Wheel Hop

Wheel hop is a violent bouncing or shuddering motion that occurs when a vehicle's wheels repeatedly lose and regain traction in rapid succession, creating a thumping sensation that feels like the car is falling off a lift repeatedly.

This phenomenon typically happens during hard acceleration or aggressive braking when the engine produces more power than the tires can handle. Unlike simple wheelspin where tires just slide continuously, wheel hop involves a cyclical pattern where the wheels grab traction, lose it, then suddenly grab it again in quick repetition.

The main culprit behind wheel hop is usually soft suspension components, particularly rubber bushings that allow too much movement between the wheels and the car's body. When the suspension flexes excessively under high torque, it changes the wheel's position and angle, causing the tire to lose grip momentarily before snapping back into place.

You'll know you're experiencing wheel hop when you feel violent shaking through the steering wheel and chassis, hear loud thumping noises from the wheels, and notice reduced acceleration despite pressing the gas pedal. The car may feel like it's bucking or hopping down the track rather than smoothly accelerating.

This condition is particularly dangerous because it puts enormous stress on drivetrain components like axles, differentials, and control arms. The repeated violent impacts can cause expensive damage and make the vehicle difficult to control during critical moments on the track.

Drivers can minimize wheel hop through smoother throttle control, avoiding sudden acceleration that overwhelms available traction. However, permanent solutions typically involve upgrading to stiffer suspension bushings, better shock absorbers, or specialized traction control devices that limit excessive wheel movement.

Understanding and addressing wheel hop is crucial for any motorsport participant, as it directly impacts both performance and safety on the track.