So who just got a visit from some true JDM HKS engineers to test out and evaluate the new HKS Hipermax IV Coilovers on an FR-S?
Circuit Motorsports that's who!
We got to test drive on the new HKS Hipermax IV GT Coilovers. These are the "Street" version with softer rates for those of you looking for a stiffer ride than stock, with better handling and feel, but without the harshness normally associated with other coilovers.
They felt great! Ride was stable and even, steering was sharpened up, and the car cornered nice and flat. Most importantly, it drove well on the road, feeling only slightly stiffer than a stock FR-S. It handled undulations well and absorbed most of the bumps and dips I aimed for with aplomb. I drove it for a few miles hitting some straight higher speed roads and some slower speed roads with a few corners (Orlando does not lend itself to great driving roads). Overall the car felt great, I wouldn't have changed anything, other than maybe clicking the damper down a few notches for everyday comfort use - The coilovers have 30 clicks of adjustment, and they were set at 15, right in the middle. Which is a testament to how good these felt, even at half-stiffness.
These are very high quality coils. Monotube and Inverted shocks at the front with camber plates, with rear rubber insert top-plates for a full replacement kit.
There is a GT and SP kit. The GT has softer rates and the SP has stiffer rates. So there are 2 great options to suit everyone's needs.
We would definitely recommend these to anyone looking for a high quality coilover kit for a street car!
If anyone has any questions please feel free to comment below
P.S - A lot of companies throw a stiff springrate at their coilovers set and call it a day. The feeling of a really stiff car is what some guys go for, and what some people think they "need". Sure, stiff rates will make the car feel like a go cart with super sharp turn in and no body roll, but you ultimately lose grip at the tires and they will beat you up and make you hate life when driving on most public roads. your girlfriend or wife may also not approve.
We generally tell our customers to go a little light on rates for a car that sees anything over 60% street use. Mod for what you do the most, not for 1 or 2 track days a year. They will generally handle better anyway, you need suspension travel for the suspension to work!