BILSTEIN Shock Talk

BILSTEIN Shock Absorbers

Welcome to BILSTEIN's "Shock Talk," the ultimate podcast for automotive enthusiasts and suspension aficionados.

Buckle up as Shane, Mike, and Junior delve into a wide range of topics, exploring the latest achievements in suspension technology, the dos and don'ts of vehicle modification, and the intricacies of achieving the perfect balance between comfort and performance.

Whether you're a novice seeking to understand the basics of suspension or a seasoned gearhead looking to fine-tune your vehicle's handling, "Shock Talk" has something for everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the intricacies of suspension technology, gain valuable insights, and unleash the true potential of your ride.

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Episodes

Ep. 18: Doug Mittag on Conquering Baja and the Future of Off-Road Racing
03-01-2024
Ep. 18: Doug Mittag on Conquering Baja and the Future of Off-Road Racing
In this thrilling episode of BILSTEIN's "Shock Talk", hosts Mike, Shane, and Junior are joined by the renowned off-road truck racer Doug Mittag, fresh from his exhilarating performance at this year's Baja 1000 in the Pro UTV Open class aboard his Polaris Pro R. Doug dives deep into the gritty details of the Baja 1000, sharing the unique challenges and adrenaline-pumping moments he encountered during one of the most demanding off-road races in the world.Listeners will be captivated by Doug's vivid recounting of the race, his strategic approaches, and the nail-biting experiences that define the essence of off-road racing. Beyond the race, Doug opens up about his journey to becoming a professional off-road racer, offering a rare glimpse into the passion, dedication, and sheer grit required to excel in this high-octane sport.The episode also shines a spotlight on BILSTEIN's groundbreaking Black Hawk Powersports products. The team delves into the innovative shock technology behind these shock absorbers, exploring features like RCO and JCO, and how they're revolutionizing the off-road racing experience.As the conversation shifts gears, Doug shares his upcoming racing plans for the new year, giving fans a sneak peek into what the future holds for this off-road racing star. Whether you're a die-hard racing enthusiast or new to the world of off-road adventure, this episode of "Shock Talk" is an exhilarating ride through the highs and lows of off-road racing, packed with insights, stories, and a glimpse into the future of the sport. Tune in for an episode that's as dynamic and unpredictable as the races it covers!
Ep. 17: Elevating the Game - The BILSTEIN TerraSport Series Unveiled
20-12-2023
Ep. 17: Elevating the Game - The BILSTEIN TerraSport Series Unveiled
Welcome to another electrifying episode of BILSTEIN's "Shock Talk"! In this latest adventure, our dynamic trio, Mike, Shane, and Junior, dive deep into the world of crossover vehicles and their booming role in off-roading and overlanding. 🌲🗺️This episode features a special guest who is no stranger to innovation in automotive suspension technology – BILSTEIN's very own product manager, Ryan Flanders! Ryan brings to the table an in-depth look at BILSTEIN's groundbreaking new product line, the BILSTEIN B8 TerraSport, tailored specifically for the rapidly expanding CUV market.The conversation kicks off with an exploration of the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the growing trend of crossovers venturing off-road. Ryan unravels the technical marvels of the B8 TerraSport, highlighting its remarkable features such as increased ground clearance, the capability to accommodate larger tires, and significantly enhanced ride quality and suspension geometry. But that's not all! The team delves into how the TerraSport line allows for a vehicle lift while utilizing the stock spring, ensuring a seamless and straightforward installation process. Ryan also elaborates on the direct fit nature of these parts, making them a game changer for CUV enthusiasts looking to upgrade their off-road capabilities without the hassle.Whether you're a seasoned overlander, a weekend off-road warrior, or just curious about the potential of your crossover, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and a deep dive into how Bilstein is reshaping the off-road experience for CUVs.Tune in to "Shock Talk" Episode 17 for an exhilarating journey into the world of TerraSport, where innovation meets the dirt. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative session with the BILSTEIN team, as they chart new territories in crossover adventures! #BilsteinShockTalk #TerraSportTrekking #CUVAdventure[Remember to check out the Bilstein website for more information on the B8 TerraSport and follow us on our social channels for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes action!]Learn More about TerraSports: https://offroad.bilstein.com/en-us/products/bilstein-b8-terrasport/
Ep. 15: $15k Budget Overland Challenge
22-11-2023
Ep. 15: $15k Budget Overland Challenge
