Shock Talk Terminology - Ride Control, Comfort, Bump Compliance, Harshness, Boaty Behavior

What is a soft ride? A smooth ride? A controlled ride? In terms of a car or truck's suspension ride quality we hear a lot of terms thrown around, and not always correctly. We step in here to define some baselines so you can make a more educated decision on which shocks are right for your driving style and individual preferences.
Full breakdown on how to tell what makes your vehicle ride "better" and what that means:
www.shocksurplus.com/pages/wh...

[@jrthao916]

One thing you have talked about that is true and a lot of people don’t talk about. What are you doing with your truck, time you spend on and off road. It all depends. 👍🏻

[@ShockSurplus]

We try to steer people into the right direction for what would suit their needs specifically. There are various factors which is why we ask so many questions. Let us know all the details of your build plans and we'll help you out.

[@Hambric2024]

Nice Video Shaw Kim

[@ShockSurplus]

Much appreciated!

[@shanilrajapakse9883]

I have a Toyota Hilux 2009 model (daily driven) and I don't carry heavy loads in it. What is the shock absorber for the best comfort?

[@mrengine9]

So I have a 2019 Kia Soul that I would like to make more comfortable. I don't off road and live in a suburban area. Wanted to pick your brain on the choices or steps that I could take moving forward with making it a smoother, more comfortable ride for myself and passengers. I also wanted to drop the height about 1 inch as well. Only modification to my vehicle that I have currently are 18" wheels. Thank you!

[@ShockSurplus]

Not much is offered or in stock currently. If you're also lowering it, you'll need a lowering spring or a coilover setup.

[@asimrc]

You need a set of BP50 ones and just have the setting ride in the softest.That will get you what you are after

[@asimrc]

And if you can't get them where you are just get anything.That's adjustable.Put it on the softest or harder setting and work in the other direction until it's at your comfort

[@chankeng4521]

Hi, I watched too many videos from your channel and caught my attention to King suspension for my upcoming Nissan Navara. may u recommend if I should go with King shocks or other brands while my only purpose is to have the most comfortable ride on my Navara and I mostly gonna drive it around the city (bumpy roads and tough road conditions on rural area) and highway not for offroad. Much appreciated for ur advice,and it's great if anything that works similar to Clearmotion electromagnetic suspension will be another takeaway for me. I love riding comfort cars but in love with the truck. Thank!

[@ShockSurplus]

The Nissan Navara was never offered in the US. They don't make direct fitment parts. It'll require a bit more work but it might be doable to do a custom set up. We just need to know all the suspension specs like measurements, mounts type, mounts specs, spring rates and so forth. May you please contact us directly to get further assistance on this?

[@heeaach]

Hi. Thanks for the amazing video. I have a LEXUS es330 2004 that is a 4dr sedan car. The car came with these shocks that have a button in the middle console that says (Comfort-Sport), and I have to choose between one of these settings. I heard that changing these shocks is really expensive. My Q is; putting it on which setting, sport Vs. comfort, will make the current shocks set lives longer??, I drive only on rods with no off road. Which regular standard shocks are good for my car in terms of longevity.

[@ShockSurplus]

Comfort will create less pressures in the shock compared to sport damping, so that setting could lead to longer life.

[@handmadebynepal]

I want a smooth ride on my 2011 toyota highlander what struts do that

[@ahmadabdullah5940]

Greetings buddy, I recently got the GX460 2022 luxury trim but i am really annoyed by how stiff is the OEM suspentions and thinking of replacing them with Dobinsons IMS (only the suspentions). Will I get huge improvements in terms of comfort, stability, ans handling?.

[@ShockSurplus]

Did your GX460 come with KDSS? IF so, that should have been quite comfortable. We have not review any Dobinson products quite yet but we have plans to.

[@markrenfrow9873]

I have a '09 chevy 3500 cutaway van with a shuttle bus body, converted to a RV. Ground clearance is an issue! My question, will installing air assited shocks allow me to raise the body when needed? Only have 7-8 inch clearance at bus door. If so, what brand would you reccomend?

[@ShockSurplus]

Please contact us directly and we'll help you out. www.shocksurplus.com/pages/contact-us

[@deadbot61]

Any suggestion on a 2005 Nissan Armada, I have OEM everything but I want more comfort and handling then factory offers. Should I also replace the rear air suspension. It’s my daily driver and travel car so I want a smooth ride over bumps and rough roads.

