Featured image: My cockpit (right) and my son’s Overpower kids rig (left)
Sim racing rigs (or “sim racing cockpits” – the chassis upon which you mount all of your racing simulator gear) come in many shapes and sizes, with a huge variety of choices in terms of build quality, strength, rigidity, material and of course, price.
Whether you’re searching for your first sim racing cockpit or upgrading your racing simulator setup, this guide covers everything from basic rigs to professional-grade sim racing frames. I’ve tested these setups in my home sim room (office!), putting each racing sim through intense testing to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.
It is possible to buy a sim racing rig as a separate unit or as part of a cockpit bundle package with a seat, and plenty of other accessories too.
In today’s article, I’m looking at what to consider for your first purchase or next upgrade.
In this updated 2024 guide, I’ve built and tested 12 different racing cockpits. For each rig, I’ve assessed:
- Overall value for money
- Frame rigidity with direct drive wheels
- Pedal deck stability under heavy braking
- Build quality and materials
- Ease of adjustment and setup
Quick Navigation
Premium Rigs (£900+)
Mid-Range Rigs (£500-£900)
- Trak Racer TR160 – £799/$958
- Sim-Lab GT1 Pro – £599/$649
- ASR 4 – £649/$799
- Rock Solid Rigs RSR-21 – £590/$744
Value Rigs (Under £500)
Price and Feature Comparison
Quick Recommendations for 2024:
🏆 Best Overall Sim Racing Cockpit: Sim Lab GT1 Evo. A Perfect balance of stability, adjustability and value at £449.
💪 Most Rigid Setup: Sim-Lab P1-X Pro. The P1-X Pro feels rock solid, with no discernible flex under high torque loads.
💰 Best Value Racing Rig: RCP Cockpit Sport. A Solid 8020 build quality at a very wallet-friendly price point.
When I’m testing, I usually install the Simucube and occasionally, my Fanatec CSL DD. I do however also have a Moza R3, R5 and R12 to choose from. If you’re looking for direct drive wheel recommendations, take a look at my buyer’s guide.
Complete Sim Racing Cockpit Comparison 2024
I put this guide together to help people choose the right sim racing rig for them. It has got pretty long over teh years! On that note, I’ve summarised the actual cockpits in the table below. You can jump straight to an outline (and review link) of the product or read on to learn more about the anatomy of a sim racing cockpit. If you’re not sure where to start, try our beginner’s guide to sim racing first.
Sim Lab P1-X Pro | The Sim Lab P1-X Pro is a top-tier sim racing cockpit, found in our review to be strong in every way you need. Overall, it’s of exceptional rigidity and build quality. The nice thing about the P1-X Pro is the easy assembly process. There are custom brackets and supports a wide range of hardware. Priced at €999, it’s an investment in a professional-grade setup that will last for years. |
Sim Lab GT1 Evo | The Sim Lab GT1 Evo is a beginner option, offering excellent value for money at €449. It provides a sturdy aluminum profile construction and compatibility with most of sim racing gear. It’s an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking for good starting point for a reliable, upgradeable rig without breaking the bank. |
Trak Racer TR160 | The Trak Racer TR160 is a robust, motion-ready cockpit priced at $958. It features a thick-walled aluminum profile and over 30 add-on accessories for customisation. Its solid construction makes it suitable for high-torque wheels and load cell pedals, offering flexibility for serious sim racers with a nice overall aesthetic. |
RCP Cockpit Sport | The RCP Cockpit Sport offers great value at $674, including a seat. It’s an 8020 aluminum profile rig compatible with various sim racing hardware. This cockpit is an excellent choice for beginners or those on a budget, providing a solid foundation for future upgrades. |
GT1 Pro | The GT1 Pro, priced at $649, is an evolution of the popular GT1 Evo. It features improved structural integrity with bespoke alloy plates and a more polished look. This rig offers a balance between the entry-level GT1 Evo and the high-end P1-X Pro, suitable for serious enthusiasts. |
ASR 4 | The ASR 4 from Advanced Sim Racing is a high-end aluminum cockpit priced at $799.99. It features a stylish design with customisable paint options. This rig is ideal for enthusiasts who want a premium look, zero-flex sim experience. |
ASR Pro | The ASR Pro, priced at $1,649.99, is a top-tier offering from Advanced Sim Racing. It boasts exceptional stability and adjustability, supporting the most powerful direct drive wheels and hydraulic pedals. This rig is perfect for sim racers who demand the absolute best in terms of rigidity and customization. |
