Fab9 Tuning

KYB

KYB AGX Gas Shocks 8 way adjustable

[10/8/2007] Reviewed by: G. Nelson Garber - gngarber1956@earthlink.net

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.8 liter

KYB AGX Gas Shocks 8 way adjustable

Came set at #4, so I left them at that once I got "Junior" on the road. Nice stiff ride, not hard. Nice handling when getting on it driving around town and when starting to push my driving skills on twisty roads. Nice flashy red color, and easily adjusted when on the car with the turn knobs. Be sure to install with the knobs to the rear; hold them up before installing to see which way to install to facilitate easy change. Purchased the KYB bump stops and boot/rod protector later when I found out OEM boots were deteriorated beyond reuse. Reinstalled the stock springs.

Once driven for a while I adjusted down to 3 and that was nice for daily driving although still stiffer than stock for those times when I step on it. Have not adjusted higher than 4, but once driving skills improve, will bump them on up and see how they perform. Installation is the same as any other shock replacement; but, on the fronts, be sure to put the shock through the hole in the upper control arm BEFORE putting the control arm back in. (This was part of a near complete teardown of the undercarriage to arrest rust, so all suspension was taken apart. Easiest way to replace shocks, but necessitates realignment when done. take pictures of alignment before teardown so alignment will be close before driving to FLM for alignment)

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 8-way adjustable shocks

[6/25/2007] Reviewed by: Andrew Wong aka bobomonster - email.bo@gmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

These shocks were purchased and installed on my car; paired with H&R springs. I got it as a used package deal, but they only had about 3,000 miles on them, so I would consider them "nicely broken in". The shocks have the adjusters on the bottom of the shocks, and a rotary dial with 8 settings. Of course, as you go higher, the stiffer the shocks get. Currently, I've only been able to try 2 in the front, and 2 in the rear. I will bump it up a notch as soon as I feel like carving some canyons. A friend of mines who has the same setup, highly recommened me to adjust the fronts to 4, and the rears at 3.

The ride feels solid and smooth. The notorious nose dive while braking heavily has been removed. Considering that I'm still on a fairly soft setting (2 in front, 2 in rear), it honestly rides just like stock. The suspension is stiff, and very responsive on the rebound. The shocks don't give you that "bounce" most cheaper shocks give (like Tokiko blues, or those Kragen Monroes). I like them a lot. They were pretty easy to install onto the car (I had my springs mounted already). I would purchase this product again without hesitation.

KYB AGX 8-way adjustable shocks paired with H&R springs. Great setup for the everyday spirited driver in you! I usually test out my suspension on this stretch called Lake Merced in San Francisco, CA. Avg. speed on stock suspension was around 60-65mph single lane. With the new setup, I was easily able to push it through going 70-75. If I used both lanes and performed perfect apexs, I wouldn't be surprised if I'll be able to push it around 80-85. Anything over 85 on Lake Merced is considered pretty "crazy fast".

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX

[6/10/2007] Reviewed by: Ross Thoms - ross.thoms@verizon.net

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

AGX adjustable struts

Tightened up the handling of my 92 with 65k miles on original struts. I'm running "3" front and back and it's a bit stiffer than OEM. My NA feels like a new car with the AGX. I hope they last a while!

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 4-way

[2/4/2007] Reviewed by: Joel - turbo_handwerk@yahoo.com

Applicable to: '99-'05 1.8 liter

KYB AGX 4-way adjustable shocks. Allows dampening to be changed over 4 settings.

I am very happy I got these! My previous shocks were OEM with 68k miles on them, and the KYB's really sharpened up the handling. I currently drive them on the street using setting 2, and I will probably set them on 4 when I autocross. The best way I can describe it is that the suspension loads more quickly, making transitions much faster (slaloms, etc). Installation was straightforward, just use the San Diego Miata Club method, and you'll be fine.

This is easily the best mod I've done on my car yet!

Not an installed item


KYB AGX shocks

[10/4/2006] Reviewed by: Ben U. - supermiataman@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '99-'05 1.8 liter

4 way adjustible shocks.

