These Bilstein Shocks Were SO CLUNKY! [Shock Value Ep.4]

We tested FIVE different suspension setups without knowing which setup we were driving, all on the same exact truck, in the same terrain. We wanted to know what setup was the best with NO biases. We were very surprised by the results!
Fox, King, Elka, Bilstein and Icon were all tested in this full review series shoot out.
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[@SidWray]

This series was fantastic! Would LOVE to see a similar comparison of 6112/5160 and equivalents.

[@TacoBruso]

Loving this series, thanks for putting this together. Can't wait to see the final video! Great work !!

[@mushyho]

I have the 8112 on my FJ too. My friend commented on the stiffness not the softness..which is definitely strange in the set you reviewed. However ya yall right prob swaybar making the difference. Edit. And i dont have the clunking sound either...

[@seanstenberg1559]

This is terrific series! Thank you! I’m recently retired and gradually building a 2023 TRD off-road. I live pretty far up Northern California right on the coast. Rust is an issue for me. It’s a daily driver around town. Less than 100 miles per month. And occasionally a few trips south the Bay Area and San Diego. However, my off-road explorations and fun will be/is out in Nevada and Utah with friends and family. Nothing high speed. Bumping and grinding goat trails and old mining roads. They can a get a bit spooky. Steep and off camber. Nevada folks a different breed! Also, I’ve added/will add a Diamond Back bed cover, true rock sliders, and moderate steel bumpers. Trying to adjust level hight, extra weight, and on/off performance is both intriguing and confusing! In a good way. Back in my day Rough County and maybe JC Whitney catalogue is all we had! Lol Any thoughts are welcome. Thanks

[@chrismumford7295]

Absolutely hands down best video! I have the 8112 setup and I can truly say best addition and so necessary on the truck. I let some rebound out and compression. Haven’t touched them for year as now. I go up to 70 mph through washes with a built tacoma. It has made my off road dreams come true. Definitely get that sway bar on and enjoy!!!

[@jeremyledbetter8022]

Thanks for the input! Do you hear the clunking like these guys were stating?

[@justinvanbibber6234]

FWIW after a few more off-road adventures the clunking went away entirely

[@Ramiel77]

A few months ago I decided to save the $4K for a big upgrade to my suspension and get new shocks. I originally intended to go with these Bilstein 8100s after doing a lot of research and reading reviews. But after talking to a popular shop (with a presence here on youTube and social media) about what they tho would suit me best, they recommended me to go with FOX. After 5,000 miles, some overland trips, some warranty repairs and now watching this video, I am pretty sure I made a mistake by listening to that shop lol Should have gone with my first choice and my first instinct. Oh well... maybe I'll get them re valved at 30K miles. Maybe I'll try the Bilsteins next.

[@danieldee2287]

So no to fox?

[@Ramiel77]

@@danieldee2287 Maybe? They're good, but not worth 3X more than the previous Bilstein 6112/5100 kit I had. It's just my experience. Possible these 8100, that cost 4X more, might also not be worth it. Just my two cents.

[@Googladesh]

I’ve got Bilsteins on the front and fox in the rear and it gives you the best of both worlds. Soft in the front and stiffer in the rear

[@javin028]

Excellent series! People have been sleeping on the 8112/8100s. Although I understand that the 8100 smooth body version was used to keep things fair, I wish you would've at least mentioned the bypass version that's available. The performance of the bypass version is substantially better, and still a direct bolt on application (no additional modifications needed). As you already know, the new ones have click adjusters. Bilstein is also in works for dual speed adjustable compression reservoirs. They will be compatible with 8112’s, and the smooth body (non-bypass) version of the 8100’s. Both applications will be retrofittable to current setups

[@OverlandOutfitters]

Yes, we are very excited about the updated 8112 setup coming out!

[@LancerNik13]

Any idea what the part number will be for the updated version coming out? Thx

[@user-ly6gb5hf3y]

I have the old set when 8112’s first came out. Great on road with a sway bar and 10 pack Deaver springs in the rear. On a 2012 tacoma.

[@2-old-Forthischet]

So much for name brand recognition. I just came back from my two day camping trip in the desert today in my stock 4Runner and the thing that helped the most was airing down from 32 to 25 pounds. More testing coming soon.

[@racingfortheson]

Do the same thing with the same truck and budget shocks VS stock. Like 5100

[@TheTomahawkninja]

I think the only thing that could improve this comparison would be to open all the shocks at the end of the series and physically compare the valve shimming. For those of us who have already purchased a set, it would be interesting to see internally what makes some of these shocks act the way they do.