PSR3 | The PSR3 by PRO SIMRIG, priced at $541.44, offers impressive rigidity at a competitive price point. It features ultra-heavy-duty profiles and is designed to handle high-torque wheels. This rig is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability. |
RSR-21 | The RSR-21 from Rock Solid Rigs, priced at $744.46, is a unique plywood-based rig that offers exceptional stiffness. Developed by an F1 composites engineer, it features tool-free adjustability and wide compatibility. This innovative design is perfect for those seeking a different approach to rig construction. |
Alpine Racing TRX | The Alpine Racing TRX by Trak Racer, priced at $999, is a commercial-grade simulator co-developed with the Alpine F1 Team. It features a sturdy 2″ round steel frame and can handle up to 180kg of braking force. This rig is ideal for those seeking a professional-level setup with F1 pedigree. |
OP Golden White | The OP Golden White Bundle from Overpower.gg is a premium, all-in-one sim racing package. Built with high-quality plywood, it offers exceptional ergonomics and stability. This rig is perfect for those who want a complete, stylish setup with electric pedal adjustment and monitor mount included. |
Quick note: If you’re a beginner
My article assumes that you’re building a sim racing cockpit from scratch (and if that’s the case, do check out my guides to wheels, direct drive wheelbases, seats and pedals!). But, if you’re looking for something to get started with; a “bundle” might be what you’re looking for. If that’s the case; take a look at the “READY2RACE” CSL DD McLaren Elite Bundle from Fanatec:
Combine this with a good starter sim racing PC and either, the SimLab GT1 Evo ($449.00) or the RCP Cockpit Sport + Racing Seat. It’s possible to build a complete sim racing setup for around $1200, if you already own a gaming PC.
I’ve been testing sim racing equipment for over 5 years now, which includes building and perfecting numerous cockpit setups for myself and for friends. In my list below I’ve chosen rigs I’ve tested, built and owned. The main points to be aware of for me is always budget, compatibility and accessory availability. Aesthetics are somewhat important, but for the most part, you need to find a cockpit that is affordable, stiff and can support your equipment as you upgrade over the years.
Here are the best cockpits I’ve selected for this guide – scroll down to the reviews or keep reading to learn more about details that make a good sim racing cockpit.
What features make a good sim rig?
When you pick your seat and frame, keep in mind the available space you have, how powerful your equipment is, and how much you want to spend.
When testing racing simulator frames, I focus on these key points:
- Frame Stability:
– No noticeable flex under heavy braking
– Stable mounting points for direct drive wheels
– Solid construction that won’t shake or move during racing - Setup Flexibility:
– Easy height and reach adjustments
– Compatible with most racing seats
– Space for add-ons like shifters and handbrakes - Build Quality:
– Strong mounting points and brackets
– Quality nuts and bolts that won’t work themselves loose with vibration
– Clean welds or solid profile connections
Above all other things, rigidity is crucial. Higher-end sim racing wheelbases and pedals tend to create far higher forces (in some cases up to 30nm torque on the steering wheel and between 25 to 120kgs on the pedals). This can create what we all refer to as flex, the unintended movement of the rig itself under duress.
What is flex in a sim racing rig?
Flex takes away the mechanical feeling of the equipment and the feedback you get in return. At worst, you can see it happening; most obviously on the pedal base.
It’s the unintended movement of an item that should be firmly fixed. Some materials will bend or twist under pressure – this is flex and to be avoided wherever possible.
If you’re not sure what flex looks like, check out this video I made while recording a how-to heel and toe article. Note the movement of the pedal base as I apply the brakes:
The flex of this pedal base (attached to an old RSEAT RS1 cockpit) is around 4 degrees at a 25kg brake force. The video demonstrates the problem; suffice it to say I upgraded my rig shortly after upgrading the pedals.
The quality of your rig will mean less flex, which is a requirement for high-load pedals and high torque wheelbase.
That’s because Sprint sim pedals can handle more load than the pedal base on this rig is designed for which, is why it’s flexing a little.
But if I were using Thrustmaster or Logitech pedals, there’d be no flex at all because the brake force would be perhaps a fifth of the brake forces required for the Sprints.