I just installed these along w/ Tein S-Tech springs on my 01. Wow what a difference. These shocks handle the Tein's spring rates quite well. I have only had them on for 2 days now, but I've been very impressed. The ride is actually better than it was (soft S suspension). Right now I'm set at 2fr./2Rr. I may increase it and see what it does, or I may not as I'm very pleased w/ the handling improvement and the ride quality. I had another set that I installed on my 99 miata, it was a remarkable improvement on that car as well.

To those considering a new set of shocks, don't let the "elite" people make you doubt the quality of KYB's. They are hard to beat for the price. Not to mention the adjusters on the KYB's are easy to get to, unlike the Koni's many people think are the only way to go.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX shocks

[8/24/2005] Reviewed by: Chris Lopez - gotturbo240@yahoo.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

This product is by far the best performance upgrade I had installed on my lost and beloved first 1991 Miata. The quality of the shocks are in the same league as TEINS and HKS's but at a fraction of the cost.
As far as durability is concerned they are awesome. I had the settings on 5 the whole time they were on my car which was about 6 months until I totaled it and got none of it back. I was using the Ground Control coilovers and it was an very potent combination. I abused the shocks pretty good and had no problems. I can remember one time not seeing a speed bump at night I was doing at least 50mph when I hit and flew about 5 feet in the air. Nothing happened the shocks kept working the same way they always did...awesome. I live in Miami, Fl. where the roads are extremely poor so he shocks held up pretty good.
If you're the person that likes the adjustability then this is the shock for you. If you're the person that is a purist(likes to feel the road: someone who sacrifices the smooth ride for thrilling ride of your life) then the KYB AGX shocks with the Ground Control coilovers. Don't forget to do the rest of your suspension for the ultimate rush(between 60 and 75mph on a turn or loop around on ramp.)

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 4-way gas adjustable shocks

[8/5/2005] Reviewed by: Colin Carson - cjcjag@rogers.com

Applicable to: '99 + 1.8 liter

Bright red KYB shocks with a 4-position dial mounted low on the side of the shock tube. Installed on a 2000 LS.

I have been very happy with the new shocks. I had approximately 100,000 kms on my original Mazda shocks and I'm sure they were getting tired. The shocks installed with no problems and the OEM boots (which were not torn) were re-used. For daily driving I leave all four shocks set on '2', which is firmer than my OEM shocks, but far from jarring. For autocross or track days I use '4'.

One thing to note - despite every indication to the contrary, the KYB front shocks arrived already manufactured with the appropriate bracket to attach the ABS sensor cable. It was unnecessary for me to jury-rig anything.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX Shocks

[5/20/2005] Reviewed by: Brian Sturtz - Briguy_2@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97

KYB AGX shocks for the NA/NB Miata are 8 way adjustable, from slightly softer than stock to much harder than stock. These shocks can be used as an OE replacement or installed with aftermarket springs.

I first installed these shocks with lowered street springs. The ride was very firm and controlled, but the lowered car would bottom out occasionally. The potholes in the Detroit area are pretty bad in places. I recently swapped out the lowered springs for the OE springs. This is the best combination so far. I drive over some pretty pot-hole infested roads and the combination of the KYB AGX shocks with the OE springs gives me a firm, controlled ride, yet the suspension can handle rough roads without jarring the passengers. Over poor roads that would cause the car to bottom with the lowered springs, the OE/KYB set up soaks up the bumps without bottoming. Whether you use lowered springs or OE, I strongly recommend these shocks. Their broad adjustability gives me the ability to fine tune the ride to my preference, and at all settings the ride is very controlled, and handling predictable.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 8-way adjustable shocks

[10/14/2004] Reviewed by: Paul V - mister.e@snet.net

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

KYB AGX 8-way adjustable shocks

An unbelievable difference in response. Replaced my stock (1992) shocks with only 28K miles. I can feel the tires working now. Started with 3F/2R, recently bumped to 4F/3R. AN excellent upgrade. Thanks to the NUTMEG Miata summer tech session.

