Choosing the Ideal Sim Racing Steering Wheel Size

Sim racing is all about precision, immersion, and delivering the ultimate driving experience. The steering wheel plays a crucial role, serving as the direct connection between the driver and the virtual racetrack. However, not all steering wheels are created equal. Depending on the racing discipline – Formula 1, GT, rally, or even vintage cars – the demands and designs of steering wheels differ significantly. From compact, specialized Formula wheels to large, classic round wheels, each racing category has its ideal model. But which wheels are suited for which races, and why do their diameters vary so much?

• GT and prototype steering wheels:
  • Equipped with numerous buttons, rotary encoders, and often an integrated display for telemetry (e.g., Fanatec Podium Porsche 911 GT3 R )
  • Commonly rectangular or D-shaped to improve accessibility to controls.
• Diameter:
  • 30–33 cm (standard for GT and prototype cars).
  • A slightly larger diameter allows for more precise steering inputs, essential for controlled cornering at high speeds.

• Formula steering wheels:
  • Compact, ergonomic designs with a flat bottom or entirely rectangular shape.
  • Numerous buttons, rotary switches, and paddle shifters, often made from carbon or high-quality plastics.
  • Example: Fanatec ClubSport Formula Wheel 2.5 X
• Diameter:
  • 26–28 cm (smaller than GT wheels).
  • Smaller diameters enable quicker steering movements, crucial for tight corners and rapid directional changes in single-seater cars.

• Rally steering wheels:
  • Round or slightly oval shapes for precise movements and better control on uneven terrain.
  • Often covered in suede for improved grip, especially when wearing gloves.
  • Examples: Fanatec Podium Steering Wheel Monte Carlo Rally
• Diameter:
  • 32–35 cm (larger than Formula wheels, similar to GT).
  • Larger diameters facilitate fine control on slippery surfaces.

• Oval steering wheels:
  • Typically round for smooth, consistent steering movements.
  • Simple design with no or fewer buttons, focusing on stability.
  • Example: Fanatec Podium Steering Wheel NASCAR
• Diameter:
  • 33–35 cm.
  • Larger diameters support the slow and precise movements typical of oval racing where tire management is crucial.

• Typical steering wheels:
  • Drift Wheels:
    • Round wheels with minimalist designs, often inspired by classic vehicles.
    • High grip materials like suede or leather.
    • Example: Fanatec ClubSport Steering Wheel Drift V2
• Diameter:
  • 33–35 cm.
  • Larger diameters and light steering wheels make quick, wide steering movements for slides and drifts easier to perform.

• Typical steering wheels:
  • Vintage Wheels:
    • Classic round designs, often made of wood or leather.
    • Example: Fanatec Podium Steering Wheel Classic 2
• Diameter:
  • 35–40 cm.
  • Larger diameters were standard in vintage cars, as they lacked power steering, requiring greater leverage for steering. We spoke about the evolution of Formula 1 steering wheels here

Fanatec’s modular systems and premium quality ensure that simracers can seamlessly switch between styles and maximize their performance.

Technical tips: the steering load has to be adjusted according to the driving style (and the consequent steering wheel) you prefer!

If you wish to find your perfect Formula steering wheel or you need product consultation, Fanatec experts’ team is glad to help you! Just fill in this product consultation form