KYB Excel G Review: Restores Original Performance
When it comes to your vehicle’s suspension, every detail counts. Whether you’re aiming for a smooth daily drive or maintaining the stability of a high-mileage vehicle, keeping your car’s handling intact is essential. You want a shock absorber that not only fits your car but restores the ride quality to how it felt when it was new.
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut fits the bill perfectly. Built to restore original handling and control, it delivers comfort, stability, and reliability without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into its key features, benefits, and how it stacks up as an aftermarket replacement.
Product Details – KYB Excel G Gas Strut
- Brand: KYB
- Position: Front
- Vehicle Service Type: Car
- Style: Modern
- Exterior Finish: Machined
- Material: Iron
- Length: Extended – 19.41 inches, Compressed – 14.49 inches
- Design: Twin-tube, nitrogen gas-charged
- Fitment: Specifically calibrated for Asian cars, notably Honda and Acura
- Cylinder & Piston: Seamless working cylinder with a Teflon-coated piston band
- Rod & Seals: Triple chrome-plated piston rod with multi-lip oil seals
- Alignment Guide: Precision, sintered iron strut rod guide for correct wheel alignment
✅ Best For: Drivers seeking to restore their vehicle’s original ride comfort and handling, particularly owners of Hondas and Acuras needing an affordable yet quality shock absorber.
KYB Excel G Review – Pros & Cons
Pros of KYB Excel G
✅ Restores Original Handling: Specifically calibrated to bring back the original handling and comfort of Asian vehicles.
✅ Durable Construction: Seamless cylinder with a Teflon-coated piston band and triple chrome-plated rod for longevity.
✅ High Compatibility: Perfect fit for various Honda and Acura models, ensuring smooth installation.
✅ Improves Ride Quality: Users report a noticeable improvement in ride comfort, eliminating clunky and rough handling.
✅ Affordable Price Point: Offers premium quality and performance at a fraction of the cost of original equipment.
Cons of KYB Excel G
❗ Slightly Softer Ride: Some users find it slightly softer compared to OEM Type S suspension.
❗ Moderate Installation Difficulty: Installation is manageable but can be challenging for inexperienced DIYers.
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut has received mostly positive reviews for its ability to restore ride comfort and handling. Users appreciate its durability, fit, and smooth ride quality, making it a preferred choice for many car owners.
In-Depth Review of the KYB Excel G Gas Strut
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut is designed to bring your car back to its original ride quality. From the moment you install it, you’ll notice the difference in handling, control, and comfort. With its precision engineering and durable materials, the Excel G stands out as a cost-effective way to improve your vehicle’s suspension.
Restoring Original Performance
KYB’s Excel G Gas Strut is all about restoring the car’s original handling capabilities. It doesn’t aim to change the character of your vehicle but to return it to its factory settings. The seamless working cylinder and Teflon-coated piston band ensure smooth performance, which results in better handling and control over your car, especially noticeable on sharp turns and sudden stops.
Quality Construction for Longevity
One of the standout features of the KYB Excel G is its durable construction. The triple chrome-plated piston rod resists wear and tear, while multi-lip oil seals prevent leaks and maintain a long-lasting seal. Users report that this attention to detail enhances longevity, making it a great investment for your car’s suspension system.
Enhanced Ride Comfort and Control
The Excel G Gas Strut significantly improves ride comfort. Many users have experienced an immediate improvement in their car’s ride quality, eliminating any clunky noises from worn-out struts. The ride becomes smoother, and road bumps are better absorbed, offering a more controlled driving experience. The gas-charged twin-tube design keeps your car stable during sudden maneuvers and braking.
Easy Installation for Most Vehicles
KYB has designed the Excel G Gas Strut to be a direct fit for various vehicles, particularly Asian brands like Honda and Acura. While professional installation is recommended, many experienced DIYers find the installation manageable with proper tools, such as a coil spring compressor. Photos of the original assembly before disassembling can make reassembly easier.
Who is the KYB Excel G Perfect For?
✅ Drivers of Honda and Acura vehicles who need to replace worn-out shocks. ✅ Car owners seeking to restore their vehicle’s original handling and ride quality. ✅ DIY enthusiasts with some mechanical experience, looking to upgrade their suspension.
What Are Its Drawbacks?
While the Excel G excels in most areas, some users have noted that it provides a softer ride compared to the stiffer feel of OEM Type S suspensions. For drivers who prefer a firmer ride, this may be a minor downside, though the overall handling and comfort are still significantly improved.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
✅ Those looking for a performance upgrade rather than a restoration of original ride quality.
Customer Experiences with KYB Excel G Gas Strut
We researched honest customer feedback to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the KYB Excel G Gas Strut’s performance.
✅ Smooth Ride Restoration: Users have praised the Excel G for transforming their vehicle’s handling. It effectively eliminates clunky noises from worn-out shocks and provides a smooth ride over uneven surfaces.
