So you’ve put your fingers to work searching for answers you need to get started in the awesome world of sim racing. There are a number of ways to get cracking, each ranging in difficulty and cost. Yup, unfortunately if you want to start eracing quickly, you’re going to have to pay (a fair amount, let’s be fair) to start setting lap times.
Of all the esports available, eracing has a distinct number of advantages over other games:
- Anyone, and we really mean anyone can get into racing. It is easy to understand, highly relatable and provides easy to learn rules that most people interested in racing naturally understand.
- It isn’t violent. Yeah yeah, you might think this is a weird reason to be on this list, but we believe this reason alone is one the most refreshing aspects of sim racing.
- It’s got massive potential to be a leading esport in the future. Gran Turismo is now an Olympic Sport. Need we say more?
What You Need To Start Sim Racing
Equipment
Wheel and Pedals
Arguably the most important component of a good sim racing cockpit, your wheel is where most of your feedback will come from. Geared wheel bases are the most common, with Logitech and Thrustmaster ruling the lower-tier, entry level racing wheel segment well. Logitech’s G920 wheel and pedal set is still a good entry point for most racers. Although these entry level wheels are a little notchy, and their matched pedal sets a little spongy, they still do the job.
Many competitive racers start here, and some still compete on the world’s stage with so called “cheap” hardware.
It isn’t how you stand by your car, it’s how you race your car, right?
As we move up the tiers, wheels typically move towards direct-drive wheels, replacing mounting steering wheels to what is essentially a gearbox with powerful servo motors. The advantage with direct drive sim racing wheels are unparalleled and numerous.
Direct drive wheels and wheelbase advantages:
- Instant, smooth torque.
- High-torque output for more accurate, true-to-life feedback.
- High-resolution texture feedback to feel more granular details like curbs, road textures, direction changes, etc.
Basically, they’re much much better and if you’re serious about your racing experience, you should be aiming your sights at direct-drive sooner rather than later.
On the pedals side of the equation, load-cell systems are where it’s at. There are many options, some more accessible than others from both a cost and compatibility perspective.
Generally speaking, most bundled pedals are good enough to get going in the competitive world of sim racing, however if it’s realism you’re after, they will more than likely leave you wanting. Now things get a little more complicated, as realism = cost.
Load Cell Pedals
Load cells are relatively small devices used for measuring torque. For load cell sim racing pedal applications, the torque is applied by a spring or hydraulic piston to the load cell as you push down on the brake, accelerator or clutch pedal. It’s uncommon to find load cells used to measure accelerator pedal force as their actuation is linear. It would be weird to have an accelerator pedal get harder the further you depressed it, don’t you think?
Load cell pedals offer superior performance to basically all other pedal types, but they are frightfully expensive.
Rig/Cockpit Frame
If you’re a serious sim racer, then investing in a high-quality sim racing cockpit can make a big difference in your overall racing experience. At TrueRacing, we understand the importance of a solid and reliable cockpit, which is why we’re proud to offer our APEX GT sim racing cockpit.
The APEX GT cockpit is made from high-quality aluminium, providing a sturdy and durable base for your wheel, pedals, and other components. It’s also lightweight and easy to move around or store when not in use. The APEX GT is designed to be compatible with a wide range of wheel and pedal setups, including popular brands such as Logitech and Thrustmaster.
One of the standout features of the APEX GT is its adjustability. You can easily adjust the height and angle of the wheel and pedals, ensuring that your setup is comfortable and ergonomic. The APEX GT also features a fully adjustable seat, allowing you to find the perfect driving position.
In addition to its adjustability, the APEX GT is also designed with cable management in mind. There are multiple channels and attachment points throughout the cockpit, allowing you to neatly route your cables and keep your setup organized and tidy.
At TrueRacing, we’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible sim racing experience. That’s why we’ve put so much effort into designing and manufacturing the APEX GT sim racing cockpit. It’s a high-quality, reliable, and versatile cockpit that’s perfect for sim racers of all levels.
In summary, if you’re looking for a high-quality sim racing cockpit, then the APEX GT from TrueRacing is definitely worth considering. With its sturdy aluminium construction, wide range of adjustability, and thoughtful cable management, the APEX GT is a top-of-the-line option for serious sim racers.
Computer/Console
Sim racing has become increasingly popular in recent years, with a wide range of titles available on both consoles and gaming computers. Two popular sim racing titles are the F1 series of games and Assetto Corsa Competizione, and both can be played on either platform. So, what are the pros and cons of each option?
Let’s start with consoles. One of the biggest advantages of playing sim racing games on a console is ease of use. Consoles are designed to be plug-and-play, which means you don’t need to worry about compatibility issues or hardware specifications. You can simply plug in your controller or wheel and start playing. Consoles are also generally more affordable than gaming computers, which can make them a more accessible option for casual gamers.
However, there are some downsides to playing sim racing games on a console. One of the biggest drawbacks is the limited customization options. Consoles have limited upgradability, and you’re stuck with the hardware that comes with the console. This means you may not be able to achieve the same level of performance and realism as you would with a gaming computer. Consoles also tend to have lower graphics quality and frame rates compared to gaming computers.
