im looking for a smoother ride for my 96 civic ex but witch brand should i choose KYB or gabriel or other?thanks

never heard of gabriel, but pretty much every aftermarket shock out there is going to be stiffer than your stock ones because that's why people buy them, to stiffen up their suspension.

Getting adjustable ones are great though, you can put them on the lowest setting to give a near factory ride (depending on how stiff your springs are) and stiffen them up for whatever racing you do.

Anyhow, KYB AGX, Tokico Illuminas, Koni Yellows, Bilsteins are just a few off the top of my head that are great shocks.

I have KYB AGX shock coupled with Ground Control coilovers on my 94 Prelude and love them...not one complaint. I could go one setting lower, but where they are now is great...the ride is pretty darn smooth considering, and the handling is great. I'd recommend them, without a doubt.

Thanks Guys

Is the car lowered?
How is it lowered?
How much is it lowered?

its stock

Honda struts or KYB GR2's will give the best ride w/ stock springs.