Without wanting to dwell too much on flex in sim racing cockpits, you do need to consider if you’re going to upgrade your pedals or wheelbase.
If the answer is yes, you need to decide if you’ll want to upgrade the rig at the same time, or just buy the stiffer rig now and save the hassle later on. You’ll need a stiffer pedal plate if you’re adding higher-end sim racing pedals to your setup. It’s an awful lot of work stripping down a fully built sim rig and it’s something I prefer to avoid.
Generally, the more expensive the seat and the cockpit, the sturdier they will be, allowing for more powerful wheels and pedals.
While I demonstrated the issues that high brake forces can create, it’s the same for your wheelbase mounting too.
Cockpit material choice
If you’re considering using a direct drive wheelbase and your rig is not robust enough to handle the forces that will be exerted upon it by the wheelbase, the frame that supports the wheelbase will flex too.
The cheapest material to prevent flex, and for extendibility, is extruded “8020” profile aluminium, a square, boxy-looking material.
While profile might not look as pretty to the untrained eye, the experienced sim racer will immediately go for a rig like the Sim Labs and so on (all featured below). If you’re serious about sim racing and you’d like to progress over a long period of time an extruded 8020 aluminium rig is the way to go.
Aluminium isn’t the only material to build a sim rig, it’s just the most popular. There are now rigs made from plywood that demonstrate less flex than profile rigs; which we’ll also be looking at in this buyer’s guide.
Choosing Your Frame Material
8020 Aluminium Profile
✓ Outstanding strength-to-weight ratio
✓ Infinite adjustability
✓ Easy to modify and upgrade
✗ Can look industrial
Steel Tube
✓ Clean, professional look
✓ Often cheaper than profile
✓ Good for basic setups
✗ Limited adjustment options
Premium Plywood (RSR-21/OP)
✓ Surprisingly rigid
✓ Unique, premium look
✓ Environmentally friendly
✗ Fewer mounting options
The buying process
When you’re buying, some choices are sold as a seat and rig combo, while others require that you purchase the seat separately, and thus the seat is not included in the listed price. The other thing to take into account is the wheel deck and what, if any, monitor stands you’d like included.
Wheel deck options take into account how you’re planning to mount your wheelbase. The CSL-DD (for example) is side mounting, whereas MiGE-based wheelbases (such as the Simucube) are front mounting.
Finally, my recommendations are the three offerings from Sim-Lab and the very impressive offering from RCP. For lower budgets, it’s still better to go with an 8020-style extruded Aluminum chassis if you possibly can.
At a higher price, Advanced Sim Racing’s rigs are all very special indeed – with customisable paint jobs, they look pretty nice.
Sim Lab P1-X Pro
Sim Lab P1-X Pro Quick Facts:
- The custom bracket system helps the build time
- Build Time: 1.5-2 hours (thanks to improved bracket design and bag labelling)
- Lightweight yet stiffer profile design
- Zero measurable flex under maximum loads
- Highly adjustable pedal plate for a raised leg (F1 style)
- Prices starts at £742.00/$849.00
Buy from your nearest distributor.
Sim-Lab’s P1X PRO Cockpit is the newest arrival at SIMRACINGCOCKPIT HQ, I’ve just this week (as of September 7th 2024) completed the assembly of what will become our “test rig” where I test and evaluate all of our sim racing components. It was, by some, touted as an “evolution” over its predecessors, but that would be an understatement!
The rig itself was very easy to assemble. Each bag of bolts, nuts, washers and spacers is clearly labelled and, while the cockpit arrives in multiple boxes, those boxes are labelled clearly too.
Sim-lab has made a significant investment in its manufacturing process. The rig is assembled using a lighter-weight profile (although this takes nothing from its rigidity) and, a series of custom brackets for the wheel deck, pedal base and handbrake stand.
The cockpit is spacious and sits on raised legs, although my preference is always to use high-quality castors, as moving a fully built rig around the room isn’t particularly easy!
The standard wheel mounting solution on the P1X-PRO Cockpit is forward-facing (a Front Mount for Simucube style direct drive wheelbase); however, there are optional mounts for the P1-X PRO, a wheel deck or side mounts – which covers every flavour of direct drive wheel on the market at the moment.
There are several monitor mount options, both supplied with my favourite Vario VESA mount.
