Hope this hasn't been covered too much already but I searched to no avail.

I have 51K miles on my '94 and I think it's time for new shocks and bushings. I'm looking for the best ride possible. Better handling is not an issue. The car handles great stock, IMO. That's why I'm keeping the stock springs. I don't care to make the ride stiffer nor lower the car.

So, are there aftermarket shocks that ride as well or better than stock?

And what bushings would be best for me? Stock? I'm looking for QUIET and soft riding only.

Thanks!

Nice forum, btw. I'm looking forward to becoming a regular member here.

 

I would stick stock but some other should chime in. I have the Tokico's and they suck. Either too hard or floaty. I am going back to the stock shocks myself later this year. Some people like their Koni's but I don't know about the ride. I am going to get a new set of base/touring shocks. I think the car handles just fine stock (unless you track or autocross it). JMO BTW: There are some tuners who think the stock setup is fine also - they just sell aftermarket stuff because people demand it (and they make money).

 

I remember reading a magazine article years ago where they tested the handling of a stock RX7 up against another that had several suspension upgrades. To their surprise the stock RX7 made better lap times and pulled higher Gs on the skidpad. I'm not saying that's normal or even common but it goes to show that Mazda did a pretty good job to begin with.

 

If you plan on taking your car to the limit more than just occasionally, I highly recommend upgrading the shocks. The swaybar too, for that matter. But, I recommend the Koni Yellows as a good middle ground. A bit stiffer than the R1 Showa shocks, but softer than the GAB Super R's. I've heard several complaints about the Tokico's from both RX-7 and non-RX-7 owners. The Bilstein's were supposedly awesome ... but good luck finding them for a decent price.

 

I won't be taking it to the limit very often. This car is really just for weekend beach trips with the wife and the occasional mountain road blast. Ride quality is at a premium above all else. Stiffer than stock is not acceptable.

The Bilsteins, that's what they come with stock, right?

 

I would definitely go with upgraded Bilstein Self adjusting shocks. Or go with the Koni sports as they have a movable lower spring perch and you can drop the car about half an inch while also being able to adjust rebound.

PM me for prices.

Rishie

 

Self adjusting...is that kinda like NON adjustable? LOL!

Ok, I'll PM you.

 

If you want it to ride like stock stick with the stock shocks. You'll be hard pressed to get the dampning better than Mazda did. All of the upgrades will help give you a more 'controlled' ride which you're not looking for. Maybe if you have a lot of time and have shocks which you can adjust the compression and rebound you can do better. In Yamaguchi's book on the design and conception of the FD, you'll appreciate how much time was spent on balancing the ride vs. handling. I used to like the way the car rode prior to the Tokico's. Now I hate it. For how I use my FD, I also value ride over absolute handling. If you go with new stock shocks and the Bridgestones (S02,S03), you should be very happy with the ride and handling. All else will compromise ride for handling IMHO...

 

Thanks everyone for the input. My mind is made up. I'll be staying with the stock shocks for sure.

I guess I should stay with the stock bushings too? Mine are definitely shot. The car rattles and creaks WAAAAAAAY more than it used to.

 

Colonel,

I had to leave tonite for a show and was incredibly busy getting all my guys straight before I left. I will get you that pricing on Tuesday when I return.. Thanks for understanding.

Rishie

 

Yes, stay with the stock bushings. You can work out a deal with your local Mazda dealer for 10-15% off pretty easily. It will come in handy when buying so many parts. I've been replacing the worn stock bushings with new ones - been very happy with the results so far...