[@ShockSurplus]

We don't have anything that would work with your factory air suspension.

[@publiogil6910]

im really on the fence with 6112-5160 or OME. im not rock crawling jeep rated trails but i do offroad at least one weekend a month. mostly fire / washed roads with the occasional rock obstacle. i had a 3/1 spacer level and was forced to take it off. now I want to go back to that same height but no spacers in the front. I hear OME are pretty stiff if you dont have weight added. I know down the line i will be adding a bumper and winch but thats years down. suggestions?

[@ShockSurplus]

Depends on the vehicle as not everything is offered for every vehicle. But currently, we think Bilstein 6112 and Eibach pro Truck Stage 2 is the move right now.

[@Bendertrickster]

Just picked up a ram rebel and I’m looking to get a lift or level needed to fit 35s with method 18inch wheels. I’d like to have better comfort than the stock set up now (stock is pretty dang smooth) but at the same time can handle if we end up going to the lake on the weekend and go through some light trails. Can anyone recommend a set up that they’ve had great experience with in their rebel? Great vid man!

[@ShockSurplus]

Really depends on how much lift you want to do and how much you want to build this for a specific use. Contact our sales team directly for assistance.

[@RabbiJesus]

You don’t need a lift for 35’s.

[@STILLPHENOM]

Got my bilstein 5100 from u guys last year. Decided to go 1.75 high with oem spring. My wife hates the ride. What would be my options to get a smoother ride? Thanks for all the info you guy’s pouring. 🙏

[@ShockSurplus]

It depends on the vehicle so we what is offered as not every part is available for every vehicle. We would suggest, if they are available, Eibach Pro truck or Fox 2.0.

[@MrIndianRebel]

Any suggestions for the 10th gen Accord? They're already equipped with decent shocks from the factory. Would an upgrade make any difference that make it worth the cost? I'm looking into more ride quality and comfort.

[@ShockSurplus]

We're not aware of any aftermarket coilovers right now besides maybe BC Racing and other smaller brands offering shocks for that Accord - and they aren't going to improve comfort.

[@jhiggi20]

I just bought a lifted 01' Ranger and it rides pretty rough. It's hits even small bumps pretty hard, very stiff on the rebound, and is pretty boaty. I think it's a body and suspension lift as the bed sits pretty high and there are 33'' tires on there. I don't do any off-roading and will only be using it as a daily driver for about 20mi a week and the occasional 1.5hr trip. I've had a few S-10s and I recall them taking bumps a little harder vs my sedan but wanted to know what you would recommend to get a smoother ride. I'm looking for something like a Silverado type of ride. I was moving last week and rented a pickup from U-haul and that thing didn't feel any bump. Is that a realistic or attainable type of ride for the ranger or lift kit? Thanks so much!

[@ShockSurplus]

Sure it really depends on if it has torsion bars or coil springs up front, how much lift it has, and how the lift was achieved. Give us a shout directly on our website with a little mroe details on the vehicle itself and we should be able to find something that might help. www.shocksurplus.com/pages/contact-us

[@reetikdhamala4733]

I got a 2018 sonata, lot of body roll and some weight on the trunk makes the back sit. Mostly body roll even on low speed is the issue. Also want ride height to be a bit lower if possible. Any suggestions?

[@ShockSurplus]

We don't offer much for your vehicle. All we have is Monroe or KYB OEM struts and shocks.

[@Sam-nz9yn]

I have a 2011 Ford Fusion that I'd like to make a more comfortable ride especially over bumps. Recently had a back injury and needed something done. I was wondering what were your thoughts?

[@ShockSurplus]

All we get offer is OEM replacements from KYB or Monroe. Both are direct replacements and very close to OEM specs.

[@culito2278]

I have a 01 Chevy blazer and looking for the best shocks for normal everyday driving.I need to change them asap because the ride quality is absolutely terrible and also been looking at the Bilstein but there’s to many brands.What do you think I should get?

[@ShockSurplus]

Sure if it is stock height you really can not beat the Bilstein 4600s for a daily driver

[@jimis1970]

I got a 2016 Toyota Yaris hybrid and my suspension is very stiff , to put it nicely . It's my daily drive and i just want it to run as smooth and soft as possible , as in riding a cloud , on bumpy street roads . Do you have any suggestion as in brand/model etc? I'm clueless when it comes to this stuff , i'm a relatively new and casual driver . KYB seems like the choice according to your experience? Appreciate the info and keep it it!!