All peripherals added to the P1X Pro Cockpit can be adjusted and positioned to your preference, allowing you to find the most suitable driving position possible. There is an option to supply the rig with a seat including a Speed 1 Black, Sparco Circuit 11or a Sparco Grid.
It’s important to note that the seat brackets and Sparco seat slider are included with the seat option and won’t come with the “barebones” cockpit.
For a complete list of compatible sim racing hardware, and to configure your order, head to Sim-Lab here.
Sim Lab GT1 Evo
Sim Lab GT1 Evo Quick Facts:
- The pre-drilled mounting points speed up initial setup
- Build Time: 2-3 hours (with clear instruction manual)
- Strong 4080 profile construction withstands 25Nm torque at the wheelbase
- Minimal flex even with load cell pedals up to 80kg
- Wide-range pedal plate adjustment from GT to F1 position
- Price starts at £449.00/$449.00
Buy from your nearest distributor.
This is one of my favourites: replicating a GT car driving position, the less expensive sibling of the P1-X, the GT1 Evo is a very popular, stiff aluminium profile hybrid sim chassis.
I recommend this rig if you’re building a “high-end” rig on a tight budget:
The wheelbase mount is compatible with any base-mounted wheel including Thrustmaster, Logitec, and Fanatec devices.
The glossy, black powder-coated finish looks the part and the pre-drilled pedal base will easily accommodate all known pedal manufacturers, Heusinkveld, Logitech, Thrustmaster, SimTrecs or Fanatec pedals.
This is a brilliant starter rig on a very reasonable budget and is one of my top recommendations as a solid base to forge a promising sim racing career. That’s mostly because you probably won’t need to replace it with higher-torque equipment!
If you want to mount a Simucube 2 Pro or other front-mounting direct drive wheels, the attachments are available via Simlab. There’s also an upgrade kit available to turn the GT1 into a P1-X.
Trak Racer TR160 Mk4
Trak Racer TR160 Mk4 Quick Facts:
- The thick-walled aluminium profile is Motion Ready certified
- Build Time: 2.5-3 hours (detailed video guides available)
- 160x40mm profile offers high rigidity for direct-drive wheels
- Reinforced pedal plate handles up to 150kg brake force
- Quick-adjust wheel deck suits GT through to F1 positions
- Price starts at £799.00/$958.00
- Motion version is available here
Buy from your nearest distributor.
The TR160 MK4 Racing Simulator Cockpit, produced by Trak Racer, is a motion-ready racing cockpit designed for high-end simulation enthusiasts.
As an upgraded version of its predecessor, the Trak Racer TR160, the TR160 MK4 looks good with the rigid structure, using thicker-walled aluminium profile and sturdy brackets to give a bit of an industrial feel to the design. It’s nicely finished in black, too.
Additionally, the Trak Racer / TR160 “ecosystem” is versatile, offering over 30 add-on accessories to customise your experience. Notably, the base structure is constructed from a 160 × 40mm aluminium T-Slot extruded profile.
The cockpit also has broad compatibility with all major pedal, seat and wheelbase manufacturers (as you can see from the drill points in the pedal base picture below).
Options for this Trak Racer rig include varying wheel mounts, pedal mounting kits, and seat brackets, accommodating both racing-style bucket seats and standard office chairs.
Additionally, users can opt for a Trak Racer seat, designed for long-duration comfort, and integrate a monitor stand for enhanced immersion. The simulator’s pedal mounts are specially designed for flexibility, allowing for adjustments in position, height, and angle.
Each purchase of the TR160 MK4 comes with a selection of essential components, including a wheel mount, pedal mount, universal Gen 2 shifter mount, and oversized shifter support.
Additional items provided are rubber feet for floor protection, cable ties, coloured strips, and all necessary mounting screws, brackets, and fixtures.
An assembly tool kit and premium seat slider rails are also part of the package. The main chassis and steering wheel uprights are constructed from 8-slot 160 x 40mm profiles, underscoring the simulator’s robust build.
As it happens I also own the universal triple monitor mount from Trak Racer, which is covered on my monitor mounts page.
RCP Cockpit Sport + Racing Seat
RCP Cockpit Sport Quick Facts:
- The included seat makes this the best value package in our guide
- Build Time: 2-2.5 hours (straightforward assembly instructions)
- 8020 profile construction handles direct drive wheels with ease
- Sturdy pedal mounting rails for load cell brake compatibility
- Good adjustment range for most driving positions
- Price starts at £549.00/$674.00 (with seat)
Buy from your nearest distributor.
