Has anyone softened the ride of an s2k by tire or suspension changes? I'm not thinking of major changes to the car or a major reduction in ride firmness: just taking the edge off the harshness. The other day on I-69 north of Lansing, the ride felt like a flat-bottomed boat bouncing off waves in a chop.

Yup, I realize that this is counter to the many postings and threads that dial up the suspension for better handling. However, a solution might contribute positively to domestic harmony.

I considered and rejected a few ideas, including moving to a state with better roads or buying a Buick. Your thoughts would be appreciated.

And, yes, I'm also quite happy to suck it up and live with it.

Thanks.

 

Before people start flaming him, take into account that Michigan has the crappiest roads in the country.

 

1) are you sure the spring spacers were removed?

2) Some aftermarket shocks are less harsh than OEM.

3) Different tires can ride smoother but will be less responsive.

 

Put some 70 series tires on it!??!

 

Adding an X-brace will actually help your situation a bit. The car handles bumps, potholes, etc much better w/ it

 

These cars are a handful on bumpy roads.

If you dare mention that the suspension should be softened, you are going to ruffle the feathers of some of the hardcord rigid suspension types.

It almost becomes a macho thing.

The problem I have is that unless you are Michael Schumacher, you just can not drive this car at full speed on bumpy or uneven roads. I don't care how good a driver you are, you must back off the throttle when things get a little rough.

Hopefully they have addressed this issue for 2004 without comprising what the car is all about.

 

get koni yellow shocks and set them on full soft. whenever you want the extra performance, you can always adjust them by turning a simple knob.

 

The '02+ cars have stiffer springs and softer sway bars than the '00-'01 cars. You might want to try swapping out your parts for the softer ones (i.e. install the '00 springs if you have an '02, or the '02 sway bars if you have an '00). I don't know how significant the differences are, though, and of course this would do funny things to your handling at the limit.

I second RazorV3's comment about the Konis; consensus is that they're a bit softer than stock.

Last but not least, not a flame, but you may want to consider switching to a 350Z, RX-8, or something a bit softer. The S2000 is about the least spouse-friendly ride out there, and I'm not sure it's really possible to take much of the edge off.

Good luck!

Steve

 

Taller tires is the easiest way to soften the ride a bit, especially if your current tires are due to be replaced! But with taller tires you sacrifice your 50mph powerslides through the corners!

 

Taller tires with "touring" design will do the job - they have taller and softer sidewalls and tread. Something like a Pirelli 4000 for example.

Why not do what others (and me) do - have a cheap "beater" car or truck? My beater is a 1997 Outback, which is utterly reliable, goes everywhere, has a cushy ride, and over 8" of ground clearance. Soob builds a great car, very well made. We also have a 1990 Camry (indestructible 4 banger) and a '95 Toyota small truck, which has never had the oil changed.

So in the other garage is a 1995 NSX-T, a 2003 SVT Cobra, and soon a 2004 S2000. Those cars are seldom seen - I like the fact that the neighbors (in their Navigator'd, Lexus'd, Mercedes'd glory look at us funny).