Welcome to the latest episode of BILSTEIN's "Shock Talk" podcast! In this thrilling installment, hosts Mike, Shane, and Junior embark on an epic challenge: creating the ultimate budget overland build for a fictional off-road journey from San Diego to Flagstaff, with the grand destination being the Overland Expo. The catch? Their total build cost, including all modifications, must not exceed $15,000, and the vehicles they choose have to be period-correct—available at the time of the car's original production.Join the hosts as they reveal their diverse and unique car selections, each aiming to conquer the challenging terrain between San Diego and Flagstaff. Will it be Mike's rugged classic, Shane's unconventional choice, or Junior's wild card that captures the audience's imagination?After the challenge, the hosts dive into a thought-provoking discussion about the trends and longevity of overlanding as a lifestyle. Is it just a passing fad, or is it a cultural shift with staying power? The conversation evolves as they explore the ins and outs of popular Land Rover platforms used in overlanding, offering valuable insights for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the overland scene.But here's the twist: the audience gets to decide which of the three cars will be built for the epic journey! Through comments, votes, and engagement, fans have the power to make their favorite build come to life. If there's enough buzz and excitement, this fictional journey could become a reality—but it all depends on the listeners.Tune in, join the conversation, and cast your vote for the overland build you want to see hit the dirt. With your feedback, the hosts might just turn this fictional adventure into an unforgettable reality. Let the shockingly good discussions and epic overland dreams begin on BILSTEIN's "Shock Talk"!
Ep. 13: Demystifying Shock Valving | Part 2
25-10-2023
Ep. 13: Demystifying Shock Valving | Part 2
Welcome back to BILSTEIN's Shock Talk Podcast! Last week, we kicked off our valving miniseries with a look at the basics of shock valving, the digressive vs. linear piston debate, and the debunking of myths and misconceptions. In this second part of the series, hosts Mike, Shane, and Junior have another thrilling episode lined up for you!First up, we delve into a topic that's all too familiar to Jeep and full-size truck owners – the infamous "Death Wobble." Our experts dissect the causes, misconceptions, and possible solutions for this hair-raising phenomenon. If you've ever experienced that unsettling, uncontrollable shaking, you won't want to miss this discussion.But it's not all talk on this podcast; we're here to show you the differences too. Using visual aids, Mike, Shane, and Junior break down the distinctions between linear and digressive valved pistons, making it easy for you to grasp the differences and understand how they affect your vehicle's performance and ride quality.And for those who love the nitty-gritty data, we've got a treat for you. The episode takes you behind the scenes to examine dyno graphs that demonstrate how linear and digressive shocks perform in real-world scenarios. It's an eye-opening experience that will help you choose the right shock absorbers for your specific needs.This week, "Bilstein's Shock Talk Podcast" continues its mission to educate and empower you when it comes to suspension. Whether you're a Jeep fanatic, a truck enthusiast, or just curious about how to fine-tune your ride, this episode has something for everyone. So, tune in, learn, and be ready to take your suspension knowledge to the next level!
Ep. 12: Demystifying Shock Valving: Digressive vs. Linear Pistons | Part 1
11-10-2023
Ep. 12: Demystifying Shock Valving: Digressive vs. Linear Pistons | Part 1
Get ready for an enlightening journey into the heart of vehicle suspension on the latest episode of "Bilstein's Shock Talk Podcast." Hosts Mike, Shane, and Junior are back to demystify the fascinating world of shock valving, tuning, and explore the age-old debate surrounding digressive and linear pistons. Buckle up as we also take on the myths and common misconceptions that often steer you off the right suspension path.In this episode, we kick things off by revisiting the basics of shock valving. Whether you're a seasoned gearhead or new to the suspension game, our hosts break down the essential principles, making sure everyone is on the same page. You'll gain a solid understanding of how shock absorbers work and why their valving is crucial to your ride's performance and comfort.Next, we dive headfirst into the digressive vs. linear piston discussion. Mike, Shane, and Junior dissect the pros and cons of each piston type, helping you make informed choices when it comes to your vehicle's shocks. We'll explore their unique characteristics and how they impact your suspension system, whether you're hitting the track, off-roading, or simply cruising down the highway.But that's not all – we're on a mission to set the record straight. The world of shocks is filled with misconceptions and myths that can lead you down the wrong path. Our hosts tackle some of the most common misunderstandings head-on, shedding light on the truth and guiding you towards the best suspension decisions.
Ep. 11: Mark Mollica PART 2 - The BILSTEIN Engineering Process
27-09-2023
Ep. 11: Mark Mollica PART 2 - The BILSTEIN Engineering Process
