There is no question in my mind the spring retainers are the way to go. I was, i repeat WAS a 5 yr veteran of drop cones, and I thought they were the greatest thing since sliced bread. well then i experianced MOAB 2005 FUN FEST. WIPEOUT HILL ohh I learned my leason I almost went over because i didnt have the retainers to stretch my spring back to level me out. wel JMHO...