[@emanTX96]

Sick video dudes, Ive got some 8112s on the front of my 2nd gen taco and icon RXT's in the rear, super happy with the setup except for the audiable JCO on the front bilstein's, but good to hear they might quiet down over time. the front on mine also feels super confident onroad with the swaybar installed, swerving around plenty of deer and nasty potholes the truck recovers great. I am running heavier springs in the front also because of added weight

[@4xhoser]

What an awesome series guys, thanks Braeden and Ian 🤘🇨🇦 if Bilstein wins I won't be surprised, but I'll be surprised.

[@ardor4247]

Interested to hear what the manufacturers say about some of the issues. These being softer than others installed, and noisier is a turn off but if it’s something with a one off issue; that changes things.

[@andrewshakespeare4978]

Such a great series. Thanks guys

[@ShockSurplus]

We had clunking on our Tundra 8112 in freezing temps, haven't heard it since though (more than a year ago)

[@JD83734]

Would love a Bilstein 6112/ 5160 vs fox 2.0 video🤘🏼

[@nastysoda9212]

Bilstein 6112/ 5160 best for the money, they are stiff for daily driving, but if you're hauling ass, they keep your tires planted and amazing tracking, zero body roll

[@RedBeardDevelopment]

I’ve got 5100s and they are pretty freaking awesome. Definitely better for slower off-roading though.

[@LarsDennert]

Super complete video. You guys are really knowledgeable.

[@TheMcdred]

Awesome comparison, thanks for making. What is the tire size - and assuming these are stock leafs?

[@useryggfdcc]

My Tacoma have the Bilstein 6112 front and 5100 in the rear with ICON AAL in the rear. The back was stiff for about a year, NOW it's perfect.

[@parryhooper]

Dobinsons MRR in another series pweese 🥺

[@timothyreynolds5125]

Id love to see those too

[@brianserneels908]

Another awesome video. Keep it up guys!

[@Absolute_Unit135]

My Ironman 4x4 foam cell pro shocks on my 3rd gen Tacoma make the same clunking noise over certain bumps. I’m curious if they have a similar design element to the JCO in these Bilsteins where it’s normal to hear that kind of clunking.

[@WeekendWarriors87]

Love to see a comparison for 2.0s, and curious if the pros and cons are similar on different platforms...

[@user-zo1gu7yk3w]

So helpful, thank you guys!

[@GOATHartt90]

Boys! i gotta get some work done this week. These videos are not good for work production! Love the content. I just got an sr5 and chose the 6112/5160 to test the waters of lifted tacos. So far very happy. In the future, i believe i will be going KING. If the driving i desire to do requires it, of course. 🤙

[@MaskedArtisan]

Day 4 still going ! I'd like to hear your guys review on the dssv multimatics from an experienced pov.

[@drdanielcottam1]

What a crazy cool video. Keep up the great work

[@bquade70]

Same series bit with the likes of 5100's and such? The ones we most buy... Lake Havasu 🌞 Az

[@joebagodonutssummertime8267]

Great series of shock testing. But shouldnt shocks be tested with springs that work with the shocks?

[@jeremyledbetter8022]

“Felt really gooood!” I’m sold

[@wisesa09]

This was a great series. Keep in mind these shocks aren't tuned for comfort or dialed in at all, just straight from the factory. I think that would provide a true test of what each shock feels like, but then comfort is subjective

[@apa7611]

So what’s a good shock for occasional offering on fire roads and whatnot? I have a 2022 trd off-road

[@Shakshuka69]

How were these compared to the icons in terms of ride comfort on fire roads at medium speed?

[@colejohnson1]

Awesome video, its nice knowing you guys approve of these.

[@heavytdt9464]

i just got some fox 2.0 emulsion for superduty with in the 6.7 and feels undershocked for sure. can you point me to a tuner or should I reinvest cause ive already ordered some bilstien 5100s and ill get these redone if possible.

[@gregd4391]

So, we need an adjustable shock that performs like the Bilstein in the "off road" setting and the FOX in the "highway" setting.

[@chrismumford7295]

The different clunks are actually very quiet but when I hit them I smile cause I know it’s working and not letting me smash at bump. Corners are very controlled with sway bar. That’s one of the perks I like. Anyway Bilstein crushed, let’s see king!

