Read more — M2 fitment, tuning guidance, and cross-sell upgrades
Why AST x MOTON Suits the M2
The M2 — in either F87 or G87 form — rewards a chassis you can actually tune. The factory M Adaptive dampers are excellent on smooth surfaces but quickly show their limits under sustained track load, aggressive spring rates, or aero changes. AST's inverted monotube design handles the lateral loads a short-wheelbase, rear-drive M car generates without the geometry shift that comes from flexing strut assemblies. MOTON's non-inverted motorsport tier takes it a step further for drivers running serious kerbs, slicks, or downforce.
Both brands are fully rebuildable and revalvable — meaning the coilovers you spec today can be serviced and retuned to suit spring rate changes, aero additions, or a shift from clubsport to full competition as your driving evolves.
AST x MOTON for the F87 M2 (2016–2021)
The F87 M2 — including the Competition and M2 CS variants — fits AST's inverted strut architecture cleanly. We source the F87 in the following configurations:
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AST 5100 Street Series (1-Way): Rebound-adjustable monotube coilover with OEM top-mount compatibility. Fits all F87 variants (N55 and S55). Twelve clicks of rebound adjustment and full ride-height adjustability for street and occasional track use.
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AST 5300 Series (3-Way): Full track-spec — independent rebound plus separate high-speed and low-speed compression circuits on the remote reservoir. Available for N55-engined F87 variants.
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MOTON 1-Way, 2-Way, and 3-Way: Made-to-order from the Netherlands for drivers stepping beyond clubrace into professional motorsport or endurance use.
The F87 page on our site (AST Suspension Coilovers – BMW M2 (F87)) shows the full configuration comparison chart. If you're not sure which tier suits your use, our 1-way vs 2-way vs 3-way explainer walks through the decision in plain English.
AST x MOTON for the G87 M2 (2023+)
The G87 shares its chassis architecture with the G80 M3 and G82 M4 — which means the broader AST x MOTON G8X programme applies directly to the G87. Key options we source include:
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AST Adjustable Lowering Springs (ALS): Our hero product for G8X owners who want to retain factory M Adaptive dampers while dropping ride height. The ALS kit covers the G87 alongside the G80, G81, G82, and G83. Retains EDC compatibility, Dutch-engineered, lifetime breakage warranty.
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AST 5100 / 5200 / 5300 Series Coilovers: Full coilover options across 1-way, 2-way, and 3-way adjustability — sourced from the AST G8X programme. Made-to-order with typical 4-week lead time.
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MOTON 2-Way and 3-Way: For G87 drivers building for time attack, endurance, or pro-am racing, the MOTON motorsport tier is available as a custom order through our supply network.
If you're tracking a G87 M2 regularly, the combination of AST 5200 or 5300 coilovers with a revalve tuned to your specific spring rates and driving style is the benchmark street-to-track upgrade. The S58 engine makes serious power and the G87 is heavier than its predecessor — damper control genuinely matters on this car.
Tuning and Setup
Every AST x MOTON coilover ships ready to tune. We've put together two plain-English guides covering the essentials:
AST's damping adjusters use a 12-click range with clockwise for firmer and the "H" mark indicating fully closed. A sensible baseline for any new set is 6 clicks from fully closed on every adjuster, then two-click increments from there as you refine.
Pair With Your M2 Brake and Chassis Upgrades
Suspension is one side of the equation. The other is braking, geometry, and chassis rigidity. We stock the full ecosystem for both M2 generations:
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DIXCEL Brake Pads: Japanese OEM-quality compounds for F87 and G87 M2 — M Type for ultra-low-dust daily driving through to Z Type for trackday use. Our DIXCEL compound guide explains which suits your use.
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Paragon 2-Piece Brake Rotors: 380×36mm front and 370×24mm rear rotors for the G87 M2 (shared fitment with G80 M3 and G82 M4). Significant reduction in unsprung weight with improved thermal stability.
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SPL Parts Eccentric Lockout Kit: Locks out the rear subframe eccentric bushings for precise, consistent alignment under load. Fits all F8X and G8X platforms including the F87 and G87 M2.
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KW EDC Cancellation Kit: For G87 owners fitting full coilovers and removing the factory M Adaptive system — cancels the dashboard warning and allows factory-like drive mode behaviour.
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Suspension Secrets Adjustable Camber Plates: CNC-machined 6082-T6 billet aluminium camber plates for fine-tuning front camber on either M2 generation.
Based on the Central Coast, NSW, we work directly with our supply network in the Netherlands to spec the right AST x MOTON setup for your M2 — whether you're chasing a clean street stance, building a dedicated track car, or somewhere in between. Contact our team at sales@chicaneaustralia.com.au if you need help deciding between tiers, spring rates, or whether a revalve is the right move for an existing set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which AST coilovers fit the BMW M2 F87?
The AST 5100 Street Series (1-way, rebound adjustable) fits all F87 variants including N55 and S55 Competition and CS models. The AST 5300 Series (3-way, with remote reservoir) is available for N55-engined F87s. Both ship with matched springs and are fully rebuildable.
Do AST coilovers fit the G87 M2?
Yes. The G87 shares its chassis architecture with the G80 M3 and G82 M4, which means AST's G8X programme applies. Available options include the 5100, 5200, and 5300 Series full coilovers, plus the Adjustable Lowering Springs (ALS) for owners who want to retain factory M Adaptive damping.
What's the difference between AST and MOTON on the M2?
AST and MOTON share the same Dutch factory, engineering team, and monotube core technology. AST is positioned for street, clubrace, and semi-pro competition. MOTON is the full-motorsport tier with non-inverted monotube construction drawn directly from endurance racing. For most M2 owners the AST range is the right answer — MOTON is for drivers stepping into pro-am or professional-level competition.
Can I keep my factory M Adaptive dampers and just lower the car?
Yes — that's exactly what AST's Adjustable Lowering Springs (ALS) are designed for. ALS retains your factory M Adaptive system (so drive modes still work) while giving 20–60mm of height adjustability. They're the ideal answer for G87 owners who want a cleaner stance without the cost or complexity of full coilovers.
How long is the wait for AST or MOTON coilovers?
Most AST coilover sets are built to order in the Netherlands with a typical lead time of around four weeks. MOTON kits — particularly the motorsport tiers — can take longer depending on spec. We'll confirm lead time at the time of enquiry and can often expedite if you have an event deadline.
Are AST and MOTON coilovers rebuildable?
Yes. Every AST and MOTON damper is fully serviceable. Seals can be replaced, oil refreshed, and the internal valving changed to suit a new spring rate, aero setup, or progression from street to competition. This is one of the key reasons the range is worth the initial investment — a well-maintained set can last decades rather than being a consumable part.
Do I need a wheel alignment after fitting coilovers?
Yes, always. Any ride-height change alters camber, toe, and caster — so a full wheel alignment is essential after installation. If you're lowering significantly or running your M2 on track, pair the alignment with adjustable arms (SPL Parts eccentric lockout for the rear subframe is a popular addition) for consistent, repeatable geometry.