In sim racing, the wheel base is the box that contains the motor, encoder, and electronics that produce force feedback, and the wheel rim (or simply the wheel) is the steering wheel you hold. On gear driven wheels such as the Logitech G923 they are one fixed unit; on direct drive systems they are separate products joined by a quick release.
The base
The base determines torque, feedback quality, platform licensing (except for Fanatec, where the rim carries the console license), and the ports for pedals, shifters, and handbrakes. It is the expensive part and the part that lasts. Examples: Moza R5, Fanatec CSL DD, Logitech RS50 base, Thrustmaster T818.
The rim
The rim determines size (typically 270 to 320 mm), shape (round, D shape, formula), grip material, button and paddle layout, and any display. Rims range from a plain round wheel to formula rims with dozens of inputs and a screen. Examples: Moza ES, KS, and GS; Fanatec CSL and ClubSport wheels; Logitech RS Round Wheel and PRO wheels; Thrustmaster’s add-on rims.
Bundles versus bare bases
Bundles (Moza R3 and R5 Bundles, Fanatec GT DD Pro, Logitech RS50 system, Thrustmaster T598) include a base and a rim, and sometimes pedals. Bare bases (Moza R9 V3, Fanatec CSL DD, Thrustmaster T818) include nothing else. Read the listing’s “what’s in the box” before comparing prices; a bare base can look cheaper than a bundle while costing more once a rim and pedals are added.
Related terms
Quick release · Direct drive · Roundup: best direct drive wheels
