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Robo1

Member Since: 23 Oct 2015
Location: Derbyshire
Posts: 6

2012 Defender 90 Puma 2.2 X-Tech LE Orkney Grey

Suspension confusion - Bowler versus Alive?

Apologies for bringing up again the subject of suspension, but having trawled the forums I am still confused about what is the best set for my 90 XTECH. The majority of my driving is on the road and the Bowler suspension package looks like a good but expensive solution to improve handling. Is the set up worth the extra cost in comparison to buying the shocks etc and fitting yourself?

I was also thinking about the Alive lowering springs but having read the post on propshaft alignment might give them a miss. Any advice/experience with either the Bowler or Alive set-up would be great thanks.

28th Oct 2016 5:17pm

GREENI

Member Since: 22 Aug 2010
Location: staffs
Posts: 10367

I have the Alive springs on both 90's after driving a mates 90 with them fitted. No more harshness

28th Oct 2016 6:35pm

Robo1

Member Since: 23 Oct 2015
Location: Derbyshire
Posts: 6

Thanks for the feedback

Will see if I can find a Defender with that set up for a try.

29th Oct 2016 9:56am

Morepower

Member Since: 08 Jan 2013
Location: Fife, Scotland
Posts: 630

Having tried both on the 110 USW, They are totally different... The Alive set-up is far softer during normal road driving, The truck also rolls a little less (As it's lower).... However, If you load the rear up as intended it can be quite low at the rear...
The Bowler set-up (now fitted) is less forgiving, But works better carrying loads... I also found the Bowler rebound dampening better... But all this is subjective and you need to try both...
I also have a 90 with the full Bowler kit and its very very good...Although not for pottering around...

Hope this helps

Regards

Tim It doesn't matter how bad it is, It can always get worse...

2013 Bowler 110 (Sold)
2016 Bowler 90 Rally Spec (Sold)

29th Oct 2016 10:55am

Robo1

Member Since: 23 Oct 2015
Location: Derbyshire
Posts: 6

Thanks Tim for the insight, really helpful!

I would ideally like to go for the full Bowler fast road upgrade to my 90, but think it might be a difficult one to swing past my better half. I have had the Xtech for 12 months and so just upgraded the power with a a remap courtesy of BAS, which is brilliant!

Appreciate its not a sports car, but it would be nice to improve the on-road handling - reduce body roll etc. It sounds like the Bowler option is the one to go for in terms of handling.
Cheers,
Rob

29th Oct 2016 12:58pm

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