bilstein b16 vs kw v3 need advice

[2ndgenhachi]

Ok, I've decided my first mod for the frs is gonna be coilovers. I've done research until my head feels like it's gonna explode from and pretty much nailed down 2 options the kw v3 or the bilstein b16. I see arguments for both just dont want to invest this much and make the wrong choice. My car is a dd but I want to track and autox as much as possible and improve myself as a driver. Fairly new to the adjustable suspension and while it may not be necessary for my primary use I want something that can suit me even as my skill level andvances. Thanks in advance for any input.

[cdrazic93]

@CSG Mike
@Racecomp Engineering

[Scottemad123]

Interested in this discussion as well.

[Racecomp Engineering]

Bilstein B16 (aka PSS10) - A very good single adjustable monotube coilover. Great valving from a well known name in the industry.

KW V3 - A very good double adjustable twintube coilover. Great valving from a well known name in the industry.

Simple as that! jk

Two very good options. I don't think either one would be a "bad" choice necessarily but the fact that the Bilstein uses progressive springs that are fairly soft up front means that they may not be the best choice for you. In terms of valving and build quality they're great.

The KW's use linear springs with helpers/tenders which is generally the preferred way to go on the track and for auto-x. They're still a little soft IMO.

If you want to hit the track and auto-x a lot, it might be worth looking into our RCE Tarmac 2 Clubsports. Made by KW, but based on the Clubsports instead of V3s. So a little more track oriented with firmer rates and valving (though still plenty comfortable). Pricing is just a little more than KW V3s go for. Still double adjustable, still the great KW build quality and a lifetime warranty.

A 2 way (double adjustable for damping) coilover can be difficult to adjust correctly, so if you're new to that game then I'd recommend buying from a suspension shop with experience tuning suspensions with this car. A single adjustable will be simpler and still powerful if adjusted correctly, but a 2 way gives you a little more flexibility in tuning the damper.

- Andy

[2ndgenhachi]

Andy thanks so much for the input. I was hoping to get input from an experienced voice. I'll def look into your t 2's as well.

[leicaboss]

Originally Posted by Racecomp Engineering

Bilstein B16 (aka PSS10) - A very good single adjustable monotube coilover. Great valving from a well known name in the industry.

KW V3 - A very good double adjustable twintube coilover. Great valving from a well known name in the industry.

Simple as that! jk

Two very good options. I don't think either one would be a "bad" choice necessarily but the fact that the Bilstein uses progressive springs that are fairly soft up front means that they may not be the best choice for you. In terms of valving and build quality they're great.

The KW's use linear springs with helpers/tenders which is generally the preferred way to go on the track and for auto-x. They're still a little soft IMO.

If you want to hit the track and auto-x a lot, it might be worth looking into our RCE Tarmac 2 Clubsports. Made by KW, but based on the Clubsports instead of V3s. So a little more track oriented with firmer rates and valving (though still plenty comfortable). Pricing is just a little more than KW V3s go for. Still double adjustable, still the great KW build quality and a lifetime warranty.

A 2 way (double adjustable for damping) coilover can be difficult to adjust correctly, so if you're new to that game then I'd recommend buying from a suspension shop with experience tuning suspensions with this car. A single adjustable will be simpler and still powerful if adjusted correctly, but a 2 way gives you a little more flexibility in tuning the damper.

- Andy

Thanks for the info - but couldn't I (with KW V3, for example) leave the settings for compression and rebound @ stock settings from factory?

[Racecomp Engineering]

Yes but one size does not fit all. You can easily stick with the factory settings and be OKAY, but the beauty of a 2 way is fine-tuning.

We have our own recommendations and they're a great starting point, but you may want a click or two difference depending on tire choice, other mods, track surface, etc. And that's when it helps to work with a good suspension vendor (like CSG, FT86Speedfactory, ourselves, etc.).

- Andy

[leicaboss]

Originally Posted by Racecomp Engineering

Yes but one size does not fit all. You can easily stick with the factory settings and be OKAY, but the beauty of a 2 way is fine-tuning.

We have our own recommendations and they're a great starting point, but you may want a click or two difference depending on tire choice, other mods, track surface, etc. And that's when it helps to work with a good suspension vendor (like CSG, FT86Speedfactory, ourselves, etc.).

- Andy

Wish all of you guys were closer to me -_-. CSG's the closest, but still super far away. Though I may have to pay Mike a visit sometime

[cdrazic93]

One thing to note: the KW V3 dust caps tend to break a lot via running too low, or installation error.

[FR-S Matt]

Originally Posted by cdrazic93

One thing to note: the KW V3 dust caps tend to break a lot via running too low, or installation error.

I was pretty low on mine and the dust boots are fine. Literally the last threads on the front. I raised it up about 3 turns now though. Only issue I'm having is my Whiteline LCA's are clunking in the rear. Trying to diagnose that.

[Racecomp Engineering]

Originally Posted by leicaboss

Wish all of you guys were closer to me -_-. CSG's the closest, but still super far away. Though I may have to pay Mike a visit sometime

All of the above are pretty good via phone or email too!

- Andy