Even with the rapidly evolving computational tools available
today, suspension design remains very much a black
art. This is especially true with respect to road cars
because there are so many competing design objectives.
In a racecar some of these objectives may be neglected.
Even still, just concentrating on maximizing road-holding
capability remains a formidable task. This paper outlines
a procedure for establishing suspension parameters, and
includes a computational example that entails spring,
damper, and anti-roll bar specification. The procedure is
unique in that it not only covers the prerequisite vehicle
dynamic equations, but also outlines the process that
sequences the design evolution. The racecar design covered
in the example is typical of a growing number of
small open wheel formula racecars, built specifically for
American autocrossing and British hillclimbs. These lightweight
racecars, 250-300 kilograms, often employ motorcycle
engines producing in excess of 75 kilowatts. The
power to weight ratio rivals that of many high level formula
racecars. Due to the nature of the application, braking
and cornering performance is equally impressive. The
model presented embraces the latest trends with respect
to racecar vehicle dynamics. Special emphasis, including
discussion of theory and analysis, is placed on damper
specification.