[@ShockSurplus]

KYB and Bilstein would be the go to choice for you.

[@sherifnabil50]

​​@@ShockSurplus what about Monroe quick strut?

[@brightlight7217]

My 2017 jaguar F-PACE rear stock suspension is too stiff for my taste. I would prefer a softer suspension. Any recommendations ? Thank you.

[@ShockSurplus]

Did that come with the KYB factory shocks? Not a lot of aftermarket options that we see, KW has a kit, but its a lowering kit and much firmer.

[@lakayshredsmtb447]

Hi I have a 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid with a 2in TORQ lift. I need a little more performance. I drive a lot twisty mountain highways because I mountain bike. Also I sometimes load the rear hitch a bike rack plus bikes thats about 300lbs so I get a lot of rear sag. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated..

[@ShockSurplus]

Looks like you're in luck, Flatout Suspension has a performance kit for your vehicle. Let us know how they are and tell them we sent you =) flatoutsuspension.net/products/highlander-grl?variant=43062228910315

[@nismokings1106]

I have an 05 frontier, I recently bought rancho struts for that vehicle and the truck rides the exact same on the roughest setting and on the softest setting, is this normal for brand new preassembled struts

[@ShockSurplus]

The adjustment on Rancho parts are very minimal and not drastic. We personally don't run any of their kits on any of our vehicles any longer.

[@bigcatfry446]

Question I have a 2003 Durango with factory shocks I off road pretty often in it. I live on a farm and don’t really want to spend that much what would be my best option?

[@ShockSurplus]

KYB gas-a-just is a good mix of comfortable ride quality and longevity. Skyjacker Black Max have seemed to be pretty solid as well if they have them for your vehicle. If you want something that's going to last a long time (great investment) then Bilstein 4600 is the answer

[@ashwinpatel4687]

I have 2023 sequoia SR5 , factory condition. I want smoothest plush floaty ride over the bumpy road and potholes. The stock shocks are smooth on smooth highway but on small potholes and on little rough road the ride is harsh. Can you please suggest me shocks . Do I need to change the springs and shocks ?

[@ShockSurplus]

There are not a ton of options out just yet, but we think the most plush package available are the Dobinsons MRRs when adjusted properly. They really can not be used effectively with stock sprigns, but they have tons of options for different lift heights and constant weight loads

[@cesarrivera5079]

I drive a Hummer h2 2006 and I drive everyday on the highway , freeways and sometimes to the beach on d weekends so which u recommend for the smoothest ride absorber without feeling the bumps.

[@ShockSurplus]

Bilstein 4600 would be our suggestion.

[@datboigoofy3013]

I’m looking for the best shocks for comfort, city driven (bumpy and tough roads) on a Silverado 2015 crew cab

[@ShockSurplus]

KYB Gas a Just, Eibach Pro Truck, Bilstein 4600 - we'd probably run the Eibach pro truck on ours with rough roads www.shocksurplus.com/products/eibach-pro-truck-sport-shocks-set-for-2019-2022-chevrolet-silverado-1500-rwd-w-0-2-5-lift

[@specialforcesazerbaijan5426]

Which suspension is the best for Chevy cruze 2018 model for comfort soft ride?

[@ShockSurplus]

We don't offer much for your vehicle. Only brand we can get is Monroe and their OE Spectrum line.

[@anthonyjaramillo2712]

i have an 09 Tahoe. I dont haul heavy stuff but im looking for soft suspension upgrades what would be the best option for the shocks, maybe even throwing in springs and struts just want a soft ride.

[@ShockSurplus]

Probably the softest and most plush option out there is going to be the Fox 2.0s. Out of the box they will lift the front 2" but can be adjusted to stock height if you so desire. Their only real draw back is that they will need to be rebuilt every 40k or so under normal use, so they are not the longest lasting option out there, but certainly one of the comfiest.

[@anthonyjaramillo2712]

@@ShockSurplus does this also apply to the rear shocks?