In this thrilling second installment of "Shock Talk" by BILSTEIN, your hosts Mike, Shane, and Junior are back with Mark Mollica, the brilliant BILSTEIN engineer who's taken us on an incredible automotive journey. Strap in as they delve deep into the heart of shock absorber engineering and the meticulous testing processes that make BILSTEIN a legendary name in the automotive world.Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes to create those incredible BILSTEIN shocks? Mark Mollica lifts the curtain, sharing insights into the engineering marvels that keep your ride smooth and controlled, no matter the terrain. Discover the secrets that make BILSTEIN shocks the choice of champions and everyday drivers alike.But the conversation doesn't stop at shock absorbers. Mark, Mike, Shane, and Junior continue their discussion from last week's episode, where they explored Mark's jaw-dropping car collection, the ever-changing collector car market, and the burning question: which cars are poised to appreciate in the future? Get ready for some expert insights and predictions that will leave you itching to invest in automotive history.Whether you're a seasoned gearhead or just dipping your toes into the world of automobiles, "Shock Talk" by BILSTEIN is your go-to podcast for all things automotive. Tune in to Part 2 with Mark Mollica and gain an exclusive peek into the BILSTEIN engineering process and the future of collector cars. It's a ride you won't want to miss!
Ep. 10: Mark Mollica - Car Culture and Collecting | Part 1
20-09-2023
Ep. 10: Mark Mollica - Car Culture and Collecting | Part 1
In this episode of BILSTEIN's Shock Talk Podcast, we are joined by a special guest, Mark Mollica, a Senior Product Engineer at BILSTEIN Shock Absorbers and a true European car enthusiast. Mark's journey into the world of cars is nothing short of fascinating, and his passion for both engineering and the automotive industry shines throughout the conversation.Mark's journey into the automotive world began with a unique twist – buying classic 1972-1989 Mercedes-Benz SL two-seaters and reselling them to international buyers. Not only did this hobby spark his love for cars, but it also helped him pay his way through college. Mark's story serves as a testament to the idea that when you love what you do, it can lead to unexpected and rewarding opportunities. He firmly believes that there's more to life than just chasing money; quality of life improves significantly when you're genuinely passionate about your work.The episode delves into various aspects of the automotive world. Mark provides valuable insights into the ever-evolving car market, discussing collector cars, special editions, and unique packages that make these vehicles so enticing to enthusiasts. The conversation also touches on the vibrant car culture, showcasing how it fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among car enthusiasts.One of the standout aspects of Mark's approach to engineering is his hands-on involvement. Beyond designing products on a computer, he spends a significant amount of time in the workshop and actively participates in testing and research and development efforts. This commitment ensures that the products he works on not only meet technical specifications but also deliver the desired feel and performance on the road.Join us for this insightful episode of Shock Talk as Mark Mollica shares his journey, his passion for cars, and his dedication to engineering excellence. Whether you're an automotive enthusiast or someone looking for inspiration in pursuing your passion, Mark's story is a reminder that the road to success is often paved with genuine enthusiasm and hard work.Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxtKBsdysW0Follow us on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bilsteinus/https://www.instagram.com/41mark/
Ep. 8: Special Guest - Wheel Every Weekend
23-08-2023
Ep. 8: Special Guest - Wheel Every Weekend
In the latest episode of BILSTEIN's Shock Talk, hosts Shane, Mike and Junior are joined by two special guests who are no strangers to the world of off-roading and adventure: Ian and Brittany from WheelEveryWeekend.com. With a strong online presence and a passion for all things off-road, the duo shares their experiences, insights, and partnership with BILSTEIN.The episode kicks off with a warm introduction to Ian and Brittany, delving into their backgrounds and how they embarked on their journey as off-road enthusiasts. The crew discusses the controversial "8112 versus 5100" video where they put two of BILSTEIN's most popular shock absorbers head-to-head in a comprehensive showdown. The video offers an in-depth analysis of the performance, features, and real-world applications of each shock model, providing viewers with valuable insights to aid in their suspension upgrade decisions. They discuss the Overland Outfitters Shock Shootout video series. This series has garnered attention from off-road enthusiasts worldwide, as it offers in-depth evaluations of different shock absorbers in various scenarios. The episode concludes on a high note as Ian and Brittany share details about their current and upcoming off-road builds. They tease their latest projects, discussing modifications, challenges, and their excitement for the adventures ahead. Listeners get a glimpse into the dynamic world of off-road customization and exploration.Take a listen and don't forget to give us a follow!@bilsteinus@wheeleveryweekend