Wheel Spotlight: 19" Spoon SW388 on the Honda Civic Type-R FL5
Few wheels carry the motorsport pedigree of the Spoon SW388. Developed through Spoon Sports' deep involvement in Honda racing, the SW388 is built with a singular focus: maximum performance with minimal weight.
Today we're spotlighting one of the most desirable specifications for modern Honda performance platforms:
This spec is particularly well suited for the Honda Civic Type-R FL5 and Acura Integra Type-S, delivering the perfect blend of factory-like fitment, lightweight performance, and timeless motorsport aesthetics.
Take a look at our customer's Civic Type-R FL5, giving you a clear look at how this setup transforms the car's stance and character.
What Makes the Spoon SW388 Special?
The SW388 is not just another aftermarket wheel. It represents Spoon Sports' decades of experience building some of the most respected Honda race cars in the world.
Originally developed for Super Taikyu endurance racing, the SW388 was designed with durability and lightweight performance as its primary goals.
Key characteristics include:
- Forged monoblock aluminum construction
- Extremely lightweight design
- Motorsport-proven strength
- Timeless five-spoke racing design
The result is a wheel that improves both performance and visual impact, without compromising the precision engineering Honda enthusiasts expect.
Why Run 19" Wheels on the Civic Type-R?
Most aftermarket wheel setups for the Civic Type-R FL5 gravitate toward 18-inch wheels. While this has its advantages—particularly for track tire availability—there are strong reasons many enthusiasts choose to retain the factory 19-inch diameter.
1. Maintaining the FL5's Intended Design
Honda designed the FL5 around a 19-inch wheel and tire package from the factory.
Running a 19" wheel like the Spoon SW388 preserves:
- Factory brake clearance
- OEM speedometer accuracy
- The intended visual proportions of the car
The result is a setup that feels OEM+ rather than downsized.
2. Improved Steering Precision
Lower-profile tires on 19" wheels provide:
- Sharper steering response
- More immediate turn-in
- Reduced sidewall flex
For spirited driving and canyon runs, this translates into a more direct connection between driver and road.
3. Perfect Fitment for the FL5 Platform
The 19x9.5 +45 specification is widely regarded as one of the best performance fitments for the FL5 and Integra Type-S.
Benefits include:
- Excellent brake clearance for the massive Brembo setup
- Aggressive yet clean stance
- Compatibility with high-performance tire sizes such as 265/30R19
It fills out the fenders nicely while maintaining a functional performance fitment.
Spoon SW388 Fitment: Civic Type-R FL5 & Acura Integra Type-S
The 5x120 bolt pattern means this wheel fits Honda's newest high-performance platforms:
Compatible Vehicles
- Honda Civic Type-R (FL5)
- Acura Integra Type-S (DE5)
Both cars share a similar chassis architecture, making this spec ideal for enthusiasts building a balanced street and track setup.
Depending on tire size and suspension setup, minor alignment adjustments may be recommended to achieve the optimal stance.
The Iconic Spoon SW388 Design
The SW388's design is instantly recognizable among Honda enthusiasts.
Its five-spoke layout balances strength and weight savings while maintaining excellent brake clearance. The shape of the spokes also helps distribute loads effectively during hard cornering and braking.
Visually, the SW388 strikes a rare balance between:
- Motorsport function
- Timeless simplicity
- Modern aggressive fitment
On the Civic Type-R FL5, the result is a wheel that feels perfectly at home—almost as if it could have come from the factory.
Finish: Black
The Black finish is the most understated and motorsport-focused option in the SW388 lineup.
Key characteristics:
- Deep, uniform black tone
- Satin finish that highlights the forged spoke design
- Clean contrast against most Civic Type-R colors
On the FL5 specifically, black wheels help accentuate the car's aggressive aero elements and body lines while maintaining a purposeful performance aesthetic.
Lightweight Performance Benefits
Reducing unsprung weight is one of the most effective ways to improve a performance car's driving dynamics. The 19" SW388 wheel weighs in at 18.29 lbs, coming in at roughly 8.3 lbs per corner lighter than the factory FL5 wheel's approximate weight of 26.60 lbs. This is significant.
The Spoon SW388's lightweight forged construction contributes to:
- Faster steering response
- Improved suspension compliance
- Reduced rotational mass
- Better acceleration and braking feel
For a car like the FL5 Type-R, which is already engineered for precision handling, the benefits are immediately noticeable.
Why Enthusiasts Choose Spoon Wheels
Spoon Sports has built its reputation by focusing on performance first.
Every component they develop is designed to enhance how a Honda performs on the track and on the road. The SW388 perfectly reflects that philosophy.
For many Honda enthusiasts, running Spoon parts is about more than aesthetics—it's about aligning with a brand that has spent decades refining the platform.
Final Thoughts
The Spoon SW388 19x9.5 +45 (5x120) is one of the most compelling wheel choices for the Civic Type-R FL5 and Acura Integra Type-S.
It offers:
- Lightweight forged construction
- Perfect performance-oriented fitment
- Proven motorsport pedigree
- A design that has stood the test of time
For drivers who want a wheel that enhances both the performance and presence of their Type-R, the SW388 remains one of the best options available.
Shop Spoon SW388 (5x120)
We currently offer the Spoon SW388 in Black, size 18x9.5 +40 (5x120) or 19x9.5 +45 (5x120) sold as sets of four wheels.
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