Shock Talk Ep. 12: Demystifying Shock Valving: Digressive vs. Linear Pistons | Part 1

Get ready for an enlightening journey into the heart of vehicle suspension on the latest episode of "Bilstein's Shock Talk Podcast." Hosts Mike, Shane, and Junior are back to demystify the fascinating world of shock valving, tuning, and explore the age-old debate surrounding digressive and linear pistons. Buckle up as we also take on the myths and common misconceptions that often steer you off the right suspension path.
In this episode, we kick things off by revisiting the basics of shock valving. Whether you're a seasoned gearhead or new to the suspension game, our hosts break down the essential principles, making sure everyone is on the same page. You'll gain a solid understanding of how shock absorbers work and why their valving is crucial to your ride's performance and comfort.
Next, we dive headfirst into the digressive vs. linear piston discussion. Mike, Shane, and Junior dissect the pros and cons of each piston type, helping you make informed choices when it comes to your vehicle's shocks. We'll explore their unique characteristics and how they impact your suspension system, whether you're hitting the track, off-roading, or simply cruising down the highway.
But that's not all - we're on a mission to set the record straight. The world of shocks is filled with misconceptions and myths that can lead you down the wrong path. Our hosts tackle some of the most common misunderstandings head-on, shedding light on the truth and guiding you towards the best suspension decisions.

[@ryansmith32951]

Would be SO much better with visuals of the differences, showing charts, etc

[@1augustub1]

Junior, please stop interrupting the other guys ALL THE TIME.

[@bernie3075]

He was overbearing initially but I do appreciate how animated he is because it helped me pay attention. The other two guys are a bit monotone.

[@vegastoyotaoffroad9690]

I’ve always said that people don’t like digressive piston because it’s harder to tune. The R&D behind digressive is to much and a linear piston is just the easy way out of tuning. Great info finally someone openly talks about this. So much bad information online this is great.

[@oinojo]

100%

[@fscottgray9784]

In practice by adding something like a 5160 shock to a vehicle that had linear tuned shocks from the factory you may actually be increasing spring rate and in a round about way increasing GVW.

[@Rob_613]

What are your thoughts on digressive systems for dirt bike clay track oval or motocross racing

[@bobbydebobadibob1261]

just wondering if anyone there @BILSTEIN has done any backroom designs for DH mountain bikers ..? FOX & Rockshox are both doing air sprung forks with add in volume spacers alongside 4 way damper controls & custom shim stacks - all getting re-tuned on the fly when and where needed. there's a lot going on here and the riders are asking for even more !!!

[@ShockSurplus]

We're going to hire Junior to power our AI shock robots

[@JustDontDieDalton]

Good stuff guys, would love an episode on the Blackhawk shocks

[@bilsteinUS]

Coming soon!

[@JustDontDieDalton]

SWEET! Cannot wait@@bilsteinUS

[@sublimeskull0Ne]

Slid right into your DMs, man. Lmao

[@n.elliott9122]

Constant rate spring with progressive variable valving or with digressive?

[@boostinmini]

Lots of great info, and agree with many of your points but wow You guys are insanely defensive, worked up and maybe a little to biased towards digressive damping and not a bit more open. I have had digressive and linear on my truck and daily driving and on the street digressive are absolutely great but in regards to washboard digressive is complete murder and I drive a ton on washboard so I can tell very clearly the differance.

[@ShockSurplus]

41:11 - here's a link to that footage - kzbin.infoWWEQihqGC2w?feature=share

[@aaronbryan5095]

Many modern normal cars that I've driven most likely still have linear piston shocks, their ride quality relative to the body control they provide is absolutely terrible. Well tuned digressive shocks IMO greatly improves the driving experience even just for street driving.

[@4WDisLife]

Great info, however as a consumer who does not race at all, I do want that maximum comfort and can care little less about the control of my ride. And as one of the host said, that dictates a linear shock. Thanks again!

[@Ramiel77]

Dude on the right is soooo pissy lol. About to explode every time a subject is brought up. Great info, but the podcast dynamic could be better.

[@n.elliott9122]

So the more I listen the more I hear you say that your digressive piston only works with a tuned coil spring and not a factory spec rate coil spring.