Well, I managed to get the keys out of Pete's grasp and helped rack up some break-in miles on the WORKS MR yesterday. My first gear shift was into reverse (how appropriate) and noticed it was nice and smooth. Then into first and down the bumpy hill in front of the shop. I was quite pleased how well the Bilsteins absorbed the shock--much more forgiving than the OEM ride in my '03.

The 6-speed is amazingly smooth in comparison to the 5-speed and shifting is almost effortless, but still precise. I was limited in RPMs by the boss, so I couldn't wind out the gears entirely The new fifth gear is like a 4.5 vs the 5-speed and sixth gear is now perfect for freeway driving without giving up on acceleration. (My biggest gripe with my '03 is how spaced 4th and 5th seem to be.)

I brought it home and my wife really liked the Graphite Gray. I don't think she'll let me pick up another one right now, but I wouldn't mind a bit

 

How well was it able to handle and grip the turns? Nice and tight?

 

I didn't push it like I do my own EVO, but was well-mannered and balanced throught the curves.

 

JW....if you would buy a MR suspension for a GSR would it fit?

 

Hm, the 5sp must be really chunky - I thought the 6sp feels a bit sloppy (compared to my old celica 6sp), and decided shifter bushings and a short throw shifter will be one of the first mods for the car. On that topic, any idea if the short-throw shifter kits for the 5sp will fit on the MR? I'm guessing not because of the reverse lock-ring .

 

Yes, but you won't like the price tag You'd be better off going with a set of WORKS/Ohlins coilovers

 

Ahhh, but someone with an MR who goes with the Works/ohlins coilovers will probably sell their stock suspension to me cheap I think that was his point.

Keith