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The NA Miata, known for its lightweight and nimble handling, can greatly benefit from suspension and tire upgrades. These enhancements not only improve power delivery but also enhance overall handling, making the driving experience more enjoyable. In this article, we will explore various suspension and tire upgrades that can transform your NA Miata.
Understanding the Importance of Suspension and Tires
A well-tuned suspension and the right tires are crucial for maximizing the performance of your NA Miata. They work together to provide better grip, stability, and responsiveness. Upgrading these components can lead to improved cornering, reduced body roll, and a more connected feel to the road.
Suspension Upgrades
Suspension upgrades can significantly enhance the handling characteristics of your NA Miata. Here are some popular options:
- Coilovers: Adjustable coilover kits allow you to customize ride height and damping settings, providing a balance between comfort and performance.
- Sway Bars: Upgrading to stiffer sway bars can reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability and cornering confidence.
- Shocks and Struts: High-performance shocks and struts can improve responsiveness and control, especially during aggressive driving.
- Control Arms: Upgraded control arms can enhance suspension geometry, improving alignment and handling characteristics.
Coilover Kits
Coilover kits are a popular choice for Miata enthusiasts. They provide adjustable ride height and damping, allowing drivers to fine-tune their suspension setup according to their preferences and driving style. Brands like BC Racing and Fortune Auto offer excellent options for the NA Miata.
Sway Bar Upgrades
Upgrading the sway bars can make a substantial difference in handling. Stiffer sway bars reduce body roll, allowing for sharper cornering and improved stability. Consider options from manufacturers like Racing Beat or Flyin’ Miata for quality sway bar upgrades.
Tire Upgrades
The right tires can dramatically affect the performance of your NA Miata. Here are some tire options to consider:
- Summer Tires: High-performance summer tires provide excellent grip and responsiveness, perfect for spirited driving.
- All-Season Tires: For those who drive in varying weather conditions, all-season tires offer a good balance of performance and versatility.
- Track Tires: If you plan to take your Miata to the track, consider dedicated track tires for maximum grip and performance.
Choosing the Right Tire Size
When upgrading tires, it’s essential to consider the correct size. A popular upgrade for the NA Miata is moving from the stock 185/60R14 to a wider 195/50R15 or 205/50R15 tire size. This change can improve grip and handling without compromising ride quality.
Combining Suspension and Tire Upgrades
For the best results, it’s crucial to combine suspension and tire upgrades. The right suspension setup will work in harmony with your tires, ensuring optimal performance. Here are some tips for achieving a balanced setup:
- Alignment: After making suspension changes, always get a professional alignment to ensure proper handling and tire wear.
- Testing: Take the time to test your Miata after each upgrade to understand how each component affects handling and performance.
- Progressive Upgrades: Consider upgrading components in stages rather than all at once to better assess the impact of each change.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension and tires on your NA Miata can significantly improve power delivery and handling. By investing in quality components and carefully considering your setup, you can transform your driving experience. Whether you’re on the track or enjoying a spirited drive on winding roads, the right upgrades will make your Miata more enjoyable and responsive.