[darkpuppet]

a stiffer spring shouldn't be the solution to bottoming out. that's just scary as it'll overwhelm any dampening of your dampers.

YOu really need to focus on getting a balanced kit. Springs can offer a lowered stance, and harder rate to combat roll, but the dampers have to be able to control the spring. You want to keep the car from crashing down, and keep it from bobbing back up.

a well balanced suspension should feel like it's using the travel wisely... the car will have harsher ride, because, let's face it.. YOU HAVE LESS TRAVEL - travel = plush.

believe it or not, I learned most of my suspension tech from R/C cars and mountainbiking... but the principles are the same.... enough spring to control the car, enough damper to control the spring, while maintaining responsiveness.

I'm quite happy with my SHM kit... people have their favourites out there, but I think my car's ride is a great compromise in terms of performance and streetability.

a 15 hour drive over permafrost-lifted roads.. with only minor neck fatigue..I wouldn't chance the same drive in meford's car!

I would love to get r comps on a bunch of different setups and see who pulls the best on the skid pad...

I honestly think a 2" drop on the focus is a bit much... but get harder dampers (or better yet, adjustable dampers) and dial in your ride... it'll always be hard, but you can stop it from crashing into the bumpstops (progressive rate dampers may be handy in this case).