Hi, everyone.

I'm a new (first time) Isuzu owner, and new to this board.

After several days of lurking and reading, I've decided to replace the stock shocks on my 2002 Rodeo 2wd with either Gabriel Ryder LT or Monroe Reflex shocks. I'm sure there are better shocks out there (Rancho 9000x comes to mind). But for the 95 % street use this Rodeo gets, one of these will do fine.

Both of these seem to provide a smooth street ride, with at least passable performance off road.

Researching them is a bit confusing in that they operate much differently:

Gabriel uses Velocity Sensitive Technology (VST).

"What does it do: Closes on impact (bumps or cornering) to increase resistance and control for a safer responsive ride. Opens on a smooth road for added comfort."

Monroe uses a Reflex Impact Sensor.

"When Monroe's patent-pending Impact Sensor device senses a bump in the road, it opens in 12 milliseconds, allowing Reflex to absorb the impact. The switch then closes in 15 milliseconds to return to firm control."

These statements make it sound like the Gabriel is soft most of the time, and firms up on bumps or hard cornering while the Monroe is firm all the time, going soft then it encounters a bump.

Anyone have personal experience with either of these shocks?

Thanks,
John_Galt

Both of those are all right shocks, but I would suggest getting Procomp shocks. Get something like the ES3000s and you'll spend less than or as much as those other shocks and I think the Procomps hold up better especially off road.

Richard

I personally would go KYB--they are rock solid bulletproof, and arguably the best value in shocks. Only $26ea from Tirerack, and I have had mine now for over a year and abused them pretty good, and they still feel new. Amazing dampening offroad!