Analysis of Rear Suspension Geometry of an ATV

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Special Issue 05 | Page : 275 286
    By

    Mayank Sanjay Gupta,

  • Yash Nitin Sharma,

  • Hari Vasudevan,

  • Vinayak H. Khatawate,

  1. UG Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SVKM’s Dwarkadas J. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Vile Parle Mumbai, Maharashtra,
  2. UG Student, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SVKM’s Dwarkadas J. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Vile Parle Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
  3. Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SVKM’s Dwarkadas J. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
  4. Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SVKM’s Dwarkadas J. Sanghvi College of Engineering, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

This research presents the design and optimization of a rear suspension system specifically developed for an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), with the primary goal of enhancing ride quality, handling, and overall dynamic performance across diverse terrains. A key objective is to improve damping characteristics while minimizing unwanted changes in track width and wheelbase during suspension articulation. The study carefully examines critical suspension parameters, including camber angle, toe angle, and wheel travel, to establish a geometry that maintains vehicle stability and control under varying load conditions. Special emphasis is placed on reducing the influence of roll angle on toe variation, which directly impacts handling precision and tire wear. Additionally, the research explores how suspension kinematics affect roll center height and its migration, as these factors play a significant role in determining lateral stability and comfort. A comparative evaluation was conducted between H-arm and trailing arm configurations to identify the most effective design. Findings indicate that a trailing arm layout, when equipped with two control links, delivers superior performance in terms of maneuverability, structural simplicity, and ride comfort. The initial suspension geometry was designed using solid modelling software and subsequently fine-tuned with Lotus Suspension Analysis software to meet both off-road and on-road performance requirements. Final validation using Lotus Shark simulation tools confirmed substantial improvements in cornering stability, shock absorption, and vehicle control. The optimized suspension system thus offers a balanced solution for performance, reliability, and driver comfort in rugged driving environments.

Keywords: Suspension, optimization, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), vehicle stability, optimization

[This article belongs to Special Issue under section in Journal of Polymer and Composites (jopc)]

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How to cite this article:
Mayank Sanjay Gupta, Yash Nitin Sharma, Hari Vasudevan, Vinayak H. Khatawate. Analysis of Rear Suspension Geometry of an ATV. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):275-286.
How to cite this URL:
Mayank Sanjay Gupta, Yash Nitin Sharma, Hari Vasudevan, Vinayak H. Khatawate. Analysis of Rear Suspension Geometry of an ATV. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):275-286. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2025/view=216627


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Special Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 13
Special Issue 05
Received 16/01/2025
Accepted 04/03/2025
Published 10/07/2025
Publication Time 175 Days
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