[@thecjlife7682]

can't wait for the King shocks

[@kauaisoljaz]

Can you guys also review Eibach Stage 2R pro lift kit? I've heard it runs between the Bilstein and Fox.

[@Atizzle121310]

im in shambles. idk if I get the bilsteins or icons now. Lets see how the kings perform.

[@ShockSurplus]

Bilstein won't require the maintenance that icon does

[@ProneToRome]

Great series! I can’t wait to a h day for these. I would like to see the same thing , with tires. Nitto RG, toyo OC, BFGs, Patagonia, etc etc.

[@timothyreynolds5125]

That would be awesome

[@AldenPez]

That would be cool to see but even if a cheap tire is good from the factory it might wear quicker or get way worse as the tread gets low. Just what ive heard from tons of research on tires

[@ProneToRome]

@@AldenPez true. I’m just thinking off the shelf , put on the Tacoma for the new performance. Sticky vs sand, vs washboard vs noise and comfort. I know they will all wear different

[@Dieiamgi]

Yeah mud tires actually in the mud!

[@ProneToRome]

@@Dieiamgi well, I’m thinking rocks and trails, mud is inevitable… but not just mud.

[@kormysh8]

I wish the ome BP's were on this roster!

[@gregd4391]

The axle articulation looked impressive.

[@arnicus208]

Seems like after the initial drive, the shocks should be adjusted for different settings and see if they can be tuned for highway, high speed off-road, and slow speed offroad.

[@supfoo3638]

Now this is a legit test.

[@dodgethis824]

is there a lift on this truck? what size wheels/tires etc?

[@MrKim-kv2vv]

Thank you! 🙋🏼

[@scottpomygalski6078]

Hi, I have a Tundra and bought aftermarket Toyota Fox TRD shocks. I have to say , I am not that impressed and want to change. What are your impressions on the Bilstein 6112 series.

[@artofwar1776]

Looking forward too tomorrows video!

[@mcdoonaldsmanager8706]

whats the best one so far

[@brianserneels908]

Just out of curiosity, what is the typical cost to get a set of shocks re-valved ?

[@mcdoonaldsmanager8706]

^

[@racingfortheson]

Best series on KZbin right now

[@james1965]

I have 6112s on my Tacoma now but was wondering if the 8112s are that much of an improvement over those. As a future shock shopper what are your thoughts? Great series btw!

[@AlexM-np1cx]

Yes they are completely different. 6112s are pretty much beefier 5100s

[@ShockSurplus]

Are you trying to smash offroad hard on the regular? Then yeah $4k for shocks may be worth it

[@richardplascencia1929]

​@Alex M dont forget that 6112 also comes with a spring and the shock is tuned to work with that spring. You can also order a beefier spring if your going to add a off road bumper.

[@james1965]

@Shock Surplus No, I am a full-time traveler, so I do not run crazy. I don't want to break half my home, so to speak. I explore deserts and forests all across the country and put a ton of miles on my Tacoma each year. Just exploring all the options but need reliability and longevity first and foremost. So far, the 6112s have been just that. With a previous truck, I had a set of DRs that I had to rebuild every year, and that was quite a PITA. I'm likely to stay with the 6112s because they've been good enough off road, and they have lasted a lot of miles. Thank you.

[@Echo22WC]

I have the 6112s paired with the icon 2.0(long travel) rears on my FJ for like 7 years now, many miles traveled & some fun at offroad parks...I love them on my overland setup.

[@RoaringPistons]

What are your guys opinion on the Bilstein 6112/ 5160? I was doing research and for a weekend warrior like me, seems like it’ll be the best choice. (I was thinking of going all out at first and get kings but everyone says it’s overkill for a daily/ weekend offroader)

[@123devinzz1]

shock surplus did a video driving back to back between 5100s and 6100s and people couldn't really tell a difference but the 5160 rear shocks are worth the money over base 5100s. 5100 paired with 5160 rear might be best bang for buck setup

[@melvfernandez]

I love them lasted, over 90k miles for me but i dont go offroading that much. most ive done is camp sites in the weekend. and i love the stiffness on road

[@HelplmAlive]

Would have been awesome if they tested Bilstein 5100 just to throw in a oddball lower price in there.

