The Streets of Willow Springs circuit in counterclockwise pre-repave configuration represents a historical double-variant combining reversed direction with original surface before the comprehensive 2025 renovation transformed California's technical street-emulation course. Running CCW on the pre-September 2025 asphalt, this configuration combined directional reversal with weathered surface characteristics accumulated across decades of Mojave Desert temperature extremes. The counterclockwise flow completely altered familiar corner approaches from standard clockwise operation, while the original surface provided authentic worn public road characteristics with bumps and undulations that added character but reduced ultimate grip compared to fresh asphalt.

Operating counterclockwise on the pre-repave surface created a unique double-challenge for drivers accustomed to Streets' clockwise flow on newer pavement. The reversed direction transformed braking reference points and apex sighting while navigating the 1.6-1.8 mile configuration, with the aged surface adding unpredictability through variable grip zones that shifted throughout sessions. The pre-2025 layout included cross-over connections linking the straight to Turns 4 and 6, infrastructure eliminated during the 2025 reconstruction that added three new chicanes. Desert heat frequently pushed the old asphalt above 60C in summer, causing the weathered surface to become greasy and unpredictable, while winter sessions offered cold-grip challenges. This CCW pre-repave configuration served as ultimate preparation for drivers developing skills transferable to variable-surface street driving and autocross events.