[jdl8r]

I wanted the upgraded wheels and went for the Sports package. However, I have the fear that it will be far too stiff for the roads here in Socal. My thinking was that it'd be easier and cheaper to install softer shocks/springs than it would be to upgrade from stock.

Anyone know of a dynamic suspension setup?

 

[James A]

Why not go with the stock springs and shocks? Someone may be willing to trade for the sport set up.

 

[LarryB]

Went with the sport package. We're pretty sure it's only 10% stiffer springs and .2" lower ride height. That's not much to worry about. What we're not to sure of, bushings- Lotus change them (softer) for the standard car, that appears to have taken most of the harshness out of it or how stiff the shocks are.

The UK has adjustable shocks... not sure how well they work with the added weight and suspension travel (.4") we've picked up. Good new is they've got the 111R, so wrost case if the current stuff doesn't work well, something that will should be out shortly.

 

[_JD_]

I wanted the upgraded wheels and went for the Sports package. However, I have the fear that it will be far too stiff for the roads here in Socal. My thinking was that it'd be easier and cheaper to install softer shocks/springs than it would be to upgrade from stock.

Anyone know of a dynamic suspension setup?

Dynamic supplies Lotus w/ their Sport suspension packages. They are adjustable with bump, rebound and height. I'll bet they'll be a lot pricier than the Nitrons though. Gavin whats-his-name from Lotus goes through the Dynamic suspension on the Best of Britain-Lotus video posted on the "Elise videos" section of the board.

 

[jdl8r]

_JD_ so you're telling me that the LSS is adjustable for compression damping, rebound and ride-height? Something extremely common in motorcycles, but rare with cars...

 

[offroadr35]

i ordered it. not scared at all about the stiffness.

 

[MikeAR303]

I ordered LSS.

 

[jdl8r]

My worries aren't from it being too stiff...

Suspension works to keep the tires in contact with the road. To stiff [as may be the case with imperfections in the street] and bumps in the road will not only upset the chassis, the compound can lose contact with the road. Tunable suspension would therefore be optimal. If hitting the road - great, soften up the compression and rebound. If hitting the track, stiffen etc.

Tracks are typically more cared for and smoother overall than weather/sun beaten concrete or asphalt.

 

[_JD_]

_JD_ so you're telling me that the LSS is adjustable for compression damping, rebound and ride-height? Something extremely common in motorcycles, but rare with cars...

I was'nt clear sorry. The Dynamic suspension comes with Lotus' "Motorsport" cars that are not production types. The Sport 190 which was sold here in limited numbers for track use only, comes with the Dynamic suspension that allows bump, rebound and height adjustment.

The "LSS" or Sportpack that we can get on the Fed car is height adjustable only and comes with Bilstein dampers and Eibach (I believe) springs. I believe the LSS is comprised of the same basic setup as the base car but with firmer springs and re-valved Bilsteins(and of course the 7-double spoke forged wheels from Rimstock). edit- and the steering adjustment for the wider front wheels.

I did'nt opt for the LSS because I would like to get the benefits of a Dynamic type setup down the road.

 

[jdl8r]

JD - I hear ya... Suspension is the often overlooked performance magic wand. Bad setup and a car with all the HP in the world won't do sh!t.

I only opted for the LSS as the wheel were lighter and an aftermarket purchase of those cost significantly more than $2400. I plan on then just doing a suspension update to my Elise...

Riding motorcycles taught me more about cars than any car I had ever driven.