Why is it so hard to pick out some shocks?

[Seria17hri11er]

Why is it so hard to pick a pair of shocks? I keep finding conflicting information. I read somewhere around here that the Bilstein HD's are softer and more liveable than the sports. Even the product catalog says this, "SPORT (S)
For the performance-minded driver, Bilstein “Sport” shocks deliver absolute mastery of the road surface.
Designed to push a car’s suspension to it’s performance peak, these shocks are well suited for use with special springs, antisway
bars or other suspension upgrades.
HEAVY DUTY (HD)
For most vehicles including full-size sedans, SUVs and trucks. These shocks provide improved handling and stability without
sacrificing ride comfort. They offer super damping ability that makes them ideal for heavy hauling for occasional off-road use,
while maintaining an exceptional “street” ride."

Then I stumble across this post; http://www.dtmpower.net/forum/e36-3-series/170018-bilstein-hd-vs-sport-shocks.html

I bought bilstein OE replacements thinking they were hd's, with vogtland springs. I guess the Bilstein OE replacements are "15% stiffer" than the OE, though you wont find that in writing anywhere. Well I sold the OE replacements with my mind set on getting the HD's. Now that post above is telling me that the HD's are harsh as hell and to get the sports. So now I'm left wondering if I should have just held on to those OE replacements! So who's got what? People, chime in pleeeaassseee.

 

[E30m42cab]

Sorry, I'm riding on Koni's with Intrax springs. As far as I understand, sports are for lowered cars, and the HD's are for stock ride height... 15% firmer than OE means virtually nothing.

 

[Big Daddy]

I am not much help here either, my old E30 had Dinan Stage III suspension and my roadster has Dinan Stage I springs with Koni Adjustables..I must say that I love my Koni's!

 

[Pete K]

2 years ago I got the Bilstien HDs with Bavarian springs all around on my E36. Way stiffer than stock, especially the rears. I kind of regret it now, the ride is pretty harsh especially with the potholes and frost heaves this time of year. Definitely handles better but I don't think it's worth the stiff ride. I find myself weaving all over the road trying to avoid manholes covers and potholes.

 

[enzo90]

I find myself weaving all over the road trying to avoid manholes covers and potholes.

well at least you've got better handling

 

[Kirby]

I put Bilstein HDs on my Suburban. The ride is definitely stiffer than the OE shocks. But that's what I wanted - I use it for towing and it was bouncing too much.

 

[Seria17hri11er]

Thanks for the replies guys. I have lowering springs, and plan on putting them in, so maybe I should plan on getting the sports. I think I should call Bilstein...

 

[Big Daddy]

I would, call them tell them your concerns and plans and see what they tell you.