How to Choose a Sim Racing Rig for Your Direct Drive Wheelbase

Choosing a cockpit for a direct drive wheelbase is not only about matching the advertised torque figure. The rig must keep the wheelbase stable during rapid direction changes, absorb repeated loads without noticeable flex and provide the correct mounting system for the hardware.

A cockpit that is too light may move or twist under force feedback, reducing detail and making the steering position less consistent. Buying the heaviest possible rig is not always necessary either. A 5 Nm wheelbase does not require the same structure as a 25 Nm professional system.

The most sensible approach is to choose an aluminium-profile cockpit that supports your current torque level with some capacity for realistic upgrades. Aluminium profiles also provide better wheel, pedal and seat adjustment than desks, folding frames or basic wheel stands. This guide explains which profile sizes are appropriate for different direct drive power levels and what else should be considered before ordering.

Table of Contents

  • Why torque matters

  • Rigs for different torque levels

  • Mounting and pedal considerations

  • Future upgrades

  • Frequently asked questions

Why Does Direct Drive Torque Affect Cockpit Choice?

Direct drive wheelbases transfer motor force directly to the steering shaft. Stronger bases create higher loads on the wheel mount and cockpit uprights, particularly during fast corrections, impacts and sustained cornering forces.

A flexible frame can still hold the wheelbase, but some of the feedback will move the structure instead of reaching the driver. This can reduce steering clarity and cause the wheel position to change slightly during use.

The cockpit should therefore support more than the wheelbase’s normal operating torque. It must also remain stable during short force peaks and repeated long-term use.

Up to 10 Nm: Compact Entry-Level Cockpits

Wheelbases up to 10 Nm do not require an extremely heavy frame, but they still benefit from a proper aluminium cockpit.

The SimXPro GT uses 40x40 mm profiles and supports bottom-mounted direct drive wheelbases up to 10 Nm. It includes a profile pedal deck and shifter support.

This makes it suitable for beginners using compact direct drive systems who want a rigid and adjustable setup without using excessive floor space.

The GT is preferable to a desk or wheel stand because the wheelbase, pedals and seat are connected to one structure. However, it should not be selected when a future upgrade beyond 10 Nm is already planned.

Between 10 and 15 Nm: X80 or GT-RS

For wheelbases above 10 Nm, 40x80 mm profiles provide a stronger foundation.

The SimXPro X80 supports wheelbases up to 14 Nm. Its wider layout offers more adjustment space than the compact GT range, which can be useful for taller drivers. The profile pedal deck and shifter mount are optional.

The SimXPro GT-RS supports wheelbases up to 20 Nm. This makes it the safer choice when the current wheelbase is close to 15 Nm or when a stronger upgrade may follow.

Between 15 and 20 Nm: GT-RS

For direct drive systems in the 15–20 Nm range, the GT-RS is the most appropriate compact option.

Its 40x80 mm structure provides more rigidity than the GT and X80 torque rating, while remaining relatively compact. It also supports load-cell forces up to 200 kg, motion systems and a dedicated integrated triple-monitor mount.

The GT-RS supports flat-mounted wheelbases, while front mounting is available as an option. The mounting method should always be checked before ordering.

Between 20 and 25 Nm: XT120

High-torque wheelbases require a heavier structure, particularly when combined with stiff pedals.

The SimXPro XT120 uses 40x120 mm profiles and supports wheelbases up to 25 Nm. It includes a reinforced profile pedal deck and 58 cm shifter support.

The XT120 supports both front-mounted and flat-mounted wheelbases. It is also suitable for motion systems and load-cell forces up to 300 kg.

This model is appropriate for professional-grade equipment without moving directly to the largest available cockpit.

30 Nm and Above: GT-PRO or XT160

For the strongest direct drive wheelbases, maximum rigidity and mounting flexibility become more important.

The GT-PRO uses 40x160 mm profiles and supports wheelbases rated at 30 Nm or more. It provides wheel adjustment for height, reach and tilt, while supporting both GT and Formula-style driving positions.

The SimXPro XT160 also uses 40x160 mm profiles and is designed for 30 Nm+ wheelbases and load-cell forces above 300 kg.

These rigs are deliberately heavy-duty. They make sense for powerful wheelbases, motion systems and users who want maximum structural capacity. They are usually unnecessary for entry-level hardware.

Torque Is Not the Only Factor

Cockpit selection should also consider:

  • The wheelbase mounting method

  • Maximum pedal force

  • Driver height and weight

  • Required seat adjustment

  • Motion-system plans

  • Integrated monitor compatibility

  • Available floor space

A powerful wheelbase combined with a soft brake may place less overall load on the cockpit than a moderate wheelbase with an extremely stiff load-cell pedal set.

Driver size also matters. The GT, GT-RS and X80 support users up to approximately 1.90 m, while the XT120, XT160 and GT-PRO support users up to approximately 2.00 m.

Conclusion

Choose a cockpit that supports the wheelbase torque, mounting method and pedal forces of the complete setup.

The SimXPro GT is suitable up to 10 Nm, the X80 up to 14 Nm and the GT-RS up to 20 Nm. For stronger systems, the XT120 supports up to 25 Nm, while the GT-PRO and XT160 are designed for 30 Nm+ hardware.

Leaving some upgrade capacity is sensible, but buying a 40x160 cockpit for a low-torque wheelbase is not necessary unless major hardware upgrades are already planned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mount a 12 Nm wheelbase on the SimXPro GT?

The GT is rated up to 10 Nm. For a 12 Nm wheelbase, choose the X80 or GT-RS.

Is more cockpit rigidity always better?

Greater rigidity is useful, but larger rigs also cost more and occupy more space. Match the structure to the hardware.

Do I need a front mount for direct drive?

Not always. Many direct drive wheelbases support flat mounting. Check the manufacturer’s mounting pattern before selecting the cockpit configuration.

Should I choose a rig based on peak or normal torque?

Use the wheelbase manufacturer’s maximum torque rating. The cockpit must remain stable during peak loads.

Which rig offers the safest upgrade path?

The GT-RS is a balanced option for most systems up to 20 Nm. The XT120 is better when upgrades beyond that level are likely.

Match the Cockpit to the Complete Setup

Compare the compact SimXPro GT, the 40x80 GT-RS and X80, or the heavier XT120 and XT160 to choose a cockpit that properly supports your direct drive wheelbase and future upgrades.