I've had FSDs fitted (with OEM springs) for just over a day now and thought I would share my opinions.

I've always hated the standard crashy ride on the VRS but wasn't too keen on replacing expensive dampers for the sake of it but when a couple of my dampers started leaking I took the plunge and bought FSDs after reading about them on here.

They definitely seem to reduce the harshness of sharp imperfections such as potholes, manhole covers etc. Subjectively I would say it's a 25% improvement over the standard shocks. What I should've done is measured the acceleration over a known imperfection using our vibration spectrum analyzer here at work both before and after installation of the FSDs.

Out on smooth roads such as recently resurfaced stretches of the M1 I notice no difference to OEM dampers.

The car feels slightly more tight through fast corners and things like a sharp left-right. However, on sweeping bends and big roundabouts it feels similar to standard and maybe not as good.

Worth the money? Well since my dampers were busted and I got the FSDs used from a briskodian, then yes. However, had I paid getting on for £450 for them then definitely not.

Good but expensive and (on their own) not a massive difference to OEM.

What springs are you on? I had FSD's on standard springs for a while and found the ride to be rather 'floaty' over undulating surfaces although with a massive improvement over rough stuff as you've found. But in conjunction with Eibach Sport springs that was resolved and it's a great compromise between planted, sporty handling and comfort.

Like I've said in another thread, I didn't feel I could justify such expensive dampers on a 'budget' warm hatch, and didn't trust myself with anything adjustable, so ended up with my STR.Ts...

Try and get hold of a rear anti roll bar. I used Jabba's rear ARB in conjunction with FSD's and Eibach springs and the handling was great! It reduces the amount of bodyroll dramatically.

For the best ride and handling I'd stick to the stock 16" wheels and tyres too.

Brilliant post ,,, thankyou. I was thinking about doing this, but i would want a big improvement. Gonna spend the cash on leather now !!

Brilliant post ,,, thankyou. I was thinking about doing this, but i would want a big improvement. Gonna spend the cash on leather now !!

Just my 2p...

When I fitted my FSD's, Eibachs and Jabba RARB, I thought it was a big improvement. To be fair though, I was a bit skint for a while afterwards... :rotz:

I want leather now as well!