NC PHRT Suspension for touring

Technical Area Steering & Suspension
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  1. My model of MX-5 is: __ 2009 2.0 Sport PRHT
  2. I’m based near: __Gloucester
  3. I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: __

Following a tour of Ireland’s West Coast (wonderful roads, vicious speed bumps!) I think my suspension needs a refresh. Currently on very tired (maybe original) Bilsteins on the rear and some “Kayaba Gas-a-Just” shocks on the front that I’m not sure are really suitable for this car.

My needs are something that will be suitable for loaded (2 up) touring on B Roads, so want to retain standard ride height and reasonable level of comfort is as important as all-out performance (the car is much better than me anyway!).

I debating between

A) Refitting (sport?) Springs & yellow Bilstein as the car would have had new

B) Fitting suitable coil-overs that will give me a standard ride height (eg MeisterR Sport-z)

C) Downgrading to standard Mazda NC PRHT Springs & Dampers (much cheaper & maybe more comfortable than the sports?)

If I go the non-Coil-over route I suspect I need to replace the Bump stops, gaiters etc so there is an attraction to just buying a complete unit like the MeisterR - however these seem the only option if you want to retain standard ride height.

I suspect that a few other items will need replacing, like the drop links and maybe some bushes.

Anyone gone down this route? I note the Mazda OEM shocks are specific to the PRHT but the generic ones dont seem to mention this…

Alternatively any recommendations for a suspension specialist near Gloucester I could turn to?

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The bilsteins aren’t particularly regarded. Cheap option is Miesters. I find them a bit hard but they ( or me) have softened up after fitting three months ago. With a passenger and luggage this would add up to more compliance. They are easy to fit and adjust.
Koni…… their basic ‘street’ with springs is a simular price and you could use your original springs rather than the lowered ones they come with. More work to fit, but a more compliant ride I think.

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