Rancho Shocks Reviewed: RS5000, RS9000XL, RSX
Rancho shocks are popular upgrades and there are several choices available so it’s pretty common to hear customers ask about the difference between the Rancho RS 5000, RS9000XL and RSX shocks. They’re all reputable products, yet each is built for different uses and driving experiences. The Rancho RS line of shocks are geared toward the Jeep, truck, and SUV markets especially if the vehicle will be used in off-road conditions.
Rancho RS5000 is the entry-level shock absorber. The RS5000 shock is often installed as a better-than-factory replacement for vehicles with worn out shocks or upgraded suspensions. This shock is also recommended for consumers on a budget. The RS 5000 is designed to provide comfort and control across the driving spectrum from street to mild off-road. The result of this is a ride quality that’s often bumpier than what the factory shocks provided because firm shocks are ideal for off-road driving and this comes at the sacrifice of some street comfort.
The Rancho RSX shock is an upgrade from the RS5000. The RSX is unique in that it incorporates an automatic “impact-sensing” reflex valve that opens and closes depending on how quickly the piston is forced in or out. This provides a broader range of comfort and control across the driving spectrum from street to aggressive off-road.
Something unique about the RSX is that each shock is engineered specifically for the vehicle which it will be installed. They’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. This provides optimal performance in concert with the vehicle’s weight. The downside of the RSX is that it’s not available for heavy-duty (HD) and super-duty (SD) trucks and larger SUVs (at least not at this time). This isn’t to say that it can’t handle heavy off-road use, because it can. It just can’t handle the extreme weight of certain full-size vehicles, mostly the heavy-duty ones.
The RS9000XL is a step up from the RSX. The RS9000XL features a manually-tuned valve system that allows the driver complete control of the softness or firmness of the piston movement. This provides the broadest range of comfort and control across the driving spectrum from street to extreme off-road. Ride quality can be set soft for highway driving, medium for city/urban driving, and firm for off-road driving and even towing.
There are nine settings to choose from so even the pickiest drivers (or their passengers) can find a suitable comfort level. In addition to manual tuning, there is an auxiliary remote control unit called the RS999705 myRIDE wireless remote control. It allows the shocks to be adjusted at the touch of a button while the vehicle is parked or in motion. The RS9000XL was designed with today’s bigger trucks in mind so in addition to the typical 2-1/8″ and 2-3/8″ body diameters found on most shocks, the RS9000XL is also available with a 2-3/4″ body for select full-size applications.
When choosing the Rancho shocks that are right for you, a couple things you should consider are your budget and what kind of driving they’ll be used for. RS5000 shocks cost the least, RSX cost approximately 40-50% more, and RS9000XL cost approximately 40-50% more than that. If you’re looking to save money or merely replace your old, worn out shocks, the RS5000’s will work adequately. If you’re still on a budget, but want a ride superior to what an RS5000 offers, then the RSX is recommended. If budget is not an issue, or if you want the best shock available without getting into the “extreme” off-road shocks, then the RS9000XL is recommended.
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