What does "suspension travel" refer to?

Suspension travel refers to the distance that a wheel moves vertically in response to changes in road conditions or the design and function of the suspension system. In simpler terms, it measures how much the suspension can compress and extend as the vehicle travels over bumps, dips, and other irregularities in the road. This movement allows the tires to maintain contact with the road surface, which is crucial for both handling and ride quality.

A well-designed suspension system will have adequate travel to absorb impacts and prevent bottoming out when encountering obstacles or rough terrain. Thus, option A accurately captures this concept by highlighting the vertical movement of the wheel as influenced by both the road and the inherent characteristics of the suspension. Understanding suspension travel is essential for diagnosing vehicle handling issues and ensuring that the suspension components are functioning as designed.