Sprinter-based motorhomes: the benefits of suspension optimisation

The BILSTEIN B6 Camper shock absorber tested by ‘pro mobil’

When it comes to the perfect motorhome travelling experience, the suspension plays a crucial role. In the March 2025 issue of the German motorhome magazine ‘pro mobil’, the test editors highlighted a particularly important aspect in their ‘Optimising motorhomes’ series: the shock absorbers. The magazine put them to the ultimate test: What are the real benefits of optimising the suspension of Mercedes Sprinter-based motorhomes with the BILSTEIN B6 Camper shock absorber? The result is crystal clear!

Shock absorbers have a significant influence on driving comfort and safety – and this is where the BILSTEIN B6 Camper comes into play. BILSTEIN also offers its shock absorber specifically developed for motorhomes and campervans for the Mercedes Sprinter, which has now been subjected to a detailed test by ‘pro mobil’. The renowned magazine from Germany not only accompanied the installation of our shock absorbers, but also put the shock absorbers to the test on the ATP test track in Papenburg.

Optimising the motorhome suspension: test with readers of ‘pro mobil’

Together with pro mobil we found two passionate motorhome owners who made their vehicles available for the practical test. Brigitte and Klaus Reicherter travelled with their customised Sprinter panel van, while Robert Richter took part with his semi-integrated La Strada Nova L – also based on a Sprinter. At 100,000 and 240,000 kilometres respectively, both vehicles had typical mileages at which original shock absorbers noticeably deteriorate. So it was high time for a noticeable increase in comfort and safety.

BILSTEIN B6 Camper: Shock absorbers specifically developed for motorhomes

And with the BILSTEIN B6 Camper and the B6 Camper Advanced, which are specially tailored to the high demands of motorhomes and camper vans, we have developed shock absorbers that offer significantly improved driving behaviour.

But what are the benefits of suspension optimisation and shock absorber replacement in everyday practice? A lot, as it turns out.

The results speak for themselves

Both vehicles showed a noticeable improvement in driving behaviour. ‘On the so-called sine wave track, the Sprinter follows the road much more cleanly, where before it was literally lifted out by the hills,’ says “pro mobil”. ‘Even with lateral excitation, the tendency to roll is noticeably less and calms down much faster than before.’

On the handling course, the improved wheel control also resulted in more precise steering behaviour. And even on the rough track with cobblestones and pavement bumps, there was an improvement in comfort thanks to a more sensitive response behaviour.

Passionate Sprinter drivers – happy testers

The test drivers were also impressed by the change. Klaus Reicherter summed it up: ‘I was sceptical at first. But the result really surprised us in a positive way and we are extremely impressed.’

‘I was sceptical at first. But the result really surprised us in a positive way and we are extremely impressed.’

Sprinter driver Klaus Reicherter

Robert Richter expressed a similar opinion: ‘On the country road, I noticed a change in the suspension and a clear improvement in the damping. Thanks again for the professionally carried out work.’

‘On the country road, I noticed a change in the suspension and a clear improvement in the damping. Thanks again for the professionally carried out work.’

Sprinter driver Robert Richter

The bottom line: an investment that pays off!

The pro mobil test confirms it: With the BILSTEIN B6 Camper, motorhomes and camper vans based on the Mercedes Sprinter can be specifically upgraded. If you want to optimise your vehicle in the long term and still be safe and comfortable on the road even after many kilometres, you should consider replacing the shock absorbers. The results speak for themselves. As does the enthusiasm of the testers.