Blavatsky

I'm picking up a set of 18s from a CL member, so now I'm trying to figure out how much this will affect ride quality. I realize tires have alot to do with it, and I'm hoping the 18s don't detract much from that lexus ride.
Oh and btw, the wheels are lightweight and forged, so should not add much unsprung mass.

I see the LS430 with 18s....does it have any better suspension parts to make the ride smooth? If I was going to lower the car (very likely), what combination of shocks and springs should I look for in order to get the best ride?

Basically I don't care about sporty or "on rails" handling...I want to retain that cushion-y almost bump free feeling

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

18s wont be bad at all on stock suspension.

TJW98LS

iTrader: (1)

18s wont affect the ride quality to much at all. Although the smaller sidewall will make it handle much much better. I speak from experience.

steveski

I think you will see an improvement in handling just like was said before. I have 245's up front and 285's in back. With stock set up it will ride great.

Blavatsky

Thanks guys, that is exactly what I wanted to hear.

if I *do* lower, what is the best suspension setup for comfort (like I said, not really trying to make this handle like a racecar)

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

comfort:

shocks=Bilstein or KYB(this is softer/more oem-ish)
springs=Eibach or Tanabe(softer spring)

jermdogg

I agree with the previous posts (I have tanabe/kyb setup), but realize that you ARE going to degrade your ride somewhat with the 18's and then some more with lowering. It can still be considered comfortable, but when you say you still want the lexus ride quality, realize that probably isn't a reality.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

a tanabe/kyb setup with GOOD 18" tires should keep the ride fairly similar to stock, but yes, you ALWAYS lose a little (tiny) bit when u switch anything from OEM (except tires, which can help sometimes, ie-18"s with better tires than what you were running.)

damon

Would never consider going back to OEM.
I run 235/45/18s and love the ride.

Warning: If you have not spent the time & money to upgrade your suspension your mlileage may vary. Worn out parts & larger wheels is a recipe for disaster.

When I hit a viscious pothole my CD player will skip, did not happen on 16's.

The only original suspension component left on my 94 LS with 193,176 miles is the UCA's.

Upper control Arms.

RA40

iTrader: (6)

It's pretty subjective and what you will tolerate. For us, the ride is not close to factory OEM softness. Considering how low it is, it isn't bad. The biggest change were the 18's though I knew what it would be like going in and prefer the handling.