Emulsion-style shocks
Emulsion-type shocks have a small amount of air inside the shocks that mixes with the oil. The air inside the shock is compressed when the shock compresses, allowing space for the shock shaft which will have more of its volume inside the shock body upon compression. They are common in 1/10 off-road applications.
- Better landing from jumps
- More precision in high-speed handling
- Good for high-speed bumps
- Ideal for open, smooth, fast tracks
- Require bleeding more often
Bladder-style shock caps
Bladder-style caps feature a rubber bladder at the top of the shock. As the shaft enters the shock, the additional volume of the shock shaft compresses the oil and puts pressure on the rubber bladder, which compresses the air trapped between it and the cap, generating rebound force. Bladder-style shocks are intended not to have air inside the oil-filled part of the shock.
- Softer feel
- Less precision in handling
- Good for low-speed bumps
- Ideal for tight / bumpy / rutted tracks