Still a little slop in transients, sways are next.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX Shocks

[7/14/2004] Reviewed by: S Wallace

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

8-way adjustability at a great price.

I installed these shocks with FM springs and I am very pleased with my purchase. They were the most reasonably priced adjustable shocks with good customer ratings so I decided to go with them to replace my 80K mile stockers.

The install was typical for a suspension install so no surprises there. The adjustability is nice and 1 is softer than stock while 8 is like riding on steel rods. For daily driving use I use 3 front and rear. For autocross use I am usually around 6 front 4 rear depending on conditions. The adjustability is a great feature although you'll have to get down on your knees and reach around the tire to get at the dial. While on the road at low speeds I can sometimes hear the rear shocks squishing but I've gotten used to that. Overall I'm happy with my choice, and the money I saved went towards more mods (of course!). For a great budget suspension starting point or a great replacement shock I recommend the KYB AGX's.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 2-way Adjustable Shocks

[7/8/2003] Reviewed by: Seb Belanger

Applicable to: '99 + 1.8 liter

KYB AGX 2-way Adjustable Shocks

READ THIS BEFORE YOU BUY: At first, I taught this product was great. However, I am really disappointed with the long-term performance of the shocks. They lost more than 50% of their damping power in less than 10,000 miles. In about 8 months, the car became very unstable and bouncy; handling just kept degrading and degrading. I had my alignment checked regularly, and the shocks really were the problem. As for the warranty, it is useless if the shocks do not "dramatically" fail (leak, break, etc.). KYB considered this to be normal wear and would not replace them. Even if they would, a lot of the cost of replacing shocks comes from having the installation and the alignment. It is important to mention that I never hit a major irregularity (hole, bumps, etc) or drove extensively on irregular surfaces. In fact, the tires on my car were changed at the same time and will outlast my shocks by about 20,000 miles (Michelin SX-GT)

I DO NOT recommend this product to anyone, it has major long-term performance issues. I am now trying Konis, I will let you know how that goes.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX adjustables

[4/25/2003] Reviewed by: jun samson - bandc123@yahoo.com

Applicable to: '99 + 1.8 liter

Very nice solid product.

Installed along with H&R race springs. Not much harsher than my factory sports package. Handles and corners great. Ride quality is still comfortable. But what a diference in looks. Along with my 205 40 17 series tires, the car look much agrresive. No rubbing at all.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 4way adjustables

[2/24/2003] Reviewed by: Ben Upton - supermiataman@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 '99 + 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

FOur way adustable KYB AGX struts.

Seem to be a nice product, I can say that they are definitely stiffer than the stockers, and my stock ones weren't worn out, the car only had 31k on it when I replaced them. If you turn them down it feels like stock again. and then crank em up and it gets pretty stiff.

Changing to 16inch wheels from 14's did much more to handling/ stiffness of ride. But I'd definitely recommend these to those miata owners out there that want a street car first and then an occasional autoxer.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


K.Y.B.

[2/8/2003] Reviewed by: Chris Derrington - Bugzajumpn@aol.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

K.Y.B. 8-WAY Adj. Shocks

I decided that it was 'bout time at 147,00 miles, to change the struts that my Miata had been wearing from the factory since September of 1990, And replace the pieces with much needed new struts as well as springs and boots . After looking at countless web sites, I decided on the K.Y.B. 8-WAY Adjustable struts. I also ordered a set of front and rear JACKSON RACING lowering springs . I built 4 alum. spacers out of 1/2 plate and put them between the lower spring seats of the struts and the springs, This brought the car back to only sitting a 1/4 inch lower then what the cars height was before replacing all the factory pieces. I did this work not including making the spacers in about 5 hours last Saturday . I also replaced all 4 strut boots with the K.Y.B. shock boots that they show at there web site, I ordered them from a local Advance auto parts and got them in 1 day. but, the Mazda boots are worth the extra money I feel now that I have done the work.

