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The Honda Civic EK is a beloved model among car enthusiasts, especially for its potential in handling and performance. One of the most effective ways to enhance the driving experience of an EK Civic is through suspension upgrades. This article explores the best suspension upgrades to achieve sharp cornering and improved control.
Why Upgrade Your Suspension?
Upgrading your suspension can significantly impact the handling characteristics of your vehicle. A well-tuned suspension improves stability, reduces body roll, and enhances overall driving confidence. Here are some reasons to consider upgrading your EK Civic’s suspension:
- Improved Handling: A better suspension setup allows for more precise steering response and cornering ability.
- Enhanced Comfort: Upgraded shocks and springs can offer a smoother ride while maintaining performance.
- Increased Safety: A stable suspension can help prevent loss of control during aggressive driving or adverse conditions.
Types of Suspension Upgrades
There are several types of suspension upgrades available for the EK Civic. Each type serves a specific purpose and can be combined for optimal performance.
Coilovers
Coilovers are a popular choice for those looking to lower their car and improve handling. They offer adjustable ride height and damping settings, providing the flexibility to fine-tune your setup.
- Benefits: Adjustable height and stiffness, improved cornering, and reduced body roll.
- Recommended Brands: BC Racing, Tein, and Fortune Auto.
Lowering Springs
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, lowering springs are a great choice. They lower the ride height of your Civic and improve handling without the complexity of coilovers.
- Benefits: Lowered center of gravity, improved aesthetics, and enhanced handling.
- Recommended Brands: Eibach, H&R, and Skunk2.
Shocks and Struts
Replacing old shocks and struts can breathe new life into your suspension system. Performance shocks and struts provide better damping control and can significantly enhance ride quality and handling.
- Benefits: Improved ride quality, better handling, and enhanced stability.
- Recommended Brands: Koni, Bilstein, and Monroe.
Additional Suspension Components
In addition to coilovers, lowering springs, and shocks, there are other suspension components that can further enhance your EK Civic’s handling.
Sway Bars
Sway bars reduce body roll during cornering, allowing for sharper turns and improved stability. Upgrading to thicker sway bars can significantly enhance your vehicle’s handling characteristics.
- Benefits: Reduced body roll, improved cornering performance, and enhanced stability.
- Recommended Brands: Whiteline, Eibach, and Cusco.
Strut Braces
Strut braces connect the top of the strut towers, increasing chassis rigidity and improving handling. They help maintain proper suspension geometry during aggressive driving.
- Benefits: Increased chassis stiffness, improved handling, and reduced flex.
- Recommended Brands: DC Sports, Skunk2, and Cusco.
Choosing the Right Setup for Your EK Civic
When selecting suspension upgrades for your EK Civic, consider your driving style and intended use. Whether you’re looking for daily comfort or track-ready performance, there are options available to suit your needs.
- Daily Driving: Consider lowering springs with performance shocks for a balance of comfort and handling.
- Track Use: Opt for coilovers with adjustable damping and sway bars for maximum performance.
- Mixed Use: A combination of lowering springs, upgraded shocks, and sway bars can provide versatility.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension on your EK Civic is a surefire way to enhance its handling and performance. With options ranging from coilovers to sway bars, there’s something for every enthusiast. Take the time to research and choose the components that best fit your driving style, and enjoy the benefits of improved cornering and control.