Roll couple: Distance between the vehicle's center of gravity and roll axis, essentially acting as a lever arm. The greater the roll couple, the more torque is exerted on the roll center, resulting in more body roll.
Toe: Angle of the tires as seen from above the car, with respect to the vehicle's centerline. Toe-in refers to both tires angled towards the center, toe-out being the opposite.
Toe-in generally creates a more stable vehicle, while toe-out creates a more responsive feel.Too much of either is detrimental to handling.
Although car manufacturers have made huge strides in suspension technology, many are still based on the 60-year-old design of Earle S MacPherson. Its simplicity, light weight and tunability have contributed to the longevity of the MacPherson strut. Oh yeah, it works well too.
The Patec I.S.S. (Intelligent Suspension System) brings suspension tech-nology usually reserved for high-end automobiles to the automotive aftermarket. The system allows the driver to adjust ride height, as well as providing four settings of ride characteristics
Key features:
*Each shock contains an integrated, laser-cut valving system controlled via an electro-magnetic unit, for split-second adjustments on the fly
*Four ride settings: Comfort, Autobahn, Sport, Race*Dual-stage progressive rate springs work in conjunction with electronic damping, for quick reaction to weight loads
*Three-layer, triple-thick anodizing with powder-coated finish and a five-stage damper rod seal system ensures durability
$2,199
Applications: Audi, BMW, VW
*Patec
www.tmtuning.com
866.206.9072
Ever wish for a suspension with a dual personality? One that's comfortable for everyday driving yet, in a fraction of a second, has the ability to tackle whatever is around the next corner? For lucky late-model BMW 3 and 5 Series owners, Bilstein has released Ridecontrol: electronically controlled shocks which do just that
Key features:
*Monotube/inverted technology features wear-resistant chromium tubes
*Cockpit-mounted control allows driver to switch between Normal and Sport mode
*30 to 50mm front and rear axle lowering
*Inverted shock design helps distribute lateral g-forces over a wide area, increasing stability
$3,150
Additional applications: Mercedes
*Bilstein
www.bilstein.com
800.537.1085
TEIN developed the Super Street damper kit to give the driver improved handling on both street and track. The SS dampers feature shortened bodies to optimize the position of the piston, ensuring maximum travel regardless of ride height
Key features:
*16 levels of damping force adjustment (compression & rebound)
*Springs manufactured from SWOSC-KV (steel wire oil-tempered silicon chrome) for high tension and long life
*EDFC (Electronic Damping Force Controller) compatibility offers in-cockpit control
*Front upper mounts include adjustable camber plates-made from aluminum with Alumite coating
$1,300
Applications: Audi, BMW, Saab, VW
*TEIN USA, Inc.
562.861.9161
www.tein.com
The KW Variant 3 coilover system for the Porsche 997 Turbo incorporates state-of-the-art race technology designed to give maximum versatility. The system also offers lowering by 20mm to 40mm, front and rear
Key features:
*Housings are from Inox-line stainless steel, for protection against the elements-just the thing for wet or salted road conditions
*Trapezoidal threads and composite spring perches ensure easy adjustability
*Features infinitely adjustable rebound and 14- level adjustable compression damping
*Elastomer bump stops with integrated dust boot protection
$3,495
Additional applications: Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Maserati, Mercedes, MINI, Volvo, VW
*KW Automotive North America Inc.
www.kw-suspension.com
800.445.3767
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