Suspension Anyone got Bilstein Shocks on their R56 yet?
#26
So as promised, I have ordered the Bilstein HDs. I will be installing in a week and a half. I will post the results but I expect nothing but the best from these since I ran with them on my 2005 Golf TDI.
Also www.allshocks.com has changed the listing to Bilstein HDs.
Also www.allshocks.com has changed the listing to Bilstein HDs.
Last edited by scottab36; 02-03-2010 at 06:33 AM.
#27
#29
I did call them first to inform them that their website incorrectly listed the Bilstein HDs as Bilstein Sport shock.
Here is was I can tell you about the differences between Bilstein HDs and Bilstein Sports based on my research. With the exception of the length of the shaft, Bilstein HDs and Bilstein Sports they are identical in mechanics and engineering.
The length of travel is shorter on the Bilstein Sports which is designed to be used with lowering springs. Bilstein will not warranty the Bilstein HDs if you put them on a lowered suspension.
Here is was I can tell you about the differences between Bilstein HDs and Bilstein Sports based on my research. With the exception of the length of the shaft, Bilstein HDs and Bilstein Sports they are identical in mechanics and engineering.
The length of travel is shorter on the Bilstein Sports which is designed to be used with lowering springs. Bilstein will not warranty the Bilstein HDs if you put them on a lowered suspension.
Last edited by scottab36; 02-04-2010 at 03:43 AM.
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#31
Here is was I can tell you about the differences between Bilstein HDs and Bilstein Sports based on my research. With the exception of the length of the shaft, Bilstein HDs and Bilstein Sports they are identical in mechanics and engineering.
The length of travel is shorter on the Bilstein Sports which is designed to be used with lowering springs. Bilstein will not warranty the Bilstein HDs if you put them on a lowered suspension.
The length of travel is shorter on the Bilstein Sports which is designed to be used with lowering springs. Bilstein will not warranty the Bilstein HDs if you put them on a lowered suspension.
I wish they'd come out with Sports for the R56. I'd probably swap them in for the Konis that came with my H&R Touring Cup Kit. I'm not 100% thrilled with the Konis, and I've had Bilsteins on many past cars and been extremely happy with them.
#35
The Konis seem.. wimpy somehow. The ride is softer than I expected.
#36
I am curious about this as well because a nice billstein shock with a decent drop would be a good setup in my eyes.
#37
I think he means these http://www.fastmini.net/r56resuadbu.html
I am curious about this as well because a nice billstein shock with a decent drop would be a good setup in my eyes.
I am curious about this as well because a nice billstein shock with a decent drop would be a good setup in my eyes.
#38
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#39
#40
Sports and HDs have identical valving - the only difference length of the shafts. Sports are for shorter lowering springs, HDs for stock-height springs. Other than that, neither is more or less aggressive than the other.
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#42
Trust me, they're the same. Good friend of mine has been a Bilstein distributor for over 10 years. He confirmed this to me long ago, and I've seen it corroborated many times since.
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#43
hmmm...maybe you're right.
there is still conflicting info out there....my googling is telling me both things. eshocks.com says Sports are 30% stiffer...that's what i was remembering from before. that could just be a 30% stiffer from the seat of the pants, not actual valving differences (aka due to the reduced travel).
I'm actually a bilstein distributor but have never needed this info until now. next time i have them on phone i'll ask.
not doubting you! just need to hear it for myself.
there is still conflicting info out there....my googling is telling me both things. eshocks.com says Sports are 30% stiffer...that's what i was remembering from before. that could just be a 30% stiffer from the seat of the pants, not actual valving differences (aka due to the reduced travel).
I'm actually a bilstein distributor but have never needed this info until now. next time i have them on phone i'll ask.
not doubting you! just need to hear it for myself.
Last edited by andyroo; 02-12-2010 at 05:28 PM.
#44
All the work is complete and the job went outstanding!!! As for the results, add a set of Bilstein HDs to your MINI and they will give you a reason to fall in love with your MINI all over again.
As for drivability, here is what we immediately noticed:
No more front end lift on launching or heavy acceleration.
No more nose dive during heavy braking.
A much smoother ride compared to the OEM equipment
Much better ride over pot holes and rough roads.
The MINI does not lean or dip Going hard into a corner
DSC activation while traversing a rough spot under acceleration is gone. The wheels remain planted to the road.
On a side note, they just look good!
Over all dimensions are far as fitment is concerned are the same and the fit is perfect.
The diameter of the rear strut piston shaft is about 1/16“ larger on the Bilstein HD. (Check the pictures when the link is added)
The Diameter of the front strut piston shaft is about 5/8” larger on the Bilstein HD. (Check the pictures when the link is added)
Thank you Hotel 2-5 for your help and photgraphy expertise today!
I am uploading pictures now. Here is the link to the link to view them:
http://s98.photobucket.com/albums/l2...0HD%20Project/
As for drivability, here is what we immediately noticed:
No more front end lift on launching or heavy acceleration.
No more nose dive during heavy braking.
A much smoother ride compared to the OEM equipment
Much better ride over pot holes and rough roads.
The MINI does not lean or dip Going hard into a corner
DSC activation while traversing a rough spot under acceleration is gone. The wheels remain planted to the road.
On a side note, they just look good!
Over all dimensions are far as fitment is concerned are the same and the fit is perfect.
The diameter of the rear strut piston shaft is about 1/16“ larger on the Bilstein HD. (Check the pictures when the link is added)
The Diameter of the front strut piston shaft is about 5/8” larger on the Bilstein HD. (Check the pictures when the link is added)
Thank you Hotel 2-5 for your help and photgraphy expertise today!
I am uploading pictures now. Here is the link to the link to view them:
http://s98.photobucket.com/albums/l2...0HD%20Project/
Last edited by scottab36; 02-12-2010 at 05:17 PM.
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#45
great to hear! thanks for the feedback and pictures.
these sound like a more sporty option than Koni FSDs that still retain or even improve ride comfort AND handling.
price is damn good on these....hmmm....wondering if i can have the lower mounts machined to fit R53...
these sound like a more sporty option than Koni FSDs that still retain or even improve ride comfort AND handling.
price is damn good on these....hmmm....wondering if i can have the lower mounts machined to fit R53...
Last edited by andyroo; 02-12-2010 at 08:10 PM.
#46
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#47
#48
Glad that turned out so well, but I'm not at all surprised. The stock suspension, particularly the shocks, are one of the weakest points in the entire car, IMHO. BMW was CLEARLY not very involved (if at all) in the suspension tuning of these cars. If you own a BMW, you know what I mean. BMW gets it, Mini clearly does not. Upgrading to aftermarket components WILL result in huge improvements in ride quality and handling. Going for the "good stuff" like Bilstein or Koni will produce stunning results. This along with ditching the runflats transforms mortal Minis into far more enjoyable cars.
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#49
Took the MINI up for an alignment this morning. The mechanics and MSA loved the new Bilsteins and how it has changed the ride. It will be interesting to see the difference once I put the summer wheels and tires back on and dial the sway bar back up the the firm setting.
Last edited by scottab36; 02-22-2010 at 06:09 PM.
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930 Engineering (02-27-2021)
#50
So after running with the Bilstein HDs and the summer wheels and tires back on, I have to say that I am completely satisfied with the new setup.
If you are looking for a better ride and better handling without lowering your R56 MINI, the Bilstein HDs are for you. You will not be disappointed!
If you are looking for a better ride and better handling without lowering your R56 MINI, the Bilstein HDs are for you. You will not be disappointed!
The following users liked this post:
930 Engineering (02-27-2021)