If you’re a fan of racing simulators, there’s a new gadget that might just blow your mind (and your budget). Sim-Lab has released a $2,499 steering wheel that’s almost a replica of the one Lewis Hamilton uses in his Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 car race. This top-notch piece of gear looks fantastic and promises to make your racing experience as realistic as possible.
At $2,499, this steering wheel is definitely pricey. But before you get shocked only by price of the steering wheel, keep in mind that you can’t just plug it into your computer and start racing. You also need a wheelbase, which translates your steering inputs into the game and provides realistic feedback. These wheelbases can cost thousands of dollars themselves and are not included with the steering wheel. So, diving into this level of racing simulation can get pretty expensive.
Why So Expensive?
Why does this steering wheel cost so much? it holds an official license from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. This means Sim-Lab had access to the same design data used to make the real steering wheels for Mercedes’ F1 cars. Every detail, from the buttons to the grips, is designed to be as close to the real one as possible.
High-Quality Craftsmanship
The steering wheel is made with a handmade carbon fiber shell. This makes it lightweight (just 1,240 grams) and very sturdy. This sturdiness is important because it ensures the wheel doesn’t bend or creak during intense racing moments, giving you a precise and realistic experience.
Packed with Features
This steering wheel is loaded with features. It has nine rotary dials, 12 buttons, and two switches on the front, giving you a lot of control options. It also has carbon fiber shifting paddles that feel great to use and anti-static silicone rubber grips that keep your hands from slipping.
Additionally, the wheel has 25 controllable RGB LEDs that show telemetry data. It will help you keep track of your car’s performance at a glance. There’s also a 4.3-inch LCD screen in the center, displaying data layouts just like those used by Mercedes F1 drivers. This screen adds an extra layer of immersion, making you feel like you’re truly in the driver’s seat.
The Ultimate Experience
SL’s latest steering wheel offers a glimpse into the high-end world of racing simulation. It’s not just a tool; it’s a piece of art that combines advanced technology with superior craftsmanship. The attention to every detail and quality of the material makes it stand out equipment. While spending this amount on the steering wheel might be excessive but to the serious sim racing enthusiast it is money well spent. For those who take their sim racing seriously, this steering wheel is as close as you can get to the real thing. The only thing missing is the voice of a race engineer telling you, “Okay, Lewis, it’s hammer time.