Top suspension company Bilstein has joined forces with Bowler to create a new shock absorber for the new Land Rover Defender Challenge Series (see details, News, page 10). As this is a ‘one make’ championship series, it is important that the shock absorbers for the Challenge are of a particularly tough standard, but not prohibitively expensive for competitors. The new dampers feature an active compression valve as well as a uniball supporting bearing to eliminate the slop and movement often found in standard fittings. A large 46mm diameter piston has been employed to ensure maximum damping force. Each damper uses Bilstein’s proven gas pressure technology and is of an inverted monotube design for maximum performance and rates have been factory pre-set to ensure a level playing field for all competitors across the championship. The units each have a remote reservoir, offering an increased oil capacity for improved heat dissipation and damping sensitivity. The units were unveiled with the new Championship at the recent Autosport International Show at the NEC.
Website: www.bilstein.com
