SHORT WHEELBASE VS LONG WHEELBASE SEMI-TRUCK

There are many parts to a semi-truck, and some may be more familiar to you than others. In this article, we’ll explain what a wheelbase is and whether a short or long option is better.

Short wheelbase vs long wheelbase: A semi-truck will generally have a wheelbase between 245 and 265 inches. However, there are some models that go up to 280 inches. A longer wheelbase means more comfort as there is more distribution when it comes to traveling over uneven terrain. A longer wheelbase also means less worry of a rollover. However, with a shorter wheelbase, you can manipulate turns better and you may be able to save money thanks to the better gas mileage.

What is a truck wheelbase?

If you’re completely at a loss when it comes to vehicle terminology, there’s nothing to be ashamed about. A wheelbase may seem like a common word but not everyone will automatically know what it means.

The easy answer is that a truck wheelbase is a distance measured between the front wheels and the rear wheels. The measurement is taken from the center of the axle for a more accurate number.

A wheelbase exists for every vehicle, not just for semi-trucks. Still, as you will see, the wheelbase of a semi-truck is considerably bigger than the average car.

What is the best wheelbase for a semi-truck?

Semi-trucks are built differently and some are larger than others. When talking about a semi-truck wheelbase, we are looking at the cab part of the truck and not the trailer.

The trailer doesn’t actually have a wheelbase because it only has back wheels. The front of the trailer rests on the truck.

A semi-truck’s wheelbase will range between 245 and 280 inches. There are more cab styles than ever, so this number is directly dependent on the make and model.

Short wheelbase vs long wheelbase semi-truck – Difference

Short wheelbase

Pros

A short wheelbase means better maneuverability. If your route regularly goes through city streets, then you want a semi-truck that can handle the turns and not clog traffic.

You never want to be the person who has to execute a five-point turn, just to make a standard right turn down a city street. Furthermore, if you can turn without taking up an extra lane, the cars behind you will be more thankful.

Another point to consider with a short wheelbase is that your semi-truck will be less expensive to purchase. More vehicle means more materials are needed, and a truck with a shorter wheelbase will cost less.

If there is no foreseeable reason for you to need a semi-truck with a longer wheelbase, then there is no need to spend more money unnecessarily.

Finally, there is a small cost saving when it comes to a short wheelbase. As there is less size and thus less weight to the semi-truck, you will get better fuel mileage.

As gas prices continue to rise, this can result in huge savings over time.

Cons

Often, a short wheelbase means a bumpier ride. The vibrations of driving have less space to spread out, and you can feel every fissure and rock as you drive.

Those that drive long distances and are gone from home for long periods of time will appreciate the smoother ride that a long wheelbase offers.

Long wheelbase

Pros

If you are looking to resell your semi-truck in the future, having a larger wheelbase can positively affect the resale value. The extra length means more options when it comes to driving, so you can attract more potential buyers.

Another positive with a large wheelbase is the overall feel of driving. You will generally get a better, smoother ride which is of great benefit if you frequently travel many miles.

Finally, the extra length means you have more space in your cab. You can use this to pack an extra tool kit that can come in handy and can be placed in this area.

Cons

One of the major disadvantages of having a long wheelbase on your semi-truck is when it comes to tight turns. Turns can already be difficult for semi-truck drivers, especially those who are new to the industry.

With a larger cab, you have to factor in this distance, along with the trailer, which makes tight turns more difficult.

Another disadvantage of a long wheelbase, especially with one that measures 280 inches, is that not all countries allow this. For example, while a large wheelbase can be paired with a 53-foot trailer in the United States, currently, Canada does not allow it.

If you are traveling between the two countries, then you need to be aware of individual regulations.

Finally, the type of trailer you have attached to your rig can be an issue with a longer wheelbase. A step-deck trailer won’t cause issues but the extra bulk of a reefer trailer can lead to too much length.

Is a longer or shorter wheelbase better?

Generally, truck drivers in America like to choose an option with a larger wheelbase. They are on the road for long periods of time, and having a larger wheelbase means more comfort.

If you go to other parts of the world, you will see semi-trucks with much smaller wheelbases. For example, in Europe, the wheelbase is usually less than 250 inches.

In America, many truck drivers are owner-operators. This means they own their trucks and can be on the road for months at a time. Any opportunity for more comfort is ideal, and a longer wheelbase affords this.

What is the average wheelbase of a semi-truck?

The average wheelbase of a semi-truck is 245 to 265 inches. However, there are some options that have a wheelbase of 280 inches.

Conclusion

When choosing your next semi-truck, the length of the wheelbase is an important factor. Those that drive a lot in the city will appreciate the better-turning radius of a shorter wheelbase while those that are on the road for long stretches at a time will appreciate the comfort a longer wheelbase has to offer.