If you want to start sim racing on a very low budget, but get the stiffness you’ve read about, and, have scope for upgrades, the RCP Cockpit Sport from Racing Cockpits is a solid choice.
It’s a sturdy, 8020 extruded aluminium profile rig with Fanatec compatible pedal base, wheelbase mount, and shifter rails. The RCP Cockpit Sport is priced at around $674.00 included with your choice of seat.
For a beginner setup, I think this is a very good deal.
RCP also offers a series of upgrades for this rig. You could grab a stiffer Fanatec DD2 side mount or if you’re a Simucube owner there’s a Simucube front mount bracket available too. They also have a range of monitor mounts for single or triple-monitor setups.
Also on offer from RCP, the Cockpit Pro is a nice option. If you’re looking for something at a slightly more professional level than the RCP Sport, we think for a sale price of $795.00, this 8020 profile rig is a really good deal.
Sim-Lab GT1 Pro
Sim-Lab GT1 Pro Quick Facts:
- The custom alloy plates replace traditional corner brackets – Sim-Lab has a distinctive look
- Build Time: 2-2.5 hours (improved build process over GT1 Evo)
- Bespoke 7mm wheel plate adds extra stiffness over standard GT1
- Single-piece pedal plate reduces flex compared to GT1 Evo
- Tool-less adjustment design for quick position changes
- Price starts at £599.00/$649.00
Buy from your nearest distributor.
Sim-Lab’s GT1 Pro is an evolution of the classic GT1 Evo. It builds on the strengths of the GT1 Evo while featuring several improvements that improve the look and feel of the cockpit overall. It’s priced at $649/€599, sitting it in the mid-range between the GT1 Evo and the P1X Pro.
One of the most notable upgrades from the GT1 Evo is that Sim-Lab has replaced corner brackets with bespoke alloy plates. There’s an obvious focus on structural integrity to reduce any flex that might be present in the Evo design.
By using more alloy plating for assembly, Sim-Lab has made the build process easier (and quicker!). The GT1 Pro also features a more unique, polished look.
Specifications:
- Profile: 4080 aluminium profile (40×80 mm).
- Seat Rails and Pedal Deck: 4040 aluminium profile (40×40 mm).
- Weight: Less than 50 kg with a light bucket seat attached.
- Joinery: Uses bespoke alloy plates instead of traditional corner brackets for increased rigidity.
- Wheel Plate: 7 mm thick aluminium, ensuring maximum rigidity.
- Mounting Options: Pre-drilled to fit most Thrustmaster, Logitech, and Fanatec wheels.
- Footprint: Compact dimensions of 135 cm x 68 cm
My view is that this is a significant enough improvement over the GT1 Evo to be an interesting option, but I would dig out the extra cash to go for the P1X Pro.
Advanced Sim Racing ASR 4
Advanced Sim Racing ASR 4 Quick Facts:
- The powder-coated finish looks great
- Build Time: 2.5-3 hours (includes custom paint finishing)
- 4.5″ thick aluminium base provides rock-solid foundation
- Extra-thick pedal plate handles hydraulic brake systems
- Multiple wheel mount options (front, side, or bottom)
- Price starts at £649.00/$799.99
Buy from your nearest distributor.
The ASR 4 is a high-end aluminium sim racing cockpit that ensures maximum rigidity for your powerful sim racing hardware.
The rig is manufactured by Advanced Sim Racing, North America’s fastest-growing racing simulation chassis manufacturer and digital motorsport equipment retailer. They serve the US, Canada and do global shipping on most items except seats.
Thanks to its top-grade 4.5″ alloy aluminium base and reinforced steering column, the ASR 4 has no weak points in its design, meaning it provides optimal performance with zero flex, even when using the most potent steering wheels and pedal sets on the market.
And look at that finish! I really like that deep lustre – this will look awesome with some RGB lighting to compliment your sim racing setup! You can choose custom colours with ASR – they’re pretty open to whatever you can think of!
The ASR 4’s various adjustability options allow for several wheel and pedal mounting variations. As for steering wheels, you can select between a standard (bottom mounting) deck, side mounting, or front mounting, while you can choose between a steel plate or aluminium deck and heel rest for your pedals. You can check hardware compatibility with the ASR 4 here.