I feel that I wish I had done this a long time ago ! I set the front struts at 3 and the rear's at 2 and it made a big, big difference !! My factory sway bar end links are very wore and I'm replacing them soon with some RACING BEAT end links. This will also help too, along with some front and rear chassis bracing that I am designing . Thanks for reading.

Under 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX shock absorbers w/8way adjustable dampening

[10/13/2002] Reviewed by: Jeremy A. Officer - erthsrfr@juno.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

shock absorber upgrade for the 1990 Miata by KYB

This was the first time that I had ever installed what I consider a major suspension component myself and I found the job straightforward and somewhat labor intensive. Factory springs were replaced with FM aftermarkets at the same time(recommended). The shocks look great. They can be adjusted without tools, on the car in mere seconds. The adjustment dial is sturdy and each adjustment is acompanied by a firm "click", letting you know whether you've turned the knob far enough. On the road these shocks are a Miata owners dream come true. I've found that settings one through three are most useful when daily driving, giving you a cadilac smooth ride at one, and a firm ride at three. Settings four through eight I save for the twisty weekend backroads and the track. The stiffest that I generally run them is Six. Over that, the roughness of the average road in St. Louis defeats the shock, skipping and jittering the car around excessively.

This component works best when coupled with aftermarket sways, springs, and braces. Having said that, I've had almost endless fun running my favorite twisty roads on a variety of settings from highway cruising(1) to tell whether that quarter you just ran over was heads or tails(8). When coupled with a good set of springs and sways, these shocks make you feel like you're driving a much more expensive sports car than you actually are.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB Buzz Spec shocks

[9/18/2002] Reviewed by: John Jordan - johnmjordan@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 '99 + 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

These are Japanese Market (only) circuit tuning shocks by KYB. Essentially, they are the same as the Red/Orange KYBs offered for sale in the U.S., with the exception that these have a slightly different dampning valve (stiffer) and the "piston" rod is about 1 inch shorter, and they are purple with the Buzz Spec logo in white. The U.S. KYBs are designed for use with stock springs, and the warranty is void if the car is lowered more than an inch and a half. The Buzz Spec shocks require a minimum of 1 inch lowered suspension, and essentially could go as low as 2.5 inches lower than stock. 8-way adjustable front and rear.

I really like these. I purchased them with about 13k miles on them from a vendor on ebay. THey came with Mazdaspeed (Eibach prokit) springs already installed (with the shock tops) and I only paid $275 for the set shipped. The installation was really easy (no spring compressor needed!) and the ride is super. Love the way the car looks with the 205/40-17 tires just barely tucked into the fender wells. Plus, since I am a great admirer of all things Japanese when it comes to auto tuning, the geek factor of having j-spec componants that are difficlut if not impossible to come by here in the U.S. was just something I couldn't pass on.

Good stuff. New, these things sell for 20,000yen each in Japan (about $155 each, without shipping)plus the springs are about $230 a set, so I think I got a super deal. I would say if you want better handling and plan to lower your car more than an inch, and don't want the expense of coilovers, get these if you can at a good price. New, however, you would probably be better off with Billstein or Spax coilovers for the same price.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX

[9/7/2002] Reviewed by: Roy Dietsch - roy2003_wasc@yahoo.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

8 setting adjustable gas struts. KYB AGX Struts

Cost $200.00 to install and $400.00 for the 4 Struts. Ebays cheaper. Flyin Miata offers packages www.flyinmiata.com .

Great for weekend autocrossers! Super stiff on high setting and super smooth on low setting. Very easy to adjust takes 3 min for all 4. (I feel they are better then Konis)

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB 4-way adj. gas shocks/Racing Beat Springs


[8/19/2002] Reviewed by: John Hickok - JTHickok@aol.com

Applicable to: '99 + 1.8 liter

I had 4-way adjustable gas shocks and stiffer lowering springs installed on my 2001 Silver LS because I wanted to improve cornering stability on my curvy daily commute, but I chose the Racing Beat Springs (with their slightly milder stiffening rate) over several others because that commute ends in NYC where roads can be brutal. Several mechanics said total install was a five hour job which would run me three or four hundred dollars. Then I called Meineke. They said they had lots of experience with this kind of work and could do it pretty much right away for about $160.00, so that's where I went.

