Shock absorbers Bilstein or OEM Volkswagen

I tried this as one of four combinations of suspension on my 2015 GSW TDI. The B8's and Eibach Pro combo lowered my car about 1 1/2 \" front and rear. The handling was awesome but a bid too firm for the bad roads in my town...I'm getting soft in my old age. I loved the way the car looked.

Side note, the wife's 12 tig has a rear shock going out. Factory shock/struts with aftermarket H&R sport springs. Those factory shocks lasted 100k miles with the shorter springs!!

I run Bilstein 5100s on my 2500. They're a big improvement over stock, but don't expect to get a plush ride

Bilstein 5100's have been the best shock I've ever used on a truck. I've had Fox shocks, even with remote reservoirs... and I'd still take the 5100's.

I replaced all mine at 88k. A little bit before that (maybe around 85k), I started getting wheel hop with WOT in 1st and even a little in 2nd, with stock power. Bilstein B4s, and no more wheel hop :)

The B4 is now available for both ends.

Bilstein B8 Sport is a great strut/shock. I'm using the MKV version on my 2006 GTI paired with H&R Sport and the ride is great.

Used B6s front and rear along with GTI springs, resulted in nearly as smooth and predictable ride and vastly better handling.

I responded to a few Bilstein HD threads when I had my EVC, recommending against them. They were just too damn firm. Now I have an EV Weekender with Bilstein HDs (installed by PO) and they are almost just right (could be a tad firmer). I can't explain it. Did Bilstein change their valving at some point in time?

I hated the Bilstein HD's on my '97 EVC. The ride was way too harsh and jarring.