The compatibility list includes Simucube 2 Sport, Pro and Ultimate in the front mount option. The pedal plate is compatible with the Asetek and Heusinkveld Sprint and Ultimate+ pedals, the Simtrecs ProPedal GT, and more.
It’s easier just to list what the rig isn’t currently compatible with: the Logitech G29 pedal set or the Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3. Fair enough.
This cockpit is available in classic anodized silver or optional powder-coated infinite black, which improves scratch protection and adds a layer of luxury to the already head-turning design. Nice work, Advanced Sim Racing!
Advanced Sim Racing ASR Pro
Advanced Sim Racing ASR Pro Quick Facts:
- The 6″ reinforced aluminium base is flight-sim compatible
- Build Time: 3-3.5 hours (comprehensive setup with custom finish)
- Enhanced wheel deck swaps from GT to NASCAR style in seconds
- Pedal deck design eliminates flex even with hydraulic pedals
- Custom paint options for a personalised high-end look
- Price starts at £1,349.00/$1,649.99
Buy from your nearest distributor.
The ASR PRO Sim Racing Rig is designed for stability, rigidity, and adjustability. Ideal for enthusiasts who demand a zero-flex experience, the rig is compatible with DD wheelbases with over 30nm of torque and industry-leading hydraulic pedals. It features an easily adjustable wheel deck and can accommodate a shift from a D-Shaped GT-style racing wheel to a 15″ NASCAR deep dish wheel in mere seconds.
The rig is constructed with a high-grade aluminium profile for excellent stability and thick steel plates for extra rigidity. Its innovative design allows a quick switch from a sim racing wheelbase to a flight sim yoke, so if you’re into flight simulation too; this is becoming a temptation harder and harder to ignore!
The ASR PRO also provides a pedal tray and heel rest allowing racers to find their optimal pedal position swiftly. The 6″ aluminium base and seat mounting enables seat adjustments, making it comfortable for both short and long sim racing sessions. The chassis is suitable for users up to 6’6″ (1.98m).
The specifications of the rig are comprehensive, with the base length measuring 50″, and the maximum length of the chassis being 56″. The full product width, including support feet, is 29″. Other dimensions detail the heights at different parts of the rig.
The ASR PRO kit comes with multiple aluminium profiles, front and back plates, corner gussets and plastic caps, an assortment of screws and T-nuts, end caps, pushpins, and rubber feet. You can choose between various wheel deck and pedal support options depending on your preference.
In terms of compatibility, the ASR PRO supports an extensive range of products from manufacturers such as Logitech, Thrustmaster, Fanatec, Simagic, AccuForce, and many more. Pedal compatibility is also impressive, working with pedal sets from Heusinkveld, Simtrecs, Sim Coaches, and RaceWerks, among others. However, it is not compatible with the Logitech G29 pedal set or the Fanatec ClubSport Pedals V3.
Pro Sim Rig: PSR3
Pro Sim Rig PSR3 Quick Facts:
- The ultra-thick profile walls set this chassis apart
- Build Time: 2-3 hours (straightforward profile assembly)
- Heavy-duty design handles medium-torque direct drive wheels
- Direct profile pedal mounting eliminates the need for a pedal plate
- Braced side mount included as standard
- Price starts at £429.00/$541.44
Buy from your nearest distributor.
The PSR3 by PRO SIMRIG is a remarkable feat in a nice low-budget sim rig design.
At first glance, it’s evident that this is no ordinary setup. It has bags of rigidity, making it upgrade-friendly. This is not just any budget rig; it’s crafted with ultra-heavy-duty profiles, boasting significantly thicker side walls than many of its peers.
This ensures that the rig not only looks sturdy but also performs with unmatched stability. We like it, and it comes via UK supplier RaceAnywhere.
In its design, there’s an evident emphasis on quality and functionality. The steering section, with its overlapping uprights, ensures that the wheel deck remains firmly anchored.
Furthermore, the pedal section is a testament to precision engineering. Recognizing that many sim racers prefer a robust brake setup, the PSR3 pedal design is designed with the material thickness to provide unparalleled stiffness, something often compromised in other rigs. You mount directly to the aluminium profile, which I’ve been doing for years – it’s easier and far less complicated than accommodating a pedal plate.
