Three angles are essential to off-road driving. Here’s how they work.
The Approach Angle:
The approach angle is measured from the center of the front tire (from the horizontal) to the bottom bumper in the front. This angle is the largest one at which an obstacle can be for your tire to still be the first thing that hits it. It’s important to know the approach angle because it determines whether you can drive on top of a ledge, over a tree, or over some other obstacle without damaging your car.
The break-over angle:
The break-over angle is in the middle of your car. It’s the angle that allows you to drive over an object without getting stuck on it. Even if both of your front tires can get over an object, you can still get stuck on it if it is larger than your break-over angle.
The departure angle:
Your departure angle is similar to your approach angle, but it’s in the back of your car. It’s the largest angle that an object can be at in order for your car to hit it with nothing but your rear tires. The word “departure” is a little misleading here; remember that the angle works the same way whether you’re moving forward (away from the object) or in reverse (toward the object).
It’s important to know these angles both spatially and by memory. Without even leaving the car, you should be able to estimate whether you can drive over an object by using your knowledge of your approach, break-over, and departure angles. However, you should also know them in centimeters and millimeters. If you’re not sure whether or not you can drive over something, get out of the car and measure the object or obstacle, comparing it to the measurements of your car’s angles. If you have only a vague understanding of your car’s measurements, you will not be able to judge your car’s limitations, and you’re much more likely to get stuck.
Depending on your experience and commitment to off-roading, you can also change your car’s approach, departure, and break-over angles by increasing the size of your tires. Larger angles will free you to navigate more challenging trails and terrain. However, larger tires come with other costs and inconveniences – for one, greater diameters translate into a loss of torque. Hopefully, this article provided a clear explanation of approach, break-over and departure angles.
Now, memorize yours and give them a try off the road!