[@ShockSurplus]

Ride quality and life span yes, but the rear shocks will not change ride height

[@waheid7932]

I got 2019 wrangler sport 2dr with 285/75/17 ko2, it’s a daily driver with almost hardly any off-roading , looking for new lift 2”-2.5” with new shocks. What do you recommend

[@ShockSurplus]

Do you have the lift already? If so, then run Bilstein 5100 or Fox 2.0

[@waheid7932]

@@ShockSurplus not yet but am planing to have it lifted this month

[@johnjohnson1313]

I just bought an 07 Mustang and it's very rough riding going over small bumps,potholes,etc. What is a good shock to provide softer ride for that car? Thanks.

[@ShockSurplus]

Ford Mustang is considered a sports car and is should be tuned more like a performance vehicle which is may ride rough. Most of the parts we offer are either OEM parts or coilover system or even air bags.

[@johnjohnson1313]

@@ShockSurplus Thanks.The vehicle has 109k on it and has a banging/clunking sound,seems to be coming from the front.

[@gustavrod1386]

Hi I just got a 2018 jeep wrangler jl want to lift it 3 inches and put a 35 inch tires , which lift kit do you recommend I want my jeep to ride smooth and feel heavy kind like a Cadillac. I don’t do off-road that much. I will do it once in a while thank you.

[@ShockSurplus]

Look for a kit that has dual rate springs, Skyjacker, Teraflex, Metal Cloak all have these options (off the top of our head), that will mean the daily drive and easy trails is softer for comfort. A set of good shocks will also help of course, but if you go with Teraflex - their falcon shocks are pretty firm and sporty, meant for performance offroad, so we wouldn't recommend for you. You can get any of the kits above though and pair the shocks of your choice, Fox 2.0 are a solid option - comfortable with good control. King 2.0s are more expensive, and even softer than Fox. Or if you're on a budget, grab the Skyjacker kit with dual rate springs, and match with Black Max shocks, pretty soft ride.

[@gustavrod1386]

Can you tell me what to buy so I can get the best ride for my jeep and do you sell those parts? I just wanna do it right and I want to do it just once thank you for all your help

[@Podchynok]

I have 2021 GMC Sierra 3500 SRW crew cab regular box. I do not tow but will occasionally wi fill truck box with 500-700 of camping gear or my quad. I do not use truck for off roading. Still running OE shocks and looking to improve smoothness in my ride. What would be your recommendations? Thanks in advance.

[@ShockSurplus]

Eibach Pro Truck Sport monotubes would be a great choice. They should be noticeably more comfortable unloaded and much more stable under a load.

[@Podchynok]

@@ShockSurplus thank you very much for response. I will have to research market to see if I can get them in Canada.

[@ShockSurplus]

We ship to Canada so if you do not have any luck locally we got you covered

[@Podchynok]

@@ShockSurplus noted, thank you.

[@jerem254]

Most comfortable ride for a 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak 2.0 litre Bi-turbo 4x4? Stock suspension gets jiggly on concrete roads.

[@ShockSurplus]

The 2022+ Ford Ranger 2.0 Liter Bi-turbo is not here in the US yet or technically officially announced. No manufacturer currently offers parts and we don't know if the suspension is the same as the previous generation/body style or if it's a completely new platform.

[@HucklebearysAdventures]

07 fj cruiser, base weight, eventually will add weight but i want a smooth ride on two track's,washboard roads just glude over all those annoying bumps and washboards. While getting anywhere 3lse i need but that is primary use

[@ShockSurplus]

For that I would definitely lean towards something linear in valving and uses a universal style flat ground coilover spring in the front like a Fox or King. If you do not have weight in it now, then keep the standard springs on the coilovers and go with a light or standard load rear spring until you have the weight to necessitate something stiffer. Otherwise if you do not mind the rear sitting a little tall you can go with a multi rate spring in the rear like Icon 52800 3" springs. Their initial rate is soft enough to live with unloaded, and they get progressively stiffer as compressed so they work killer under a load. Since the front coilovers use a universal style spring it will be easy to get a stiffer when and if you need it.

