I'm guessing the ! is somewhat similar to the Canadian 4U spec. They are heavier than base Souls and use the "Sports" suspension. Supposedly stiffer springs and improved dampers. You need to look at quoted vehicle weights for the specific models as this affects overall height unloaded.

 

Interesting because you'd think a loaded + might weigh as much as a base !. On the other hand, the 1/2" difference in ride height caused by the wheel size is definitive.

By the way, I posted the same question in the Tire & Wheel forum a month ago. I wouldn't be surprised to see the !'s get the sport suspension.

I was particularly interested because I upsized my wheels to the same diameter as the !'s (though I went with 17's for a slightly better ride.) In the end I just went with an Eibach Pro kit. It comes with progressive springs that actually improve the ride over light stuff.

 

I was particularly interested because I upsized my wheels to the same diameter as the !'s (though I went with 17's for a slightly better ride.) In the end I just went with an Eibach Pro kit. It comes with progressive springs that actually improve the ride over light stuff.

Hi Disaster,
What wheels and tires did you choose, how's the ride (before and after the Eibach), and do you have picture?

I love my !, but find the ride a bit jarring, so I might downsize to 17"s. I want to soften the ride, but still retain most of the handling, so curious what your experience is.

Thanks in advance!
Rob in HMB
'12 Shadow !
'02 Bandit 1200
'00 BMW 740iL

 

I phoned a KIA parts department because I couldn't find any aftermarket parts online.
She said struts are the same part for base and ! models.

Very little difference in curb weight, 88 to 92 lbs depending on stick vs. auto.

The ! must ride higher. No ! models on the lot so can't eyeball them.

 

Maybe Discount Tires direct can supply the answer?????

 

I'll try to remember to measure the ride height of my 2012 ! when I get home tonight, and post it here. Then someone can post the same for + and/or base, and we can compare.

Rob in HMB
'12 Shadow !
'02 Bandit 1200
'00 BMW 740iL