There are two main suspension systems in cars- static and bagged. Both have benefits and drawbacks, so it cannot be easy to decide which is better for your needs.
This article will discuss the key differences between these systems and their pros and cons.
By the end of this article, you should have a good idea of which type of suspension system is right for you!
Let’s get started!
A static suspension system is the more traditional of the two and uses coil springs or leaf springs to support the vehicle’s weight. In contrast, a bagged suspension system uses airbags to support the vehicle’s weight.
Table of Contents
What is a Static Suspension System?
A Static Suspension System is a type of suspension that uses shock absorbers and springs to minimize the effects of bumps and potholes on the vehicle.
The system works by absorbing the impact of the bump and then slowly releasing the energy so that it does not jolt the passengers.
The springs help smooth out the ride by allowing the wheels to move up and down independently of each other. The shock absorbers help prevent the wheels from bouncing after they hit a bump.
The science behind static suspension is based on Newton’s laws of motion. It states that an object will stay in motion unless an external force acts upon it.
This is why a static suspension system needs to have shock absorbers and springs. These components help dissipate the vehicles’ kinetic energy so that they don’t continue bouncing around after hitting a bump.
What is a Bagged Suspension System?
A bagged suspension system is a type of vehicle suspension that uses airbags rather than traditional springs to support the vehicle’s weight.
The bags are connected to the suspension system and filled with air, providing a cushion for the vehicle.
When the vehicle hits a bump or uneven surface, the airbags compress and absorb the shock, providing a smoother ride.
Bagged suspension systems are often used in larger vehicles, such as RVs and buses because they can provide a more comfortable ride over long distances.
The science behind bagged suspension systems is relatively simple. Air is a compressible fluid that can be easily compressed and expanded. This makes it ideal for absorbing shocks and providing a smooth ride.
However, one downside of using airbags is that they can leak over time. This can cause the vehicle to sag and may eventually lead to problems with the suspension system.
Despite this potential drawback, bagged suspension systems are still widely used because they provide a smooth ride.
Static Vs. Bagged; Key Differences
Now that we’ve gone over the basics of static and bagged suspension systems let’s take a closer look at the key differences between them.
1. The Working Principle:
First and foremost, the working principle is different for each type of suspension. A static suspension system uses springs or coil springs to support the vehicle’s weight, while a bagged suspension system uses airbags.
The springs in a static suspension system help dissipate the vehicles’ kinetic energy so that they don’t continue bouncing around after hitting a bump.
The airbags in a bagged suspension system work by compressing and expanding when the vehicle hits a bump.
2. The Moving Parts:
The second key difference is complexity. A static suspension system has fewer moving parts than a bagged suspension system. A static suspension system is generally more reliable and easier to maintain.
The airbags in a bagged suspension system can leak over time, which can cause problems with the suspension system.
Another potential issue with airbags is that they can malfunction if exposed to too much pressure. This is something you don’t have to worry about with springs. Overall, a static suspension is a simpler and more reliable than a bagged suspension system.
3. The Adjustability:
Between bagged and static, the former offers more adjustability. You can easily adjust a bagged suspension system’s ride height, stiffness, and dampening.
On the other hand, adjusting a static suspension system is not as easy because you have to remove the springs and replace them with new ones physically.
This is not a difficult task, but it does require more time and effort than simply adjusting the air pressure in a bagged suspension system.
In conclusion, a static suspension system is more adjustable than a bagged one.
4. The Cost:
The cost of a bagged suspension system is generally higher than a static suspension system. This is because the airbags are more complex and require more installation labor. However, the increased cost may be worth it if you’re looking for a smoother ride.
Remember that you’ll also have to budget for regular maintenance, such as replacing airbags that have leaked or been damaged.
On average, a static suspension system costs around $500, while a bagged suspension system can cost upwards of $2,000.
So, a static suspension system is the way to go if you’re on a tight budget.
5. The Applications:
Bagged suspension systems are often used in larger vehicles, such as RVs, off-road vehicles, and buses. This is because they can provide a more comfortable ride over long distances.
Static suspension systems are more common in smaller vehicles, such as cars and pickup trucks. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
Some people prefer the smoother ride of a static suspension system, even in larger vehicles. It really comes down to personal preference.
What are the Pros and Cons of Static Cars?
Now that we’ve gone over the key differences between static and bagged suspension systems let’s look at the pros and cons of each. First, the pros and cons of static suspensions:
- Generally more reliable
- Easier to maintain
- More affordable
- It can provide better handling than a bagged suspension system
- Outdated technology
- Not as adjustable as a bagged suspension system
- The springs can eventually sag, which can cause problems with the speed bump.
