C5 Corvette Bilstein B8 Sport Rear Shocks (1997–2004)
The Bilstein B8 Sport Rear Shock Set (Part Number: 24-029780) is engineered for the 1997–2004 C5 Corvette to improve rear-end control, reduce squat under acceleration, and deliver a more planted, confidence-inspiring feel during aggressive street driving. This fits the C5 Corvette Base, Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), and Z06 exactly when equipped with standard (non-electronic) suspension. Priced as a Pair (2 Rear Shocks)
If the rear of your C5 feels loose over bumps, unsettled during throttle transitions, or slow to recover after dips, upgrading the rear shocks makes a noticeable difference. The B8 Sport is one of the best upgrades for C5 Corvette owners who want sharper response and improved stability without moving to coilovers.
Product Details
Bilstein B8 Sport shocks use a monotube, high-pressure gas design tuned for performance-oriented driving. Compared to comfort-focused replacement shocks, the B8 provides firmer, more controlled damping that helps the rear suspension settle faster during acceleration, corner exit, and uneven pavement.
- Shock type: Monotube gas-pressure
- Placement: Rear suspension
- Ride height intent: Performance street (works on stock height; commonly used on lowered cars)
- Valving: Sport-tuned for improved control
- What it replaces: Factory rear shocks
Why Bilstein Leads
Bilstein’s monotube construction and digressive valving allow the shock to react quickly to suspension movement while maintaining stability under load. On the C5 platform, that translates into improved traction feel, reduced rear oscillation, and cleaner transitions when accelerating out of corners or changing lanes at speed.
Benefits
- Improved rear stability: Reduces unwanted bounce and oscillation
- Cleaner acceleration feel: Helps control rear squat under throttle
- More predictable handling: Better balance during corner exit
- Consistent damping: Fade-resistant monotube design
- Sport-focused tuning: Firmer, more connected feel than stock replacements
What to Expect After Installation
Most owners notice the rear of the car feels more planted immediately. The suspension settles quicker after bumps, acceleration feels more controlled, and the car tracks more confidently through transitions—without altering ride height or spring rate.
- Reduced rear bounce over expansion joints
- Improved traction feel during acceleration
- More stable corner exit behavior
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 24-029780
- Brand: Bilstein
- Product Type: Rear shock absorber set (pair)
- Shock Design: Monotube gas-pressure
- Adjustability: None
- Placement: Rear suspension
- Ride Height Intent: Performance street (stock height or lowered applications)
Installation Overview
These rear shocks install using factory mounting points and are designed as a direct-fit replacement on compatible C5 Corvettes.
- Direct-fit installation
- No cutting or fabrication required
- Basic hand tools recommended
- Estimated install time: 1–2 hours
- Professional alignment recommended after suspension work
Corvette Compatibility
- This fits the 1997–2004 C5 Corvette exactly: Base, Fixed Roof Coupe (FRC), and Z06
- Body styles: Coupe and Convertible
- Suspension requirement: Standard (non-electronic) shocks
Mag Ride / Shock Simulator Note (Important)
Some 2003–2004 C5 Corvettes were equipped with Magnetic Selective Ride Control (RPO F55/FE4, including certain 50th Anniversary cars). If your Corvette has factory electronic damping, installing non-electronic shocks like these typically requires shock simulators or a proper electronic suspension delete to avoid warning messages.
Cross-Compatibility & Related Fitment
- Designed for C5 Corvette (1997–2004) rear suspension
- Mag Ride-equipped cars may require shock simulators when converting
- Recommended supporting upgrades: rear sway bar end links, control arm bushings, matched front shocks
Testimonials
“The rear finally feels planted. Way less bounce and much better control when getting on the throttle.”
— Chris D., 2004 Corvette Z06
Upgrade your 1997–2004 C5 Corvette with the Bilstein B8 Sport Rear Shocks and restore the stable, controlled feel your Corvette was engineered to deliver.