How to Safely Navigate Speed Bumps in a Lowered Car

Lowering your vehicle can be a beneficial choice for aesthetic or aerodynamic reasons, but it poses challenges, especially when navigating common road obstacles such as speed bumps. Often referred to as speed humps, these bumps can be a significant issue for cars with a lowered profile. In this article, we will explore the best methods and strategies for dealing with speed bumps in a lowered car and why they might not be the best choice for everyday driving.

Why Lowering a Car Can Be Problematic

The lowest car I've owned was an 87 Mazda RX7, and I discovered that my best hope for navigating speed bumps was to approach them at an angle to maintain a height of about 45°. A more reliable method is to install a hydraulic system, which allows for raising the car as needed. However, even with these adjustments, it can still be a challenging experience for a lowered car on modern roads.

Unfortunately, you can't realistically drive a lowered car on most modern roads. A lowered car on public roads is often deemed unroadworthy. It simply results in a harsh ride at lower average speeds compared to a car of normal height. This is why the concept of driving a lowered car on public roads is beyond comprehension for many.

Historical Context and Challenges

Thirty years ago, when lowered vehicles were fashionable, people understood how to manage speed bumps. Coming across a speed bump at an angle helped distribute the force more evenly throughout the vehicle. However, the reality is that if your car is too low, there's nothing you can do when you encounter one. Speed humps, which are often longer than speed bumps, are even more problematic for lowered vehicles.

Ultimately, the choice between a show car and a vehicle properly set up for driving on roads is a matter of practicality. You might consider avoiding roads altogether, or at the very least, try to choose routes that minimize your exposure to speed bumps.

Is a Lowered Car Really Suitable for Speed

Some argue that cars are lowered for the sole purpose of providing a faster driving experience, and that roads, by nature, are not places for such high speeds. After all, driving fast on public roads often results in a ticket. It might be more appropriate for such vehicles to be used on tracks designed for high-speed driving.

Conclusion

While lowering your car can be appealing for its style or performance, it's important to weigh the challenges it brings, especially when it comes to navigating common road obstacles like speed bumps. As this article has demonstrated, a lowered car is not the best choice for driving on modern roads. Consider alternatives that better suit your needs and ensure a safer, more comfortable driving experience.