Time for new shocks - OEM Sachs vs Bilstein B8?

[XXX-1.8T]

My car is due for new shocks.

I am running KW 20mm lowered springs and the OEM Sach ones have lasted me 140,000kms.

Do i stick with OEM or go Bilstein B8's?

What has everyone around here done?

Pic for clicks

[3C4M Guy]

I fitted Koni sports yellow shocks 8741-1488 and matched them with Eibach sports springs. If I'd gone for stiffer springs than Eibach, I might have chosen Bilstein. One thing to keep in mind, if there is a person who is not happy with their Bilsteins, it's generally because they find them too firm. I've never heard of anyone complaining that their Bisteins are too soft.

[brad]

I fitted Koni Sports yellow and Eibach Pro-Kit (the less sporty spring). I love the initial compliance and general ride and spring control. They are adjustable but that's a bit academic as I've done it once in 80,000km and the rears are a pain to do.

If I was doing it again I'd probably get the Koni STR.T or Bilstein B6/B8. My preference would probably be the B8.

This is on an Octavia but they are all similar...

[Lucas_R]

The B8 Bilsteins are quite pricey. For something not too much more expensive than OEM, i have used Koni Sports (Yellow ones) in several cars and they have been really nice.

Koni also now offer a STRT shock which is non-adjustable and therefore cheaper than the Sports.

KONI | STR.T

KONI | Sport

[brad]

The B8 Bilsteins are quite pricey,

There are some good value sellers on eBay UK and you will save a lot on AU prices but I know for a fact that Bilstein AU (Heasemans) will wash their hands of any support or warranty for anything bought outside Australia (fair enough). For some this is an issue, others are happy to take the risk.

I bought my Konis in an ECS Tuning sale when the AUD was strong (2013) and saved about 40% on local prices.

[prn31]

Costa PM'd me for my thoughts, but for the benefit of others...

I've had Bilsteins on other cars before. I chose the B8s because the R36 has sports suspension (30mm lower than standard) and the bump and rebound are matched to the shorter suspension travel. I haven't changed the springs, I don't want it any lower or stiffer.

They are probably slightly firmer than standard with a more controlled rebound and a better low speed ride, certainly better than the crappy standard ride.

In my opinion, worth the expense.

[XXX-1.8T]

I fitted Koni sports yellow shocks 8741-1488 and matched them with Eibach sports springs. If I'd gone for stiffer springs than Eibach, I might have chosen Bilstein. One thing to keep in mind, if there is a person who is not happy with their Bilsteins, it's generally because they find them too firm. I've never heard of anyone complaining that their Bisteins are too soft.

I had Bilstein PSS10's and found them good even on rough roads. From factory some would say the R36 is stiff.

I fitted Koni Sports yellow and Eibach Pro-Kit (the less sporty spring). I love the initial compliance and general ride and spring control. They are adjustable but that's a bit academic as I've done it once in 80,000km and the rears are a pain to do.

If I was doing it again I'd probably get the Koni STR.T or Bilstein B6/B8. My preference would probably be the B8.

This is on an Octavia but they are all similar...

Will look into the Koni STRT. I can get B8's for $750 shipped

The B8 Bilsteins are quite pricey. For something not too much more expensive than OEM, i have used Koni Sports (Yellow ones) in several cars and they have been really nice.

Koni also now offer a STRT shock which is non-adjustable and therefore cheaper than the Sports.

KONI | STR.T

KONI | Sport

Will look into the Koni's

There are some good value sellers on eBay UK and you will save a lot on AU prices but I know for a fact that Bilstein AU (Heasemans) will wash their hands of any support or warranty for anything bought outside Australia (fair enough). For some this is an issue, others are happy to take the risk.

I bought my Konis in an ECS Tuning sale when the AUD was strong (2013) and saved about 40% on local prices.

How much did you pay?

How much OEM im guessing around $600?

I can B8's for $750 shipped.

Costa PM'd me for my thoughts, but for the benefit of others...

I've had Bilsteins on other cars before. I chose the B8s because the R36 has sports suspension (30mm lower than standard) and the bump and rebound are matched to the shorter suspension travel. I haven't changed the springs, I don't want it any lower or stiffer.

They are probably slightly firmer than standard with a more controlled rebound and a better low speed ride, certainly better than the crappy standard ride.

In my opinion, worth the expense.

Thanks mate might have to take me for a spin

[brad]

How much did you pay?

How much OEM im guessing around $600?

I can B8's for $750 shipped.

Koni Yellow Sports - AUD732 shipped in 2013.

AUD750 for B8s shipped is great value. I think locally ~$1100???

[crazyray]

Do you have a link to where these can be found?

I am after some new shocks for my wagon as well.

[1zero]

I am looking at this now too but have 19x9 wheels with 245 tyres. I am getting scrubbing over bumps and when I load up the back if is even worse. Is anyone out there running similar?
Will B8 or Koni's help?

[overl0ad]

sorry to dig up an old one, but would you guys say the the billies B8 is the closest to factory?

just worked out hat mine is not far from going, so kinda need to start thinking about it...