In the video above, Ridetech explains the dynamics of suspension technology, and how to evaluate your suspension. And they know what they’re talking about, one of our project cars, Project BluePrint, got a complete suspension upgrade thanks to Ridetech and their Level 2 Suspension kit. The level 2 kit is a complete suspension kit including components like their StrongArms, MuscleBars, and single adjustable Coil over shocks.

Suspension technology is more technical than many people think it is, and Ridetech has invested countless hours into the research of suspension and handling properties. For years, the way people lowered cars was, simply put, the wrong way. Cutting coil springs, adding spacers under axles, and putting different shocks is not how to properly lower a car. A lower center of gravity is not always the the best way to get a car to handle because you have to keep in mind your roll center and the way your vehicle reacts to the negative forces of the suspension. While one side compresses in a turn, the other side lifts, and if you don’t have the proper settings you aren’t improving the handling, you’re simply changing it.

Much of the technology that Ridetech puts into suspension has a lot to do with vehicle weight, too. But not just gross weight, they deal with the weight at each corner to help design and create a suspension solution for your vehicle. While Ridetech has several packages and levels to choose from, it also depends on what your intentions are.

If you’re a car cruiser and you don’t race at all, the Level 3 kit might be overkill and Bret Voelkel will be the first to tell you that you just might find yourself inundated with technology beyond your grasp. If you’re a serious autocrosser, you will likely want lots more adjustability than what a Level 1 kit gives you. Voelkel has made it his business to get your suspension dialed in; they are at nearly all of the major car shows, and they have put together the video, above, to help you learn how to evaluate your suspension.

So if you’ve been thinking about driving your car more often and enjoying it more than you used to, check out Ridetech’s video, check out their web site, and don’t be shy about asking them what’s best for your car – they would be more than happy to help you out!