An added advantage to the PSR3 is the inclusion of a braced side mount as standard, reinforcing the idea that “overlap equals strength”. This design reduces any lateral movement, especially when additional accessories like shifters or handbrakes are in use. To ensure that every user finds their sweet spot, there’s a generous 80mm range of adjustment for the side mount, adjustable in minute 1mm increments.
Lastly, the PSR3 is future-ready. It’s crafted keeping in mind the burgeoning popularity of medium-strength direct drive wheelbases (such, for example, our very recently reviewed Fanatec CSL DD which would suit this rig brilliantly). Not to be mistaken as a compromise, this rig can also support the heavier direct drive motors.
A friend, in fact has this rig with a Simucube 2 Pro. But for those seeking to push the limits with very high-torque settings, the PRO SIMRIG PSR1 might be a more suitable option. In terms of compatibility, whether it’s wheelbases or pedals, the PSR3 stands tall, accommodating a wide range of equipment. It’s truly a sim racer’s dream rig.
Rock Solid Rigs RSR-21
Rock Solid Rigs RSR-21 Quick Facts:
- The engineered plywood design proves stiffer than aluminium
- Build Time: 1.5-2 hours (unique tool-free assembly)
- F1 composites engineering shows in the layered strength
- Built-in deflection control handles 120kg brake force
- Innovative adjusters allow quick position changes
- Price starts at £590.00/$744.46
Buy from your nearest distributor.
I mentioned flex earlier in this article. It comes up a lot – for the reasons I’ve already explained. But what if I told you that wood can be stiffer than Aluminium?
The rig is developed by an F1 composites engineer who has devised a layering method that creates (visibly thick, but very pleasing to the eye) very, very stiff wood.
What’s most striking about our newest addition to the list is the combination of “tool-free” adjustability with a wide range of compatibility (see above: Simucube 2 Pro mounted to the Wheeldeck, Heusinkveld Ultimate pedals mounted to the pedal plate).
I reviewed this rig here – and it really does keep its promises. I think RSR (Rock Solid Rigs) is a new manufacturer to keep an eye on – their environmental credentials and absolute commitment to building the measurably stiffest cockpit possible is extremely inspiring.
Alpine Racing TRX by Trak Racer
Alpine Racing TRX Quick Facts:
- The commercial-grade rig was developed with Alpine F1 Team
- Build Time: 3-4 hours (professional assembly recommended)
- 2″ round steel frame handles 180kg brake force without flex
- Formula and GT positions with precision adjustments
- Official Alpine F1 Team simulator design
- Price starts at £999.00/$999.00
Buy from your nearest distributor.
The Alpine Racing TRX is a commercial racing simulator co-developed by the Alpine F1 Team and Trak Racer. Engineered and designed in Australia, it has been crafted with input from F1 engineers to closely resemble a “real-life” racing experience.
Trak Racer has been a pioneer in creating racing cockpits since 2008 and has been recognized as the Official Simulator Supplier for both the Alpine F1 Team and Airbus Aircraft.
A key feature of the Alpine Racing TRX is its adaptability. Users can switch between Formula and GT-style seating positions. The simulator includes a seat slider, and seat brackets, and offers sliding adjustments on the wheel and pedal mounts.
The wheel assembly is versatile and compatible with various wheelbases including the Direct Drive Simucube 2, Fanatec, VRS, Logitech, and Thrustmaster. Moreover, the product comes with a Fanatec Side Mounting compatibility as standard.
Constructed with a 2″ round steel frame, the Alpine Racing TRX promises stability, especially during intense gaming sessions. It can bear up to 180kgs of braking force without flexing.
The pedal plate is pre-drilled, allowing for the mounting of various pedal sets. The product’s durability is backed by a 5-year frame warranty provided by Trak Racer, a nice confidence boost in their craftsmanship.
I think this unit addresses most of my concerns about flex in tube steel sim racing rigs; simply by tackling the problem by brute force. The gauge of the steel tube is significant, and, as you can see, there’s bracketry welded in all of the critical areas.
OP Golden White Bundle from Overpower.gg
OP Golden White Bundle Quick Facts:
- The premium plywood design offers exceptional ergonomics
- Build Time: 2-2.5 hours (includes electric pedal setup)
- Electric pedal adjustment system for perfect positioning
- Integrated monitor mount handles screens up to 49″
- A complete package including gaming platform tray
Buy from your nearest distributor.