Looks terrific lowered an inch all the way around - subtle but more aggressive - less "classic roadster", more "sports car". Ride difference immediately noticeable - tighter, more concise, w/ a much more articulate feel for road. All shock settings improved over stock, with 1 equally smooth but tighter, 2 more competitive but still quite comfortable, and 3 and 4 really firm but not unpleasant. I chose 2 for my now vastly more fun commute.

Performance very sharp, almost no sway on corners. Ride occasionally tells me more about road than I'd care to know but in all, very happy, would do it again in an instant. TWO NOTES: When I installed a Hard Dog Roll Bar it changed the equation by stiffening up entire car. I've moved seat up to avoid direct contact with bar or car body, and basically leave shocks set on one. ANOTHER NOTE: twice I've hit hard bumps with the front tires and heard what sounded like a metal-on-metal clunk. Jim at Racing Beat says bump stops should be trimmed per diagram on their website but its no big deal if they are re-installed as is, as Meineke says they did.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB GR2 shocks

[7/17/2002] Reviewed by: Ken Vermeulen - sunluverrr@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter

KYB GR2 shock abosorbers

I Like them..They seemed softer than factory when depressed by hand.

I did the installation myself, using some Miata net instructions. I used the method which puts the spring compressor on the springs while still on the car. This seemed the method which would least require a wheel alingment after. It took quite a while to install all four, (mostly because of the spring compressor bolts which were binding quite a bit). The final ride seems much more compliant and wanders much less than the old stock ones (105,000km), the ride is about equal to stock in my opinion. I reused the old dust covers, but I think next year I will replace them, I probably should have replaced them this time. I think after these have worn out (50,000km) would be my guess, I will try the AGX just to taylor the ride a little more. My next project is installing a set of Flyin Miata sway bars, that is if UPS ever gets them here. Any questions , plse e-mail , I will respond. Ken V CRUSUN

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 8 way adjustable shocks

[4/16/2002] Reviewed by: anthony forcier - toenail2k@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97

These are the orangish red KYB's that many compare to the old GAB shocks. Adjustment knobs are located on shock body, not top of shock. Just reach under car and turn right or left to increase or decrease compression and rebound w/ one knob. Knob clicks for each setting, making it easy to do without viewing the knob directly.

I waited for 3 months after install before submiting this review. I installed them myself. Procedure is as outlined in Mazda manual for replacing shocks. Highly recommend disconnecting long bolt at upper a-arm/subframe to ease front install. I used these for 1 month with stock springs. Settings of 1,2,or 3 on all four were excellent for these. Firm, not abrupt. Great control over the spring. Higher settings made car a little jittery on the streets. I now have FM springs which are considerably stiffer than stock. Setting of 5 works best to control rebound and give excellent transient response. Setting of 3 gives better ride comfort, but big transverse dips will cause shock to bottom and allow the spring to rebound violently. All observations are from daily driving/spirited street driving, no track or auto-x use yet.

I absolutely love this product. I leave all 4 set at 5 for daily driving. It's probably a tad stiff for some, but I really enjoy the performance of the car at this setting. Transitions are instantaneous, stiff springs are controlled, potholes and broken pavement are well received. I highly recommend them to anyone considering a replacement. Suitable for use with either stock or aftermarket springs.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 8 Way Adjustable Shocks

[3/19/2002] Reviewed by: Mike Sai - sportiva89@yahoo.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.8 liter

8 Way Adjustable Shocks

I have had them Installed now for 2 weeks and I am very pleased. There are 8 settings on each shock, from softer than stock (setting 1) to super, race only, stiff (setting 8). I keep them set at 2 (considered stock) around town. The ride is slightly stiffer than how my car used to ride with blown stock shocks - but the ride is much more controlled and damp - the initial jolt from a pothole is slightly more noticeable, but after that there is no bouncing. The knob for adjustments is mounted on the shock body, instead of being on the top of the shock tower. This is very nice if you adjust the shocks often (autocross) and don't want to have to leave off the metal shield that covers the gas lines in the trunk. Adjusting is very simple, just reach under the fender and the knob is right there. The knob clicks on each number setting, so you know exactly what setting your on. If you find a particular setting that you like, you know that you can always g! o back to it.

