R50/R53 :: Hatch Talk (2002-2006) Cooper (R50) and Cooper S (R53) hatchback discussion.

R50/53 back shocks bottom out on bumps

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Old Mar 20, 2025 | 02:50 PM
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Originally Posted by bump32
Rear motion ratio is around 0.87. Not sure if the front has a motion ratio.
Curb weight of 2,853 (with driver) and 62.7/37.3 % weight distribution.
I started to do the math on this but never finished. Let me know what you figure out.
Let me see if i can do the math. been some time since algebra classes
 
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Old Mar 20, 2025 | 02:51 PM
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Anyone know what the front motion ratio is in the front (if there is one)?
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 06:43 AM
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Originally Posted by ssoliman
i think we are basically saying the same thing. although ive never heard that about the stock bump stops.

I'm looking for a spring rate that will not allow bottom out and a stop that will not fall apart.

KW says they will send me new ones for $9 each. But i'm hoping i can do better. I'm hoping someone has found a better way
Yeah, we probably are. Not that I’ve looked at bump stops on coilovers, well, ever, but I’m surprised those disintegrated that badly.
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 07:01 AM
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I can't remember wich or when; but I do recall ordering and replacing my bump stops with powerflex.

It might be something to consider?
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 03:25 PM
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thank you sir i will look at powerflex and see what options they have. I've had good luck with their stuff. i also ordered two new stops from kw just so i'm prepared once the coilovers are out
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 06:22 PM
  #31  
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here are the powerflex stops. now I'm thinking these would fit the stock assembly but not sure about the fit on the KW coilovers.

https://www.powerflexusa.com/shop/pf...-2783#attr=209
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 06:37 PM
  #32  
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Those go where the rear struts mount to the body. These are the bump stops for the stock setup.
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 06:49 PM
  #33  
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Originally Posted by bump32
Rear motion ratio is around 0.87. Not sure if the front has a motion ratio.
Curb weight of 2,853 (with driver) and 62.7/37.3 % weight distribution.
I started to do the math on this but never finished. Let me know what you figure out.

did the math from these numbers and I get:

256.499938 lbs/in
4.580582 kg/mm
44.92 n/mm

thats for the rear. assuming the 2hz ride frequency (sporty ride).

so im at 200 lbs/in. which makes sense. a bit soft
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 06:54 PM
  #34  
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KW confirmed that the springs on this kit are 200 lbs/in, not progressive. I think I said they were progressive earlier. that was wrong
 
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Old Mar 24, 2025 | 07:09 PM
  #35  
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hold on, I found these from powerflex. these look like they could work. I'll probably order them and have them as an option

https://www.powerflexusa.com/shop/bs...cover-kit-2575
 
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Old Apr 7, 2025 | 01:56 PM
  #36  
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received new bump stops from KW and PowerFlex. Which ones would yall use?








 
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Old Apr 7, 2025 | 02:26 PM
  #37  
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My guess: The Powerflex poly are going to be slightly stiffer when you hit the bump stop but will last longer. The KW ones will probably be a little softer but, like the last set you had, may break down quickly if you are bottoming out and hitting hard on the bump stops.
My 2 cents.
 
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Old Apr 7, 2025 | 03:33 PM
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Personally - Powerflex.
Those KWS still look like the typical foam rubber ones that have a tendency to breakdown in a short amount of time.
Since your Mini is lowered, you may still have to cut the bumpstops down a bit. If you cut them both - You will automatically see the difference in density and material.
I'm impressed to see you're putting such effort into understanding and fine tuning your suspension.
 
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Old Apr 8, 2025 | 11:04 AM
  #39  
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thank you both. i think i will go with the PowerFlex ones. I'll probably cut to match the height of the KW's.

Will get back with results. might be a bit. the projects are stacking up
 
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