[EricH]

Originally Posted by jkelleyrtp

Based on wheel base sizes, why do so many teams opt for the long chassis? In 2012 I feel that chassis shape would have taken a change for wide, but alas I was not around in FRC back then to see what the trends were.

75-25 in favor of long, or larger. There were a significant number of wide robots, though, valued for their ability to fit on the bridges as part of a 3-robot balance. And they could have a wider intake.

The primary reason is going to be front-back stability. Again this goes back to the 28x38 base size, but if you're running a long wheelbase, you're less apt to drive right out from under yourself, as wide wheelbases can do fairly easily.

Your secondary reason? It's easier to fit through a gap if needed.

This year (as rookies) we ran with the KOP chassis and had a significant rock. As our weight distribution ended staying with the part of the robot with the lift, we mainly stayed on the four front wheels the entire time. Has anybody experienced how bad the scrubbing is on long 4wd systems? And would have a 4wd been have feasible in 2014? Thanks for the input.

It's bad. That's all I'm going to say. I've been around a while; my first two years were 4WD long. (Then the team switched to 6WD drop, long.) But, it can be worked around by several methods, including tread patterns and careful driving.

As far as feasible in 2014... I'd be seeing that type as a goalie or inbounder, using limited motion other than for defense. Not so much on a finisher.