I have an '06 Mazda 6 that was purchased in '08.
Since buying the car I've never had any problems w/ my shocks until I went up from 16" wheels to 17". I'm unsure whether it's because I went up a size in wheels or it could simply be that it's time for new shocks.

When there is weight added to the back I can hear it rubbing. Especially if I hit a bump.

I'm looking into getting a performance type of suspension, something that's a little more stiff & shocks as well.
I would like some suggestions as to what to look into.

Thanks.

 

check out protegegarage for some options, i havent heard anything bad about most suspension companies other than people who didnt read the drop heights i.e uneven drops. Other than that i would stay away from no names on ebay and dropzone

 

i'm just looking for a lot better handling of the ride, definitely not looking into lowering my car.

what about coilovers? what's the difference?

 

coilovers are a matched spring and shock with and adjustable spring seat to allow for adjustment of height, most also allow for adjustment of damping rates for the shocks, but that is not always the case.

Now to adress your OP;

1) rubbing: if your 17's are aftermarket there is a good chance that they have a lower offset than stock (they will be pushed to the outside of the car). The 6 has ridiculously high offset wheels from the factory and anything lower than a 49mm offset if almost guaranteed to rub, higher than that will sometimes rub as well depending on the tire. A fender roll will take care of this issue.

2) better handling suspension: if all you are looking for is a little more fun in the corners then get a set of decent shocks and a rear sway bar. I would recommend the Racingbeat unit and Bilstein HD shocks. The RB sway is very hefty and will greatly reduce the car's body roll. The Bilstein's are a great compromise between a street and track shock. They are direct bolt on replacement and are not so punishing that you feel uncomfortable in daily driving with them (I've been running them for the last 35-40K miles or so and have loved them). You can go a lot more hardcore than this setup, but this one will let you have some more fun without making the car unlivable on rough roads.

 

thank you very much! this was all very helpful!