Best Handling Mods for the Honda Civic Type R FL5
The Honda Civic Type R FL5 has proven handling performance, backed by its Nürburgring lap record of 7:44.88.... It already flaunts razor-sharp steering, and track-focused chassis but for enthusiasts looking to squeeze every drop of performance from this platform, there’s a few key FL5 handling mods that can make a dramatic difference.
Whether your goal is improved B-road handling, faster lap times at a track day, or better daily drivability, the right performance upgrades will elevate the Civic Type R FL5 from impressive to unbeatable.
With Spoon Sports developing parts for the FL5 through multiple racing series, and other top brands like Öhlins and KW in the mix, there’s no shortage of proven, motorsport-developed components that will transform how your car drives.
Suspension Upgrades
Honda Integra DE5 ADS Module
For UK Civic Type R FL5 owners, the reality is that our roads are far from perfect. Chances are, your FL5 isn’t solely a track weapon and you still need to manage a daily commute. The Adaptive Damping System (ADS) Module from the Honda Integra Type S (DE5) is a game-changing swap for those who want a more compliant ride on rough tarmac.
While the standard FL5 ADS module delivers a stiff, track-focused suspension feel, the DE5 module softens things just enough for daily use without sacrificing control. It’s a reversible modification, so you can swap back to OEM for competitive track sessions. Despite sounding counterintuitive, we've received great feedback from users, stating it enhances daily drivability, and still works seamlessly with the car’s drive mode settings.
Spoon Sports Progressive Lowering Springs
Lowering springs are a classic first step in any modification journey being low cost and very effective. The Spoon Sports Progressive Lowering Springs are among the best. Dropping ride height by 20mm, they lower the centre of gravity, reduce body roll, and improve grip and steering response.
They pair perfectly with the stock dampers, which are already high-quality, this combo gives you sharper handling without sacrificing ride quality, ideal for both road and track driving. However if you want to go the full nine yards opt for a full suspension kit.
Full Suspension Kits – The Ultimate Handling Upgrade
If you’re ready to go all-in, a full Civic Type R FL5 suspension kit from Spoon Sports, Öhlins, or KW will deliver results. The Spoon Sports kit has been developed through endurance racing, including the 25 Hours of Thunderhill, and it is made in collaboration with KW, blending race-bred durability with precision engineering.
These kits allow for complete adjustability in damping, ride height, and geometry, giving you the freedom to fine-tune your FL5 for different circuits or road conditions.
Chassis Stiffening Mods
Spoon Sports Rigid Subframe Collars
One of the most cost-effective FL5 handling upgrades, Spoon Sports Rigid Subframe Collars tighten the connection between the chassis and subframe, reducing flex and improving stability. It results in less steering correction over bumps, a more predictable response, and greater driver confidence when pushing the car.
Pairing Rigid Collars with other Civic Type R FL5 suspension mods maximises the benefit, giving you a more planted and precise feel whether on winding B-roads or at high speed on the circuit. Find out more on Rigid Collars here.
Front Stiff Plates and Anti-Roll Bars
Spoon Sports’ front stiff plate adds further chassis rigidity, which becomes essential when your FL5 has power upgrades or higher grip tyres. Combine this with Spoon Sports anti-roll bars, which are significantly stiffer than stock and two-way adjustable, and you get a finely tuned balance for either track or road use.
This level of chassis stiffening is especially beneficial for drivers who want to push their Civic Type R FL5 in competitive motorsport events. After all, most of these products were designed with one goal in mind... Winning races!
Brake Upgrades for the Civic Type R FL5
The FL5 comes with serious stopping power thanks to Brembo four-pot calipers, but upgrading pads is a smart move for both road and track use. The Dixcel Z-Type brake pads are a proven choice, with a strong bite from cold, wide temperature range, and consistent feedback.
They’re perfect for spirited daily driving and won’t fade under repeated hard stops on track. Try them once and you’ll never go back. But if you’re a die-hard Spoon fan, fortunately there are Spoon Sports street and circuit brake pads ready for you.
Wheel Upgrades
The factory 19-inch wheels on the FL5 are aggressive and utilise a square set-up. Moving to an 18-inch wheel with a chunkier tyre can improve ride comfort, increase tyre compliance and open the doors for tyre choices. A common choice when moving to 18-inch wheels is 9.5" wide wheel with an offset between 40 and 45 which gives you plenty of tyre choice even when lowered slightly. On the whole a 265/35 tyre is the most versatile choice when moving to an 18-inch wheels.
Opting for a lighter set of wheels will reduce unsprung weight which benefits acceleration and steering response, there's lots of options out there which will weigh in less than the OEM wheels. The OEM wheels weigh in at 12.1kg, whereas an 18-inch Enkei RPF1 will be around four kilos lighter per wheel. We offer a range of wheels from Enkei, Spoon, Mugen, RAYS that not only enhance performance but also allow you to customise your FL5’s appearance.
