Handling Upgrades for Honda Civic Type R: Best Suspension, Brakes, and Tires for Track Days

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The Honda Civic Type R is renowned for its performance and handling capabilities, making it a favorite among track enthusiasts. To maximize its potential on the track, upgrading the suspension, brakes, and tires is essential. In this article, we will explore the best options available for each category to enhance your driving experience.

Upgrading Suspension

A well-tuned suspension is crucial for improved handling and stability during high-speed maneuvers. Here are some top suspension upgrades for the Honda Civic Type R:

  • Coilover Kits: Brands like KW and BC Racing offer adjustable coilover kits that allow you to customize ride height and damping settings.
  • Sway Bars: Upgrading to stiffer sway bars can reduce body roll and improve cornering performance.
  • Strut Braces: Adding front and rear strut braces increases chassis rigidity, enhancing steering response.
  • Camber Kits: Adjustable camber kits help optimize tire contact during cornering for better grip.

Improving Braking Performance

Braking is just as important as acceleration and handling on the track. Upgrading your braking system can provide better stopping power and fade resistance. Here are some recommended upgrades:

  • Performance Brake Pads: Consider high-friction brake pads from brands like Hawk or EBC for improved stopping power.
  • Upgraded Rotors: Slotted or drilled rotors can enhance heat dissipation and reduce brake fade.
  • Stainless Steel Brake Lines: These lines provide a firmer pedal feel and better brake response.
  • Big Brake Kits: For serious track enthusiasts, big brake kits from companies like Brembo can significantly improve braking performance.

Choosing the Right Tires

The tires are the only contact point between your car and the track. Selecting the right tires is crucial for maximizing grip and performance. Here are some top tire options for the Honda Civic Type R:

  • Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2: Known for excellent grip and handling, these tires are ideal for track use.
  • Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R: These provide exceptional cornering performance and responsiveness.
  • Continental ExtremeContact Sport: A versatile tire that performs well both on the street and the track.
  • Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3: Offers high levels of grip and stability during aggressive driving.

Conclusion

Upgrading the suspension, brakes, and tires of your Honda Civic Type R can dramatically enhance its performance on the track. By investing in quality components, you can achieve better handling, improved stopping power, and increased grip, making your track days even more enjoyable. Choose the upgrades that best fit your driving style and track needs to unlock the full potential of your Civic Type R.