Hi First post., new 08 X5, harsh ride... shocks, lowering, etc. any suggestions

[kfan]

I gotta go drive an x5 with the sports package and see what the difference is!

here is some good feedback i found from "sports package" vs "non sports package" thread

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=246196


i will most likely put the 22's on first, than evaluate if i really need the lowering kit.... any feedback on aftermarket springs? if i would need camber plates, new tpms sensors or if i can use the stock ones off the 18's, if i need new bolts or if the stock bolts will work, your before and after experience?

[HaroldC]

BTW, here are a couple of pics of my M3 and M5 to show their ride heights and tire sizes.

M3: rear tire 275/30/19


M5: rear tire 295/25/21

[Denalio]

If you think that lowering the car and putting 22's on it will soften up the ride you are delusional. You should probably set up a slush fund for a pair of new kidneys 'cause you may need them from all the jolting you'll get with the lowered set up.

[kfan]

Originally Posted by Denalio

If you think that lowering the car and putting 22's on it will soften up the ride you are delusional. You should probably set up a slush fund for a pair of new kidneys 'cause you may need them from all the jolting you'll get with the lowered set up.

i've done this on different cars (not suv's) all of the results were positive in the direction of performance, some made the ride worst and some made it the same as stock but just lower. that was the feedback i was hoping to get from anyone that's lowered their e70... i think its expected that it won't be any "softer". No one out there has lowered their E70??

[drod]

i also opted for the non-sport model... it's actually softer than i expected...which is not bad for everyday driving....not too soft but soft enough to feel it float a little on some bumps or turns... (not sure why you think it's harsh)

the sport will be a bit tighter but you can switch this feature off....

lose the runflats and you'll see a slight improvement...

going to 20s or 22s will make it a little worse...even with non-run flats...

i think it's just the roads getting worse!!

[kfan]

i think it's just the roads getting worse!![/quote]


Hahaha i think your right on that.

this is something that is a tradeoff btwn bwm and mercedes. i love the hands on feel of driving a car / suv like the BMW. In a sedan like my M5 it is way more fun to drive than a E55. Steering is tighter, you feel the road, much more fun. BUT in a SUV, i wish the X5 was more like a mercedes in regard to suspension. the ml550 is not perfect (if fact front is too spongy), but it does absorb our poor roads a lot better IMO.