On the other hand, playing sim racing games on a gaming computer has several advantages. Gaming computers generally offer more customization options and upgradability, allowing you to fine-tune your setup for the best possible performance. You can also achieve higher graphics quality and frame rates, providing a more immersive and realistic experience.
However, gaming computers can be more expensive and require more technical knowledge to set up and maintain. You may also experience compatibility issues with certain hardware or software, which can be frustrating to troubleshoot.
In summary, both consoles and gaming computers offer pros and cons when it comes to playing sim racing games like the F1 series of games and Assetto Corsa Competizione. Consoles offer ease of use and affordability, but are limited in terms of customization and performance. Gaming computers offer more customization and performance options, but can be more expensive and require more technical knowledge. Ultimately, the decision of which platform to use comes down to personal preference and budget.
Time
Sim racing is a skill that requires time and practice to master. Like any sport or activity, the more time you spend doing it, the better you will become. However, even short periods of driving on a good sim racing setup can be enjoyable and help drivers improve quickly.
It’s difficult to put a specific time frame on how long it takes to get good at sim racing, as it depends on various factors such as natural talent, dedication, and the quality of your setup. Generally speaking, it takes several hours of practice to become comfortable with the basics of sim racing, such as braking, accelerating, and cornering. From there, it takes even more time to develop the skills needed to compete at a high level.
However, it’s important to note that even short periods of driving on a good sim racing setup can be both enjoyable and beneficial. Having a high-quality wheel, pedals, and other components can make a big difference in the experience and the rate at which you improve. A good sim racing setup can provide realistic feedback, allowing you to better understand how your inputs affect the car and the track.
In fact, many sim racing enthusiasts believe that consistent and deliberate practice is more important than the amount of time spent practicing. By focusing on specific skills and practicing them repeatedly, you can make progress even with limited time.
Additionally, short periods of driving on a good sim racing setup can be a fun and engaging way to unwind after a long day. It can provide a sense of escape and accomplishment, even in small doses.
In summary, sim racing is a skill that requires time and practice to master. However, even short periods of driving on a good sim racing setup can be enjoyable and help drivers improve quickly. Consistent and deliberate practice, along with a high-quality setup, can make a big difference in the experience and the rate of improvement.
Focus
If you’re a new racer just getting started in the world of sim racing, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin. Here are some things you should focus on when learning how to race:
Start with the basics: It’s important to have a solid understanding of the basics of sim racing before trying to tackle more advanced techniques. This includes things like braking, accelerating, and steering. Spend time practicing these basic skills until you feel comfortable and confident.
Get comfortable with your setup: Whether you’re using a controller, wheel and pedals, or a full sim racing cockpit, it’s important to be comfortable with your setup. Adjust the settings and positioning of your equipment until you feel at ease.
Practice on a variety of tracks: Different tracks require different techniques and strategies. Spend time practicing on a variety of tracks to get a feel for the different types of corners, elevation changes, and surfaces. This will help you develop your racing skills and become a more well-rounded driver.
Study the competition: Take the time to study other racers, whether it’s watching replays or competing against them online. Pay attention to their racing lines, braking points, and overall strategy. This will help you learn from their successes and mistakes and become a better racer.
Focus on consistency: In sim racing, consistency is key. Focus on driving smooth, clean laps without making mistakes. This will help you build up your speed and confidence, and improve your overall performance.
Have fun: Sim racing should be fun! Don’t get too caught up in trying to win or being the fastest. Enjoy the experience and the thrill of the race, and the wins will come naturally as you improve.
In summary, as a new racer, focus on the basics, get comfortable with your setup, practice on a variety of tracks, study the competition, focus on consistency, and most importantly, have fun. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a skilled and successful sim racer.
A Plan
Approaching sim racing can be a bit daunting for beginners, but following a simple plan can make it much easier to get started. Here’s a basic plan for approaching sim racing:
Start with the basics: Begin by learning the basics of sim racing, such as accelerating, braking, and steering. Spend time practicing these skills until you feel comfortable and confident.
Choose your sim racing setup: Decide on the sim racing setup that’s right for you. This might include a controller, a wheel and pedals, or a full sim racing cockpit. Consider your budget and what you want to get out of sim racing when making your decision.
Find the right sim racing game: There are many sim racing games to choose from, each with its own unique features and strengths. Do your research and find the game that’s right for you. Some popular options include the F1 series, Assetto Corsa, and iRacing.
Start practicing: Once you have your setup and game, it’s time to start practicing. Begin with the easier tracks and work your way up to more challenging ones. Spend time practicing and focusing on your technique and consistency.
Join an online racing community: Joining an online racing community is a great way to improve your skills and compete against other sim racers. Look for communities that cater to beginners, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice.
Keep learning: Sim racing is a constantly evolving skill, so it’s important to keep learning and improving. Watch replays of your races to analyze your performance, read up on sim racing techniques and strategies, and stay up-to-date on the latest sim racing news.
By following these steps, you can approach sim racing with a simple and straightforward plan. Remember to take your time, have fun, and focus on continuous improvement. With practice and dedication, you can become a skilled and successful sim racer.