Bilsteins and daily driving comfort

[eyeballs]

I'm trying to decide whether to keep my racing beat springs and get the corksport adjustable dampers, or save up for the bilstein coilovers. I'd like to see some pics at the 1" drop level that some of you have claimed to be running. Also I'd like to hear some comments regarding comfort on road trips, complaints from the wife, added NVH, etc. Also, for any of you that have driven on gravel or dirt roads (especially any rutted ones) with the bilstein coilovers, was the 2 capable of traveling at a normal speed or did you have to drive very slow?

Thanks,

Eric

 

[Tom_Mazda2]

Hello eyeballs! I have been running Bilstein Coilovers on my Mazda2 for about 5,000 miles and this is what I have experienced...

You will notice a slightly firm ride of course as the bilsteins coilovers are designed to be more firm than stock but they are still comfortable for everyday driving. They do a great job of soaking up the big bumps and the ride never feels bouncy. The 1 inch drop you mentioned is perfect for our cars especially if your Mazda2 is a daily driver. With the 1 inch drop you are still able to make it over speed bumps and pull out of parking lots or steep drive ways with no problem. And if you want to go even lower bilsteins are fully adjustable. I have driven on dirt/ gravel roads with my bilsteins and the ride is good but you'll have to slow down for those big pot holes, ruts, and bumps. The slightly firm ride will actually give you more control and better steering feel when driving on gravel and all driving surfaces in general.

I have about 10 track days on my bilsteins and the levels of performance I have gained are incredible. The bilsteins were my single most valuable and worth while mod I have done to my Mazda2. The Bilsteins have a break-in period of about 50 miles and they soften even more the more you drive with them and they come with a lifetime warranty.

I highly recommend bilstein coilovers. You will be pleased.

 

[eyeballs]

Thanks for the info. I really like the inverted design of the fronts. With one inch of lowering, were the perches at the top of the adjustment range? I may be able to get a deal on the CS dampers, so I'm leaning toward that route since I can't honestly justify plunking down for new bilsteins when the car sees so little track time. I'm sure down the road I'll be able to pick up a nicely discounted used set of the bilsteins.