ARE COILOVER SHOCKS SUITABLE FOR DAILY DRIVING?
Coilover shocks offer a blend of performance and adjustability that appeals to racers and casual drivers alike. However, a common question remains: Are coilovers suitable for daily driving?
There exists a fundamental difference between coilover shocks and traditional suspension setups. Coilovers combine a shock absorber and a coil spring into a single unit, unlike the factory setups (such as independent coil springs or leaf springs) where these components are separate. This integration provides a compact solution with extensive adjustability. For performance enthusiasts, this means the ability to fine-tune their vehicle’s suspension to match different driving conditions, from the racetrack to the city streets.
WHY SOME COILOVERS RIDE ROUGH
A common misconception exists that coilovers inherently provide a rough ride. This belief often stems from improper setup rather than the design of the coilovers themselves. Many enthusiasts purchase second-hand coilovers or install them incorrectly, leading to a subpar experience. If the spring rate is too high or the shock stroke inadequate, the ride quality will inevitably suffer. Additionally, some drivers lower their cars excessively, causing the shocks to bottom out and effectively riding on solid rods. This misuse is often the root cause of negative perceptions about coilovers.
To avoid these pitfalls, proper installation and adjustment are crucial. It’s important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for setting up coilovers. For example, using a drop spindle can help achieve a lower ride height without compromising shock performance. It's also essential to avoid excessive lowering, which can bottom out the shock and degrade ride quality. By keeping the shock within its optimal range of motion and maintaining proper spring compression, drivers can ensure a smooth and controlled ride.
THE PROS OF PROPER COILOVERS
The primary advantage of coilovers lies in their adjustability. This allows drivers to modify the ride height, damping, and choose their spring stiffness (spring rate) according to their needs. For instance, a vehicle can be set up with stiffer and more aggressive damping for track days, then dialed back to a softer, more comfortable setting for daily commuting. This versatility is a significant selling point, offering the best of both worlds.
There is also a technical superiority of coilovers compared to traditional leaf spring setups. Coilovers provide more direct motion control because they can be located closer to the tire and body. In contrast, leaf springs, with their long arches, can wrap up under load, leading to a less controlled ride. Coilovers, with their integrated design, offer better performance and comfort, especially when set up correctly.
The ride quality of any suspension setup is primarily influenced by the shock absorber, which controls the car's motions. The spring's role is to support the vehicle at ride height. With the right coilover setup and proper adjustments, there should be no reason why drivers can’t enjoy both a comfortable and high-performing ride on a daily basis.
Coilover shocks can indeed be suitable for daily driving if installed and adjusted correctly. Understanding the technical aspects and avoiding common setup mistakes allows drivers to reap the benefits of coilovers without sacrificing comfort.