A tubular torsion bar (40) includes an elongated inner (tube 52) of flexible material having a proximal end (24) and a distal end (16) and an elongated outer tube (46) of flexible material having a proximal end (24) and a distal end (16). A joiner (bushing 54) fixedly attaches the distal end (16) of the inner tube (52) to the distal end (16) of the outer tube (46) with the inner tube (52) and outer tube (46) positioned in coaxial and substantially coextensive concentric nesting positions. A mounting (apparatus 42) is fixedly attached to the proximal end (24) of the outer (tube 46) and a planetary gear system (60) is coupled to the proximal ends (24) of the inner tube (52) and the mounting apparatus (42) and designed to provide a selected torque versus deflection characteristic of the tubular torsion bar (40).
