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JCW Suspension: Value and Lowering

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Old Aug 1, 2007 | 06:10 PM
  #1  
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JCW Suspension: Value and Lowering

I was under the wrong impression that when I bought my factory installed JCW, it came with the JCW suspension. So, I'm wondering now who has upgraded from MCS Sports Suspension to the JCW suspension and if they thought the difference was noticeable and worth the money.

Also, was wondering if anybody knew exactly how much the JCW suspension lowers the car if at all.

THanks.
 
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Old Aug 1, 2007 | 06:20 PM
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Maxicooper
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From: Ellicott City, MD
JCW suspension

Love it.

Less than an inch lowered.
 
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Old Aug 1, 2007 | 06:36 PM
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Most have said this is one of the best (and relatively unknown) JCW components overall, price vs performance value.
 
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Old Aug 1, 2007 | 06:40 PM
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Edge
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Originally Posted by pl4ypl4y
I was under the wrong impression that when I bought my factory installed JCW, it came with the JCW suspension. So, I'm wondering now who has upgraded from MCS Sports Suspension to the JCW suspension and if they thought the difference was noticeable and worth the money.
The JCW suspension is probably the best JCW product in terms of "bang for the buck", IMO... although the brakes come a close second.

I think it's a fantastic "street" suspension setup. The only addition that might be worth considering is a stiffer rear sway bar. I haven't added one yet but I do plan to.

If you want to go with track-focused stuff, you'd be better spending your money elsewhere though. While it will indeed be an improvement on the track over stock, that is not its intent.

If you decide to get it, be aware that there are four different spring rates available - designed to be tuned to the options you have on your car. You should buy from a source that takes that into account, and gives you the appropriate part number (they should be able to glean it from your VIN).
 
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Old Aug 1, 2007 | 07:06 PM
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Can you elaborate on the spring rates? The spring rate depends on the VIN? Why is that?
 
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Old Aug 1, 2007 | 07:23 PM
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The types of options you have varies the weight. So say a car has a sunroof and one doesn't, the one with, will need a little higher spring rate. Probably more reasons but thats one I know.
 
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Old Aug 2, 2007 | 04:36 AM
  #7  
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Originally Posted by Edge
If you want to go with track-focused stuff, you'd be better spending your money elsewhere though.
For a dual purpose (street & track) car, the JCW suspension works great. Yes, there may be better solutions for a track only car. But, most of those won't be very comfortable on the street.
 
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Old Aug 2, 2007 | 05:08 AM
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THE ITCH
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From: Pulaski,NY
The JCW suspension lowers the car approximately 10MM (.3937) from the stock suspension. I have found that it is a very good compromise for a street aggressive driver. It will make your MINI stay fairly flat in aggressive cornering, ride quality is pretty good, will not overly drop ride height to prevent from wearing other suspension components, and as others have said the spring rates are designed for the weight of your car. IMHO I think it is a good buy for the $$$.
Steve
 
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