What ride frequency means
Ride frequency is how many times per second the car would bounce on its springs. It lets you compare a light car and a heavy one fairly: match the frequency and they feel consistent, regardless of weight. The spring rate follows from the weight sitting on each axle and the frequency you want.
- The formula: spring rate equals frequency squared, times axle weight, divided by 19.56.
- Heavier end of the car needs a stiffer spring to hit the same frequency.
- Higher frequency equals a stiffer, sharper, more responsive platform.
The frequencies to run
FH6 rewards a firm platform on tarmac. Softer setups feel nice but roll too much and respond slowly.
- Road and street racing: 2.6 to 3.2 Hz, stiffening with class.
- Drift: 2.0 to 2.4 Hz, softer for weight transfer.
- Off-road and cross country: around 2.0 to 2.15 Hz, soft enough to soak up terrain.
The front-to-rear split
Because the split comes from weight distribution, a front-heavy car naturally gets stiffer front springs. That is correct, but if the car understeers you can shift a little stiffness rearward to help rotation. Get the weight distribution right first, because it drives the whole calculation.
Ride height
On smooth tarmac, drop ride height to minimum. It lowers the centre of gravity and cuts body roll for more grip. Off-road, raise it to clear the scenery and give the suspension room to work.
If the value will not go that low
Every car has its own slider range. If the calculated spring rate falls below what the car allows, just set the lowest the car will take. The target is a guide, not a hard rule, and lighter cars often bottom out the slider before they reach a soft number.
Frequently asked questions
Why are my spring rates too soft in Forza Horizon 6?
Older guides target low ride frequencies. FH6 tarmac tunes run stiff, around 2.6 to 3.2 Hz for road racing, so aim higher. If a calculated value falls below your car's slider range, set the lowest the car allows.
What ride frequency should I use for road racing?
A firm 2.6 to 3.2 Hz, stiffening as the class rises. Higher classes carry more speed and downforce and need the firmer platform.
Should the front or rear springs be stiffer?
Whichever end is heavier, to hit the same ride frequency. A nose-heavy car gets stiffer front springs. Shift a little stiffness rearward if you need more rotation.
What ride height should I run?
Minimum on tarmac to lower the centre of gravity, and raised off-road to clear obstacles and keep suspension travel.
Put this into practice: the FH6 tuning calculator builds a full setup for any of 630 cars, and the meta cars list shows what to build first.