The sweet spot for torque output on a sim racing wheel base depends on several factors, mainly considering the specific game being plased, individual race car and personal preference. However, being familiar with general guidelines can help you make the best decision for your unique requirements.
The first factor to consider is the simulation in which you are driving. Different sims provide different types of force feedback, which contribute to varying signals to the driver. In conjunction with each physics model, this leads to a uniquely tailored experience for each simulation.vFanatec offers a great variety of Wheel Bases and each with many adjustment options to find your perfect settings for every sim. There is no general setting you can use across all sims and you should create different profiles for every sim you want to drive.
Once you are confident about which sim you would like to drive, you likely have a racing discipline or specific race car in mind. iRacing serves as an excellent example, as it provides a diverse array of racing disciplines that highlight the key factors to consider.
If you are interested in driving a GT car, specifically a GT3, you will find that it is one of the most popular categories in contemporary racing. These vehicles provide competitive racing experiences and are relatively accessible to learn, though they present challenges in achieving mastery. GT3 cars are comparatively heavy by racing standards and possess a significant amount of horsepower, which contributes to their agility in various driving situations due to their relatively low grip.
To feel this in the steering wheel, a good benchmark to start with is around 5 – 8Nm. The CSL DD QR2 is an excellent match, and you have the option to choose between the 5Nm or the 8Nm version. This typically provides all the necessary feedback—you can sense when the car is losing grip, feel curb strikes, encounter bumps in the road, and experience the steering weight through corners. However, please consider this as a guideline rather than a strict rule; feel free to adjust it to your preferences.
Once you establish a baseline in your preferred simulation with your favorite car that you are satisfied with, consider exploring other disciplines and vehicles to observe their dynamics.
For instance, let’s examine a Formula car. These vehicles possess significant aerodynamic grip, resulting in a pronounced force on the wheelbase during high-speed corners. While this delivers an exhilarating driving experience, it can become physically demanding over time. It is common to reduce the force feedback in such cars slightly. However, please note that this is not a strict guideline; if you enjoy the current feel and it enhances your immersion, feel free to keep it as it is.
All in all, there is no hard and fast rule for torque output settings. What defines it is your game, racing discipline and - most importantly - personal preference. Generally, most people are happy with torque output between 5-12Nm. It is advisable to explore various settings to determine your optimal configuration, which will provide a sense of control over the vehicle, enhance immersion, and ensure consistent lap times while minimizing fatigue.