[@Burdman7777]

Agreed I wanna see them do bilstein 5100’s

[@codychilders8307]

Gata do the MRR's

[@Yotapuga]

Kings w AccuTune adjustments & no sway bar 👍🏽

[@natechave2825]

awesome series, I wonder how Fox will react

[@bikeislife8405]

Fox has big contracts directly with Truck manufacturers so they could care less of their private market share, customer service is HORRENDOUS.

[@4yota]

You should take that all apart in the end and see the difference

[@dontask7898]

Why has noone made a quick disconnect swaybar for tacoma yet??

[@Goosht]

I think it's difficult to make a disconnect because of how the sway bar is routed. Although that's not an answer. Someone should be able to make it.

[@Gr3nAde13]

Are you running a 285 tire in these videos?

[@justinvanbibber6234]

Yes

[@MontyFields]

any plans to look at Iron Man kits?

[@JC-cd3zs]

The 8112’s are adjustable. You need to adjust them before reviewing

[@OverlandOutfitters]

the new part number has adjusters, but they weren't released at the time we shot this video

[@JC-cd3zs]

@@OverlandOutfitters ahhh okay. curious to see how the new ones perform against the others tuned.

[@b1slyfox]

For all the people on the 5100s comparison. Just put them on my 2022 f150 and you feel everything on the road. Not really a fan of them on our bad roads. It ride like a sports car now.

[@leocortaza7247]

Do the same but with big SUV please, like the Toyota sequoia

[@erikschutzman2402]

sick

[@johncole3010]

I’m sure glad you guys are ditching your bilstein shocks with low miles so us light duty offroaders can pick them up for a song.

[@GhettoFabulous670]

The thing about your guys testing, you guys are not testing out the adjuster knows. But I Definitely appreciate this review but just a lil something I notice.

[@OverlandOutfitters]

None of the shocks we tested have any adjusters to keep it fair.

[@icouch]

I hate my 4600s. A rough ride

[@AlexM-np1cx]

4600 are designed as stock replacement. Completely different than these

[@MiguelCatch22]

Let’s seee

[@nicolefernandez3962]

💯

[@AldenPez]

Of course the kings are last lol.

[@FDESLOSSY]

4th day commenting KING IS THE BEST hahahaha 😂 I’m just waiting patiently to see the king vid

[@perchowski3021]

Same. Started saving up for mine about a month ago. Should be able to buy them hopefully in a couple more months as long as nothing else comes up.

[@FDESLOSSY]

@@perchowski3021 yessir you will be so happy. I would suggest buying them through Accutune off road because they tune them for Free and a tuned shock vs a standard off the self shock are night and day difference. The reason they are experiencing so much bucking and issues with the suspension system they are going over is because they aren’t tuned for a tacoma they are usually vavled incorrectly and the tune fixes all of that. They also have several different versions of tunes for your driving style. Also biggest thing, Accutune has awesome pricing and the tune is free if you buy your socks through them. Also if you what a random suggestion icon delta joint UACs are amazing haha I sound like a rep for these brands😂

[@active411vm]

@@FDESLOSSY accutune is the place to buy shocks then huh? I was gonna go fox for my taco but since this series I think I’m gonna go icon, wish I had the bread for some kings tho lol

[@FDESLOSSY]

@@active411vm yessir Accutune 100%. Tune for free, great customer service and a quick turn around. Icon is awesome as well like I said I use their UACs the delta joint is amazing so much better then a ball joint like dirtking and all the others on the market. Don’t let the video on the fox shocks deter you from going with fox. They used an untuned performance series shock and they didn’t do any adjustments on the valves. Shocks are never 100% good out of the box, if they tuned them they would have an entirely different perspective. Each company just puts a general tune in for the size sock and the Tacoma is way to light for fox stock tune so it’s stick, and jarring like they said in the vid.

[@FDESLOSSY]

Fox is the most tested and reliable out of any shock company in the world. And this is a KINGs fanboy saying this hahaha

[@Nessal83]

Your experience with bilstein is contrary to their design. As a digressively valved shock, they should do better on road and pretty bad high speed off road.

[@OverlandOutfitters]

They use a digressive piston, but the valving is actually pretty linear. Their cheaper shocks like the 6112 and 5100 use a digressive tune.

[@Nessal83]

@@OverlandOutfitters Makes sense. Thanks for letting me know!

[@ShockSurplus]

Like Ian said, you can get a linear curve out of a digressive piston. It's not black and white, who said digressive shocks are bad offroad at speed?

[@OverlandOutfitters]

This is Braeden 😉

[@Contest4Freedom]

It’s an exaggeration from these fellas.