[omaher]

I recently purchased a used 2005 Mini Cooper S in an attempt to cut down on the gas bill as well as improve the 55 mile commute to work (former commuter vehicle was a Nissan Sentra). The former seems to have been fulfilled, however, the later turned out to be a double edged sword. The car is fun to drive, unfortunately the New York/New Jersey roads are not Mini friendly. Holes are frequent and HUGE, not to mention expansion joint after expansion joint after expansion joint -- you get the picture. I can tolerate the ride (barely) but my wife, who is pregnant, can not stand it and wants to resort to our Honda Pilot for commuting.

I have read multiple posts about the improved ride quality after installing Koni FSD shocks so I am seriously considering the investment but I first need some information/input -- that is where all of you come in. Does anyone know of a better shock for ride quality (one that won't break the bank) or is Koni the best for the price? I am not that interested in superior cornering since I will have a little bundle of joy in the back seat. I also don't want to bottom out every time I go over a speed bump so the suspension can't be too soft (is that the correct term). The second thing is where to get them installed if I do choose to buy them on the web and what is a normal price for installation. I went to Koni's website and it appears that there aren't any authorized dealers within 20 miles of my zip (08540). I tried to look up a couple of the shops that appeared on their site but they didn't have websites. Would it make sense to have a Mini dealer install them...would they even install them? I am sure that I can find a local shop but I want to feel comfortable that they are installed properly. I also want to have them installed without the knowledge of the boss. She isn't crazy about the idea of putting $1000 into the car. I guess the days of total irresponsibility are over.

Any input / information would be appreciated -- getting rid of my wife isn't an option.

[MINIAC]

One of our Sponsors, Helix Minisports in Philadelphia can do the install.