[@HucklebearysAdventures]

@ShockSurplus I hear a massive amount of people recommending bilstein 6112 in front and 5100s for rear is this equivalent? I wish there was just a set kit with part numbers for just this haha

[@ShockSurplus]

The Bilsteins are great, but their digressive valving will have them feeling a little firm on washboard roads at lower speeds. They are great if you like to drive a little faster, but if you want something that "Glides over the road" those are not the shocks you want. Fox and King have a number of various options for coilovers and shocks based on budget and needs so there is not just one simple part number for everything, but al of this is listed on our site and if you get stuck we can help you make the right decisions for your needs. www.shocksurplus.com/

[@icouch]

I need shocks that can handle the pot holes and and shitty roads of Seattle and I-5 for my 2014 Tacoma. Currently I have the Bilstein 4600 but they’re too rough. I need a smoother ride

[@ShockSurplus]

The Eibach pro truck are definitely a smoother option, same with Fox 2.0, Dobinsons IMS, lots of other options. Give us a shout [e-mail]

[@dustinlabat4566]

2008 f150, looking for a comfort ride but pull a light trailer about once a month

[@ShockSurplus]

So it's hard to focused on comfort and towing. Towing requires the shocks to be firmer to support the usage in which it's designed for. Our top choice for towing and hauling are the Bilstein 5100. However, they are going to make your vehicle feel a tad bit firmer than stock. You will get less body roll, less nose dive, and more a overall stability benefit.

[@Jamwag110]

Best comfort ride for 06 tundra?

[@ShockSurplus]

Stock height - Bilstein 4600. Towing and hauling or want some lift - Bilstein 5100. Performance or a cross between daily and off-roading - Bilstein 6112.

[@returning2race574]

What’s a good shock for a more stiff ride??

[@ShockSurplus]

Bilstein is the go-to sportier / firmer ride option. Depends on your application as well though. Falcon is firmer, KYB Monomax, a number of options

[@returning2race574]

@@ShockSurplus ok thanks. And what’s a good budget shock for comfort and bouncing on sand dunes?? Like a budget prerunner shock like King suspension

[@ShockSurplus]

Whats your real budget? Fox 2.0s can be had for about $700/set on a solid axle vehicle, or about $1200 for an IFS vehicle with coilovers. The Bilstein 5100/5125 are budget friendly ($400/set) and can take a beating in the dunes. Email [e-mail] with vehicle and budget and we can get into some details.

[@farmermike9262]

Im looking for a rear shock to be a bit for stiffer than a Bilstein 5100 near a Bilstein price tag. Any suggestions?

[@ShockSurplus]

What is the vehicle and why you trying to stiffen up the rear? is more comfort or for weight support.

[@farmermike9262]

'12 Tacoma TRD sport. I have a constant load of 700# as a daily driver. My stock springs with ICON AAL and 5100 and I bottom out on small speed bumps.

[@ShockSurplus]

Is that 700 lbs. in the rear? If so those AAL wouldn't support it well. You'll want a full leaf pack from either Icon RXT or Deaver Expedition series 2" stage 3. We can get you both of those parts.

[@farmermike9262]

@@ShockSurplus yes. What about rear shocks?

[@farmermike9262]

@@ShockSurplus I intend to install deaver stg3 and 5100 coilovers in the front

[@krump743]

For a loaded 4wd going away for a weekend or weeks at a time, that has weight differences between daily and touring i dont think one can really pass up on adjustable bypass shocks in the rear atleast, assuming spring rates are right. Good bang for ya buck, decent performace too. In australia we dont seem to get the millions of options u yanks get with ur big trucks.

[@ShockSurplus]

Cheers from the USA mate! So we don't jump straight in bypass or adjustment right away for anyone. It really depends on what they're doing with their truck such as what has been installed that adds any constant weight and what the truck or rig is being used for and how often. If someone wants to be covered in most scenario but possible lose some comfort, then yes go with a full off-road set via Fox 2.5, King 2.5, OME BP51, Icon 2.5, Bilstein 8112 and etc.

[@realguy577]

you remind me of courage the cowardly dog! do you get that at all?

[@alisancek7203]

For wrangler JK 2010 no lift, i want a smoother ride than stock shocks, more damping, its my daily driver with very little offroad, what should i go for?

[@ShockSurplus]

I would say look into the Fox 2.0. They are quite comfort for daily and firms up when you're off-roading which helps keep the truck more tight and not loose.

[@alisancek7203]

@@ShockSurplus Thank you for this appreciated, what could be a less costly option?

[@ShockSurplus]

Eibach Pro Truck shocks have proved to be a great setup that's functional like both Bilstein 5100 and Fox 2.0 but without the firmer feeling of those two brands. You would need 2 x E60-51-001-01-01 for the front and 2 x E60-51-001-01-10 for the rear which are all 0-2" shocks.