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The BMW E90 M3 is a remarkable vehicle, but to truly harness its potential on the track, upgrading the suspension is essential. This article explores the various options available for bushings, springs, and shocks that can enhance your E90 M3’s performance on track days.
Understanding Suspension Upgrades
Suspension upgrades are crucial for improving handling, stability, and overall performance. The right upgrades can significantly reduce body roll and increase traction, allowing for faster lap times and a more enjoyable driving experience.
Bushings: The Foundation of Suspension
Upgrading bushings is one of the first steps in enhancing your E90 M3’s suspension. Stock rubber bushings can flex and degrade over time, leading to a loss of precision in handling.
- Polyurethane Bushings: These offer a stiffer alternative to rubber, providing better feedback and reducing flex.
- Solid Bushings: For the ultimate in performance, solid bushings eliminate all flex, but can increase noise and vibration.
Benefits of Upgrading Bushings
Upgrading to performance bushings can yield several benefits:
- Improved steering response
- Reduced body roll
- Increased durability
Springs: Lowering and Stiffening
Next in line are the springs. Upgrading the springs can lower the vehicle’s center of gravity and improve handling characteristics.
- Lowering Springs: These can provide a sportier stance and improved handling by lowering the ride height.
- Coilover Kits: Offering adjustable height and damping, coilovers provide the ultimate flexibility for track tuning.
Choosing the Right Springs
When selecting springs, consider the following:
- Intended use (track vs. daily driving)
- Desired ride height
- Spring rate for stiffness
Shocks: Controlling the Ride
Shocks play a vital role in controlling the suspension’s response to bumps and road imperfections. Upgrading shocks can enhance the overall feel of the vehicle.
- Adjustable Shocks: These allow for fine-tuning of damping settings to suit different track conditions.
- Performance Shocks: Designed to handle increased loads and provide better performance over stock options.
Key Considerations for Shocks
When upgrading shocks, keep in mind:
- Damping adjustability
- Compatibility with springs
- Overall ride quality
Combining Upgrades for Optimal Performance
For the best results, consider a holistic approach to suspension upgrades. Combining bushings, springs, and shocks can lead to a balanced setup that maximizes the E90 M3’s capabilities on the track.
- Start with bushings for improved precision.
- Choose springs that fit your desired ride height and performance goals.
- Finish with shocks that complement your spring choice and driving style.
Conclusion
Upgrading the suspension of your E90 M3 is a worthwhile investment for track enthusiasts. With the right combination of bushings, springs, and shocks, you can significantly enhance your vehicle’s performance, making every track day an exhilarating experience.