What determines the amount of off-track a vehicle will experience?

The amount of off-track a vehicle experiences is primarily determined by the wheelbase of the vehicle. The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles, and it plays a crucial role in how a vehicle maneuvers. A longer wheelbase typically results in increased off-tracking, which is the phenomenon where the rear wheels follow a different path than the front wheels when turning. This is particularly evident in larger vehicles such as trucks and trailers, where the extended length means that the rear wheels will take a wider arc compared to the front wheels.

In contrast, a shorter wheelbase can create a tighter turning radius and minimize off-tracking, as the rear follows more closely behind the front. While factors like speed, the driver's experience, and the type of tires can influence vehicle handling and control, the specific measurement of off-track is fundamentally linked to the wheelbase dimensions.