So...I ordered a set of Bilstein Sports from tirerack. The front shocks they sent were extremely small and had incorrect mounts. Rears seem correct. I notified them last week and was told they would research and get back to me. I did some part number googling and found that they are for a 1960's era Mini, so I let the salesman know last Friday. Spoke to him today and he said "you're right" and he stated they can't get fronts for an R56. He said they're not in stock at Bilstein in Germany or US, and there is no indication when or if they will do another production run. He tempted me with Konis, but I have always used Bilsteins on my cars, I like the fact the are easy to custom valve, last forever and just prefer the design. Tirerack has since updated their part numbers and pricing, so they still offer them but with the "special order" caviat. I'm wondering if the fronts really are unavailable or if I was misinformed. Anyone else have any experience or information?

My plans are (were) to use them with my newly arrived Swift Springs and FCM rear bumpstops.

 

Bilsteins for a whole bunch of cars are backordered everywhere. Lots of unhappy people but it was some sort of problem at the factory in Germany if I recall. They're trying to catch up but it's gonna take a while.

- drew