1/10 Piston Overview
Advanced Multi-Stage Shock Tuning for 1/10 Scale RC
Traditional RC shock pistons typically produce a mostly linear damping curve, where damping force increases at a steady rate as shaft speed increases. While simple and predictable, this approach forces racers to compromise: tuning for stability at low speeds often makes the suspension harsh over bumps, while tuning for bump compliance can leave the car lacking support in corners and under braking.
Our system removes that compromise.
By combining precision pistons with modular shim stacks, racers can shape the damping curve in multiple stages—just like modern full-scale motorsport dampers. This allows the suspension to behave differently depending on shaft speed, giving better control across the entire range of suspension movement.
Just like modern motorsport suspension, the goal is simple: maximum chassis control at low shaft speeds and maximum compliance at high shaft speeds.
Multi-Stage Damping Behaviour
Digressive Low-Speed Damping
Traditional linear pistons often lack support at low shaft speeds, which can allow excessive chassis movement during braking, acceleration, and cornering. A digressive profile builds damping force quickly at low speeds, helping the car stay flatter and more stable while improving steering precision and weight transfer control.
Linear Mid-Speed Damping
Maintaining a linear response through the middle of the damping range keeps the suspension predictable as the car moves through bumps, transitions, and surface irregularities. This balanced mid-speed behaviour gives drivers a consistent feel and improves overall vehicle stability.
Progressive High-Speed Damping
At high shaft speeds—such as when hitting large bumps or landing jumps—a progressive damping profile increases resistance as loads rise. This helps absorb impacts without harshness while reducing the likelihood of bottoming out.
Why This Matters
By separating the damping curve into distinct stages, racers gain greater control over how the car behaves in different situations:
• More corner stability and steering precision
• Better bump absorption and landing control
• A wider tuning window for different track conditions
Instead of choosing between stability or compliance, the system delivers both—resulting in a more balanced and adaptable suspension setup.
More Than One Damping Curve
The modular design allows racers to configure different damping profiles depending on track conditions, grip levels, and jump characteristics.
Digressive → Linear
(Bottom shims only)
Ideal for high-grip and technical tracks where chassis control and corner stability are critical.
Example tracks:
• High-grip carpet tracks with sharp direction changes
• Blue groove clay where the car needs to stay flat in corners
• Tight indoor layouts with short bumps and quick transitions
Benefits:
• Strong support under braking and corner entry
• Reduced chassis roll
• Precise steering feel
Linear
(No shims — piston holes only)
Best suited for very rough tracks where maximum suspension freedom is needed.
Example tracks:
• Blown-out outdoor dirt tracks with deep braking bumps
• Loose outdoor tracks where traction is inconsistent
• Old, rough club tracks with unpredictable surfaces
Benefits:
• Very free suspension movement
• Maximum compliance over rough surfaces
• Simple and predictable handling
Linear → Progressive
(Top shims only)
Great for tracks with large jumps or heavy landings, where impact control becomes important.
Example tracks:
• Large outdoor tracks with big jump sections
• High-speed layouts with long landings
• Tracks with large rhythm sections
Benefits:
• Increased resistance during big impacts
• Better control during jump landings
• Reduced bottoming-out
Fully Tuned Multi-Stage Curve
(Top and bottom shim stacks)
For racers wanting maximum suspension control, the system can combine digressive low-speed control with progressive high-speed protection.
Example tracks:
• Modern national-level tracks with a mix of grip, bumps, and jumps
• Technical layouts with both tight corners and big features
• Changing track conditions throughout a race day
Benefits:
• Strong chassis support
• Predictable mid-speed response
• Controlled high-speed impact absorption
Why This Matters
Different tracks demand different suspension behaviour. With traditional pistons, racers must compromise. With a modular shim system, racers can tune the damping curve itself, allowing the suspension to adapt to changing track conditions.
