. So, for every 1 mm of movement on your shock, your rear wheel will move 2.67mm (on average).  

It is important to note that your bike&#;s average leverage ratio is just that, an average. The leverage ratio will change as the wheel goes through its travel. If you were to plot the different leverage ratios as your wheel goes through its travel on a graph, you would see your bike&#;s leverage ratio curve. 

Rear suspension is designed to incorporate an increase in resistance as you near the end of Rear Wheel Travel to help prevent harsh bottom outs. This increase in resistance can also be referred to as progression. Keep in mind that when we refer to rear suspension, we are referring to the rear shock AND the bicycle together, not one or the other on their own. Both the rear shock AND the bicycle can contribute in preventing bottom out. 

It wouldn&#;t make much sense (or be that much fun) to ride a full suspension bike with no progressive rear suspension because the bike would bottom out on small bumps and provide no support on bigger hits. Think of jumping into a pool with water vs jumping into a pool with no water &#; with no water there&#;s nothing to slow down your momentum when you enter the pool, you just slam down to the bottom. 

Pete Mitchell

When it comes to high-performance or race vehicles, selecting high-quality spiral springs for exceptional performance is a critical decision that directly impacts the vehicle's suspension performance, handling, and overall driving experience. Coil springs play a vital role in providing support, stability, and control by absorbing road irregularities and maintaining the desired ride height. In this guide, we will delve into the factors you need to consider when choosing coil springs, including their function, quality indicators, different types, and spring rates. We will also explore when it's time to replace your coil springs and highlight some top picks from reputable brands. Whether you're looking to fine-tune your suspension for better cornering or enhance the overall performance of your car, this guide will help you navigate the world of coil springs and make informed decisions to optimize your high-performance or race vehicle's suspension system.

What Do Coil Springs Do?

High-quality suspension springs are a vital component of a vehicle's suspension system. They work in conjunction with other suspension components to provide support, stability, and control. The primary function of coil springs is to absorb and distribute the impact of bumps, dips, and other road irregularities, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride.

Coil springs are designed to support the weight of the vehicle while maintaining the desired ride height and preventing excessive body roll during cornering. They play a crucial role in optimizing handling, traction, and overall performance.

What Makes a High-Quality Coil Spring?

When selecting coil springs for your high-performance or race vehicle, it is essential to consider the following factors that contribute to their quality:

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1. Material: High-quality coil springs are typically made from premium-grade steel or specialized alloys. These materials offer excellent strength, durability, and resistance to sagging or deformation under heavy loads and constant stress.
2. Manufacturing Process: Look for coil springs manufactured using advanced techniques such as hot winding or cold winding. These processes ensure precise and consistent spring rates, optimal stress distribution, and increased resistance to fatigue and sagging.
3. Coating and Protection: Quality coil springs often feature a protective coating or finish to enhance corrosion resistance and prolong their lifespan. Powder coating, zinc plating, or other specialized coatings provide an additional layer of protection against harsh road conditions and environmental elements.
4. Spring Rate Accuracy: The spring rate determines the amount of force required to compress the coil spring. High-quality coil springs have accurate and consistent spring rates, allowing for precise suspension tuning and predictable handling characteristics.
5. Manufacturer Reputation: Choose coil springs from reputable manufacturers known for their expertise in suspension systems and their commitment to quality and performance. Look for brands with a track record of supplying suspension components to high-performance and race vehicles.

Coil Spring Types & Spring Rates

Coil springs come in various types and spring rates, allowing for fine-tuning of the vehicle's suspension to meet specific performance requirements. Below are some common types of coil springs:

Linear Coil Springs: Linear coil springs provide a consistent spring rate throughout their compression range. They are suitable for a wide range of applications and offer predictable handling characteristics.

Progressive Coil Springs: Progressive coil springs feature a variable spring rate, meaning the resistance to compression increases as the spring is compressed further. This design provides a softer initial response for comfort while offering increased support and stability during aggressive driving or heavy loads.

Dual-Rate Coil Springs: Dual-rate coil springs combine the characteristics of both linear and progressive springs. They have two distinct sections with different spring rates, allowing for a softer initial response and a stiffer rate under heavy loads or during high-speed maneuvers.

The spring rate, measured in pounds per inch (lbs./in) or Newtons per millimeter (N/mm), determines the stiffness of the coil spring. Choosing the appropriate spring rate depends on factors such as vehicle weight, suspension design, intended use (street, track, or off-road), and personal preferences.

Knowing When to Replace

Regular inspection of your coil springs is essential to ensure their optimal performance and safety. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time to replace your coil springs:

1. Sagging or Uneven Ride Height: If you notice a significant drop in the ride height or uneven suspension stance, it may indicate worn-out or sagging coil springs. This can negatively impact handling and stability.
2. Excessive Bouncing or Bottoming Out: If your vehicle exhibits excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or dips, or if it bottoms out easily even on moderate road irregularities, it could be a sign of worn-out coil springs that are no longer providing adequate support.
3. Unusual Noise or Clunking: If you hear strange noises coming from the suspension when going over bumps or during cornering, it may indicate worn-out or damaged coil springs that require replacement.
4. Uneven Tire Wear: Worn-out or sagging coil springs can cause uneven tire wear, leading to reduced traction, handling issues, and premature tire replacement.

If you observe any of these signs, it is recommended to inspect and replace the coil springs as necessary.

How To Choose A Spring

When considering how to choose a spring for automotive suspension systems, several factors come into play to ensure optimal performance and comfort. Firstly, it's crucial to determine the vehicle's weight and intended use, as heavier vehicles or those used for towing may require stiffer springs to support the load effectively. Additionally, identifying the desired ride height and handling characteristics can guide the selection process, as different spring rates and lengths can significantly impact the vehicle's dynamics. Consulting with a knowledgeable suspension specialist such as a JEGS tech can aid in finding the right springs for your specific vehicle and preferences. Conducting thorough research and considering factors such as spring material, design, and manufacturer reputation can help ensure a successful suspension upgrade or replacement. Ultimately, finding the right springs tailored to your vehicle's requirements and desired performance attributes is essential for achieving optimal handling, comfort, and overall driving satisfaction.

Our Top Picks

When it comes to selecting the proper coil springs for your high-performance or race vehicle, there are several reputable brands that offer quality options. Some top picks in the industry include:

1. JEGS Brand Coil Springs: Known for their precision engineering and performance-oriented designs, JEGS offers a wide range of coil springs suitable for various applications.
2. Eibach Suspension Springs: With a long-standing reputation in the automotive industry, Eibach manufactures high-quality suspension springs designed for superior handling and durability.
3. QA1 Racing Coil Springs: Designed specifically for race vehicles, QA1 Racing Coil Springs provide exceptional performance, precise spring rates, and reliable suspension control.

Before making a final decision, consider consulting with suspension experts such as a JEGS Tech Specialist, or fellow enthusiasts who have experience with coil springs and can provide personalized recommendations based on your vehicle's specific requirements and intended use.

Selecting the proper coil springs for your high-performance or race vehicle is essential for achieving optimal suspension performance, handling, and control. By understanding the role of coil springs, assessing their quality factors, considering different types and spring rates, and knowing when to replace them, you can make an informed decision and elevate your driving experience to new heights.

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