Honda S2000 Suspension Test Times And Results - Buttonwillow Raceway Configuration #13CW

Sector 6: Bus Stop
The track's high-speed portion begins with the Bus Stop. Kissing the relatively tall curbing through this sector really opens up the corners. A suspension's ability to soak up high-speed impacts while maintaining traction will contribute to higher average sector speeds. The exit of Bus Stop is critical as it leads onto the fastest part of the track. At these speeds, aero grip and balance start becoming a factor.

Sector 7: Talledega
The constant-radius, slight-camber sweeper highlights overall high-speed balance and a car's neutrality. Balancing front and rear downforce has a huge effect on how a car feels as aero grip makes a big contribution. Cars with a large rear wing only and staggered tire sizing will begin to push through the turn, limiting their cornering speed. Aerodynamic drag also becomes relevant in this Sector. The suspension should not be totally discounted through the long corner, though. The wrong combination of spring rate and rebound valving can cause the dampers to pack down. If this packing results in the shocks bottoming out, things can go bad really fast.

Sector 8: Magic Mountain
One of the highlights of Buttonwillow Raceway, Magic Mountain is the largest elevation change. The approach involves a triple-digit transition that lines the car up for the braking zone. Braking into the incline compresses the suspension and creates massive grip. However, the ground drops away at the apex. Insufficient rebound damping here will spring you right off the top.