what's the difference between the regular typer pistons and the spoon balanced ones? which piston would be better for the B16: the ITR or CTR piston?

 

The Spoon will cost more. Whether it's a 'balanced' piston or not, is really a moot point, as it's the entire rotating assembly which needs to be balanced. What I mean to say is, the: piston, wrist pin, snap rings, rings, rod, etc... on cylinder #1 will weigh the same as cylinder #2. At least that's my interpretation of it... someone can add to or correct me if I'm wrong.

Best piston... depends what you want to do. Different metallurgies & coatings are better suited to different applications. I'd say there's a whole world of better pistons out there, other than OEM Honda.