Suspension Upgrades Explained: What Your Truck or SUV Actually Needs
Upgrading your suspension is one of the most important modifications you can make to your truck or SUV. Whether you drive a Toyota, Ford, Chevy, Ram, or Jeep, the right suspension setup improves ride quality, off-road performance, and overall capability.
At Underdog Motorsports in Mesa, AZ, we build suspension systems using proven brands like ICON Vehicle Dynamics, King Shocks, Eibach, Bilstein, Carli Suspension, Thuren Fabrication, ADS Racing Shocks, Old Man Emu (OME), and ARB—tailored to how you actually drive.
Why Suspension Upgrades Matter
Factory suspension is designed for comfort and general driving—not for larger tires, added weight, or off-road use. Upgrading your suspension helps correct geometry, improve handling, and give your vehicle the performance it needs on and off the trail.
- Improved ride quality on and off-road
- Increased ground clearance
- Better handling with added weight (armor, gear, racks)
- More control in rough terrain
Types of Suspension Upgrades
Leveling Kits
A leveling kit raises the front of your vehicle to match the rear. This is a simple upgrade that improves stance and allows for slightly larger tires.
Lift Kits
Lift kits increase overall height and clearance, allowing for larger tires and improved off-road capability. These can range from basic spacer lifts to full performance systems.
Performance Suspension Systems
Full suspension systems include upgraded shocks, springs, and components designed to improve ride quality, damping, and control—especially at higher speeds off-road.
Top Suspension Brands and Their Benefits
ICON Vehicle Dynamics
ICON is known for balanced performance and adjustability. Great for daily drivers that also see off-road use.
- Adjustable ride height
- Smooth on-road and off-road performance
- Ideal for Toyota, Ford, and Jeep platforms
King Shocks
King offers premium, race-proven suspension systems designed for maximum performance.
- Excellent for high-speed off-road driving
- Superior damping control
- Built for aggressive use and desert terrain
Bilstein
Bilstein is a reliable, cost-effective option for improving ride quality without going full custom.
- Great entry-to-mid level upgrade
- Improved comfort and handling
- Perfect for daily drivers and light off-road use
Eibach
Eibach suspension systems provide a great balance between performance and affordability.
- High-quality springs and shocks
- Improved stance and ride control
- Great for moderate builds
Carli Suspension (Ram Specialists)
Carli Suspension is one of the top choices for Ram truck owners looking for premium ride quality and durability.
- Designed specifically for Ram platforms
- Exceptional ride quality on and off-road
- Handles heavy-duty use and towing
Thuren Fabrication (Ram Performance)
Thuren specializes in performance suspension systems for Ram trucks with a focus on handling and ride quality.
- Improved steering and control
- Excellent for daily driving and off-road use
- Built for performance-focused setups
ADS Racing Shocks
ADS delivers high-performance suspension options built for serious off-road conditions.
- Great for aggressive builds
- High-quality materials and performance
- Custom tuning options available
Old Man Emu (OME) / ARB
OME suspension systems are built for reliability and load handling, especially for overland setups.
- Ideal for heavy gear and overlanding
- Durable and dependable
- Designed for long-distance travel
Choosing the Right Suspension Setup
The best suspension setup depends on how you use your vehicle. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
- Daily Driver: Bilstein, Eibach
- Daily + Off-Road: ICON, King
- Heavy-Duty / Ram Builds: Carli, Thuren
- Overland / Load Carrying: OME / ARB
- Aggressive Off-Road: King, ADS
Build It Right the First Time
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing suspension without considering the full build—tires, weight, driving style, and terrain all matter.
At Underdog Motorsports, we help you choose a suspension setup that works together as a complete system so you get the performance you’re actually looking for.
Visit Underdog Motorsports
Underdog Motorsports
1845 S Power Rd
Mesa, AZ 85206
Phone: 480-269-2833
Email: underdogmotorsports21@gmail.com