What are the Pros and Cons of Bagged Cars?
Now with the pros and cons of the bagged suspension system:
- More adjustable than a static suspension system.
- It can provide better ride quality over speed bumps than a static suspension system.
- Unmatched comfort.
- Based on modern tech.
- The entire suspension setup is expensive than a static suspension system
- Requires more regular maintenance, such as replacing leaked or damaged airbags.
- Less control on handling.
Conclusion; What’s Better, Static or Bagged Suspension setup?
So, the last question is which one’s better?
Now that we’ve looked at the pros, cons, and key differences between static and bagged suspension systems, it’s time to answer the question: which one’s a good performance suspension?
The answer depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a smoother ride, then a bagged suspension system is the way to go.
However, a static suspension system is the better choice if you’re looking for a more reliable and easier-to-maintain system.
It’s important to weigh your options and decide which type of suspension system is best for you. Thanks for reading!
I hope this article helped clarify some confusion around static and bagged suspension systems. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Until next time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by static cars?
Static cars are those that have no active suspension system. This means that the car’s suspension is not adjustable and is not connected to the engine in any way.
The advantage of this type of suspension is that it is cheaper to maintain and simpler to design. However, the downside is that static suspension cars tend to be less comfortable to drive, as they cannot adapt to changing road conditions.
As a result, they are typically only found on lower-end vehicles. If you’re looking for a car with a smoother ride, you’ll need to look for one with an active suspension system.
What is the difference between static stance cars and bagged car stances?
Regarding car stances, there are two main types: static stances and bagged. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Static car stances are the most popular type. They’re simple to set up and don’t require any special equipment. However, they’re not as adjustable as bagged car stances, so you may not be able to get the exact look you want.
Bagged car stances are a bit more complex but offer much more flexibility. You can adjust the ride height, wheel camber, and tire pressure to find your car’s perfect fit. But bagged car stances can be expensive and usually require professional installation.
Why bagged suspension setup is also called air suspension?
A bagged suspension system is also called an air suspension system because it uses airbags to support the vehicle. Airbags are inflated with air to provide air cushion between the car and the ground. This helps to absorb shock and gives the vehicle a smoother ride.
They offer several advantages over traditional springs, including a smoother ride, improved stability, and better outlook.
What is the difference between lowering springs and Coilover suspension?
When it comes to suspension, there are a few different options available. Two of the most popular are lowering springs and Coil overs.
These options can give your car a lower look but work differently. Lowering springs work by replacing your car’s original springs with shorter ones. This lowers your vehicle’s ride height, giving it a more aggressive look.
Coilover suspension, on the other hand, consists of a coil spring that fits around a shock absorber. This allows you to adjust the height of your car’s suspension, giving you more control over how low your car sits.
In addition, Coilover suspension typically provides better handling and performance than lowering springs. As a result, it is often the preferred choice for serious enthusiasts.
Can you adjust the ride height in a static car?
If you’re interested in modifying your car’s suspension, you might wonder if it’s possible to adjust the fixed ride height in a static car suspension. The short answer is yes; adjusting the ride height in a static car suspension is possible.
However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before making any changes.
- First, remember that adjusting the ride height will affect how your car handles. So, if you’re not careful, you could make your vehicle less stable and more difficult to control.
- Secondly, remember that adjusting the ride height will also affect your suspension’s spring rate and damper settings. As a result, you’ll need to make sure that you adjust these settings accordingly.
- Finally, remember that making any changes to your car’s suspension can void its warranty. So, if you’re not sure what you’re doing, it’s always best to consult with a professional before making any modifications.
With these things in mind, adjusting the ride height in a static car suspension is within the realm of possibility.
Can you daily drive a bagged car?
Some people wonder if driving a car with bagged suspension daily is possible. The answer is yes, but there are some things to remember.
- Number one is that bagged suspension generally results in a softer ride. This can be comfortable for long drives or rough roads but lowers your control and handling ability.
- Second, the lower stance can make the car susceptible to scrapes and potholes. So, you’ll need to be careful when parking, as the lowered height can make it difficult to clear curbs and other obstacles.
Overall, the bagged suspension is a great way to improve the look and performance of the vehicle for car enthusiasts, but it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides before making the switch.
Is bagged suspension worth it?
That’s a tough question to answer because it depends on many factors. Bagged suspension is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a smoother ride. And if you frequently travel over uneven terrain, bagged suspension can help to protect your vehicle from damage.
On the other hand, bagged suspension can be fairly expensive and require regular maintenance. So if you’re on a tight budget or don’t want the hassle of maintaining your suspension, it might not be the best option for you.