What Are Spring Rates?
Understanding Spring Rate in Suspension Tuning
Spring rates refer to the stiffness of a suspension spring, typically measured in
pounds per inch (lb/in) or newtons per millimeter (N/mm). This
measurement tells you how much force is needed to compress the spring by a certain amount. For example,
a spring with a rate of 500 lb/in requires 500 pounds of force to compress it by one inch.
Why Spring Rate Matters in Suspension
In suspension tuning, spring rate is one of the most important factors that affects a vehicle’s
handling, ride comfort, and performance. It determines how much the suspension
compresses under load—from the vehicle’s own weight, passengers, cargo, and driving forces like
cornering, braking, or acceleration.
- Higher spring rates (stiffer springs) reduce body roll and improve handling, especially during aggressive driving or racing. However, they can also make the ride feel firmer or harsher.
- Lower spring rates (softer springs) improve ride comfort and allow for more suspension travel, but may lead to increased body movement and reduced handling precision.
Striking the Right Balance
Choosing the correct spring rate is all about balancing performance and comfort.
For street-driven cars, a moderate spring rate can offer the best compromise. For track or motorsports
applications, a higher spring rate is often preferred to keep the car planted and responsive.
Your ideal spring rate depends on factors like:
- Vehicle weight and balance
- Driving style and intended use (street vs. track)
- Suspension setup and damping characteristics
- Tire choice and road surface
Convert Spring Rates Instantly
Need to convert between kg/mm and lb/in? Use our Spring Rate Conversion Tool right
here on this page to make accurate adjustments for your setup.