The Difference SHOCKED Us! Budget Suspension Upgrade Blind Tests

“Shock Value” the game show where two off-road enthusiasts, Ian from Wheel Every Weekend and Bradden from Overland Outfitters, took on the challenge of blind testing various suspension systems on a stock third-gen Tacoma. Did they guess which suspension system was installed? More importantly, which shocks came out on top in a series of rugged tests? Buckle up as we dive into the adventure that unfolded!

Introduction To Our Off-Road Aficionados And Their Ride

Meet the Contestants and the Tacoma Setup

First off, let’s meet our fearless contestants. Ian, a suspension guru and part-time tuna connoisseur, and Bradden, the trail boss from Overland Outfitters, brought their suspension expertise to the fore. Their test vehicle was a stock third-gen Tacoma fitted with ADD Leafs, 33-inch tires, and a Westcott spacer lift. The shocks in the running included Fox 2.5s, Dobinson IMS, Bilstein 5100, Old Man Emu Nitro Chargers, and Eibach Stage 1s. The stage was set; let the tests begin!

The Razor Burn Test: Who Could Handle The Rattle?

Shaking Things Up

First up was the Razor Burn test. This test involved chatter boards that mimicked rough, uneven terrain, pushing each suspension to its limits. Ian and Bradden experienced a mix of bone-rattling discomfort and surprising resilience. While the stock shocks held their ground, 3 offering a decent performance despite the harsh conditions, some aftermarket contenders struggled with excessive bottoming out and inconsistent damping. The contestants’ reactions were priceless as they got shaken but not stirred.

Highway Test: Smooth Operators Or Rough Riders?

Cruising Comfortably

Next, they hit the highway to assess body roll, brake dive, and overall ride comfort. This was where some aftermarket shocks shone, providing tighter, more controlled rides compared to the stock setup. However, not every upgrade was a winner; a few shocks delivered a harsher ride, amplifying road vibrations. Ian and Bradden’s feedback was mixed, highlighting the importance of choosing the right suspension for both off-road and daily driving.

High-Speed Whoops: Ready, Set, Jump!

The Ultimate Challenge

The most thrilling part of the testing series was the high-speed whoops, where the Tacoma was driven over a series of large bumps at speed. This test pushed each suspension system to its limits, revealing stark contrasts in its ability to handle high-impact scenarios. While some shocks managed to keep the vehicle stable and controlled, others caused significant bouncing and discomfort. The high-speed whoops separated the contenders from the pretenders, with Ian and Bradden experiencing some hair-raising moments.

The Best and Worst Shocks

After the dust settled, it was time to rank the shocks. The Bilstein 5100s took the crown, offering the best balance of performance and value. Dobinson IMS and Old Man Emu Nitro Chargers also impressed, securing top spots. The Fox 2.5s, despite their high price, are disappointed with frequent bottoming out and poor control. Our contestants agreed: some shocks were better left on the shelf.

Wrapping Up the Shock Valley Showdown

Choosing the Right Suspension

“Shock Valley” was an eye-opening adventure, highlighting the critical role of suspensions in off-roading. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails or cruising the highway, the right suspension can make all the difference. The Bilstein 5100s emerged as the clear winner, but every driver’s needs are unique. Choose wisely, and your off-road experience will be smoother and more enjoyable. Stay tuned for more wild rides and in-depth reviews from Wheel Every Weekend and Overland Outfitters!