Overall, it is a very good product that I would buy agian. One thing to consider if you are trying to make a choice between the koni's and the KYB's for Solo II Stock Class. The Koni's have an adjustable spring perch, which has to welded in the stock setting to be legal for Stock class. You don't have to deal with this mess if you opt for the KYB's - this was one of the reasons that I went for the KYB's over the Koni's.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB GR-2 Shocks

[5/25/2001] Reviewed by: John Dachik - ochslist@hotmail.com

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

Non-adjustable gas shocks. Replacement for OEM.

So far - great. I've had these shocks on for about two months now, and am very pleased. Ride is close to OEM, maybe better, and overall handling seems a few steps crisper. Hope to see a long life from them. Suggestion for installation - rather than shelling out the $20+ for new OEM dust boots, pick up the cheaper aftermarket ones at a parts store (about $7), and cut the bump stops off your old boots, and reuse them.

These shocks are probably not for the "serious" performance-minded, but, in my opinion, they're the best bang-for-the-buck out there. Recommended. Purchased at the Tire Rack for just under $60 a piece.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


KYB AGX 8-Way Adjustable Shocks 

[4/2/2001] Reviewed by: Karl Lehtinen - aspenboy@u.washington.edu

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

KYB AGX 8-way adjustable gas shocks and KYB dust boots

After reading much information in the garage section of this forum and elsewhere I decided to tackle the install myself with no previous shock/spring experience and only a little automotive experience. Product has no real instructions, "expert" installation is recommended. Taking much time and having a friend along to help we finished the job in approximately 12 hours. I think with the proper tools we could do it again in 4 easy. I would HIGHLY recommend doing the install yourself. You'll be absolutely positive it was done right and you'll save $250+ and learn a ton about the suspension of your Miata! One more note: had heard very bad things about the KYB dust boot. I had no problem with their dust boots and found they installed quite easily. I just figured someone should stand up for these cheap little buggers since you can save about $60 or so by going with them over the stock boots. (although I hear any generic boot will do and is even cheaper still)

I LOVE these shocks so far. I've had them in about 2 weeks so I'll come back and report in another 6 months but so far the improvement is extraordinary. I've raced on them once and seen serious improvement in my times (perhaps owing to upgrade to racing tires and the Eibach Springs installed at the same time, but hey). Daily driveability isn't an issue for me, but I have no problem with a rough ride. I have them set at 1 as much as possible. Today I was driving through some nasty roads and actually got out to back them off to 4. I have noticed the "squish" noise previously reported. I actually dig it a lot. Very trick, and only noticeable at low speeds with the top down. Again, I'll have to come back to report again in a couple months. But right now it's like I'm driving an entirely new car!

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


[12/2/2000] Reviewed by: Jim Hamby - jim@lpa.every1.net 

Applicable to: '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

These bright red shocks have a very easily reachable 8-way adjustment knob to set the shocks soft or stiff.

Adjusting them to the lowest setting (1) is a little softer than the stock setting. If you move them up to the stiffest setting (8) it's basically undriveable on city streets. It is EXTREMELY stiff but may be fun to try on a very smooth racetrack. After experimenting with different settings, I like my front shocks set on 4 and the rear shocks on 5. It's stiffer than stock, and handles nicely. My car seems to handle best when the rear shocks are set one notch stiffer than the front.

