Owner reviews for shock absorbers

I started from stock Cabbie and put immediatelly anti-sport modification: Bilstein Comfort shock absorbers. It is way smooth. It feels like Caddilac.

The second has Bilstein HD inserts with stock Rabbit GTI springs up front with KYB rear shocks and stock springs. I like it the best for everyday driving and it handles very nice. IMO there is no substitute for Bilstein.

Initial impressions with the Bilstein HD’s are positive. I have exactly what I was looking for, and was not led astray by other comments on the Vortex. Many comment on the Bilstein’s as being too stiff, even with stock springs. Understanding that most people want a factory ride with improved handling, I figured this would be perfect. The shocks do definitely transmit more of every little bit of road, but they also do an excellent job at soaking up bumps and dips, keeping the car under control. The car is definitely not quite as comfortable on the freeway, especially with 17” wheels, however the ride is not unbearable.

If you're going with coilovers pick something with adjustable shocks like Koni or Bilstein.

I am running the shorter Bilstein TC Sport shocks/struts with Neuspeed Sport springs (1.5" drop) and really like them a lot!

I've been running 17x8 superleggeras with VR6 front springs stock TDI Jetta rear springs with rubber spacers, bils TCs regular version, home made rear bar. Let me tell you this is a 100% perfect setup. All my hates are gone and this car is as as good as my previous Acura and much smoother than my LS1 Camaro.

I use Bilstein sports (rabbit) in the rear and Bilstein sports for a 4k Quattro in the front.

On my Syncro, I used Boge Turbo Gas all around. Passat in the front, and Rabbit GTIs in the rear with H&R springs. I have had them installed on the car for a year and a half and they are doing great.

2.5 years, 83k miles, rough bumpy roads a bunch of high speed curves and everytime I hit those little bumpy lane seperators my car danced all over the road. I forgot trailer towing as well, 100lbs tongue weight and a 600lb load. I bought a Weitec GT Cup kit in early '02 on a Vortex Group buy and just installed it, much better but I am researching different shocks as the Weitecs are claimed to have a lifespan of 1.5-2 years...

If you want performance, get some better shocks than Boge's. The sport springs are stiffer, and without a decent shock absorber, the car bounces up and down all the time!!!