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Introduction
This blog post will be discussing the differences between long bed and short bed trucks in terms of length. There are advantages and disadvantages to both truck bed lengths, so we will be looking at each one in some detail, taking into account size, capacity and other factors. We’ll also look at what makes a long bed vs short bed truck more suitable for certain specific applications or uses. In summary, this blog post will go over the differences between long beds and short beds to help you decide which truck is best for you.
Condition and Use
Long beds provide more flexibility when it comes to hauling heavier and larger loads than short beds. The long bed provides a greater bed length of 8-8.5 feet (typically 9’6” on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500) compared to the 6.5-foot length of the short bed (around 5’7” on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500). This extra length to be able to fit all kinds of items, from large logs and furniture pieces that would otherwise not fit in a shorter model pick-up truck, which can make them extremely preferable for cargo transportation purposes. Long beds also typically have fewer obstructions like wheel wells due to their larger size, which makes loading and unpacking easier.
The longer wheelbase associated with a long bed does result in more weight being added to the truck, leading to poorer fuel efficiency, but this is generally seen as an acceptable tradeoff for increased cargo capability. Research from Edmunds shows that typical fuel economy from a mid-size 4×4 pickup averages 21 MPG while a full-size 4×4 pickup averages 17 MPG; it is important to keep in mind that these figures vary depending on several factors such as engine size and number of seats, but they provide a good starting point when considering what type of vehicle fits your needs best. Additionally, according to J.D Power ratings, customers report higher satisfaction across multiple categories with longer wheelbase pickups as compared to those with shorter wheelbases (vehicle dependability & performance, driving experience & exterior/interior design & features).
Cost Considerations
Purchasing a shorter bed length for your truck can bring several possible cost savings. One of the most obvious is fuel costs due to the lighter weight of the truck. A shorter bed results in less metal used to construct it, thus a lighter overall vehicle weight and improved fuel economy. The lighter vehicle weight will mean reduced wear and tear on the drivetrain components and suspension system due to less momentum required to push around all that extra metal, again helping you save money. Additionally, many parts such as bumpers and tonneau covers may be cheaper for a short bed model as they are smaller, allowing you to stretch your budget further while still getting the coverage you need.
Storage and Hauling Issues of Long Bed Trucks
A long bed truck is great for hauling large loads, but in some cases it can provide more problems than benefits. In congested urban areas, a longer bed often limits visibility and maneuverability. Without adequate room to turn or park the truck, many routes become unfeasible due to tight diagonal turns or narrow roads. Additionally, the added length of the truck can also make parking difficult in busy downtown locations, especially when trying to fit into parallel slots or other limited spaces.
It is also worth noting that in certain climates and topographies, a shorter bed may be advantageous for navigating rugged terrain or treacherous slopes without being at risk for tipping over. In addition, shorter beds also enables quicker acceleration due to a reduced overall weight; heavier loads can require considerable effort to gain momentum going up an incline while a lighter load will accelerate faster and require less gas consumption.
Advantages of Short Bed Trucks
Owning a truck with a shorter bed provides certain advantages such as improved fuel efficiency and a tighter turning radius. It also makes it easier to maneuver in confined spaces, such as parking garages or congested streets. With improved mileage, short-bed trucks are more fuel-efficient than their long-bed counterparts and can help you save on gas money over time. The ability to make tight turns is especially important for navigating winding roads or city streets. Additionally, the weight carried by a short bed truck may be lower than its longer counterpart, resulting in overall lighter load capacity which results in better gas mileage and increased safety when driving. The tighter profile of the cab also increases visibility while on the road as there is more room to look out the back window.
Degrees of Hauling
The length of a truck’s bed largely depends on whether it is designated as a long bed or short bed. The difference between the two is considerable, with a long bed measuring 81″ compared to a short bed at only 73″. This may seem like just a few inches, but it makes an important difference in certain applications.
For general purpose use, such as running errands and small trips, the extra space isn’t necessarily needed; however if you need more hauling room, then you’ll want to opt for a long bed model. It allows you to fit larger items inside the bed of the truck that couldn’t otherwise comfortably be loaded in a shorter one. Additionally, using an enclosed trailer with your long bed truck gives occupants greater peace of mind that their belongings will remain secure and out of view.
When it comes to carrying passengers safely, both types of trucks can handle large groups; however some people can experience additional roominess in long beds due to being seated farther away from the rear cab wall.
Conclusion
This blog post has provided an overview of the differences between long bed and short bed lengths. Long beds offer more total length, meaning there is typically more space for passengers and cargo. Short beds are gaining in popularity due to their improved maneuverability, although they do not have as much storage space when compared to their longer counterparts. Both types of beds have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider weight and size requirements before making a decision. For more information on which type of bed best fits your needs, consult with a qualified automotive expert for guidance.
