2nd Gen R56 Cooper Most liked posts in thread: Replacement Shocks - Opinion/Experiences?

  1. Goldsmithy

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    #4 Goldsmithy, Oct 13, 2015
    I could use this information also. I need to find a balance between driving the Dragon and my wife yelling at me because the ride is too hard. is this possible? :)
     
  2. Nathan

    Nathan Founder

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    #2 Nathan, Oct 13, 2015
    I'd trust Helix in Philly with the install. I think that would be the closest one to you that I'd feel the most comfortable with.
     
  3. jtbrown

    jtbrown New Member

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    #3 jtbrown, Oct 13, 2015
    That is the one that I know, Nathan, and I've used them before. Figured I'd see if anyone else comes up with someone closer since options are usually a good thing.

    Thanks for the suggestion, though.
     
  4. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #5 MCS02, Oct 13, 2015
    I have Koni yellows with Eibach springs. The Kino yellows are purity stiff. Even at the lightest setting. You hay want to use the Bilstiens but I have never used them. Also you may want to consider some progressive springs.
     
  5. DneprDave

    DneprDave Well-Known Member
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    #6 DneprDave, Oct 13, 2015
    I think adjustable Konis would be a good choice, you can rebuild them when they wear out. I'll get some when the OEM shock wear out.

    My stock suspensioned MINI can go around corners faster than I can, so I'm in no hurry to do any suspension mods.
     
  6. jtbrown

    jtbrown New Member

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    #7 jtbrown, Oct 13, 2015
    I've been of a similar thought... haven't considered making any changes as I've been mostly happy with what the current suspension does. While it was being serviced today, the SA did note that it was the beginning of the end for the front shocks - I have time, and they're still safe and functioning, but the OEM front shocks are nearing the end of that 'safe and functioning' period. Knowing what they'll charge for replacing with OEM, I figured it was a good time to price out options and see if there's a better option available.
     
  7. MCS02

    MCS02 Moderator
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    #8 MCS02, Oct 13, 2015
    Don't get me wrong I LOVE my Koni's but it sounded like you did not want to give up ride quality. It's nice to be able to adjust them. When I go to the Dragon I stiffen them up it does make big difference but it is harsh. You may want to consider a good rear swaybar. That will improve the handling with out giving up ride quality.
    I know you just want struts but it always starts this way. First you do some little Mod and then you have to do another Mod before you know you are addicted! Please make it easy on yourself and embrace the the addiction, your among friends.:D

    I'm just trying to help.


    Oh don't worry about the wife not liking the ride shell be fine. My wife just hangs on for dear life when she rides in the Mini.:arf:
     
  8. CHKMINI

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    #9 CHKMINI, Oct 13, 2015
    If you are not lowering the car I would recommend FSD's and I would have Helix do the work. Stopped by there today.... A great company!
     
  9. Mr. Jim

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    #10 Mr. Jim, Oct 13, 2015

    I'm in the process of fitting the Bilstein's now, replacing some high mileage JCW on my 06. They are stiff but not jarring so far. Only have the backs on now, front struts later in the week.

    The only place in Jersey I can recommend is Don's Jaguar in Flemington, the owner George is a long time friend and does all sorts of British cars from classic to new.
     
  10. wmwny

    wmwny Well-Known Member

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    #11 wmwny, Oct 13, 2015
    Last edited: Oct 13, 2015
    My '06 MCSa [I bought it new] has been lowered [TSW] and modded for daily driving, the Dragon and other twisties, as well as weekend track use. It still has OEM shocks, although I had to replace 2 a few years back with some used OEM freebies given to me by a fellow M/A member. They work fine and the car has over 107k.
     
  11. ScottinBend

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    #12 ScottinBend, Oct 13, 2015
    Koni yellows here.....replaced wornout FSD's and the wife likes them better
     
  12. Motoring Magic

    Motoring Magic New Member
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    #13 Motoring Magic, Oct 13, 2015
    FSDFSDFSD=these were made for exactly what you describe!
     
  13. Goldsmithy

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    #14 Goldsmithy, Oct 14, 2015
    FSDFSDFSD = ???????
     
  14. mrntd

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    #15 mrntd, Oct 14, 2015
    Koni FSD x3. He's leaving one stock :D

    The Koni FSD looks to be a great shock but only for stock ride height. The auto adjusting function relys on a certain starting position.

    I just helped a buddy put on the Bilsteins and he loves them. He said his girl freind likes the ride better. I have had the Koni yellows in the past and really liked them.
     
  15. rkw

    rkw Well-Known Member

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    #16 rkw, Oct 14, 2015
    My experience was good with Koni FSD on my R52. It takes the edge off of small bumps but is stiffer than stock under steady load (reduces lean on turns and pitch during braking). Overall, improves both ride and performance (on the street, can't speak for the track).

    I had them for 70K miles but the ride was getting more harsh around 60K and I think they were starting to wear out. I believe I could have had them replaced under the Koni lifetime warranty but from what I've heard it's a big hassle (you have to send them the old set and the process takes weeks).