I love the way the car handles with these shocks. I hate the way it looks. The front seems to have the same ride height, but the rear ride height seems to be raised slightly. I didn't measure before and after but it is definitely not even front and rear. I have to try and drive with a full tank of gas to make it look a little better.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


[7/11/2000] Reviewed by Don Udel - donudel@avana.net

Applicable to '90 - '97

Adjustable shocks

Bought theses shocks through eBay ($80 each) to replace stock shocks with 37K miles. The KYB AGX shocks are 8 way adjustable shocks. A single adjustment knob on the side adjusts both compression and rebound. I used OEM springs and boots. Don't bother with the KYB boots, the OEM boots work just fine.

I used the online instructions found at

http://members.xoom.com/villacorte/miata/kybagx/   

I've been using "3" setting all around, and find the ride to be FANTASTIC. I'll be experimenting with other settings soon.

Others have noted a single "squish" sound when going over bumps. I don't find it annoying.

I am very pleased with this product. It's a much lower priced alternative to the GAB (I believe I've read that KYB makes the GAB shocks), and offers both compression and rebound adjustability.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


[9/19/99] Reviewed by Jaime Villacorte - jaimev@netcom.com

Applicable to '90 - '97 1.6 liter 1.8 liter

The KYB AGX shocks are 8 way adjustable shocks and come in a red color. A single adjustment knob on the side adjusts both compression and rebound simultaneously. From the KYB online catalog, model #741016 (front) and #741015 (rear) are for 90-97 models, non R. These do not have adjustable spring perch the Konis, and they don't have any mounting tabs on the shock body for those who have ABS brakes. I suspect that they're not recommended for R models because they put the car back at stock height. (I measured the wheel clearance before and after my shock install, and they remained exactly the same. I have OEM springs and the distance from the bottom of the fender to the center of the wheel hub was 13.5')

The shocks come with a 12 month guarantee.

I installed these recently (early Sepember '99) and I've documented it with pictures and notes at

http://members.xoom.com/villacorte/miata/kybagx/

 The adjustment knobs are accessible by just reaching behind both front and rear wheels. Depending on your wheel width and if you have mudguards and if you've lowered the cars, the front shock knobs could be reached without turning the wheel first.

IMHO softest setting (1) all around gives a ride that's softer than my OEM shocks (which I had replaced on my '94 at 52000mi). The 2 setting gives a ride that's a little stiffer than stock. I've begun playing with the 3 setting all around, and that will probably be my starting point when I'm on the track. It's nice to know I have 5 more increased stiffness settings available for me.

The only quibble I have is that the shocks make a "squish" sound when going over bumps or holes. Not annoying, but different.

 I have read from various places (miataforum, usenet newsgroup), that these are similar or the same as the GAB 8 way adjustable shocks, in that KYB also makes those shocks. If this is true, then this product is a great bargain compared to the price one ends up paying for the GAB.

Shopping the Internet, Isettled on General Automotive, in San Bernadino, CA. (http://www.primenet.com/~genauto/freds). This site was mentioned by folks on the Miataforum site. I got them for $83.39+tax per shock but after speaking with Charles and arranging a large group purchase from 4 other members in our SOCALM club, we got it for 10% less. I drove to their store to pick up the shocks, so I avoided shipping costs as well.

Overall, I am very pleased with this product. It's a lower priced alternative to the GAB, and offers both compression and rebound adjustability. It doesn't allow you to lower your car like the Koni adjustable (via it's adjustable spring perches), but that was fine for me.

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


[2/1/2000] Reviewed by Chris Chapman - cchapman@mainzeal.co.nz

Applicable to '90 - '97 1.6 liter

I purchased some KYB uprated struts Fr and Rear) for my Mazda

I went from having no ability to stay on the road to driving a go cart on a rail way tracks. It really was quite awesome. I did experience some creaking from My chasis ( I replaced the springs with uprated ones and Put a GAB Strut Tower Bar on) I can really feel what my car is doing now. I find it really easy to go round corners at right angles and I can have total control of my drifting and sliding - totally predictable...Awesome!!!

Awesome ( and relatively in expensive - considering it has saved my life )

Over 30 minutes to remove completely


Back to Product Reviews 25 November, 2007


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