Yet another call, this time from a member who'd bought a mid-sized Winnies and described the suspension as 'overly harsh'. Motorhomes based on truck suspension have a much harder ride than a car, particularly if the vehicle is running below its maximum weight; but without driving the vehicle (and measuring spring deflection against load) it's hard to comment on whether the ride is within reasonable limits.

There are several solutions. The first, the possibility of reducing tyre pressures, is uncommon, but costs nothing but a weighing fee and a telephone call to find out. Truck manufacturers' recommended tyre pressures are based on maximum loaded weight. A laden motorhome rarely weighs much less than this, but if it does (and in this case by a claimed 1200 kg) then tyre pressures may be reduced. If they are, this softens the ride - by truck standards at least. To check the feasibility, establish individual axle weights at a public weigh bridge; note the make, size and type of your tyres, then contact the tyre (not the vehicle) manufacturer to establish pressures for the known axle weights. (Reducing pressures may not be feasible with wide low-profile tyres.) Do not reduce tyre pressures without first establishing axle weights and checking with the tyre manufacturer, and bear in mind that pressures must be increased if you carry more weight.

Another but costly possibility is to soften the existing springs (this may entail replacing spring leaves with lighter versions), and possibly adding Firestone air-bags to cater for possible future heavier loading. These air-bags are inflated by a small on-board compressor to suit loading and road conditions. They also simplify levelling the vehicle on-site. The shock absorbers may also need replacing. This approach is suspension specialist territory. Yet another solution is to install sprung seats. These are widely used in big trucks some of which have literally spine/kidney damaging suspension when running empty. The seats bolt on in place of the originals.