Rep Power: 0

Hi everyone,

I hope you’re all doing well! I’m excited to reach out to the community because I’ve been a proud owner of a 1999 EK4 Civic 3-door since 2007, and I’m still in love with this car. About two years ago, I completed a full restoration and upgrade of my B16A2 engine, and now I’m looking to upgrade my suspension setup from scratch.

Current Setup:

Right now, I’m running Bilstein B8 shocks with H&R Sport Pink springs (unfortunately, these springs have been discontinued, and I haven’t been able to find their exact spring rate in order to be more specific about their specs). My ride height is currently at 320mm from the center of the wheel to the fender. Concerning that, my mechanic mentioned that although the center of gravity is low, this height causes the suspension to work incorrectly due to limited travel. This has made daily driving on bumpy roads a bit concerning. It is worth mentioning that with the above setup I already run 210.000km!

What I’m Looking For:

I really like the stiffness of my current setup and want to maintain that, if not go even stiffer. I’m not looking for a dedicated track car feel, but I do want a noticeable increase in stiffness. Additionally, I’m aiming for sharp turn-in response and the ability to adjust the ride height, ideally raising it to around 345mm without losing that planted feeling. Coilovers seem to be the best route for this.

Current Options:

I’m currently considering:

• KW Variant 2

• Cusco Street Zero A

• Fortune Auto 500

• Tein Flex Z

Alternatively, I could go with brand new Bilstein B8s along with Spoon Sports springs to increase the height a bit. This last option feels more conservative, as it keeps me close to the setup I already know, minimizing the risk of spending a lot and potentially not liking the new choice.

Seeking Your Input:

I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience with the Bilstein and H&R combo. Which of the coilovers I mentioned might be closest to that setup? Additionally, if you’ve tried at least two of the options I’m considering, I’d appreciate your opinions based on your prior experiences. I understand that suspension choices are very personal, but please keep my needs in mind as you share your insights.

Closing Thoughts:

Before I wrap up, I want to mention that alongside whatever coilovers I choose, I plan to replace all of my bushings with new Hardrace hardened rubber ones. I’ll also be adding a camber kit front and rear, a rear toe arm kit, and a 19mm rear sway bar with an ASR brace. So, this suspension upgrade will be significant and definitely on the stiffer side.

Apologies for the lengthy message! I really appreciate any feedback and opinions you can share.

Thanks in advance!

 
Rep Power: 126

Cost aside, I'm probably going Tein regardless, if not KW. I understand you're after stiffness but there's a difference between responsive and violently harsh.

 
Rep Power: 0

Thank you for your quick response dear FRSam. Cost is not an issue (at reasonable levels of course). All of the above suggestions are within budget. I've heard really nice reviews about the K&Ws. As for their constitution quality and materials I think they are by far in the premium category comparing the others of my list.

My main concern about these is that they have progressive spring. Many people said that they are soft and I don't want slow response or wobble effect. I totally agree with you on: "there's a difference between responsive and violently harsh" but the case here is that I don't want to go softer than my current setup.Did you personally ever had KW or Tein? If yes I would appreciate if you describe me the sense of the first turn in or the general behaviour both at low speeds and at high speeds as well.

 
Rep Power: 244

different cars so not an apples to apples.

I had Flex Z on my Fit they are very comfortable and more on the softer side.

I had KW’s on 01 civic and they are definitely more “track” oriented. Handled great but we’re on the rougher side for daily.

I think the Prelude has k2’s or k sport and they ride rough.