Could Ridetech Air Shocks Reinvent Drag Race Suspension?

We all know Ridetech (formally known as Air Ride) specializes in Pro Touring and streetable air suspension. These guys are constantly coming out with new and improved suspension components, mostly for the street/autocross market. Now with a new name, comes new markets. Ridetech just came out with a new Drag Racing Shockwave. This Shockwave is specifically designed for a 4-link swing arm & dual shock dragsters and bodied chassis cars.

The engineers at Ridetech have been working hard on finding a air alternative to the coil overs that are common in drag racing. They wanted to build a product that would both live up to the punishment of racing, and still enjoy all the easily adjustable qualities of an air suspension.

How It Works

The shockwave works the same way a conventional coil-over does while utilizing an air-sleeve in place of the coil. The benefit of having an air spring versus a coil spring is the ability to adjust the spring on the fly. Imagine pulling up to the line, watch the car before you go down the track, and be able to adjust the suspension on your car based on what you saw right then and there. The Shockwaves also offers separate rebound and compression adjuster knobs, making them a true double adjustable design. The shockwave is just the starting point of Ridetechs focus to the drag world, and many more products are sure to be on their way.

Features:

• Anodized billet aluminum construction
• Adjustable spring rate with simple air pressure change for carious driver weights
• Detented rebound and compression adjustments
• Mono-Shock swing arm & dual shock 4 links applications
• Smoother ride & more control down the track and through the pits
• Internal ride height sensor can interface with data logger.
• Available in 4” and 5” strokes
• 1/2” x 1” spherical bearing ends

So What Does All This Mean?

The Drag Racing Shockwave from Ridetech is a step in a great direction for the drag racing scene. The biggest problem they face is rules. As these become more popular, could we see rules changes in the top classes to allow air suspensions? Or will these spawn an all new class of drag racing? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure, these Shockwaves will be ready for when the time comes.

Be sure to check out www.ridetech.com for all the info on these or any of Ridetech’s Air Suspension options.