Direct Drive front mount vs side mount: Which is better and why?

Mounting method changes how direct drive feels. Not because it changes the wheelbase electronics—but because it changes how rigidly the wheelbase is connected to the cockpit.

Front mount vs side mount is a common debate. Here’s a practical way to choose.

Front mount: rigid and clean

• Pros: very rigid connection, clean wheel height/angle setup, popular for high-end DD.
• Cons: requires the right bracket width and clearance, not every cockpit supports it easily.

Side mount: flexible and adaptable

• Pros: can work with many cockpits, allows fine angle adjustment, useful in some layouts.
• Cons: depends heavily on bracket strength and cockpit bracing.

Bracket examples in the SimXPro ecosystem

• Universal front mounts: 410–420 mm and 580–600 mm
• Side mount option: SimXPro DD sidemount
• Fanatec-specific example: DD1/DD2 side-to-front mount

So which should you pick?

• Pick front mount if your wheelbase supports it and you want maximum rigidity.
• Pick side mount if you need flexibility or your cockpit layout benefits from it.

Whichever you choose, the goal is the same: remove movement. When the mount is solid, direct drive feels cleaner, quieter and more detailed.

Related guides

• Sim racing wheelbase mounting patterns: How to check fitment before you buy a rig
• Asetek wheelbase compatibility with rigs: Mounting, angle and clearance tips
• Simucube wheelbase mounting guide: Front mount, side mount or bottom mount?
• Moza wheelbase cockpit compatibility: Mounting options and common pitfalls