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konis v/s bilsteins

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Old Apr 3, 2007 | 06:43 PM
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Default konis v/s bilsteins

Short and sweet. 98 70k on it. Daily summer driver over all sorts of roads. Ride comfort is an issue and so is performance, but only somewhat. No track or autocross.
Opinions on koni v/s Bilsteins. Would you say...
a. not worth the $ difference for this use
b. if you've got the cash, spend it but either are good
c. sell your dogs if you have to and don't eat for a month but go koni
Old Apr 3, 2007 | 07:11 PM
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I put the Koni 3013s on my car a few weeks ago. What was on there was healthy Z06 shocks.

Less bump compression on the Konis so cracks and other sharp bumps in the road are "softer" on the Konis.

Rebound is adjustable, around the middle of the adjustment range has better rebound than the stock Z06 shocks but not too much to effect ride quality negatively but make a good impact on handling.

Since you don't autocross or track the car it would be hard to justify the cost difference between the two. Also most with adjustable shocks for street use never adjust them except for the first couple of days. I've never driven a Bilstein equipped C5 but know of a local one that does well at the track. I would definitely try to get a ride to see how it effects the ride quality. The Koni's were a pleasant surprise to ride "better" than stock for daily driving.
Old Apr 4, 2007 | 05:30 PM
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anyone else out there that can offer me a quick opinion?
Old Apr 4, 2007 | 06:36 PM
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Originally Posted by TommyBoy72
I put the Koni 3013s on my car a few weeks ago. What was on there was healthy Z06 shocks.

Less bump compression on the Konis so cracks and other sharp bumps in the road are "softer" on the Konis.

Rebound is adjustable, around the middle of the adjustment range has better rebound than the stock Z06 shocks but not too much to effect ride quality negatively but make a good impact on handling.

Since you don't autocross or track the car it would be hard to justify the cost difference between the two. Also most with adjustable shocks for street use never adjust them except for the first couple of days. I've never driven a Bilstein equipped C5 but know of a local one that does well at the track. I would definitely try to get a ride to see how it effects the ride quality. The Koni's were a pleasant surprise to ride "better" than stock for daily driving.

TommyBoy..are thoes the SA shocks?

Answered my own question...Yep

Last edited by BitViper; Apr 4, 2007 at 06:38 PM.
Old Apr 4, 2007 | 06:38 PM
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Yes. Red monotube single adjustables.
Old Apr 4, 2007 | 07:02 PM
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Bilsteins are great and for what you are doing don't waste your money.
Old Apr 4, 2007 | 07:06 PM
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I guess the big question is are we talking about Bilstein HD or Bilstein Sports. I know the HD's ride VERY nicely on the street. Its the sports I have not had a ride in but I have heard they are a bit more harsh.
Old Apr 4, 2007 | 07:09 PM
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Originally Posted by TommyBoy72
I guess the big question is are we talking about Bilstein HD or Bilstein Sports. I know the HD's ride VERY nicely on the street. Its the sports I have not had a ride in but I have heard they are a bit more harsh.
That is like saying is your exhaust loud everyone has a different opinion. I love the Sports others may not.
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Old Apr 4, 2007 | 11:51 PM
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I found the Bilstein HDs to be just right for my 2001 Street DD.
Old Apr 5, 2007 | 01:59 AM
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My Bilstein sports are not harsh at all. I think the ride is perfect IMO and I wouldn't want it any softer. Vette Brakes and Parts sells them for less than the HD's as well.
Old Apr 5, 2007 | 02:16 AM
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Originally Posted by John Shiels
Bilsteins are great and for what you are doing don't waste your money.

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