Wheelbase to length ratio. What does it mean?
When you divide the wheelbase by the length of the motor home, you should have a wheelbase-to-length ratio of 53%. This ratio gives us a good idea of the handling characteristics you can expect from t...
Forum Discussion
wny_pat wrote:berreez wrote:Not really. The factor not figured in is how much of that 53 percent is behind the rear axle and how much weight is back there. That is where and why the tail is wagging the dog!!! My coach has a 228" wheelbase and is 36 foot long (53%). But the front axle is way back from the front bumper when compared to many other 36 foot coaches. My DP, without airbags, rides just fine and has no tail wiggling even when being passed by a tractor trailer. Like wallym said - "old wives tale". They can be built, but it has to be engineered properly.
So if 53% is a baseline; then 54% and over will give you a better ride and handling for the most part out on the road. Anything under 53% will give you better maneuverability in tight areas but possible tail sway in cross winds or out on the road. Is this correct?
Bingo, we have the correct answer, its not just the 53% ratio to look at, its how big is its a$$, in other words how far in the back bumper to the center of rear tires.