✅ Durable & Reliable Build: Many users appreciate the high-quality construction of the Excel G, noting that the seamless cylinder and Teflon-coated piston band ensure a durable and leak-free experience.
✅ Perfect Fit & Compatibility: The strut is praised for its compatibility with Honda and Acura models, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. Most users found it to be a direct replacement for their original equipment.
✅ Improved Handling & Stability: The Excel G’s ability to restore a car’s stability and control, especially during sudden stops and sharp turns, has been highlighted by customers as a major benefit.
🚫 Slightly Softer Feel: A few users mentioned that the Excel G struts felt a bit softer compared to the original OEM Type S suspension. However, this is not seen as a significant downside by most, as the comfort and handling improvements are still notable.
Value Analysis of KYB Excel G Gas Strut
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut offers excellent value for money. Its build quality and performance make it a preferred choice for car owners wanting to restore their vehicle’s original comfort and handling without the steep price tag of OEM parts.
Key Strengths: Performance & Durability
- Restored Performance: The strut provides a noticeable improvement in handling, making driving more comfortable and safe.
- Durability: High-quality materials and a precise manufacturing process ensure a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade: Given its price, the Excel G offers premium performance, a perfect choice for car owners who want quality without breaking the bank.
Considerations: Soft Ride Preference
- Ride Feel: While the ride is smooth and controlled, some users may find it slightly softer than the stiffer OEM Type S suspension. However, this difference is subjective and largely based on personal preference.
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut is a good choice for those seeking an affordable and durable option to restore their vehicle’s ride comfort and handling. With its quality construction and cost-effective price, it’s an excellent investment for Asian car owners.
Final Thoughts: Is the KYB Excel G Gas Strut Worth It?
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut is a reliable, cost-effective solution for drivers seeking to restore their vehicle’s original handling and comfort. Its durability and improved ride quality make it a great upgrade, though the softer ride may not suit those seeking firmer handling.
FAQs – KYB Excel G Review
Does the KYB Excel G improve ride comfort?
Yes, the KYB Excel G is designed to restore your vehicle’s original ride comfort. Users have reported a noticeable improvement in handling, smoothness over rough roads, and reduced clunky noises from worn struts, making daily drives more enjoyable.
Is the KYB Excel G suitable for Honda and Acura cars?
Absolutely, the KYB Excel G is calibrated specifically for Asian vehicles, including Honda and Acura models. It fits perfectly as a direct replacement, restoring the car’s original handling and providing a comfortable and smooth ride.
How durable is the KYB Excel G Gas Strut?
The KYB Excel G features a seamless working cylinder and a triple chrome-plated piston rod for durability. With Teflon-coated piston bands and multi-lip oil seals, these struts are built to last, providing a long service life and reducing the need for replacements.
Does the KYB Excel G require professional installation?
While professional installation is recommended for safety, experienced DIYers can install the KYB Excel G themselves using the proper tools. A coil spring compressor is typically required, and attention should be given to the strut assembly during installation.
Is the KYB Excel G Gas Strut firm or soft?
The KYB Excel G provides a balanced ride, focusing on restoring the original handling and comfort. Some users describe it as slightly softer compared to OEM Type S suspensions, though it still improves overall handling and stability.
What is the main benefit of using the KYB Excel G?
The main benefit of the KYB Excel G Gas Strut is its ability to restore your car’s original handling and ride comfort. It’s particularly effective for cars with worn or aged struts, improving control and stability while offering a smooth ride.
How does the KYB Excel G compare to OEM struts?
The KYB Excel G is considered an Original Equipment for the Aftermarket (OEA) part, meaning it matches the quality and performance of original equipment struts. It’s a cost-effective option for restoring your vehicle’s handling and comfort without opting for pricier OEM replacements.
Does the KYB Excel G improve vehicle stability?
Yes, the KYB Excel G Gas Strut is designed to enhance your vehicle’s stability by providing better control over sudden maneuvers, braking, and sharp turns. This makes it a great option for improving overall driving safety and performance.
Is the KYB Excel G worth its price?
Given its durable construction, compatibility with Asian vehicles, and ability to restore handling and ride comfort, the KYB Excel G is considered a great value for its price. It offers a reliable alternative to pricier OEM struts without compromising quality.
Can the KYB Excel G be used on both front and rear positions?
The KYB Excel G is available for both front and rear positions on various car models. For the front, the part number is 341257, and for the rear, it’s 341258. Ensure you check compatibility with your specific vehicle model before purchasing.
KYB Excel G Review – Conclusion
The KYB Excel G Gas Strut is a reliable and cost-effective way to restore your vehicle’s original ride comfort and handling. Built with durable materials and designed for Asian cars, it brings back smoothness and control to your drive. With a balance of affordability, quality, and easy installation, it’s a top choice for car owners looking to enhance their vehicle’s suspension system.