The OP Golden White Bundle is another top-class sim racing cockpit package that boasts exceptional ergonomics, eye-catching looks, and enough stability to mount the world’s most powerful steering wheels and pedals. And yes – it’s made from plywood too.
OverPower, the Finnish manufacturer of The OP Golden White Bundle has combined its OP Formula Lite chassis with a monitor mount, a gaming platform tray, and an electric pedal adjuster, creating a premium, all-in-one sim racing rig.
The cockpit’s design elevates comfort when driving, even during endurance races. At 195 cm in length, 60 cm in width, and 130 cm in height to the top of the seat, it has a modest footprint and more than enough adjustability options to let you find the perfect driving position. The monitor mount supports screens up to 49” and features angle adjustment allowing you to set up the optimum viewing angle.
Compatibility-wise, the OP wheel deck supports all Thrustmaster, Logitech, and Fanatec base mounting wheels (such as the DD1/DD2, etc.) It also supports the Simucube 2 Sport.
Sim Racing Cockpits: Price and Feature Comparision
Product Name | Useful Details for Buyers | Price (USD) | Price (EUR) |
---|---|---|---|
Sim Lab GT1 Evo | Sturdy and versatile rig; popular among beginners and enthusiasts. | $449.00 | £347.00 |
Sim-Lab GT1 Pro | An evolutionary update to the popular GT1 Evo model. | $649.00 | £433.00 |
Trak Racer TR160 | High-quality construction; adjustable pedal plate and wheel mount. | $958.00 | £768.00 |
RCP Cockpit Sport/PRO | Compact design; suitable for limited space; compatible with various accessories. | $806.55 | £639.00 |
Sim-Lab X1 Pro | Flagship racing cockpit; easy assembly; excellent rigidity. | $849.00 | £578.00 |
ASR 4 | Affordable option with good quality; ideal for budget-conscious buyers. | $799.99 | £N/A |
ASR Pro | Enhanced features for intermediate racers; customizable. | $1,649.99 | £N/A |
PSR3 | Mid-range rig with solid build; suitable for serious sim racers. | $541.44 | £429.00 |
Rock Solid Rigs RSR-21 | Durable and reliable; great value for the price. | $744.46 | £590 |
Alpine Racing TRX | Sleek design by Trak Racer; comfortable and functional. | $999.00 | £999.00 |
OP Golden Rig Bundle | Comprehensive package with seat and accessories; suitable for all skill levels. | $N/A | €N/A |
Commonly Asked Questions When Choosing a Sim Racing Rig
How much space do I need for a sim racing rig?
For the basic rig setup, you’ll need:
- Length: 150cm minimum
- Width: 70cm minimum
- Height: 120cm minimum
Remember to allow extra space for:
- Monitor mount: Add 30cm to depth
- Seat adjustment: Add 15cm to length
- Side mounts: Add 10cm each side
- Access space: Allow 50cm around the rig
What do all these sim racing terms mean?
- 8020 Profile: An industrial-grade aluminium framing system used in high-end rigs. Known for strength and adjustability.
- Direct Drive: A wheel system where the motor directly drives the wheel, requiring very sturdy mounting.
- Load Cell: A pressure-sensing technology in brake pedals that measures force instead of distance.
- Pedal Plate: The mounting platform where your pedals attach to the rig.
- Wheel Deck: The mounting point for your steering system.
Which rig is right for my setup?
Choose based on your equipment:
- Using a Direct Drive wheel? Choose Sim Lab P1-X Pro, GT1 Evo, or ASR Pro
- Need a budget-friendly but quality option? Look at RCP Sport or GT1 Evo
- Want a Formula 1 seating position? Consider Alpine TRX or P1-X Pro
- Looking for something unique? Try RSR-21 or OP Golden White
- Planning a motion setup? Get the TR160 or P1-X Pro
Do I need a special rig for load cell pedals?
Yes, load cell pedals can generate up to 80kg of force, so you need a rig that can handle this. Any 8020 profile rig or reinforced steel frame will work well. Budget tube-frame rigs may flex under heavy braking.
Can I upgrade my rig later?
8020 profile rigs like the GT1 Evo are the most upgradeable. They allow you to add or modify parts easily. Steel tube rigs are generally less adaptable. The GT1 Evo even has an upgrade path to P1-X spec.