Testing KYB’s New 2000 Series 2.5-Inch Coilovers and Shocks in the Mojave Desert Before SEMA 2025

On our way to SEMA 2025 in Las Vegas, OVR made a detour to California City at the invitation of KYB Americas to spend time with their new KYB 2000 Series 2.5-inch front coilovers and rear shocks. The KYB 2000 Series features 2.5-inch monotube coilovers and shocks designed specifically for 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra models. Built in Japan with heat-treated 6061 aluminum bodies and vehicle-specific damping valves, this suspension system brings motorsports-proven technology to the truck upgrade market.

Waiting at basecamp were three familiar Toyota platforms– a 4Runner, Tacoma, and Tundra– each equipped with different KYB suspension configurations for back-to-back evaluation in Mojave desert terrain.

Having worked with Dirt Rider, Motorcyclist, Sport Rider, and MXRacer magazines, where in the mid-1990s we regularly saw street and dirt bikes equipped with KYB suspension winning races, we had to see how KYB’s proven technology could translate to modern trucks and SUVs.

KYB Corporation: World’s Largest Shock Absorber Manufacturer

KYB Americas is headquartered in Franklin, Indiana, where it has manufactured OE and aftermarket shocks and struts since 1986, following the establishment of its Aftermarket Division in nearby Greenwood in 1974.

KYB Corporation, globally headquartered in Tokyo, Kayaba—founded in 1919—now employs nearly 13,000 people and is the world’s largest volume manufacturer of automotive shock absorbers, operating 47 companies in 23 countries.

Motorsports Proven Suspension Technology

KYB is involved across multiple motorsports disciplines, focusing on high-performance suspension systems rather than engines. Its shocks, forks, and dampers are widely used in motorcycle racing, including motocross, supercross, road racing, and off-road competition, as well as in automotive motorsports such as rally, touring car, and GT racing.

KYB also supports off-road, ATV, and UTV competition, using motorsports as a proving ground to develop durable, race-tested suspension technology that carries over to OEM and aftermarket products.

Testing the KYB 2000 Series in Mojave Desert

After a short morning briefing, we jumped in the rigs and immediately, we were in the dirt. The agenda would be a long loop surrounding the Red Rock Canyon area within the Mojave Desert. Over the course of the day, we switched vehicles; from a 4Runner, to a Tacoma to the Tundra.

We drove each rig over washboards, sand, bumpy hard packed fire roads to pavement. We concentrated our focus on the Toyota Tundra suspension upgrade as it was fitted with the 2000 Series while the Tacoma and 4Runner were set up with different KYB shocks for comparison.

On pavement, the 2000 Series delivered a notably controlled feel. Steering response was direct, and body motions were well-managed for a full-size pickup suspension system. The truck felt composed during lane changes and sweeping turns with a planted character that leaned toward performance-oriented tuning.

Off pavement, the suspension communicated more of the terrain into the cabin. The firmer damping that supported on-road control also meant more feedback over smaller bumps and chatter. Some drivers may appreciated that connected feel, while others may prefer a softer, more isolating setup depending on how they use their truck.

Load Tuning: Why Suspension Setup Matters for Your Tundra

Back at basecamp, we learned the Tundra’s KYB’s 2000 series suspension had been tuned with a loaded bed scenario and multiple adults in the cab. Our test loop; however, was completed with an empty bed and only two people onboard. That difference in intended versus actual load influenced our impressions. Additional weight– such as overland gear, tools, or passengers– would bring the suspension closer to its target operating range as tuned.

KYB 2000 Series Value and Positioning

For 2022+ Toyota Tundra owners, the KYB 2000 Series kit– consisting of two 2.5-inch front coilovers and two 2.5-inch rear shocks– lands in a competitive price range for a 2.5-inch body system. Within that segment, buyers are often balancing performance, durability, and cost.

Based on our time behind the wheel, the KYB 2000 Series represents a solid entry in the 2.5-inch suspension upgrade market for 2022-2025 Toyota Tundra owners. With motorsports-proven engineering, adjustable ride height, and performance-oriented tuning, this system suits drivers who regularly load their trucks and prioritize on-road control and feel. 

For those seeking a balance between off-road capability and on-road control without premium pricing, the KYB 2000 Series deserves consideration alongside other coilover options. For updated fitment information, visit KYB’s offroad product page at KYB-OffWeGo.com.

KYB 2000 Series Off-Road Suspension SPECS: Toyota Tundra