Kevin Schiele, the talented foreman at Kindig-It Design, is renowned for his mastery of custom builds and his expertise in air suspension systems. On Bitchin' Rides, one of Schiele's standout contributions is his innovative approach to designing and building custom air ride suspension setups, which offer vehicles unmatched flexibility, comfort, and stance. As an essential member of Dave Kindig’s crew, Schiele’s attention to detail and passion for custom fabrication have been key to the shop’s success.
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Air ride suspension, a system that uses air springs instead of traditional coils, has become increasingly popular in the custom car world. It allows drivers to adjust the height and stiffness of their vehicle’s suspension with just a push of a button, giving them full control over the ride quality and aesthetics. Schiele's approach, honed over years of experience, brings both functionality and flair, which is particularly critical when working on the custom, one-of-a-kind builds that Bitchin' Rides is known for.
Schiele’s process often begins with a detailed understanding of the vehicle and its owner’s vision. The air ride suspension system isn’t just about making a car look great when it's parked at a car show; it also has to perform on the road. Schiele’s deep knowledge of the mechanics involved ensures that the system will work flawlessly, allowing the vehicle to handle smoothly at different heights. His installations often use high-end components like adjustable air struts, air tanks, and compressors, making sure every detail contributes to the car’s performance and stance.
One of the key challenges Schiele faces with air ride suspension is making sure that the setup fits within the car’s original architecture. Whether it's a low-slung hot rod or a classic muscle car, many of the builds on Bitchin' Rides require extensive modification to accommodate an air ride system. This means custom-fabricating parts, rerouting lines, and ensuring the system is integrated seamlessly into the car’s existing design.
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An example of Schiele's work is a recent project where he led the installation of a custom air ride system on a classic car with significant modifications to enhance both its appearance and handling. The system allowed the vehicle to sit low and sleek when parked, but with a few adjustments, it could rise to provide a comfortable ride when on the road. This kind of versatility is what makes air ride suspensions so popular among car enthusiasts, and Schiele’s craftsmanship ensures that these systems perform at their peak.
The functionality of air suspension systems goes beyond just aesthetics. By adjusting the height of the vehicle, drivers can optimize the car's handling based on road conditions. Lowering the vehicle improves aerodynamics and stability, particularly at high speeds, while raising it can help navigate bumpy roads or steep driveways. Schiele’s air ride builds take full advantage of these benefits, offering a perfect blend of performance and style.
In addition to his technical prowess, Schiele’s role on Bitchin' Rides showcases his leadership and collaborative spirit. As foreman, he ensures that every project runs smoothly, coordinating with other team members and overseeing the entire build process. His hands-on approach ensures that every detail is perfect, from the installation of the air suspension to the final road test. His ability to manage complex builds while maintaining a high level of craftsmanship has earned him a reputation as one of the best in the business.
Schiele’s contributions to Bitchin' Rides highlight the importance of innovation in the world of custom car building. His air ride suspension systems not only enhance the functionality of the cars but also play a crucial role in defining their unique look and feel. For fans of the show and car enthusiasts alike, Kevin Schiele's work is a testament to what’s possible when you combine technical expertise with a passion for custom design.
Schiele’s love for custom cars, combined with his leadership at Kindig-It Design, continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in automotive design. Whether it's a sleek, modern ride or a classic car with a twist, his air suspension systems provide the perfect balance of form and function, ensuring that every build from Bitchin' Rides stands out on the road.
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